Yala Glacier in Nepal is predicted to disappear by the 2040s due to rapid retreat and mass loss. It is the only glacier in the Himalayas listed on the Global Glacier Casualty List, an initiative launched in 2024 to document endangered or vanished glaciers worldwide.
Note: The UN has designated 2025 as the International Year of Glacier Preservation, with March 21st to be observed annually as World Glacier Day starting from 2025.
About the Yala Glacier
Yala Glacier is located in the Langtang Valley, central Nepal, and is influenced by the Indian summer monsoon.
It is one of the most studied glaciers in Nepal and represents the Hindu Kush Himalayan region in the World Glacier Monitoring Service (WGMS) database.
The glacier has been monitored for over a decade using stakes, snow pits, and satellite images, providing crucial data on the state of Himalayan glaciers.
It is the only glacier in the Himalayas included in the Global Glacier Casualty List, a recognition of its critical status.
It plays a vital role in studying the cryosphere, a critical water resource supporting 240 million people in the Himalayan region.
Retreat of Yala Glacier
Yala Glacier is projected to disappear by the 2040s, reflecting the growing threat to Himalayan glaciers.
It has retreated by 680 meters between 1974 and 2021, with a 36% reduction in area during this period.
Its elevation, which ranged between 5,170m and 5,750m in 2011, has significantly declined.
The glacier has lost so much mass that it no longer meets scientific standards for effective observation.
The Hindu Kush Himalayan cryosphere is warming twice as fast as the global average, leading to rapid glacial retreat.
About the Global Glacier Casualty List
It was launched in 2024 by a consortium of institutions including Rice University, World Glacier Monitoring Service (WGMS), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and UNESCO.
It documents endangered or vanished glaciers.
Glaciers Listed: Includes 15 glaciers, such as:
Pico Humboldt Glacier (Venezuela): Disappeared in 2024.
Sarenne Glacier (France): Vanished in 2023.
Dagu Glacier (China): Categorized as “critically endangered,” expected to vanish by 2030.
Significance:
Highlights the urgency of glacier preservation, as these ice masses store 70% of global freshwater and influence water security for billions of people worldwide.
Reinforces the need for global cooperation to address the accelerating loss of glaciers due to climate change
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following Pairs :
Glacier: River
Bandarpunch : Yamuna
Bara Shigri : Chenab
Milam : Mandakini
Siachen : Nubra
Zemu : Manas
Which of the following pairs given above are correctly matched?
12 years after its enactment, the Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, 2013, has seen limited impact, with the Lokpal ordering just 24 investigations and granting 6 prosecution sanctions.
History of Lokpal:
The First Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC-I) recommended establishing an anti-corruption ombudsman for India in 1966.
Several Lokpal Bills were introduced between 1971 and 2008, but none were passed.
In 2011, activist Anna Hazare’s Jan Lokpal Andolan led to significant public pressure for an anti-corruption framework.
This movement resulted in the enactment of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, which provides for the appointment of:
Lokpal at the Centre.
Lokayuktas in states to address corruption cases involving public servants.
AboutLokpal and Lokayukta
Lokpal
Lokayukta
About
Envisioned under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, it is India’s first anti-corruption ombudsman at the central level.
Covers corruption cases involving public servants, including the Prime Minister (with exceptions), Union Ministers, MPs, and central government officials.
Appointed by the President on the recommendation of a Selection Committee (includes PM, LoP, CJI, and an eminent jurist).
Established under Section 63 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, as the state-level counterpart to the Lokpal.
Handles corruption cases involving state public servants, including Chief Ministers, Ministers, MLAs, and state officials.
Appointed by the Governor, with the composition and appointment process varying across states.
Powers and Functions
Investigates corruption cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Can confiscate property acquired through corrupt practices.
Has jurisdiction over central officials in Groups A, B, C, and D, and institutions receiving significant foreign contributions or government funding.
Can refer cases to the CBI or its Inquiry Wing for investigation.
Submits annual reports to the President, which are tabled in Parliament.
Investigates cases under state laws, particularly involving state public servants.
Addresses corruption complaints related to government schemes, contracts, and functioning.
Powers vary across states, but typically include authority to recommend investigations, disciplinary action, or prosecution.
Submits annual reports to the Governor, which are presented in the State Legislature.
Structural Mandate
Composition: Chairperson (former CJI, SC Judge, or eminent person) and up to 8 members, 50% of whom must be from SC/ST/OBC/Minorities/Women.
Q) Explain the difference between computing methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015. (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on major issues like the methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (2021) and steady GDP growth and low inflation (2019).
The real GDP growth of 6.4% in 2024-25, while slightly below the Reserve Bank of India’s forecast of 6.6% which should not be seen as disappointing. The growth rate is expected to improve in the second half, with manufacturing showing a significant slowdown, contributing to a decline from 8.2% growth in the previous year.
Today’s editorial highlights the growth rates of India in Nominal and real terms and what are the factors behind the low growth rate of India. This content can be used in mains answer GS paper 3 related to GDP of India.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The First Advance Estimates (FAE) of National Accounts for 2024-25 indicate a real GDP growth of 6.4% and a nominal GDP growth of 9.7%.
Note: The National Statistical Office (NSO) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) releases the FAE.
What is the difference between Real and Nominal GDP growth rates?
• Real GDP growth rate is the rate of change in the volume of goods and services produced, while nominal GDP growth rate is the rate of change in the total value of goods and services produced. • The nominal GDP growth rate includes the effects of inflation, while the real GDP growth rate does not.
What factors are contributing to the slowdown in India’s GDP growth?
• Decline in Government Investment: The Government of India’s capital expenditure growth has been negative at (-)12.3%, which has significantly impacted overall GDP growth. Limited capital expenditure, reaching only 46.2% of the budget target after eight months, is a primary reason for the slowdown. • Weak Manufacturing Sector Performance: The manufacturing sector has experienced a sharp decline in growth from 9.9% in 2023-24 to 5.3% in 2024-25, contributing to lower Gross Value Added (GVA) figures. • Global Economic Uncertainty: Anticipated uncertainties stemming from global economic conditions, including changes in leadership in major economies like the United States, may hinder India’s export performance and overall economic stability. • Lower Private Consumption Growth: Although Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) is projected to grow by 7.3%, this is still a potential concern if consumer confidence does not recover adequately. • Previous High Base Effect: The high GDP growth of 8.2% in 2023-24 creates a challenging comparison, leading to perceptions of slowdown even when current growth rates may be consistent with long-term potential.
How will different sectors of the economy perform in the upcoming fiscal year?
Agriculture and Allied Sectors: Growth in agriculture is expected to improve significantly, with estimates suggesting a rise to 3.8% compared to 1.4% in the previous year.
Manufacturing Sector Recovery: There is an expectation for recovery in manufacturing, although it remains uncertain given past performance trends.
Construction and Services Sectors: The construction sector is projected to grow at around 8.6%, while financial services are expected to see growth of approximately 7.3%, indicating resilience and potential for expansion.
Private Consumption: Continued growth in private consumption is anticipated which is driven by rural demand and government spending initiatives.
What are the implications of these growth forecasts for policy and investment?
Need for Sustained Government Capital Expenditure: The government must prioritize capital expenditure to stimulate economic growth and encourage private investment, targeting at least a 20% increase based on revised estimates.
Focus on Structural Reforms: Policymakers should consider structural reforms that enhance productivity across sectors, particularly in manufacturing and agriculture, to support sustainable growth.
Investment in Infrastructure: Increased investment in infrastructure projects can provide a multiplier effect on the economy, fostering job creation and boosting demand.
Monitoring Global Economic Trends: Given the potential impact of global economic conditions on domestic growth, India should remain vigilant and adaptable to external shocks while focusing on strengthening domestic demand.
Long-Term Growth Strategies: With a potential long-term real GDP growth rate of around 6.5%, strategies should be developed to ensure that this target is met consistently over the next five years through innovation and investment in human capital.
Way forward:
Accelerate Infrastructure Investment: The government should prioritize and fast-track capital expenditure, especially in infrastructure, to stimulate economic activity, enhance private sector participation, and create jobs, aiming for at least 20% growth in capital investment for the upcoming fiscal year.
Enhance Sectoral Productivity through Reforms: Implement structural reforms in key sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and services to boost productivity, reduce bottlenecks, and ensure sustainable long-term growth, focusing on innovation and skill development.
Recently, UNICEF’s Global Outlook 2025 emphasizes the urgent need for resilient systems to protect children’s rights amid crises like conflict, climate change, and economic instability, ensuring equitable access to essential services globally.
What are the primary challenges facing children in the current global landscape as per UNICEF’s Global Outlook 2025?
Conflict and Displacement: Over 473 million children, or about 19% globally, live in conflict-affected areas—a figure that has nearly doubled since the 1990s. This exposes children to severe risks, including displacement, starvation, disease, and psychological trauma.
Economic Instability: Nearly 400 million children live in countries in debt distress, where financial pressures are reducing investments in essential services such as education and healthcare, further deepening their vulnerabilities.
Climate Change: Around 1 billion children are at extremely high risk from climate impacts. Disruptions from extreme weather events affect their access to education and healthcare, while only 2.4% of global climate finance is directed toward child-focused initiatives.
Digital Inequality: The expansion of digital public infrastructure (DPI) offers opportunities to improve service delivery, but significant digital divides persist, disproportionately affecting children in low-income and marginalised communities.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Launched in 2015, this flagship scheme aims to address the declining child sex ratio and promote the education and empowerment of girls.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY): This savings scheme encourages parents to save for their daughters’ education and marriage by offering attractive interest rates and tax benefits.
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): Established in 1975, ICDS focuses on improving the nutritional and health status of children under six years, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyaan): Launched in 2018, this mission aims to reduce malnutrition among children and women through a convergence of various schemes and community-based approaches.
Mission Vatsalya: This initiative focuses on child protection services, ensuring that vulnerable children receive necessary support and care.
Child Protection Policies: The government has enacted several laws, such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, to safeguard children’s rights and ensure their welfare.
National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR): The NCPCR plays a crucial role in promoting and protecting children’s rights in India. It has launched various initiatives such as the POCSO e-Box for reporting child sexual abuse and the Bal Panchayat Abhiyan to encourage child-led governance.
How can global governance and national systems be strengthened to support children’s rights and well-being?
Global governance:
Strengthening International Mechanisms: The United Nations should develop specialized frameworks to protect children’s rights in the digital environment, ensuring online safety and privacy are integral to global governance policies.
Ensuring Accountability: States and corporations must be held accountable for violations of children’s rights, with the adoption of measures like the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights to ensure businesses prioritize child protection.
Fostering Global Collaboration: Promoting bilateral and multilateral cooperation can address challenges such as cyberbullying and online exploitation through shared best practices and coordinated efforts to safeguard children’s rights worldwide.
National systems:
Developing Child Rights Governance Systems: Nations should establish comprehensive frameworks that integrate children’s rights into laws and policies, aligning with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) to prioritize children’s needs in governance.
Strengthening Civil Society Organizations (CSOs): Enhancing the capacity of CSOs through training programs can improve their ability to advocate for and implement child rights initiatives while effectively engaging with government institutions.
Advancing Evidence-Based Advocacy: Utilizing data-driven approaches to shape policy priorities can ensure child rights are central to resource allocation and budgeting at global, regional, and national levels.
Empowering Children’s Participation: Encouraging children to actively participate in decision-making processes helps create policies that address their needs and aspirations, fostering a more inclusive governance system.
Establishing Robust Monitoring Systems: Implement mechanisms to regularly track and report on children’s well-being indicators to ensure accountability and measure progress in achieving child rights standards.
Way forward:
Integrated Global-National Synergy: Strengthen collaboration between international frameworks and national systems to prioritize children’s rights in governance, focusing on accountability, digital safety, and climate resilience through coordinated policies and resource allocation.
Child-Centric Policy and Participation: Develop evidence-based policies that directly address children’s vulnerabilities while empowering them to participate in decision-making, ensuring sustainable and responsive governance structures.
Mains PYQ:
Q The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting an incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2022)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), along with the Central government, has reviewed the rules under the Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 (FEMA) to make it easier to carry out cross-border transactions in Indian rupees (INR) according to a statement by the RBI.
What are the recent changes made in FEMA regulations by RBI?
Opening Rupee Accounts for Non-Residents: Overseas branches of authorized dealer (AD) banks can now open rupee accounts for non-residents, enabling them to conduct current and capital account transactions with Indian residents.
Settlement of Transactions: Non-residents can use their balances in repatriable rupee accounts, including Special Non-Resident Rupee Accounts (SNRAs) and Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs), to settle transactions with other non-residents abroad.
Investment Opportunities: Balances in these accounts can be utilized for foreign investments, including Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in non-debt instruments, thereby promoting rupee-based investments.
Flexibility for Exporters: Indian exporters are now permitted to open foreign currency accounts overseas to receive export proceeds and use these funds for import payments, enhancing operational flexibility.
Support for Local Currency Transactions: The new guidelines support cross-border transactions in local currencies, reducing reliance on dominant foreign currencies like the US Dollar
What is Internationalisation of Rupee?
The internationalization of the rupee refers to the process of increasing the use and acceptance of the Indian rupee (INR) in global trade, investment, and cross-border transactions. This initiative aims to promote the rupee as a viable alternative to dominant currencies like the US dollar in international markets.
What are the key features of the Internationalisation of Rupee?
Cross-Border Transactions: The primary goal is to facilitate more cross-border transactions in rupees, allowing businesses and individuals to conduct trade and investments without relying on foreign currencies.
Current and Capital Account Transactions: Initially focused on promoting the rupee for import and export trade, the process will extend to other current account transactions and eventually capital account transactions, enabling investments in rupee-denominated assets.
Full Convertibility: Achieving full capital account convertibility is essential for internationalization, meaning there would be no restrictions on converting rupees into foreign currency or vice versa for investments and loans.
Strengthening Economic Sovereignty: Reducing reliance on foreign currencies enhances India’s economic sovereignty and minimizes exposure to currency fluctuations, thereby stabilizing trade relations.
Enhancing Global Trade: By allowing direct transactions in rupees, internationalization can simplify cross-border trade processes, eliminate currency conversion needs, and reduce transaction costs.
What are the significance of Internationalisation of Rupee?
Reducing Exchange Rate Risks: By promoting INR usage in international trade, India can mitigate exchange rate risks associated with reliance on major currencies like the USD.
Enhancing Trade Competitiveness: Facilitating rupee transactions can improve India’s trade competitiveness by lowering transaction costs and simplifying payment processes for exporters and importers.
Strengthening Economic Sovereignty: Greater acceptance of the INR in global markets can enhance India’s economic sovereignty and reduce vulnerability to external economic shocks and geopolitical tensions.
Encouraging Foreign Investment: The ability to conduct transactions in INR may attract more foreign investors looking for stable investment opportunities in India
Way forward:
Strengthen Global Agreements: Expand bilateral and multilateral trade agreements to encourage invoicing and settlement in rupees, promoting its global acceptability.
Enhance Domestic Financial Infrastructure: Improve financial systems to support seamless cross-border rupee transactions, including achieving full capital account convertibility and increasing trust in the INR.
Mains PYQ:
Q How would the recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulations in world trade affect macroeconomic stability of India? (UPSC IAS/2018)
The Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP) is set to expand to seven major Indian airports starting January 16, 2025, ensuring seamless and expedited immigration processes for Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders.
About the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Program (FTI- TTP)
Launched under the ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’ vision, it aims to establish world-class immigration facilities and enhance international mobility.
The Bureau of Immigration, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is the nodal agency responsible for implementing the programme.
It was initially introduced on June 22, 2024, at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI).
It is targeted at Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders in its first phase and will eventually include foreign travelers.
Phase-Wise Implementation:
Phase 1: Covers Indian citizens and OCI cardholders.
Phase 2: Will extend to foreign travelers.
The program is free of cost during its initial implementation phase.
By 2025, the program will be operational at 21 major airports across India.
Features of the Program
Operates through e-gates or automated border gates for faster processing.
Travelers scan their boarding pass and passport, followed by biometricauthentication, to complete the process.
Enrollment is completed through an online portal (https://ftittp.mha.gov.in), where applicants upload their details and required documents.
Membership is valid for a maximum of 5 years or until the passport’s validity, whichever comes first.
Applicants must ensure their passport has a minimum six-month validity at the time of registration.
White-listed trusted travelers undergo faster clearance while maintaining security standards.
Significance
Reduces immigration clearance time, providing a hassle-free travel experience for international travelers.
Biometric authentication ensures identity verification, reducing risks of fraudulent entries.
Travelers can bypass regular queues, making the process more convenient and seamless.
Comparable to the Global Entry Program in the United States, it aligns India’s immigration services with international standards.
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:
There is only one citizenship and one domicile.
A citizen by birth only can become the Head of State.
A foreigner once granted citizenship cannot be deprived of it under any circumstances.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
In just three months since its launch, the Central Suspect Registry (CSR) has successfully declined over 6 lakh fraudulent transactions, saving ₹1,800 crore, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
About the Central Suspect Registry (CSR)
The CSR aims to strengthen fraud risk management by maintaining a comprehensive registry of cybercrime suspects.
It contains data on 1.4 million cybercriminals linked to financial fraud and other cybercrimes.
The registry was created by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The registry is accessible to states, Union Territories, central investigation agencies, intelligence agencies, and financial institutions.
Developed with inputs frombanks and financial institutions, the CSR serves as a central database consolidating cybercrime-related data.
Significance of the CSR:
Integration with NCRP: Uses data from the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal to identify potential cybercriminals.
Fraud Detection and Prevention: Helps financial institutions and law enforcement agencies identify and block fraudulent activities.
Support from Financial Entities: The RBI has directed all banks to integrate the registry into their systems for fraud prevention.
Impact:
Over 6.10 lakh fraudulent transactions blocked, saving ₹1,800 crore as of December 1, 2024.
8.67 lakh mule accounts frozen by banks and financial intermediaries.
7 lakh SIM cards and 1.4 lakh mobile devices blocked.
Financial fraud transactions amounting to ₹3,850 crore saved since 2021 through the Citizen Financial Cyber Frauds Reporting and Management System.
1,03,151 suspicious online content items blocked under the powers conferred by the Information Technology Act, 2000.
PYQ:
[2020] In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits?
Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer
Cost of a new computer if some miscreant wilfully damages it, if proved so
Cost of hiring a specialised consultant to minimise the loss in case of cyber extortion
Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third party files a suit
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Since earlier this month Los Angeles has been gripped by devastating wildfires fueled by a rare and alarming meteorological phenomenon known as hydroclimate whiplash.
What is Hydroclimate Whiplash?
Hydroclimate whiplash refers to rapid and extreme shifts between periods of intensely wet weather and dangerously dry conditions.
Characteristics:
Alternates between heavy rainfall and severe drought.
Typically results in amplified weather extremes, such as floods followed by wildfires.
Global Trend:
Hydroclimate whiplash has increased by 31% to 66% worldwide since the mid-20th century, largely due to climate change.
Projections indicate a 113% rise in such events during sub-seasonal periods with a 3°C increase in global temperatures.
Causes of Hydroclimate Whiplash
Rising global temperatures intensify hydrological extremes, causing prolonged periods of rainfall and drought.
Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfalls during wet periods and exacerbating droughts during dry phases.
Shifts in El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycles influence precipitation and temperature extremes.
Changes in ocean currents and wind patterns disrupt normal weather cycles, contributing to hydroclimate variability.
Unusual delays in wet or dry seasons can magnify hydroclimate swings, as seen in regions like California.
How did this phenomenon cause wildfire in LA?
The usual wet season, which begins in October, failed during 2024-25, exacerbating dry conditions and increasing fire hazards.
As dry air moves from high-pressure regions over southwestern deserts to low-pressure zones off the California coast, it warms and dries further, creating ideal wildfire conditions.
PYQ:
[2011] La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino?
1. La Nina is characterised by an usually cold ocean temperature in equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is characterised by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.
2. El Nino has adverse effect on south-west monsoon of India but La Nina has no effect on monsoon climate.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
India has achieved a significant milestone in defense technology by successfully testing its first domestically developed Bhargavastra micro-missile system, designed to counter swarm drone threats.
What is Bhargavastra?
Bhargavastra is India’s firstmicro-missile-based counter-drone system, developed to address the increasing threat posed by swarm drones.
It is capable of detecting and neutralizing small aerial vehicles at ranges exceeding 6 km.
Developed by Economic Explosives Ltd, the system is designed for the Indian Army, with interest also expressed by the Indian Air Force.
The system is tailored to provide a cost-effective solution for countering drone threats while preserving advanced air defense systems for larger challenges.
Features of the Bhargavastra Missile System
Detection Range: Can detect small aerial vehicles at distances greater than 6 km.
Neutralization Capability: Employs guided micro munitions to engage and destroy drone targets.
Simultaneous Launches: Capable of launching over 64 micro missiles simultaneously, enabling effective countermeasures against swarm formations.
Mobile Platform: Mounted on a mobile platform for rapid deployment in diverse terrains, including high-altitude regions.
Versatile Design: Engineered to operate across varied terrains, meeting the specific requirements of the Indian military.
PYQ:
[2014] With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?
It is a surface-to-surface missile.
It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
