NASA has released an image of a fractured structure in the Milky Way’s galactic centre. The feature, named G359.13, was captured using X-ray data from Chandra and radio data from South Africa’s MeerKAT array.
What is G359.13?
G359.13 is a long, linear structure near the centre of the Milky Way.
It is often referred to as a cosmic bone due to its shape and density.
It stretches about 230 light-years in length, making it one of the longest and brightest features of its kind in the galaxy.
It lies about 26,000 light-years from Earth, close to the Milky Way’s centre.
For context, over 800 stars exist within a radius of 230 light-years from Earth—the same length as this cosmic bone.
New Discovery: A Fracture in G359.13
Astronomers identified a distinct break or fracture in the structure’s continuous body.
An X-ray and radio source was also detected precisely at the location of the fracture.
Scientists believe a pulsar—a magnetised, rotating neutron star—collided with G359.13.
The pulsar was likely moving at a speed of 1–2 million miles per hour at the time of impact.
The collision disrupted the structure, creating a visible fracture.
Back2Basics: What is a Pulsar?
A pulsar is a neutron star that emits beams of electromagnetic radiation from its magnetic poles.
Though only about 20 km in diameter, it is more massive than the Sun.
Pulsars rotate extremely rapidly, some spinning hundreds of times per second.
When their radiation beam crosses Earth’s line of sight, we observe pulses of radiation, hence the name.
[UPSC 2003] The time taken by the sun to revolve around the centre of our galaxy is
Options: (a) 25 million years (b) 100 million years (c) 250 million years* (d) 500 million years
A study published in Nature reveals that microplastics have deeply infiltrated the ocean, affecting the planet’s biogeochemical and carbon cycles.
Key Findings of the Study:
Microplastics (1–100 micrometres) dominate the ocean’s water column, especially below surface layers, unlike larger plastic fragments (100–5,000 micrometres) which remain near the surface.
Subsurface microplastics were found as deep as 100 metres within ocean gyres—rotating currents that trap and accumulate debris.
Data was compiled from 1,885 ocean stations (2014–2024), focusing on 50 cm below surface (subsurface layer).
Over 56 polymer types were detected; buoyant polymers, common in global plastic production, were most prevalent.
Sources identified:
Fishing gear, including nylon and polyester nets, was a significant contributor to deep-sea microplastics.
Plastics sampled often had production dates from the 20th century, highlighting their long degradation timelines.
Atmospheric deposition contributes 0.013–25 million tonnes annually, with polyester dominant in airborne microplastics.
About Allochthonous Carbon:
Allochthonous carbon is carbon from external sources introduced into an ecosystem, not produced within it.
In oceans, plastics are a major source of allochthonous carbon, as they come from land-based human activities.
Microplastics contribute measurable carbon mass to marine systems, altering natural carbon ratios in ocean layers.
This distorts the marine carbon pump by affecting the flow and composition of particulate organic carbon (POC).
Impacts:
Plastic-derived carbon lacks radiocarbon, which may cause marine POC samples to appear around 420 years older.
It disrupts microbial activity, nutrient cycling like nitrification and denitrification, and organic matter decomposition.
Marine microbes ingest plastic-C, affecting food chains and altering biological processes at the base of ecosystems.
[UPSC 2012] What would happen if phytoplankton of an ocean is completely destroyed for some reason?
Statements:
1. The ocean as a carbon sink would be adversely affected.
2. The food chains in the ocean would be adversely affected.
3. The density of ocean water would drastically decrease.
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only* (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Read about AIR 498 Utkarsh’s UPSC 2026 Prep Webinar
Most UPSC aspirants feel stuck after a few attempts. You study hard, follow the usual strategies, but the marks just don’t improve. Motivation dips, and it starts to feel like you’re going in circles. Utkarsh Srivastava was once in that same spot but he decided to change how he approached the exam.
In 2023, his GS score was 685. A year later, in the 2024 exam, he jumped to 795 — an incredible 114 mark boost across GS1 to GS4. This didn’t happen by chance. It was the result of small, focused changes made with full clarity.
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If you feel stuck or stagnant in your UPSC prep, this is a session that can really help you reset and rethink your strategy. Join him on 6th May 2025, Tuesday at 5PM.
It will be a 45 minute webinar, post which we will open up the floor for all kinds of queries which a beginner must have. No questions are taboo and Shubham Sir is known to be patiently solving all your doubts.
Join us for a Zoom session on 6th May 2025 at 5 p.m. This session is a must-attend for you If you are attempting UPSC for the first time or have attempted earlier and now preparing for next year, then it is going to be a valuable session for you too.
See you in the session”
Register for the session for a focussed UPSC 2026 Prep
(Don’t wait—the next webinar won’t be until June 25)
These masterclasses are packed with value. They are conducted in private with a closed community. We rarely open these webinars for everyone for free. This time we are keeping it for 300 seats only.
[UPSC 2021] Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth.” Discuss in the light of India’s experience.
Linkage: Vizhinjam Port is seen as a major infrastructure project that can bring big economic benefits and boost growth in the region. This “port of the future” is a clear example of how building key infrastructure can help speed up development and strengthen India’s role in global sea trade.
Mentor’s Comment: The town of Vizhinjam in Kerala has been an important part of global sea trade since ancient times. Inscriptions from the Pandya-Chola period (1129 AD) refer to it as Rajendra Chola Pattinam, a key port in Kerala. Some historians believe that Vizhinjam was earlier known as Balita, a port mentioned in the 1st-century travel book The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea. Over time, however, Vizhinjam lost its importance when colonial powers began to focus on developing other ports like Cochin and Madras.
Today’s editorial analyses the first deep-water container transhipment port at Vizhinjam. This content would help in the GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Port & Infrastructure).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
India’s first deep-water container transshipment port at Vizhinjam has been officially opened by the Prime Minister.
What historical records highlight Vizhinjam’s ancient maritime significance?
Inscriptions from the Pandya-Chola Era (1129 AD): Vizhinjam was referred to as Rajendra Chola Pattinam, highlighting its importance under Chola rule. Eg: Inscriptions found in Tamil Nadu indicate Vizhinjam was a maritime outpost under Rajendra Chola I.
Mention in The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea (1st century AD): Scholars correlate Vizhinjam with Balita, a port listed in this Greco-Roman navigational text. Eg: The Periplus details trade with South Indian ports exporting spices, pearls, and textiles.
Vital Node in the Ancient Spice Route: Vizhinjam facilitated trade in pepper and aromatics between India and the Greco-Roman world. Eg: Goods from Kerala were shipped to Alexandria and further into Europe via this port.
Geographic Advantage as a Natural Port: Vizhinjam’s deep-sea location and sheltering coastline made it ideal for anchorage and monsoon navigation. Eg: Sailors preferred Vizhinjam for docking during the southwest monsoon season.
Decline Due to Colonial Maritime Reorientation: Colonial interests bypassed Vizhinjam in favor of Cochin and Madras, leading to its historical obscurity. Eg: The British East India Company developed Cochin, reducing Vizhinjam’s strategic relevance.
Why is Vizhinjam Port crucial for India’s transshipment strategy?
Proximity to International Shipping Routes: Vizhinjam lies just 10 nautical miles from the busy east–west international sea route, reducing diversion time for vessels. Eg: Ships plying between the Persian Gulf and the Malacca Strait can easily access Vizhinjam without significant deviation.
Natural Deep-Draft Port: It has a natural depth of over 20 meters, allowing large container ships (like Ultra Large Container Vessels) to dock without dredging. Eg: Unlike ports such as Chennai or Kolkata, Vizhinjam can handle Mother Vessels directly.
Reduces India’s Dependence on Foreign Ports: India currently transships ~75% of its cargo through ports like Colombo, Singapore, and Jebel Ali. Vizhinjam aims to internalize this traffic. Eg: Container traffic from Kochi or Tuticorin often goes to Colombo first—Vizhinjam can bypass this.
Strategic Location for Regional Hub Development: Located on the southern tip of India, it can serve as a transshipment hub for South Asia and East Africa. Eg: Ports in Maldives, Seychelles, and even parts of the African east coast could be serviced via Vizhinjam.
Boosts Sagarmala and Atmanirbhar Bharat Goals: It aligns with India’s vision to develop port-led development and reduce logistic costs under the Sagarmala Programme. Eg: Vizhinjam complements other projects like Vadhavan and Paradip in creating an integrated maritime network.
Who are the main stakeholders in the Vizhinjam Port project?
Government of Kerala: Owns the port infrastructure and plays a key role in policy, land acquisition, and facilitating local support. Eg: Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) is involved in project coordination.
Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd (APSEZ): The main private developer and operator of the port under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Eg: APSEZ is responsible for design, build, finance, operate, and transfer (DBFOT) of the port.
Central Government of India: Provides financial assistance and regulatory approvals via the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Eg: The project received viability gap funding (VGF) from the Centre to make it commercially feasible.
Local Community and Fisherfolk: Crucial stakeholders impacted by land use, fishing access, and environmental changes. Eg: Protests by fishing communities in 2022 highlighted concerns over displacement and livelihood loss.
Environmental and Regulatory Bodies: Ensure compliance with Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms, environmental clearances, and sustainable development. Eg: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) granted conditional clearance after EIA studies.
How can Vizhinjam’s economic potential mirror global models like Shenzhen?
Strategic Coastal Location for Global Trade: Like Shenzhen, Vizhinjam lies close to major global shipping routes, enabling it to become a vital logistics hub. Eg: Vizhinjam is just 10 nautical miles from the international east-west shipping corridor, ideal for transshipment.
Integrated Industrial and Port Development: Shenzhen’s success came from combining port infrastructure with export-oriented industrial zones; Vizhinjam can follow suit with Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Eg: Planned industrial corridors around Vizhinjam can attract electronics, pharmaceuticals, and marine processing units.
Private Sector-Led Infrastructure Expansion: Like Shenzhen’s model of leveraging private investment for rapid development, Vizhinjam is being developed under PPP with Adani Ports. Eg: Adani Ports has experience in developing Mundra Port as an integrated commercial port ecosystem.
Tech-Driven, Green Port Initiatives: Shenzhen is a pioneer in using smart and sustainable technologies; Vizhinjam can adopt automation, renewable energy, and green logistics. Eg: Vizhinjam’s deep draft allows handling of mega ships with less dredging, reducing ecological footprint.
Employment and Urban Transformation: Shenzhen evolved from a fishing village to a global metropolis; Vizhinjam can drive local employment, urbanisation, and socioeconomic growth. Eg: Development of port-linked infrastructure is expected to boost tourism, services, and real estate in the Trivandrum region.
What are the challenges for the ports in India?
Labor Disputes and Industrial Actions: Indian ports have experienced significant disruptions due to labor strikes and protests. Eg: In August 2024, approximately 20,000 port workers initiated a strike demanding wage revisions and improved pension benefits. This industrial action threatened to halt operations across major ports, causing delays in cargo handling and impacting global trade.
Inadequate Last-Mile Connectivity: Despite improvements in port infrastructure, many Indian ports suffer from poor last-mile connectivity. Eg: The Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Navi Mumbai often faces delays due to inefficient road networks and underdeveloped transport links, affecting overall port efficiency.
Port Congestion and Operational Inefficiencies: Indian ports are grappling with congestion issues, leading to delays in cargo handling and increased turnaround times for vessels. Eg: Factors like outdated cargo tracking systems and regulatory bottlenecks have forced some shipping lines to skip Indian port calls to maintain schedules.
Way forward:
Improve Port Infrastructure and Last-Mile Connectivity: Enhance road, rail, and port connectivity to streamline cargo movement and reduce congestion. Investments in modernizing transport networks and implementing smart technologies can ensure smoother operations and quicker turnaround times.
Strengthen Labor Relations and Efficiency: Resolve labor disputes through better communication and negotiations, ensuring worker welfare while maintaining productivity. Implementing automation and improving operational processes can also reduce dependency on manual labor and improve efficiency.
Since the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system started in 2017, India’s GST collections every April have regularly reached new record highs.
What was the GST collection in April and its year-on-year growth?
Record High Collection: In April 2025, India collected ₹2.37 lakh crore in gross GST, marking the highest ever monthly collection since the GST regime began in 2017. Example: This was up from ₹2.10 lakh crore in April 2024.
Strong Year-on-Year Growth: This represented a 12.6% growth over the previous year’s April figures, showing improved compliance and economic activity. Example: After refunds, the net collection for the Centre rose by 9.1% compared to April 2024.
How has GST compliance and fintech adoption boosted tax collection?
Higher Tax Filing Discipline: Increased awareness and digital tracking have improved GST compliance among businesses. Eg: The consistent rise in GST collections every April since 2018 from ₹1.03 lakh crore to ₹2.37 lakh crore indicates better adherence to filing norms.
Faster Refunds Encourage Participation: Swift processing of refunds, especially for small businesses, has encouraged timely and accurate GST filing. Eg: Refunds to exporters rose by 86% in April 2025, indicating improved trust in the system.
Fintech Integration Supports MSMEs: With 87% fintech adoption in India, MSMEs have better access to formal banking and invoicing systems, helping them meet compliance requirements. Eg: Digital invoicing apps and GST-ready accounting tools have simplified filings for small traders and manufacturers.
Digital Audit Trails Enhance Enforcement: Fintech tools enable real-time tracking of transactions, reducing scope for tax evasion. Eg: E-invoicing and auto-generated returns allow tax authorities to detect discrepancies quickly.
COVID-19 Accelerated Formalization: The pandemic years pushed many informal businesses into the digital and formal economy, making tax compliance a necessity. Eg: Many first-time filers from the MSME sector were onboarded via digital platforms during 2020–21, increasing the taxpayer base.
What led to the 86% rise in refunds to exporters?
Improved GST Processing Systems: The government has streamlined refund procedures with faster digital approvals and reduced delays. Eg: Automation of refund claims has enabled quicker credit settlements to exporters within defined timelines.
Higher Volume of Export Orders: A surge in international demand led to increased export activity, resulting in more refund claims under GST. Eg: Orders from regions like Africa, Asia, and the Americas rose significantly in April 2025, boosting GST refund outflow.
Greater GST Compliance by Exporters: Better record-keeping and digital documentation encouraged more businesses to file refund claims accurately and on time. Eg: Exporters using fintech platforms for e-invoicing were able to submit error-free refund claims swiftly.
What is HSBC India PMI?
The HSBC India PMI refers to the Purchasing Managers’ Index compiled by HSBC in partnership with S&P Global to track the economic health of India’s manufacturing and services sectors.
What is Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)?
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) is an economic indicator that measures the health and performance of a country’s manufacturing and services sectors. It is based on surveys of purchasing managers across various industries.
Index Scale:
Above 50: Indicates expansion in economic activity
Below 50: Indicates contraction
Exactly 50: No change
Why did the HSBC India PMI show a 10-month high in April?
Surge in New Business Orders: Domestic and international demand for Indian-manufactured goods increased, boosting factory activity. Eg: Indian companies saw the largest increase in overseas orders in over 14 years.
Export Growth from Global Demand: Strong demand from key regions like Africa, Asia, Europe, West Asia, and the Americas fueled export-oriented production. Eg: Exporters rushed to fulfill orders before the U.S. tariff pause on Chinese goods ends in July.
Positive Business Sentiment: Companies expanded production and hiring in response to growing order books and market optimism. Eg: Firms ramped up manufacturing capacity to take advantage of global supply chain shifts toward India.
How has the U.S. tariff pause on China affected India’s manufacturing sector?
Increased Export Orders to India: Global buyers are shifting orders from China to India to avoid potential U.S. tariffs. Eg: Indian manufacturers received a surge in foreign orders, especially from the U.S., ahead of the July 9 tariff deadline.
Realignment of Supply Chains: India is emerging as an alternative manufacturing base due to U.S.–China trade tensions. Eg: Apple announced plans to source ‘most of its iPhones’ for the U.S. market from India.
Short-Term Boost in Manufacturing Activity: Anticipated U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods have created temporary opportunities for Indian exporters. Eg: India’s manufacturing sector saw a sharp rise in April output, contributing to a 10-month high in the HSBC PMI.
Way forward:
Strengthen Fintech-GST Integration: Deepen digital infrastructure and incentivize e-invoicing adoption among small businesses to sustain high compliance and broaden the tax base.
Enhance Export Ecosystem: Build long-term trade resilience through export incentives, logistics upgrades, and faster refund systems to capitalize on shifting global supply chains.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2019] Explain the salient features of the constitution(One Hundred and First Amendment) Act, 2016. Do you think it is efficacious enough ‘to remove cascading effect of taxes and provide for common national market for goods and services’?
Linkage: The article shares the latest information on how much money the government collected through GST and how well people are following GST rules. The question is asking about which earlier taxes were included under GST and how GST has affected government income.
Indian Americans earn more than any other Asian group in the U.S., making about 40% more than Chinese and Japanese households.
What is the median annual income of Indian American households?
Highest Median Income Among Asian Groups: Indian American households had a median annual income of $151,200 in 2023, the highest among all Asian ethnic groups in the U.S. Eg: Indian Americans earn about 40% more than both Chinese and Japanese households.
Income Reflects High Educational Attainment: The high income level is linked to strong educational achievements—77% of Indian Americans aged 25+ hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, second only to Taiwanese Americans. Eg: Despite similar education levels, Mongolian Americans earn far less, highlighting that factors beyond education (like job type, geography, or discrimination) may also impact income.
How does it compare to other Asian groups?
Asian Group
Median Household Income (2023)
Key Comparison Point
Example
Indian Americans
$151,200
Highest income among all Asian groups
40% higher than Chinese or Japanese households
Taiwanese Americans
Slightly below Indians (~$140,000+)
Second highest, due to even higher educational attainment (83%)
Close to Indian income levels, driven by education
Mongolian Americans
$54,300
Despite high education (69% with degrees), lowest income
Shows income isn’t always proportional to education
Who are the largest Asian ethnic groups in the U.S. as of 2023?
Chinese Americans: Approximately 5.5 million individuals, making up 22% of the Asian American population. Example: Chinese Americans are the largest Asian ethnic group in the U.S.
Indian Americans: Around 5.2 million individuals, accounting for 21% of the Asian American population. Example: Indian Americans are the second-largest Asian ethnic group in the U.S.
Filipino Americans: Approximately 4.6 million individuals, representing 18% of the Asian American population. Example: Filipino Americans rank third among Asian ethnic groups in the U.S.
What is the significance of the Indian diaspora?
Economic Influence: Indian diaspora communities contribute significantly to the economies of their host countries through entrepreneurship, skilled labor, and remittances. Example: Indian-Americans contribute to the U.S. economy, particularly in the technology sector, with companies like Google and Microsoft having Indian-origin CEOs.
Cultural Exchange: The Indian diaspora has played a major role in promoting Indian culture globally, including its festivals, cuisine, music, and film. Example: Bollywood films and Indian cuisine have a large following across the world, especially in the UK, the U.S., and the Middle East.
Political Influence: The Indian diaspora has a growing presence in political leadership positions, influencing policies in their respective countries. Example: Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, and Priti Patel, the Home Secretary of the UK, are of Indian origin and have shaped political discourse.
Educational Contributions: Indian diaspora members are highly skilled professionals and students, making notable contributions to global research and academic excellence. Example: Indian-origin scientists and engineers have made significant strides in fields like space exploration, medicine, and technology worldwide.
What are the challenges?
Caste-Based Discrimination: Despite migration, caste-based discrimination persists within diaspora communities. Marginalized groups, such as Dalits, often face exclusion and prejudice in educational institutions, workplaces, and social settings.
Racial and Religious Intolerance: Indian diaspora communities frequently encounter racism and xenophobia, particularly in countries with complex immigration histories. These discriminatory practices can hinder social integration and economic mobility.
Political Polarization and Identity Conflicts: Global political tensions, such as those related to the Kashmir issue, can lead to divisions within diaspora communities. Protests and calls for calm in response to international conflicts reflect how such issues can strain local community relations.
Way forward:
Promote Inclusivity and Social Integration: Efforts should be made to combat caste-based discrimination, racism, and xenophobia within diaspora communities by fostering inclusive policies and promoting intercultural dialogue. This can help create a more harmonious environment for integration and equal opportunities.
Encourage Political and Civic Engagement: To address political polarization, the Indian diaspora should engage in local politics and civic activities to bridge divides and advocate for constructive dialogue, ensuring their concerns are heard and their influence in the host country’s policies is constructive and united.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India.
Linkage: The high earnings of Indian Americans, as indicated in the article, are a clear example of the Indian diaspora “scaling new heights” economically in the West. This economic strength directly contributes to the potential economic benefits (like remittances, investment, trade promotion) and political influence (lobbying, soft power) that the diaspora provides to India. This question requires discussing precisely these benefits stemming from the diaspora’s success, of which high income is a key metric.
Governments are undermining the RTI Act by delaying the appointment of information commissioners, causing commissions to struggle with increasing backlogs, according to a 2023-24 report of Satark Nagrik Sangathan. This makes the topic important from the Governance point of view. Thus, knowing about the challenges in the implementation of RTI is important. But since RTI overlaps with multiple parts of the 4 GS papers, it is important to know the entire chain of ISSUE – SUBSTANTIATION-IMPACT for each challenge. This would make your prep for the topic conceptually strong.
GS1 – Indian Society: Role of Women, Urbanization, and Social Empowerment
Note4Students: Understand the role of RTI in promoting social accountability and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Study how RTI enables civil society to play an active role in strengthening democratic participation and social empowerment.
Microthemes: Social Empowerment, Government Programmes
GS2 – Important aspects of Governance, Transparency, and Accountability, Separation of powers
Note4Students: Strengthen your understanding of RTI as a tool for ensuring transparency and good governance. Link the impact of RTI amendments and judicial rulings to arguments for protecting democratic accountability in India.
Microthemes: Transparency and accountability
GS3 – Internal Security and Role of Non-state Actors in creating challenges to internal security
Note4Students: Explore how the protection of RTI activists relates to maintaining internal security and preventing governance abuses. Analyze how threats to RTI users affect civic activism and transparency in India.
Microthemes: Threat from external state or non-state actors,
GS4 – Ethics in Governance: Accountability and Ethical Governance
Note4Students: Enhance your understanding of ethical governance through case studies on RTI. Examine the balance between transparency, privacy, and ethical challenges in governance systems.
Microthemes: Quality of service delivery, Information sharing and transparency in Government X RTI
The Right to Information empowers citizens in a democratic state by providing unhindered access to information about government functions across the legislative, executive, and judiciary. This right transforms individuals from passive subjects to active citizens in governance.
What is the Right to Information?
The Right to Information ensures that the public can access information about government functioning, promoting citizen engagement and accountability.
Philosophical Basis of Right to Information
The philosophical foundation of the Right to Information can be traced back to Aristotle’s ideas, linking Democracy’s core values—Liberty and Equality—with citizens’ right to know about governmental functions. Access to information shapes personal, social, political, and economic identity and capabilities.
Recognition in International Law
United Nations (UN): In 1946, the UN General Assembly recognized Freedom of Information as a fundamental human right and essential for all other freedoms.
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR): Article 19 of the ICCPR enshrines the right to access information, establishing it as a legal obligation in international human rights law.
History of Constitutional Recognition in India
The Indian Constitution does not explicitly mention RTI as a fundamental right, but the Supreme Court has interpreted it as an extension of Article 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech and expression) and connected it to Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty).
State of U.P. v Raj Narain (1975): SC declared that RTI is implicit in the right to freedom of speech and expression.
S.P. Gupta v. President of India (1982): SC supported citizens’ right to know public actions and decisions by public functionaries.
People’s Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India: SC elevated RTI as a human right tied to Article 21.
Legislative Recognition
The Right to Information Act (RTI Act) was enacted in 2005 after strong advocacy from civil society groups like Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan and judicial support for transparency. The RTI Act aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and public access to information.
Transparency in Executive Functions: Increases government department transparency (e.g., Public Distribution System in UP).
Strengthening Democracy: Empowers citizens to question the government, reinforcing democratic engagement.
Shift in Government Work Culture: Fosters a culture of openness and record-keeping in government offices.
Judiciary’s Role: Empowers the judiciary to nullify laws promoting secrecy (e.g., ruling on the Electoral Bonds scheme).
The Issue-Impact Conundrum
While the Right to Information (RTI) Act has been a vital tool for transparency and accountability, its effectiveness is being undermined by several challenges. The following table offers a clear framework that can be used to enrich answers with facts and data.
Issue
SUBSTANTIATION
Impact
Vacant Posts in Information Commissions
Many information commissions have unfilled vacancies. For example, the Central Information Commission has 8 out of 11 positions vacant. States like Jharkhand, Tripura, and Telangana have had defunct commissions for years.
Severe disruption of RTI functioning; delays in case processing.
Mounting Backlogs
Due to insufficient information commissioners, there are over 4 lakh pending appeals and complaints. In states like Chhattisgarh and Bihar, fresh appeals may not be resolved until 2029.
Long delays in justice; citizens lose trust in RTI’s effectiveness.
Bias in Appointments
Many commissioners appointed are retired government officials or have political affiliations, leading to reluctance in taking action against transparency violations.
Erodes public trust and reduces the effectiveness of the RTI Act.
Failure to Impose Penalties
Information commissions impose penalties in only 5% of applicable cases, leading to a culture of impunity among officials.
Discourages adherence to RTI; promotes violations without accountability.
Regressive Amendments
The 2019 RTI Amendment Act reduced the autonomy of information commissions by granting the central government control over commissioners’ tenure, salaries, and entitlements. The 2023 Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act further restricted disclosure of personal information under RTI.
Undermines the independence of the RTI Act; limits transparency.
Threats and Attacks on RTI Activists
Nearly 100 killings and thousands of cases of assault, intimidation, and legal harassment have been reported against individuals using the RTI Act.
Creates fear, discouraging the public from using RTI to expose corruption.
Way Forward
Judicial Reaffirmation: The Supreme Court should reaffirm RTI as essential to democracy, especially in cases like electoral bonds.
Language Accessibility: RTI information should be accessible in regional languages.
RTI Education: The right to know should be included in school curricula to cultivate vigilant citizens.
Inclusion of Political Parties: Parliament should consider extending RTI to cover political parties for better democratic accountability.
#BACK2BASICS
The lesser talked-about side : How RTI has ushered in an era of transparency ?
The RTI has reinforced democratic participation by transforming citizens from passive recipients of information to active stakeholders in governance.
Key Contribution
Description
Example
Exposing Corruption and Malpractices
RTI has been instrumental in revealing large-scale corruption and misuse of resources.
RTI inquiries uncovered the Commonwealth Games scam and coal allocation scam, leading to public outcry and investigations.
Enhancing Transparency in Government Functions
RTI requests have led to greater openness in government departments and more accurate record-keeping.
In Uttar Pradesh, RTI applications revealed inefficiencies in the Public Distribution System, prompting improvements in food distribution.
Promoting Citizen Engagement in Democracy
RTI empowers citizens to ask questions, seek accountability, and participate more actively in governance.
Citizens used RTI to expose irregularities in local development projects, such as incomplete road constructions and school funding misuse.
Shift in Governmental Work Culture
RTI has encouraged transparency and accountability within government offices, fostering a more open work environment.
Improved record maintenance and timely data responses in various departments due to RTI requests, making public records more accessible.
Judicial Support for Transparency
RTI aids the judiciary in challenging laws that promote secrecy or infringe upon fundamental rights.
In cases like the Electoral Bonds scheme, RTI-backed transparency arguments contributed to the judicial review of laws affecting public accountability.
The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has released new rules to regulate access to biological resources and ensure fair and equitable benefit sharing, as approved by the Central Government.
About New Biodiversity Regulation, 2025:
It governs how benefits from the use of biological resources and associated traditional knowledge or digital sequence information (DSI) are to be shared.
It introduces a tiered benefit-sharing structure based on annual turnover of the user:
No sharing for turnover up to ₹5 crore.
0.2% for turnover between ₹5–50 crore.
0.4% for ₹50–250 crore, and 0.6% above ₹250 crore.
Users must submit resource usage statements annually if turnover exceeds ₹1 crore.
Cultivated medicinal plants are exempt, aligning with the Biodiversity (Amendment) Act, 2023.
For high-value or threatened species like red sanders, agarwood, and sandalwood, sharing must be at least 5%, rising to 20% or more for commercial use.
The Regulation covers researchers, IP right seekers, and includes digital data as part of benefit sharing for the first time.
Back2Basics: Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):
CBD was adopted at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit; it came into force since 29 December 1993 with secretariat in Montreal, Canada.
It is ratified by 196 countries, excluding the US.
Key objectives:
Conservation of biological diversity.
Sustainable use of biodiversity components.
Fair sharing of benefits from genetic resources.
It is governed by the Conference of the Parties (COP), meeting biennially.
COP16 (2024) in Colombia established a multilateral benefit-sharing mechanism for Digital Sequence Information (DSI).
It ensures fair reward for communitiesprotecting biodiversity when their knowledge or genetic data is used commercially.
Nagoya Protocol on ABS:
It was adopted in 2010, enforced in 2014, it supplements the CBD.
It provides a legal framework for fair benefit-sharing from the use of genetic resources with the country of origin or local communities.
It strengthens the global framework for responsible biodiversity use.
[UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:
1. In India, the Biodiversity Management Committees are key to the realization of the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol.
2. The Biodiversity Management Committees have important functions in determining acces and benefit sharing, including the power to levy collection fees on the access of biological resources within its jurisdiction.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Tensions escalated between Punjab and Haryana after the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) decided to release an extra 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra dam to Haryana, sparking political and legal opposition from Punjab.
About the Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute:
The dispute dates back to 1966 when Haryana was created from Punjab and was promised a share of river waters from the Ravi and Beas rivers.
The Satluj-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal was proposed to deliver Haryana’s share but remains incomplete due to Punjab’s resistance.
The current issue involves Punjab and Haryana over the release of additional water from the Bhakra dam, managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).
On April 30, 2025, BBMB ordered the release of 8,500 cusecs of waterto Haryana for drinking needs, which Punjab opposed, claiming Haryana had already withdrawn 104% of its annual share.
Water levels in the Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar dams are low due to poor snowfall in the Himalayas.
Punjab argues that BBMB’s decision is unilateral and has refused to open the Nangal dam sluice gates.
Inter-State Water Dispute Resolution in India:
Article 262 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to legislate on inter-state river water disputes and bar courts from intervening in such matters.
River Boards Act, 1956 allows creation of boards for inter-state river management, but no such board has ever been constituted.
Inter-State Water Disputes Act, 1956 provides for:
Conciliation by the Centre among aggrieved states.
Tribunal formation if conciliation fails.
The 2002 amendment mandates:
Formation of a tribunal within 1 year.
Tribunal decision within 3 years.
Supreme Court cannot question the award of a tribunal but can examine procedural issues.
Other prominent disputes include Krishna, Cauvery, and the Satluj Yamuna Link canal disputes.
[UPSC 2006] Recently Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh governments signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the linking of two rivers as a link project. Which are these two rivers?
Options: (a) Betwa and Chambal (b) Betwa and Ken* (c) Chambal and Son (d) Ken and Narmada
India’s Agriculture Minister has introduced ‘Kamala’ and ‘Pusa DST Rice 1’, the country’s first genome-edited rice varieties, developed by ICAR. These are also the world’s first genome-edited rice varieties.
About ‘Kamala’ and ‘Pusa DST Rice 1’:
Kamala (DRR Dhan 100): Developed by ICAR-IIRR Hyderabad, derived from Samba Mahsuri; shows higher yield, early maturity, drought tolerance.
Pusa DST Rice 1: Developed by ICAR-IARI Delhi, based on MTU1010; improves drought and salinity tolerance.
Agencies involved: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), ICAR-IIRR, ICAR-IARI.
They were created using CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing, specifically Site Directed Nuclease 1 (SDN1). It has NO foreign DNA inserted.
It has been approved by Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBC) and Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) under relaxed genome-edit rules.
Specific Benefits Offered:
Yield boost:
Kamala: +19% over Samba Mahsuri (avg. 5.37 t/ha, max. up to 9 t/ha).
Pusa DST Rice 1: +9.6% to +30.4% over MTU1010 under stress conditions.
Climate resilience:
Kamala: Drought tolerance, early maturity.
Pusa DST: Salt and drought tolerance for saline/alkaline/coastal soils.
Water saving: Kamala matures 20 days early → saves 3 irrigations, i.e., 7,500 million m³ water.
Emission reduction: Cultivation over 5 million ha may reduce 32,000 tonnes GHG emissions (20% drop).
Food security support: Improved paddy output enhances India’s average yield, critical for 40% of total foodgrain basket.
[UPSC 2018] With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements:
1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.
2.GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.
3.GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only* (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
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