Why in the News?
During the tenure of Chief Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and Sanjiv Khanna, authorities appointed 15 out of 17 judges to the Madras High Court from BC, OBC, MBC, SC, or ST communities.
Why is BC/OBC/SC/ST representation highest in Madras High Court?
- Strong Social Justice Framework in Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu has a long history of affirmative action and reservation policies aimed at uplifting Backward Classes (BC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Most Backward Classes (MBC), Scheduled Castes (SC), and Scheduled Tribes (ST), which creates a larger pool of eligible candidates from these communities.
- Better Educational Access and Mobility: The state contributes disproportionately to the OBC population in higher education—while Tamil Nadu has about 10% of India’s OBC population, it accounts for 13% of OBCs enrolled in higher education nationally. This leads to higher qualifications among BC/OBC candidates, increasing their chances of judicial appointments.
- Collegium Appointments Reflect State Demographics: The Supreme Court Collegium, while selecting judges, considers inputs from the state, and the Madras High Court appointments reflect this social reality, with 88.2% of recent appointees belonging to BC/OBC/MBC/SC/ST groups, the highest among all High Courts.
Why do Southern High Courts have more non-general category judges?
- Higher Social Mobility and Educational Access: Southern States like Tamil Nadu have better upward social mobility for BC/OBC groups, reflected in higher enrollment rates in higher education. Eg, Tamil Nadu has about 10% of India’s OBC population but accounts for 13% of OBCs in higher education nationally, which leads to greater representation in judicial appointments.
- Regional Political and Social Dynamics: Southern States often have political environments and social policies that encourage inclusion of non-general categories in key positions. Eg, Madras High Court had 88.2% of appointees from BC/OBC/SC/ST groups, the highest share among all High Courts.
What role do Chief Ministers and State Intelligence play in appointments?
- Chief Ministers’ Opinions Are Considered: The Supreme Court Collegium takes into account the views of Chief Ministers during the appointment process, which can subtly influence the selection of judges. Eg, this influence might explain variations in representation across States, though the exact extent of their impact is unclear.
- State Intelligence Inputs Are Used: The Collegium also reviews inputs from the State Intelligence Branch to assess candidates’ suitability and background. Eg, such inputs could affect appointments in States like Rajasthan, where political and security considerations might play a role.
How does BC social mobility affect judicial representation?
- Women from Non-General Categories Are Represented but in Small Numbers: Out of 34 women appointed, several belonged to BC, OBC, MBC, SC, or ST communities, showing some diversity in gender and social groups. Eg, at the Madras High Court, 5 women were appointed, including one from BC, one from MBC, and three from OBC categories.
- Other High Courts Also Appoint Women from Non-General Categories: States like Telangana, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Guwahati, and Manipur have women appointees from various non-general groups, reflecting broader inclusivity. Eg, Telangana appointed women from BC and OBC categories, while Manipur had a woman appointee from the ST category.
Way forward:
- Institutionalize Diversity Criteria in Appointments: Formal guidelines should be introduced to ensure fair representation of BC/OBC/SC/ST and women in judicial appointments across all High Courts.
- Strengthen Educational and Legal Training Access: Expand scholarships, coaching, and mentorship programs for underrepresented communities to build a larger pool of eligible candidates for the judiciary.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2021] Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.
Linkage: While the article focuses on social categories (caste/class), the underlying theme of ensuring diversity and representation in the judiciary is common. The article also provides data on women appointees, including their social categories in Madras HC.
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Why in the News?
Recently, in Majitha, Amritsar district of Punjab, 21 people aged between 26 and 80 died and 10 others were critically hospitalised after allegedly drinking spurious liquor.
| Note: Hooch tragedies refer to incidents where people die or fall seriously ill after consuming illicit or spurious liquor. |
What systemic issues contribute to recurring hooch tragedies in India?
- Poverty and Social Vulnerability: Poor, daily wage earners often turn to cheap illicit liquor as a coping mechanism. Eg: Victims in the 2023 Punjab hooch tragedy were mostly from low-income backgrounds.
- Easy Availability and Misuse of Methanol: Methanol, an industrial chemical, is cheap, easily pilfered, and often used in spurious liquor despite being highly toxic. Eg: Bootleggers dilute methanol to create hooch, as seen in several mass poisoning incidents.
- Weak Regulatory Oversight and State Capacity: Lax control over methanol transport and lack of inter-state coordination enable theft and illegal use. Eg: No central framework exists to monitor methanol movement, despite repeated incidents.
- Corruption and Nexus Among Stakeholders: A deep-rooted nexus between bootleggers, local politicians, and police often shields the culprits. Eg: In many hooch cases, police are suspended post-tragedy, but no long-term accountability follows.
- Ineffective Legal Enforcement: Laws like the Poison Act are rarely used, and convictions are rare due to weak evidence or delayed trials. Eg: In the 2015 Malvani case, only 4 out of 14 accused were convicted after 9 years.
Who is primarily accountable for spurious liquor deaths?
- Bootleggers and Illicit Manufacturers: They produce and distribute toxic brews, often using dangerous chemicals like methanol for profit. Eg: In the 2023 Punjab hooch case, bootleggers used methanol-laced liquor that killed at least 23 people.
- Corrupt Law Enforcement Agencies: Police often ignore illegal activities due to bribes or political pressure, enabling the supply chain to flourish. Eg: After the Punjab incident, several police officers were suspended for negligence.
- Regulatory Authorities and State Governments: Weak oversight of methanol distribution, lack of tracking mechanisms, and poor implementation of prohibition laws lead to repeated failures. Eg: States lack robust frameworks to monitor industrial alcohol movement, allowing diversion.
- Local Politicians and Political Nexus: Some politicians support or protect bootleggers for electoral or financial gains, compromising public safety.
What are the legislations to regulate spurious liquor or illicit alcohol in India?
- The Poisons Act, 1919: Regulates the manufacture, possession, sale, and transport of poisonous substances like methanol, which is often diverted to make illicit liquor. Eg: Methanol is classified as a Class B poison under this Act, but its diversion is a key issue in hooch tragedies.
- The Essential Commodities Act, 1955: Controls the production and distribution of essential goods, including alcohol ingredients, to prevent hoarding and illegal diversion. Eg: Used to regulate methanol supply and prevent pilferage that fuels illicit liquor trade.
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Why has the legal framework failed to ensure convictions in illicit liquor cases?
- Weak Application of Existing Laws: Cases are often booked under prohibition laws or general criminal provisions, but not under stronger laws like the Poison Act or organized crime statutes, leading to weaker prosecution. Eg: In the 2015 Malvani hooch tragedy (Mumbai), 105 people died, but the court acquitted 10 out of 14 accusedafter 9 years; none was convicted under the Poison Act.
- Poor Evidence Collection and Investigation: Police often fail to collect scientific and documentary evidence, link the entire supply chain, or prove intent and causation beyond reasonable doubt. Eg: In multiple cases, including the 2023 Bihar hooch incident, forensic reports were delayed or inconclusive, weakening the case in court.
- Lack of Inter-State Regulatory Mechanism for Methanol: Methanol, used industrially, is not illegal in itself. Without a centralised tracking system, tracing its diversion becomes difficult, weakening the case against suppliers. Eg: Bootleggers source methanol from authorised dealers across states, making it hard to fix legal liability on any single actor.
What policy measures can prevent methanol diversion into the illicit liquor trade? (Way forward)
- Centralised Methanol Monitoring Framework: Establish a nationwide tracking system for methanol production, transport, and sale using barcoding or GPS tracking. Eg: Like the track-and-trace system for pharmaceutical drugs, methanol consignments can be monitored to prevent theft or leakage.
- Tighter Regulation and Licensing of Dealers: Enforce strict licensing norms for methanol dealers with regular audits and surprise inspections; cancel licences for non-compliance. Eg: Some states classify methanol as a Class B poison and regulate it under the Poison Act.
- Criminal Liability for Supply Chain Negligence: Amend laws to hold manufacturers and transporters accountable for diversion due to negligence or collusion, with higher penalties and jail terms. Eg: In the Punjab hooch tragedy (2020), weak action against upstream suppliers limited accountability—stronger legal deterrents can close such gaps.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco- terrorism.
Linkage: Criminal activities linked to trafficking dangerous substances for profit and the security threats they pose, similar in nature to the illicit methanol trade described in the article.
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Why in the News?
On April 22, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, killed 26 civilians. In response, the Indian government took several diplomatic steps, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
Why is the Indus Waters Treaty crucial for India-Pakistan ties?
- Framework for Water Sharing: The IWT provides a clear, legally binding agreement on how the Indus River and its tributaries are shared, reducing the risk of water conflicts between India and Pakistan. Eg: India controls the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej), while Pakistan manages the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab), helping avoid disputes over water access.
- Endurance Amid Political Tensions: Despite wars and terrorist attacks (e.g., 2008 Mumbai attacks, 2019 Pulwama attack), the treaty has endured for over six decades, maintaining a vital channel of cooperation between two hostile neighbors. Eg: Even after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, the treaty remained a key framework for managing shared water resources.
- Diplomatic Leverage and Stability: The treaty serves as a strategic tool in diplomatic relations, with India occasionally using it as leverage while ensuring continued water flow, preventing escalation into broader conflict. Eg: After the 2023 Pahalgam attack, India announced suspension of some treaty provisions as a diplomatic response.
How does climate change affect the Indus Basin?
- Glacial Melt and Water Flow Variability: The Indus Basin depends heavily on glacier-fed rivers, with about 80% of water coming from glacial melt. Climate change accelerates glacier melting, causing short-term floods and long-term water shortages during dry seasons.
- Rising Water Demand and Scarcity: Growing population and agricultural needs increase pressure on limited water resources, worsening water scarcity in the basin, especially in Pakistan, where water availability has dropped below critical levels. Eg: Irrigation losses in Pakistan exceed 50% in some areas, threatening food security.
- Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods: Reduced and unpredictable water flow due to climate change affects crop yields and fisheries, destabilizing rural economies dependent on the Indus Basin.
How did colonial irrigation projects influence post-independence water disputes?
- Extensive Canal Systems Built by British: The British developed large canal networks for irrigation, creating shared water infrastructure across regions. Eg: The 1915 Triple Canal Project linked major tributaries, affecting river flows between future India and Pakistan.
- Altered Natural River Flow: British dams and barrages controlled floods and irrigation but changed river courses, leading to downstream access issues. Eg: Barrages on the Indus and its tributaries shifted water availability patterns.
- No Formal Water Sharing Post-Partition: At independence, India and Pakistan inherited interconnected irrigation but lacked agreements on water distribution. Eg: This led to conflicts over the use of eastern and western rivers after 1947.
- Regional Water Imbalances: Colonial irrigation prioritized certain areas, creating uneven water distribution that fueled disputes. Eg: Punjab’s canal systems served both countries but became points of contention.
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What lessons can India draw from other river treaties? (Way forward)
- Promote Cooperative Water Management: Successful treaties often emphasize joint management and data sharing to build trust and avoid conflicts. Eg: The Mekong River Commission involves multiple countries collaborating on water usage and flood control.
- Include Climate Change Adaptation: Modern treaties factor in environmental changes and sustainable usage to address future water challenges. Eg: The Nile Basin Initiative incorporates climate resilience strategies for water-sharing among East African nations.
- Establish Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Effective treaties have clear, impartial conflict resolution processes to handle disagreements peacefully. Eg: The Danube River Protection Convention includes mechanisms for arbitration and mediation among European countries.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2020] In what way have the science-based technologies triggered off striking changes in agriculture?
Linkage: Genome editing is a science-based technology that represents a significant advancement capable of triggering changes in agriculture by developing improved crop varieties.
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Why in the News?
Recently, the United Kingdom (UK) has announced new plans to change its immigration rules to reduce the number of people moving to the country.
What are the key immigration reforms proposed to control net migration?
- Raising Skilled Worker Visa Threshold: The requirement for the ‘skilled worker’ visa will be raised from the senior secondary level (A-level) back to the degree level. (The previous Conservative government lowered it to A-level in 2020.)
- Ending Social Care Visas: The UK will no longer issue social care visas to foreign workers, reversing the post-COVID-19 expansion that allowed easier entry for care workers.
- Reducing Graduate Visa Duration: The graduate visa, which allows international students to stay and work after completing their studies, will be shortened from 2 years to 18 months (3 years for PhD holders).
- English Language Requirement for Dependents: Dependents of visa holders will now have to meet English language proficiency requirements to promote social integration.
- Increasing Settlement Period: The minimum qualifying period for ‘settlement’ (permanent residency) will be increased from 5 years to 10 years.
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Why has the UK decided to discontinue social care visas for foreign workers?
- Increased Migration and Pressure on Services: The rise in social care visas after COVID-19 led to a large influx of foreign care workers, which added strain to public services and housing. Eg: Over 114,000 additional health and care worker visas were issued between 2021 and 2023, mainly to South Asian and African nationals.
- Reducing Low-Skilled Migration: The government plans to reduce low-skilled migration by raising visa requirements, such as increasing the skill level from A-level to a degree. Eg: Social care sector.
- Promoting Domestic Workforce Development: There is a push to invest in training and apprenticeships for UK residents instead of relying on imported cheap labour. Eg: PM Starmer highlighted the need to focus on local skills development rather than importing workers in sectors like social care.
Who are the major beneficiaries of the UK’s visa ?
- South Asian Nationals: A large number of work visas were issued to workers from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Eg: Many Indian care workers received health and care visas between 2021 and 2023.
- Sub-Saharan African Nationals: Significant numbers of care workers came from countries like Zimbabwe, Ghana, and Nigeria. Eg: The visa route helped fill care sector jobs with workers from these African nations.
How have Indian students and workers been affected by recent changes in UK visa policies?
- Shorter Post-Study Work Visa: Graduate visa reduced from 2 years to 18 months, limiting job opportunities for Indian students. Eg, many now have less time to build careers in the UK.
- Higher Skill Requirements: Skilled worker visas now require a degree-level qualification, excluding some mid-skilled jobs. Eg, Indian engineers and healthcare workers face stricter eligibility.
- English Language Rules for Dependents: Dependents must meet English proficiency requirements to promote integration. Eg, Indian families may find it harder to join relatives.
- Longer Residency for Settlement: Permanent residency eligibility increased from 5 to 10 years. Eg, Indians must wait longer to settle permanently.
- Increased Tuition Costs: Proposed 6% fee levy on international students raises study costs. Eg, this could discourage Indian students from studying in the UK.
Way forward:
- Enhance Domestic Skill Development: Invest significantly in vocational training and apprenticeships to reduce dependency on low-skilled foreign labour and create local employment opportunities.
- Balance Migration Policies: Implement targeted immigration reforms that maintain the UK’s competitiveness in attracting global talent while ensuring sustainable public service capacity and social integration.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India.
Linkage: The tightening of immigration rules in Western countries like the UK directly impacts the size, composition, and potential “scaling of new heights” of the diaspora, and thus implicitly affects the economic and political benefits for India.
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Why in the News?
Retail inflation dropped to 3.16% in April, marking its lowest level in nearly six years. This shows that prices are rising more slowly, bringing relief to consumers and policymakers.
What caused the recent fall in retail and wholesale inflation in April?
- Sharp Drop in Vegetable Prices: Retail inflation was driven down by a nearly 11% drop in vegetable prices. Eg: Wholesale potato prices fell by 24.3% compared to April last year.
- Falling Crude Oil and Fuel Prices: Crude oil and natural gas inflation hit a 22-month low of -15.55%. Eg: Petrol prices contracted by 7.7%, and diesel by 5.04% at the wholesale level.
- Government Measures to Control Prices: Actions like open market foodgrain releases, buffer stock management, and eased imports helped stabilize supply. Eg: These steps helped prevent food shortages and kept overall food inflation at 2.55%, a 22-month low.
Why is the contraction in vegetable prices considered partly due to the base effect?
- High Inflation Last Year (Base Effect): In April last year, vegetable inflation was very high, in the range of 27%-30%. Eg: A sharp rise last year creates a high base, making even stable or slightly falling prices this year appear like a large drop.
- Statistical Comparison Distortion: Inflation is measured year-on-year, so a high base can exaggerate the percentage fall in the current period.Eg: If tomato prices were ₹100 last year and are ₹90 now, it shows a 10% fall—but last year’s ₹100 was unusually high.
- Not Solely Due to Supply Improvement: The large fall in prices this year is not only because of better supply or government action but also due to last year’s spike. Eg: Last year’s shortages due to unseasonal rains had led to higher prices, inflating the base.
How have government actions helped in easing inflation?
- Strengthening Buffer Stocks: The government has maintained adequate buffer stocks of food items like rice, wheat, and pulses to manage supply shocks. Eg: Releasing pulses from buffer stocks during price spikes helped stabilise market supply and reduce inflationary pressure.
- Open Market Sales to Regulate Prices: Through open market operations, the government released surplus food items into the market to control prices. Eg: Open sale of onions and tomatoes by agencies like NAFED helped bring down retail prices during seasonal spikes.
- Relaxation of Import Restrictions: The government eased import norms and reduced import duties on key commodities during shortages. Eg: Reduction in import duties on edible oils and pulses led to higher supply and reduced food inflation.
What policy actions are expected from the RBI and the government based on the latest inflation data? (Way forward)
- Likely Cut in Interest Rates by RBI: With inflation easing, especially retail inflation falling for six consecutive months, the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) may cut policy rates to support growth. Eg: The RBI might reduce the repo rate in the upcoming June review to boost borrowing and investment.
- Reduction in Fuel Prices by Oil Marketing Companies: With crude oil inflation hitting a 22-month low, the government is expected to direct public sector oil companies to cut petrol, diesel, and LPG prices. Eg: Despite a 42% fall in global crude prices over three years, retail fuel prices remained almost unchanged; a correction is now anticipated.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] What are the causes of persistent high food inflation in India? Comment on the effectiveness of the monetary policy of the RBI to control this type of inflation.
Linkage: “India’s Easing Inflation and Policy Implications” discusses the latest inflation data, noting the easing of both retail and wholesale inflation, largely driven by a contraction in vegetable and pulse prices.
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Why in the News?
Recently, the Supreme Court of India gave an important decision in the case of Imran Pratapgarhi v. State of Gujarat (2025 INSC 410). The judgment focused on balancing the fundamental right to freedom of speech with the police’s duty to register a First Information Report (FIR).
What is the significance of procedural criminal law in ensuring principled criminalisation?
- Prevents Abuse of Power: Procedural criminal law enforces checks on state power by ensuring investigations, arrests, and prosecutions follow due process and protect fundamental rights (e.g., right to life and liberty under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution). Eg: In Imran Pratapgarhi vs State of Gujarat, the Supreme Court quashed the FIR because the police violated the procedural requirement under Section 173(3) of BNSS, thereby infringing upon the right to free speech.
- Filters Out Malicious Prosecutions: By setting guidelines (like preliminary inquiries), procedural law prevents unnecessary or politically motivated criminal cases from being registered and escalating into full investigations or arrests. Eg: Section 173(3) allows police to conduct a 14-day preliminary inquiry in certain cases before registering an FIR, thereby avoiding the criminalisation of non-serious or false complaints.
- Enhances Accountability: Police have significant discretion in the criminal process. Procedural law regulates this discretion, ensuring it is used transparently and fairly, preventing arbitrary or biased action. Eg: Without proper procedural checks, police may over-police minor infractions while ignoring more serious offences, leading to imbalanced enforcement of law.
Why did the Supreme Court quash the FIR against Imran Pratapgarhi?
- Violation of Procedural Safeguards: The police failed to conduct a mandatory preliminary inquiry before registering an FIR, as required under Section 173(3) for offences punishable with less than seven years. Eg: The alleged offence related to a poem posted on social media, which falls within this category. The police were required to first assess whether a prima facie case existed — they did not.
- Protection of Freedom of Speech: The FIR was filed for the alleged posting of an “inflammatory” poem, but the Court noted it was an exercise of free speech under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. Eg: Criminal proceedings against protected speech must pass a higher threshold. The Court emphasized that misuse of law to curb free expression violates constitutional freedoms.
- Prevention from Frivolous Criminalisation: The Court found that the police had acted in a hasty and unjustified manner, triggering criminal law machinery for what could be a frivolous or politically motivated complaint. Eg: The judgment cited the intent of Section 173(3) — to avoid over-criminalisation in cases involving less serious offences, especially those entangled with fundamental rights.
How does Section 173(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita aim to prevent unnecessary criminalisation?
- Section 173(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) aims to prevent unnecessary criminalisation by allowing police to conduct a preliminary inquiry within 14 days before registering an FIR for cognisable offences punishable with 3 to less than 7 years.
- This ensures that only cases with prima facie merit proceed, acting as a safeguard against frivolous or politically motivated complaints and police overreach.
Who plays a central role in the actual implementation of criminalisation?
- The police play the central role in the practical application of criminalisation. They are the first responders—detecting crime, registering FIRs, investigating, and arresting suspects.
- The discretion exercised by the police significantly affects how criminal laws are enforced, and whether they lead to over-criminalisation or under-criminalisation. Therefore, how the police interpret and act under procedural law (e.g., Section 173(3)) directly influences the legitimacy and fairness of the criminal justice system.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Police Training and Accountability: Enhance training on procedural law and human rights for police to ensure responsible use of discretion, coupled with strict accountability mechanisms to prevent misuse and overreach.
- Improve Legal Safeguards and Oversight: Institutionalise mandatory preliminary inquiries and judicial oversight in sensitive cases to protect fundamental rights and prevent frivolous or politically motivated criminalisation.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2013] Discuss Section 66A of IT Act, with reference to its alleged violation of Article 19 of the Constitution.
Linkage: This reflects the broader theme of how laws that define behaviour as potentially punishable (part of the criminalisation process) are scrutinised based on their impact on fundamental rights, a dynamic echoed in the article discussion of the Imran Pratapgarhi case where police action (governed by procedural law) affecting freedom of speech was reviewed by the Supreme Court.
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Why in the News?
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently said that India is the first country in the world to create rice varieties using genome editing technology.
What are the new varieties?
A team of researchers from different institutions, led by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), developed two new rice varieties — DRR Dhan 100 (called Kamala), made from the high-yielding Samba Mahsuri rice, and Pusa DST Rice 1, made from the Maruteru 1010 (MTU1010) variety. |
What are the benefits of the new rice varieties Kamala and Pusa DST Rice 1?
- Higher Yield: Both varieties produce more rice per hectare than their parent strains. Eg: Kamala yields 5.37 tonnes/ha vs. Samba Mahsuri’s 4.5 tonnes/ha; Pusa DST Rice 1 yields 3,508 kg/ha, which is 9.66% more than MTU1010’s 3,199 kg/ha.
- Drought Tolerance: Kamala is more resilient to drought, ensuring stable harvests during water shortages. Eg: Farmers can harvest good crops with less water in drought-prone areas using Kamala.
- Early Maturity: Kamala matures 20 days earlier, reducing resource use and allowing faster crop cycles. Eg: Early harvest saves water and fertilizer, enabling farmers to grow a second crop sooner.
- Salinity and Alkalinity Resistance: Pusa DST Rice 1 tolerates coastal salinity and alkaline soils better than its parent, boosting yield in tough environments. Eg: It yields 30.4% more under coastal salinity and 14.66% more under alkalinity than MTU1010.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Early maturity of Kamala lowers methane emissions from rice fields, helping fight climate change. Eg: Shorter growing period means less methane released compared to traditional rice varieties.
Why are there objections to the genome-edited rice varieties?
- Lack of Transparency: There is concern that the genome-edited rice varieties were announced without adequate field-level data being shared publicly, making the scientific claims appear premature. Eg: Venugopal Badaravada, a former ICAR governing body member, criticized the lack of transparency and was later expelled, raising concerns about institutional accountability.
- Regulatory Concerns: Critics argue that exempting genome-edited crops (especially SDN-1 and SDN-2) from GM regulations is legally questionable and may bypass biosafety evaluations. Eg: The Coalition for a GM-Free India stated that de-regulating gene editing is “outright illegal” under India’s current biosafety framework.
- Seed Sovereignty and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Activists fear that the gene-editing tools used are patented, which could threaten farmers’ seed rights and give control to private corporations. Eg: Concerns were raised about IPR entanglements with the technologies used in Kamala and Pusa DST Rice 1, potentially compromising India’s food and seed sovereignty.
When will the new rice seeds be available for farmers?
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) anticipates that certified seeds of these varieties will be available to farmers within two years, following the completion of necessary processes such as Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) registration and seed multiplication. |
Way forward:
- Ensure Transparent Evaluation: Conduct multi-location field trials and publicly share performance data to build scientific credibility and public trust.
- Safeguard Farmer Rights and Regulatory Oversight: Develop a clear IPR policy and establish robust, independent biosafety review mechanisms to protect seed sovereignty and address legal concerns.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2020] In what way have the science-based technologies triggered off striking changes in agriculture?
Linkage: Genome editing is a science-based technology that represents a significant advancement capable of triggering changes in agriculture by developing improved crop varieties.
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Why in the News?
Recently, the U.S. has agreed to temporarily reduce its tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30% for 90 days, while China will lower its tariffs on American products from 125% to 10%.
What are the key terms of the U.S.-China trade truce?
- Tariff Reductions: The U.S. has temporarily lowered tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%, and China has reduced its duties on American imports from 125% to 10%.
- 90-day Breather: The reprieve is limited to 90 days, giving both sides a window for further negotiations.
- Global Market Response: The announcement led to a 2%-3.8% rise in markets worldwide, reflecting investor relief.
- Exclusion from Previous Pause: Earlier, in April, the U.S. had excluded China from a 90-day reciprocal tariff pause, indicating that this thaw represents a strategic pivot.
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Why has the U.S. trade deficit with China remained unresolved despite the tariff rollback?
- Temporary and Limited Rollback of Tariffs: The U.S. reduced tariffs from 145% to 30% only for 90 days, which is not a permanent structural solution. Eg: Such short-term measures may ease tensions but do not address long-term trade imbalances rooted in production and consumption patterns.
- Core Issue of Trade Imbalance Not Addressed: The agreement focuses on reducing tariffs but does not compel China to increase imports of U.S. goods or alter its export-driven model. Eg: The U.S. continues to import large volumes of electronics, machinery, and pharmaceuticals from China while exporting relatively fewer goods.
How might the U.S.-China agreement affect India’s position in the China+1 manufacturing strategy?
- Reduced Urgency for Diversification: The easing of tensions may lead global firms to reconsider shifting away from China, reducing momentum behind the China+1 strategy. Eg: Companies that were exploring alternatives like India or Vietnam may delay or reverse their relocation plans.
- India’s Limited Gains from China+1 Exposed: India has not fully leveraged the China+1 opportunity due to infrastructure and policy bottlenecks, making it less competitive. Eg: Despite global supply chain shifts during the trade war, India attracted far less investment than Vietnam or Indonesia in electronics and apparel sectors.
- Renewed Focus on China’s Scale and Efficiency: Investors might return to China due to its unmatched manufacturing scale, efficient logistics, and mature supply chains. Eg: Apple’s decision to continue manufacturing a large share of its products in China despite exploring India illustrates the challenge India faces in replacing China.
| Note: China+1 is a business strategy adopted by multinational companies to diversify their manufacturing operations and supply chains beyond China, by adding at least one other country—hence “China plus one”. |
What challenges does India face in its trade negotiations with the U.S.?
- Retaliatory Tariff Pressures: India has had to respond to U.S. tariff hikes on steel and aluminium with potential reciprocal measures, increasing trade tension. Eg: After the U.S. imposed duties under Section 232, India notified the WTO of its plan to raise tariffs on American products like almonds and apples.
- Pending Comprehensive Trade Agreement: Despite ongoing talks, both countries have struggled to finalize a broad-based trade deal due to divergent priorities and domestic pressures. Eg: Disagreements over market access for U.S. dairy products and medical devices have repeatedly stalled progress on a bilateral trade pact.
- Impact of U.S.-China Trade Developments: A thaw in U.S.-China trade ties may reduce Washington’s interest in deepening trade relations with India, limiting India’s leverage. Eg: If U.S. firms regain confidence in China post-agreement, India may lose the strategic advantage it gained during earlier trade disruptions.
Why must Indian States implement labour and land reforms to reduce dependence on Chinese imports?
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- Labour Law Reforms to Boost Ease of Doing Business: The Indian government has amended labour laws to make it easier for industries to hire and fire workers, fostering a more flexible labour market. Eg: The Code on Industrial Relations (2020) consolidates multiple labour laws and provides greater flexibility for businesses to operate efficiently.
- Land Acquisition and Infrastructure Development: The government has streamlined land acquisition processes and enhanced infrastructure to attract investments in manufacturing. Eg: The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) is developing dedicated industrial zones with improved connectivity and land acquisition processes to boost manufacturing.
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Way forward:
- Enhance Policy Frameworks: India should strengthen its infrastructure, labor, and land reforms to offer a more competitive and attractive environment for global companies, ensuring it can capitalize on the China+1 strategy.
- Focus on Technology and Skill Development: India must invest in advanced manufacturing technologies and skill development to match China’s scale and efficiency, thus making itself a more viable alternative for global supply chains.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2018] How would the recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulations in world trade affect macroeconomic stability of India?
Linkage: The US-China trade deal, as described in the article arose from a “tense global trade environment” involving “tariffs being ratcheted up by both sides”. This context of rising protectionism and trade tensions between major powers directly relates to the “phenomena of protectionism” mentioned in this PYQ and its potential impact on India’s macroeconomic stability.
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Why in the News?
The National Education Policy 2020 does not effectively address the employability issues faced by India’s graduates in the workforce.
What are the key flaws in NEP 2020 regarding employability?
- No Industry Participation in Policy Design: The NEP drafting process excluded industry leaders, leading to poor alignment between education and job market requirements. Eg: Graduates often lack practical skills needed for sectors like AI, renewable energy, or advanced manufacturing.
- Ineffective Skill Training Mechanisms: Although vocational training and multiple entry/exit options were introduced, they often lead to low-quality outcomes without real career growth. Eg: Students trained under NEP frequently end up in low-paying jobs like delivery services, despite completing higher education.
- Weak Implementation and Accountability: Despite ambitious reforms, there is little evidence of measurable improvement in graduate employability over the years. Eg: Employability of graduates was only 42.6% in 2025, showing minimal change from 44.3% in 2023.
Are India’s higher education institutions truly improving?
- Selective Celebration of Rankings: Government highlights QS WUR improvement (11 institutions in top 500) while ignoring low actual rankings (mostly above 100).
- Low Research Quality: India’s CNCI rank rose from 17th to only 16th among G20 nations, showing marginal improvement.
- Misleading Statistics: The 318% “performance growth” touted is percentage-based inflation, not reflecting real innovation or academic excellence.
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How does India’s GII performance expose its innovation gaps?
- Low Quality of Research Output: Despite improvements in overall GII ranking (from 81 in 2015 to 39 in 2024), India’s Category Normalized Citation Impact (CNCI) — a measure of research quality — remains poor, ranking 16th out of 19 G-20 countries. Eg: While quantity of publications has increased, their global influence and citations remain low, showing a gap in impactful innovation.
- Weak Innovation Clusters: India’s top innovation hubs like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Chennai rank low globally (56th to 84th), and cluster intensityis poor compared to global leaders. Eg: Bengaluru, often called India’s Silicon Valley, ranks only 56th, far behind real Silicon Valley (2nd), indicating weak industrial-scientific synergy.
- Limited High-End Technological Innovation: India lags in patent filings and high-tech outputs compared to nations like South Korea, the U.S., and China. Eg: Samsung Electronics is the top patentee in Bengaluru, not an Indian firm — showing a dependence on foreign innovation in domestic clusters.
Who benefits from international university rankings like QS World University Rankings?
The QS World University Rankings are published by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a global higher education company known for providing specialized services in university rankings, student recruitment, and education consulting.
- Universities: High rankings enhance global reputation, attract top students and faculty, and secure more funding. Eg, IIT Bombay benefits from its high QS ranking by attracting international collaborations and research opportunities.
- Students: International rankings help students choose universities with better academic quality, resources, and future career prospects. Eg, students opting for Harvard University often benefit from its global recognition and network.
What are the limitations of using such rankings as indicators of educational quality?
- Overemphasis on Research Output: Rankings often prioritize research publications and citations, which may not reflect the quality of teaching or employability. Eg, IIT Bombay ranks highly globally for research, but the focus on research may overshadow the quality of undergraduate education.
- Neglect of Local Context and Industry Relevance: Global rankings may not consider how well a university serves its local economy or industries. Eg, Jadavpur University in Kolkata is renowned for its engineering programs but is ranked lower globally, despite its significant contributions to local technology and industry development.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Promotion of Start-ups and Innovation: The government has launched various initiatives like Startup India and Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation in the education sector. Eg, AIM supports schoolchildren with access to cutting-edge technology and resources to create new ideas.
- Skill Development Programs: Programs like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) aim to provide skill training to youth, improving their employability. Eg, the scheme offers certification in sectors like electronics and manufacturing, ensuring that graduates are job-ready.
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Way forward:
- Industry-Academia Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships between industries and educational institutions to design curricula that align with market needs, enhance practical training, and provide internships. Eg, tech companies collaborating with universities for real-time software development projects.
- Focus on Research Quality and Innovation: Increase investment in high-impact research and innovation by improving research infrastructure and promoting collaboration with global leaders. Eg, providing incentives for Indian firms to file patents and innovate domestically.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2016] Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative. What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable?
Linkage: Education and skills to the concept of employability and the realization of India’s demographic dividend. It implies that simply having a young, educated population is not enough; they must be “productive and employable” for this potential to translate into economic benefit, highlighting a potential gap.
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Why in the News?
India has overhauled its e-waste governance through the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, which came into force on April 1, 2023, replacing the 2016 version. These rules mark a major policy shift to tackle India’s rapidly growing e-waste crisis.
How Does the New EPR Framework Work?
- Mandatory Registration: All manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, and recyclers must register with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) through an online portal.
- EPR Targets: These entities must meet specific collection and recycling targets, as set by the CPCB.
- Liability for Non-compliance: Failure to meet targets invokes environmental compensation and penalties.
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What is the role of EPR floor pricing in e-waste management?
- Ensures Fair Returns to Formal Recyclers: EPR floor pricing guarantees minimum compensation for authorized recyclers, making formal recycling economically viable and discouraging unsafe informal practices. Eg: A certified recycler adopting advanced e-waste extraction technologies is assured stable earnings, promoting compliance and expansion.
- Reduces Informal Sector Dominance: By offsetting the cost advantage of informal recyclers, floor pricing shifts e-waste processing to the formal sector, where health and environmental standards are enforced. Eg: In India, 95% of e-waste is handled informally; floor pricing helps shift this to regulated channels.
- Boosts Circular Economy and Material Recovery: Stable pricing encourages recyclers to focus on resource recovery—such as copper, gold, and rare metals—rather than mere disposal. Eg: Proper recycling of circuit boards in formal facilities helps recover precious metals worth crores, reducing raw material imports.
What are the economic and social consequences of poor e-waste management?
- Economic loss from pollution: Over $10 billion lost annually due to pollution from toxic e-waste processing.
- Social cost: Informal processing results in $20 billion in social loss, affecting women and children, whose average lifespan is under 27 years.
- Lost revenue and metals: India forfeits ₹80,000 crore annually in metal value and $20 billion in tax revenue due to untracked, cash-based operations.
- Health impacts: Open incineration and use of cyanide and sulphuric acid cause air, water, and soil pollution, compounding public health crises.
How does stable pricing support formal recycling?
- Ensures Financial Viability for Formal Recyclers: A minimum (floor) price for EPR certificates guarantees fair compensation, encouraging recyclers to invest in safe, modern technologies. Eg: Certified recyclers can recover precious metals like gold and copper efficiently with advanced equipment, making operations economically viable.
- Discourages Hazardous Informal Practices: Stable pricing removes the informal sector’s cost advantage, shifting recycling away from unsafe, illegal methods. Eg: With assured returns, recyclers prefer compliance over risky open burning and acid-leaching methods that dominate 95% of the sector.
- Drives Compliance and Investment: Predictable prices create trust in the system, helping producers meet EPR obligations and promoting infrastructure development.
What are the challenges?
- Dominance of the Informal Sector: A large share of e-waste in India is processed by the informal sector using hazardous and unsafe methods like acid baths and open burning. Eg: In Seelampur (Delhi), a major informal e-waste hub, workers dismantle electronics without protection, exposing themselves to toxic substances like lead and mercury.
- Low Consumer Awareness and Participation: Many consumers are unaware of proper e-waste disposal methods, leading to hoarding, landfilling, or selling to unregulated recyclers. Eg: In cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai, residents often discard electronics with household waste or sell them to local kabadiwalas despite having formal collection centers.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Awareness and Consumer Participation: Promote widespread consumer education on e-waste disposal through campaigns and incentives for responsible recycling, ensuring more e-waste is directed to formal, safe channels.
- Enhance Infrastructure and Enforcement of EPR: Develop advanced e-waste recycling infrastructure and strictly enforce EPR compliance to ensure producers meet recycling targets and transition e-waste processing to the formal sector.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.
Linkage: India’s growing e-waste problem is linked to its fast digital growth and greater use of electronic gadgets. This issue mainly relates to the economy but also highlights how digitalisation is a key reason behind the rise in e-waste.
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Why in the News?
The combination of assured government support and scientific advancements in breeding technologies has made rice and wheat the most preferred crops among Indian farmers, while other crops lag due to lack of similar incentives and innovations.
Why do farmers prefer rice and wheat?
- Assured Procurement at MSP: The government provides near-guaranteed purchases of rice and wheat at Minimum Support Prices (MSP), reducing market risk. Eg: In Punjab, rice area increased from 29.8 lakh hectares in 2015-16 to 32.4 lakh hectares in 2024-25 due to consistent MSP support.
- Lower Yield Risk Due to Irrigation and Research Support: Rice and wheat are mostly grown under irrigated conditions and benefit from superior public research, leading to more stable yields. Eg: Wheat variety HD-3385, released in 2023, offers 6 tonnes/hectare yield with resistance to rust diseases and adaptability to different sowing times.
- Continuous Breeding Innovations and Higher Returns: These crops have seen regular improvements through breeding, enhancing productivity, stress tolerance, and input efficiency. Eg: Genetically-edited rice variety Kamala yields up to 9 tonnes/hectare and matures faster, saving water and fertilizer costs.
What drives yield growth in these crops?
- Genetic Improvements and Breeding Innovations: Continuous breeding has led to development of high-yielding, stress-resistant varieties. Eg: Wheat variety HD-3385, released in 2023 by ICAR, yields an average of 6 tonnes/hectare with a potential of 7.3 tonnes, and is resistant to all three major rusts (yellow, brown, and black).
- Improved Agronomic Practices and Technology Adoption: Advanced farming practices like early sowing, use of fertiliser-responsive varieties, and direct seeding have boosted productivity. Eg: Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR) technology eliminates the need for nursery and transplanting, saving water and labour, and supporting yield levels up to 10 tonnes/hectare in some hybrid varieties.
- Public Research and Extension Support: Rice and wheat receive consistent support from government research institutions, unlike many other crops. Eg: The CRISPR-Cas edited rice variety Kamala, developed by ICAR in 2024, produces 450-500 grains per panicle (vs. 200-250 in parent variety), yields up to 9 tonnes/hectare, matures 15-20 days earlier, and requires less fertiliser and water.
How has government policy influenced the cropping patterns in states?
- Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Procurement Assurances: Farmers prefer crops with assured government procurement at MSP, reducing market risk. Eg: In Punjab, rice area increased from 29.8 lakh hectares in 2015-16 to 32.4 lh in 2024-25 due to near-guaranteed MSP procurement, while cotton area declined from 3.4 lh to 1 lh.
- Skewed Research and Input Support: Rice and wheat have received consistent research and extension support, unlike pulses or oilseeds. Eg: ICAR has developed multiple improved wheat and rice varieties (e.g., HD-3385, Kamala), while no major breakthrough has happened in cotton since Bt cotton (2002-06).
- Irrigation Infrastructure Bias: Government investment in irrigation has favoured crops like rice and wheat, making them less yield-risk prone. Eg: In Madhya Pradesh, wheat area rose from 59.1 lh to 78.1 lh and rice from 20.2 lh to 38.7 lh, as irrigation expansion supported these water-reliant crops.
Which innovations improved rice varieties?
- Semi-Dwarf and High-Yielding Varieties: Introduction of semi-dwarf varieties reduced lodging and increased fertiliser response and yields. Eg: IR-8, released in 1966, was the first semi-dwarf rice variety, yielding 4.5–5 tonnes/hectare in just 130 days, compared to 1–3 tonnes in traditional varieties over 160–180 days.
- Gene Editing using CRISPR-Cas Technology: Advanced gene-editing allows precision improvements in yield and stress tolerance. Eg: Kamala, a GE mutant of Samba Mahsuri developed by ICAR in 2024, yields up to 9 tonnes/hectare, matures earlier, and has 450–500 grains per panicle (vs. 200–250 in the original).
- Abiotic Stress Tolerance Breeding: Development of varieties tolerant to drought, salinity, and heat stress for resilience in changing climates. Eg: Pusa DST Rice 1, a GE version of Cottondora Sannalu, with edited DST gene, shows improved tolerance to drought and salt stress, enabling cultivation in marginal soils.
Way forward:
- Diversify MSP and R&D Focus: Extend assured procurement and research support to pulses, oilseeds, and millets to reduce over-reliance on rice and wheat.
- Promote Sustainable Practices: Encourage water-saving technologies like direct-seeded rice, crop rotation, and climate-resilient varieties to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] What are the major challenges faced by Indian irrigation system in recent times? State the measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation management.
Linkage: Farmers prefer rice and wheat partly because of access to irrigation which reduces yield risk. Challenges and management of irrigation systems directly impact this aspect of their decision-making.
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Why in the News?
On May 6, India and the UK signed an important Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which was called a historic achievement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The FTA creates new opportunities for the textile sector, which now needs to match global styles and standards
What are the key benefits of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?
| Benefit |
Description |
Eg |
| 1. Enhanced Market Access |
India gains zero-duty access to UK markets for industrial and agricultural goods; UK exporters get reduced tariffs in India. |
Indian processed foods earlier faced 10–12% tariffs — now duty-free in the UK. Tariffs on British whiskey reduced from 150% to 40% over 10 years. |
| 2. Boost to Key Domestic Sectors |
Labour-intensive Indian sectors like textiles, apparel, toys, and footwear benefit; UK gains in automobiles and spirits. |
Indian apparel now gets zero-tariff access to UK.
Tariffs on British cars slashed from 100% to 10%. |
| 3. Job Creation & Economic Growth |
Trade expansion leads to employment generation and investment in both countries. |
India’s textile sector, employing 45+ million people, can boost jobs through increased exports. |
| 4. Diversification of Trade Partners |
India reduces dependency on US/EU; UK diversifies beyond EU post-Brexit. |
India currently holds just 1.8% share in UK imports — FTA targets major increase. |
| 5. Foundation for Future FTAs |
Sets a model for India’s trade negotiations with other major economies like the EU and US. |
Learnings from tariff cuts and ESG compliance can aid future deals with EU/US. |
How can India improve its Textiles and Apparel sector to capitalize on the FTA with the UK?
- Strengthen the Value Chain and Infrastructure: India must address its fragmented and geographically dispersed T&A value chain. Fast-tracking the operationalization of PM MITRA parks can create integrated textile hubs, reduce logistics costs, and improve delivery timelines. Eg: Bangladesh delivers apparel orders in 50 days compared to India’s 63 days — a more integrated value chain can help India match or exceed this efficiency.
- Promote Manmade Fibre (MMF) Production: India needs to resolve the inverted GST structure and ease quality norms to boost MMF-based products, which dominate global demand for technical textiles, athleisure, and activewear. Eg: MMF garments are taxed higher at the input stage than at the finished product level, making Indian exports less competitive globally.
- Focus on Compliance, Design, and Market Relevance: Indian exporters must align with global fashion trends and strengthen ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance, especially in anticipation of EU and UK sustainability regulations. Eg: The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) will require traceable, ethical supply chains by 2029 — Indian exporters must prepare accordingly.
Why is the operationalisation of PM MITRA parks important for India’s textile industry?
- Integrated Value Chain and Reduced Costs: PM MITRA parks aim to bring together the entire textile value chain — from spinning, weaving, processing to garmenting — in one location, reducing logistics costs, delays, and inefficiencies. Eg: Currently, cotton is grown in Gujarat, yarn spun in Tamil Nadu, and garments stitched elsewhere, leading to high costs and long lead times. An integrated park would streamline this process.
- Boost Export Competitiveness: These parks can help scale up production, attract investment, and improve quality standards for global markets like the UK, where India now enjoys zero-duty access under the FTA. Eg: By focusing PM MITRA parks in export-oriented regions like Navsari (Gujarat) and Virudhunagar (Tamil Nadu), India can cater more efficiently to UK and EU demand.
Where does India lag behind in terms of manmade fibre (MMF) production compared to global competitors?
- Inverted GST Duty Structure: The GST on raw materials (like MMF yarn at 12%) is higher than on finished products (5%), leading to increased production costs and reduced global competitiveness. Eg: Indian MMF garments are costlier compared to those from Vietnam or Bangladesh, where tax structures are more balanced.
- Restrictive Quality Norms and Compliance Issues: Outdated or complex quality standards limit innovation and access to high-performance MMF products demanded in global markets. Eg: Indian firms struggle to meet the quality requirements for technical textiles used in athleisure and activewear segments.
- Lack of Investment in High-End Functional Fabrics: India has limited capacity for producing value-added MMF fabrics such as moisture-wicking, stretchable or anti-bacterial textiles, unlike China or South Korea. Eg: While China leads in exporting performance-based textiles, India still focuses on basic polyester products.
Way forward:
- Reform Tax Structure & Boost Incentives: Rationalize the GST structure to eliminate the inverted duty issue and offer production-linked incentives (PLI) for MMF textiles to enhance global competitiveness.
- Invest in R&D and Modern Manufacturing: Encourage investment in high-performance MMF fabric production, innovation, and compliance infrastructure to meet international standards in technical textiles and sustainability.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2017] Account for the failure of the manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labor-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labor-intensive rather than capital – intensive exports.
Linkage: Textiles and Apparel (T&A) sector as a labour-intensive sector that employs over 45 million people and can benefit significantly from the FTA by gaining access to high-end markets. This question directly asks about promoting labour-intensive exports, aligning perfectly with the potential benefits highlighted for the T&A sector through the FTA.
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Why in the News?
On May 9, 2025, the Supreme Court of India canceled the Delhi High Court’s order that had asked the Wikimedia Foundation to remove a page from its Wikipedia website. This decision is important for several reasons.
What was the Supreme Court’s reason for overturning the High Court’s order on Wikipedia?
- Protection of Free Speech and Public Debate: The Supreme Court emphasized that important legal and public issues must be open to public discussion, even if they are under judicial consideration (sub judice). Eg: Wikipedia users commenting critically on a judge’s order were exercising free speech, not committing contempt — the Court said the High Court “overreacted” by viewing it as contempt.
- Right to Know is a Fundamental Right: The Court reaffirmed that the right to know is part of the fundamental rights under Articles 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech) and 21 (right to life and personal liberty). Eg: Wikipedia entries serve public interest by disseminating information — taking down pages affects people’s access to knowledge.
- Wikimedia is a Neutral Intermediary: The Foundation does not create or control content but provides the platform, which is maintained by users under community guidelines.Eg: Since Wikimedia only hosts content and does not produce it, the responsibility lies with users — the High Court erred by targeting the platform instead of applying proper intermediary liability norms under the IT Act.
Why is the right to know protected under Articles 19(1)(a) and 21?
- Linked to Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19(1)(a)): Freedom of speech includes both the right to express and the right to receive information. Without access to information, freedom of expression is incomplete. Eg: Journalists rely on access to court documents, government records, or public statements to report news and foster transparency.
- Essential for a Life with Dignity (Article 21): The right to life includes the right to live with dignity, which requires access to truthful and relevant information that affects one’s wellbeing and rights. Eg: A patient has the right to know about the risks of a medical procedure; a citizen has the right to know about environmental hazards in their locality.
How does Wikimedia qualify as an intermediary under IT law?
- Provides Platform Without Editing User Content: Wikimedia only offers the technical infrastructure for Wikipedia — it does not create or edit the content published by users. Eg: If a Wikipedia page contains inaccurate information, it is user-generated. Wikimedia itself does not write or verify the content.
- Acts Within Safe Harbour Protections (Section 79, IT Act): As an intermediary, Wikimedia is protected from liability for third-party content as long as it doesn’t initiate or modify the transmission and follows due diligence. Eg: If defamatory content appears on Wikipedia, Wikimedia is not legally responsible unless it fails to act on legitimate removal requests.
- Operates Under Community Guidelines, Not Control: Wikipedia’s content is governed by community-led guidelines and editors, not by Wikimedia itself. This decentralized structure supports its status as a neutral intermediary. Eg: Disputes over article edits are resolved through user discussion forums, not by Wikimedia’s direct intervention.
Where did the High Court overstep in interpreting adverse comments as contempt?
- Misconstrued Online Criticism as Judicial Contempt: The High Court treated user discussions and critical comments on Wikipedia as contempt of court, despite them being expressions of public opinion. Eg: A user forum questioning the logic of the High Court’s interim order was taken as contempt, even though it reflected public debate — a protected form of speech.
- Failed to Recognize the Role of Open Debate in Democracy: By ordering content removal based on adverse comments, the Court ignored the constitutional protection of open criticism, especially on matters of public interest. Eg: The take-down order was based on perceived insult to the judiciary, but the Supreme Court clarified that public discussion, even when a case is sub judice, is vital to democratic accountability.
When should courts uphold free speech in online platform cases?
- When Public Debate Involves Matters of Legal or Democratic Importance: Courts should protect speech that contributes to informed public discourse, even if the topic is sub judice, as long as it doesn’t obstruct justice. Eg: In the Wikipedia case, users debated a High Court order — the Supreme Court ruled this was legitimate discussion, not contempt.
- When the Platform Functions as a Neutral Intermediary: If an online platform merely provides infrastructure without controlling content, courts should focus on protecting users’ freedom of expression rather than penalizing the platform. Eg: Wikimedia does not write or edit articles but hosts user content — thus, courts should defend user rights unless unlawful content is proven.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Intermediary Guidelines: Clearer regulations are needed to distinguish between platforms acting as neutral hosts and those responsible for content, ensuring they are not unduly penalized for user-generated content.
- Promote Balanced Public Discourse: Courts should encourage open debate on matters of public interest, ensuring that free speech is upheld while preventing actions that could obstruct justice or harm reputations.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] Right to privacy is intrinsic to life and personal liberty and is inherently protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. Explain. In this reference discuss the law relating to D.N.A. testing of a child in the womb to establish its paternity.
Linkage: Article 21, one of the fundamental rights the Supreme Court linked to the “right to know” in the Wikimedia case. It discusses the expanding scope of rights under Article 21, similar to how the right to know is being interpreted.
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Why in the News?
A 42-year-old woman in Kerala tested positive for the Nipah virus on May 8, marking the third case reported from Malappuram district in the past two years.
Why is studying the genetic evolution of Nipah in humans and bats important?
- Understanding Virulence and Transmission Potential: Genetic mutations can influence how severe the disease is and whether it can spread between humans. Eg: The 2018 outbreak in Kerala showed a high fatality rate (17 out of 18 cases), partly attributed to a variant with small but significant differences from the Bangladesh strain.
- Detecting New Strains and Preventing Outbreaks: Regular monitoring of genetic changes in the virus found in bats (natural hosts) helps identify emerging strains before they jump to humans. Eg: Repeated spillovers in Kerala suggest evolving viral dynamics in bat populations.
- Informing Vaccine and Diagnostic Development: Understanding the virus’s genetic structure enables the development of effective diagnostic tools, therapies, and future vaccines. Eg: Without updated genomic data, public health responses may lag behind fast-evolving variants.
Why is it important to share the genetic sequences of the Nipah virus in public databases without delay?
- Enables Global Scientific Collaboration and Rapid Response: Sharing genetic sequences in public databases allows scientists worldwide to study the virus, track mutations, and develop diagnostic tools, treatments, or vaccines more efficiently. Eg: Rapid sharing of SARS-CoV-2 sequences in 2020 helped in the swift development of COVID-19 vaccines.
- Monitors Viral Evolution and Assesses Public Health Risk: Timely sequence sharing helps detect genetic changes that may enhance the virus’s transmissibility or virulence, allowing health authorities to prepare accordingly. Eg: Genetic analysis of the 2018 Nipah strain in Kerala showed variation from the Bangladesh strain, helping researchers understand its unique impact.
How did the 2018/2023 outbreaks differ from the recent case in symptoms and transmission?
| Aspect |
2018/2023 Outbreaks |
2024 Case |
| Clinical Presentation Type |
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) |
Relatively milder, with fewer complications |
| Disease Severity |
More severe, with multisystem involvement |
Relatively milder, with fewer complications |
| Human-to-Human Transmission |
Yes, leading to outbreaks |
No human-to-human transmission observed yet |
| Viral Load and Spread Potential |
High viral load in throat swabs, indicating spread |
Lower viral load in AES patients, reducing spread |
| Outcome and Fatality |
High fatality rate (17 deaths from 18 cases in 2018) |
No deaths reported, with early detection and isolation |
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Rapid Response and Surveillance Systems: The government deploys central teams including epidemiologists and virologists for outbreak investigation and containment. Eg: In the 2023 Kerala outbreak, a Central team was sent immediately to assist the State with contact tracing and containment measures.
- Strengthening Laboratory Diagnostics and Research: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, have developed diagnostic kits and conduct genomic sequencing of the virus. Eg: NIV Pune confirmed the Nipah virus infection in the May 2024 case and also conducted genome analysis during previous outbreaks.
- Public Health Awareness and Isolation Protocols: Health departments issue guidelines on infection control, isolation of suspected cases, and public advisories to avoid contact with bats and consume only washed fruits. Eg: During the 2018 and 2023 outbreaks, Kerala implemented isolation wards, restricted public gatherings, and sensitised healthcare workers and the public.
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Way forward:
- Establish Permanent Nipah Surveillance Units in High-Risk Areas: Set up dedicated monitoring and response units in regions like Kerala for continuous bat sampling, genomic sequencing, and early detection.
- Promote Transparent Data Sharing and Regional Collaboration: Ensure timely release of viral genomic data in public databases and collaborate with neighbouring countries for joint research and response planning.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level.
Linkage: The importance of timely detection and isolation of Nipah cases and mentions different clinical presentations (AES and ARDS), implying the need for diagnostic and clinical management capacity. A robust public healthcare system, particularly at the grassroots level, is essential for effective surveillance, early detection, diagnosis, isolation, and management of infectious disease outbreaks like Nipah, making this question highly relevant.
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Why in the News?
Millions of informal workers in Indian cities are still suffering the most because Heat Action Plans are poorly designed.
What are the key gaps in current Heat Action Plans for informal workers?
- Lack of Specific Focus on Informal Workers: Most Heat Action Plans do not explicitly identify or address the unique needs of informal workers. Eg: NDMA’s 2019 heatwave guidelines mention “outdoor workers” broadly, without specific measures for vendors, construction workers, or waste pickers.
- Absence of Occupational Safety Protocols: There are no provisions for safe working hours, rest breaks, hydration, or emergency response for heat stress. Eg: State-level HAPs often do not mandate rest periods or shaded areas for those working under the sun, unlike Odisha which mandates halts in outdoor work during peak heat hours.
- Short-term and Crisis-oriented Planning: Most HAPs are activated only during summer months and lack long-term strategies to tackle recurring heatwaves. Eg: City-level HAPs like those in Delhi focus on public awareness during heat alerts but don’t invest in permanent cooling infrastructure.
- Inadequate Coordination Between Departments: Ministries and departments (Labour, Urban Affairs, Health) work in silos, leading to disjointed efforts. Eg: Urban development plans rarely consult labour departments, leaving out worker welfare components like cooling shelters at work sites.
- No Budgetary Provision or Worker Participation: Most HAPs are underfunded and formulated without involving worker collectives or unions. Eg: Unlike Ahmedabad’s more inclusive model that adjusted work hours and created shaded rest areas, many cities fail to allocate funds or consult informal worker groups.
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Why are informal workers most vulnerable to heatwaves?
- Prolonged Exposure to Outdoor Heat: Informal workers often work in open, unshaded environments without protective infrastructure. Eg: Street vendors and construction workers spend long hours on roads or open sites under direct sunlight, increasing the risk of heatstroke and dehydration.
- Lack of Social and Health Protection: Most informal workers are not covered under formal health insurance or welfare schemes. Eg: Waste pickers or rickshaw pullers facing heat exhaustion rarely get access to medical care or income support during extreme weather conditions.
- No Control Over Work Conditions: Informal work lacks regulated hours, rest breaks, or heat safety norms. Eg: Gig workers or daily wage labourers often continue working during peak heat hours to avoid income loss, further risking their health.
Who should be included in drafting worker-focused HAPs?
- Informal Worker Collectives and Unions: These groups bring first-hand knowledge of occupational challenges and practical needs. Eg: Street vendor associations can guide the placement of shaded stalls or cooling zones in high-traffic market areas.
- Local Civil Society and NGOs: They have ground-level experience working with vulnerable communities and can ensure inclusive planning. Eg: NGOs working with waste pickers can help identify priority locations for hydration points and rest shelters.
- Urban Local Bodies and Municipal Officials: City planners and officials must coordinate resources and integrate worker needs into official frameworks. Eg: Municipal corporations can designate public spaces like bus depots or community halls as cooling centers for workers.
Where should cooling zones be set up for maximum worker benefit?
- High-Density Work Areas: Install cooling zones where informal workers are concentrated and exposed to heat. Eg: Labour chowks, construction sites, and industrial zones where daily wage workers gather and work outdoors.
- Public Transport Hubs and Markets: Busy areas with long waiting times or heavy footfall offer strategic relief points. Eg: Bus stations, metro exits, and wholesale markets where street vendors and rickshaw pullers operate.
- Slum Clusters and Informal Settlements: Set up community cooling centres where workers live in poorly ventilated, heat-trapping environments. Eg: Urban slums lacking trees or open spaces, where indoor heat stress is high during nights and afternoons.
How can cities integrate heat resilience into governance and planning? (Way forward)
- Embed Heat-Safety Norms in Urban Planning Frameworks: Include heat adaptation measures in master plans, building bye-laws, and zoning regulations. Eg: Mandating cool roofs, passive ventilation, and shaded pathways in all new public infrastructure projects.
- Retrofit Informal Workspaces for Thermal Comfort: Upgrade existing markets, labour hubs, and waste collection zones with heat-resilient designs. Eg: Installing reflective roofing, shade nets, and drinking water stations in street vendor zones.
- Establish Interdepartmental Coordination and Accountability: Create dedicated roles (like a heat officer) and inter-ministerial task forces for climate and labour. Eg: A city-level heat officer coordinating between health, labour, and urban departments to ensure timely responses during heatwaves.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2013] Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.
Linkage: It is time to protect India’s workers from the heat” discusses the growing crisis of extreme heat in Indian cities and its severe impact on urban informal workers.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2021] “There arose a serious challenge to the Democratic State System between the two World Wars.” Evaluate the statement.
Linkage: The period “between the two World Wars”, providing a broader historical context related to World War II which is the focus of Article. It prompts discussion on the challenges to democratic systems during this era. |
Mentor’s Comment: Eighty years ago, on May 8, 1945, the Second World War officially ended in Europe when Nazi Germany surrendered to the Allied forces in Reims and Berlin. This day is celebrated as Victory in Europe (VE) Day, but in India, it often goes unnoticed, as the years of the war (1939-1945) are mainly remembered as the final phase of the struggle for independence. It is important to remember that Indians never ignored their duties to the world, whether in war or peace, as shown by the lives of two lesser-known Indians.
Today’s editorial examines the contributions of lesser-known Indian heroes like Kolachala Sitaramaiah and Idris Hasan Latif during World War II. This content will be useful for GS Paper I (World History) and GS Paper II (International Relations).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
On May 9th, Victory in Europe Day is also a time to honor the brilliance of scientists like Kolachala Sitaramaiah and the courage of soldiers like Idris Hasan Latif during World War II.
Who was Kolachala Sitaramaiah?
- Kolachala Sitaramaiah (July 15, 1899 – September 29, 1977) was a renowned chemist and is often referred to as the “Father of Chemotology,” the field dedicated to the study of lubricants and combustible materials in technology.
- Born in Uyyuru, Andhra Pradesh, he pursued advanced studies abroad, where he made substantial contributions to the understanding of lubricants, particularly their role in machinery and the development of motor oils.
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What contributions did he make during the Second World War?
- Fuel Innovation for Soviet Tanks: He developed kerosene-based fuels and specialized lubricants that significantly enhanced the performance and maneuverability of Soviet tanks in sub-zero battlefield conditions. Eg: These innovations were critical during the Battle of Kursk (1943), where Soviet T-34 tanks outperformed Nazi Panzer and Tiger tanks.
- Scientific Expertise Redirected to War Effort: Although he volunteered for frontline combat, Soviet authorities recognized his intellectual value and redirected him to research, stating his brain was a weapon, not a target. Eg: His work helped overcome early mechanical failures in Soviet tanks, crucial to halting the Nazi ground offensive.
- Foundation for Future Scientific Fields: His wartime research laid the groundwork for chemmotology (tribochemistry) — the study of chemical changes from mechanical energy — and later contributed to plasma research important for nuclear fusion. Eg: His observations of incendiary weapons inspired deeper scientific inquiry into the fourth state of matter — plasma.
What were the challenges faced by Indian pilots like Idris Latif during their missions in the Second World War?
- Inferior Aircraft and Equipment: Indian pilots were initially assigned outdated biplanes, putting them at a disadvantage in combat situations. Eg: Idris Latif flew patrols along the North West Frontier in old aircraft while British pilots used advanced models.
- Dangerous Combat Environments: They flew missions in extremely hostile conditions, including thick jungles, poor visibility, and constant threat of enemy fire. Eg: In Burma, Idris flew the Hawker Hurricane against Japanese Zero fighters, often from muddy, short landing strips.
- Health Hazards and Illness: Pilots endured unhygienic, disease-prone environments, which led to severe illnesses. Eg: Idris Latif fell gravely ill in the humid, mosquito-infested jungles of Burma but refused to abandon his squadron.
- Lack of Recognition and Discrimination: Despite their service, Indian pilots often faced racial bias and were under-acknowledged by the colonial British authorities. Eg: Idris and others had to prove themselves repeatedly before being entrusted with frontline roles in Europe.
- Emotional and Moral Dilemmas: Indian soldiers and pilots had to reconcile serving a colonial power while also yearning for India’s independence. Eg: Despite these conflicts, Idris remained committed to fighting fascism and later chose to stay in independent India post-Partition.
When did Idris Hasan Latif become the Chief of the Indian Air Force?
- Appointment as Air Chief Marshal: Idris Hasan Latif became the 10th Chief of the Indian Air Force in 1978, marking a significant moment in IAF history. He was the first Muslim to hold the top position in the Indian Air Force.
- Recognized for Wartime Service and Leadership: His distinguished service during the Second World War and later roles earned him this high command. His performance in combat and leadership roles post-independence showcased his capabilities.
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How did he contribute to strengthening India-France defence relations?
- Role as India’s Ambassador to France (1985–1988): After retiring as Air Chief Marshal, he was appointed Ambassador to France, a key position for defence diplomacy. Eg: His presence in Paris helped facilitate high-level strategic discussions on defence cooperation.
- Leveraging Wartime Bonds: His personal connection to World War II and Normandy fostered shared respect and trust with French counterparts. Eg: He visited Normandy during his tenure, recalling his war contributions, which resonated deeply with French officials.
- Military-to-Military Cooperation: He actively promoted exchanges between Indian and French armed forces and encouraged joint training initiatives.
- Laying Groundwork for Future Defence Deals: His tenure helped build the foundation of trust that later enabled critical defence procurements. Eg: The Rafale fighter jet deal, though signed much later, benefited from the diplomatic groundwork laid during his ambassadorship.
- Promoting Indigenous Capability through Collaboration: He supported technology transfers and joint development possibilities with France. Eg: His diplomatic efforts aligned with India’s interest in acquiring not just equipment but also technical know-how.
What is the evolution of the Indian Air Force (IAF)?
- Formation and Early Years (1932–1947): The IAF was established in 1932 as an auxiliary force under British rule, participating in World War II with limited autonomy. Eg: Indian pilots flew biplanes in the Burma campaign during WWII.
- Post-Independence Expansion (1947–1960s): After 1947, the IAF was reorganized as an independent force, expanding its fleet and training infrastructure. Eg: IAF played a crucial role in the 1947–48 Kashmir conflict using Dakotas to airlift troops.
- Modernisation after Wars (1970s–1990s): Following wars with Pakistan and China, India focused on acquiring advanced aircraft and building indigenous capability. Eg: Introduction of MiG-21s, Miraj 2000 and establishment of HAL’s fighter production line.
- Technology Integration and Strategic Reach (2000s): The IAF integrated AWACS, aerial refuellers, precision-guided munitions, and enhanced air defence systems. Eg: Induction of Sukhoi Su-30 MKI significantly improved long-range strike capability.
- Next-Gen Air Power and Global Partnerships (2010s–Present): IAF has adopted network-centric warfare, multirole fighters, and AI-based systems, while deepening global defence ties. Eg: Procurement of Rafale jets from France and participation in multilateral exercises like Red Flag and Garuda.
What is the role of France in the Indian Air Force?
- Strategic Defence Partner Since Early Years: France has been a consistent defence partner for India, supplying key aircraft and technology since the 1950s. Eg: France provided Ouragan (Toofani) jets in the 1950s, among IAF’s first jet fighters.
- Supplier of Multirole Combat Aircraft: French aircraft have strengthened IAF’s strike capabilities through advanced multirole platforms. Eg: The Dassault Mirage 2000, inducted in 1985, played a decisive role in the Kargil War (1999).
- Rafale Fighter Jet Deal: The acquisition of 36 Rafale jets enhanced India’s air dominance with advanced avionics, weaponry, and capabilities. Eg: Rafale jets were inducted starting in 2020 under a government-to-government deal with France.
- Technology Transfer and Maintenance Support: France has supported India through tech transfer, joint production, and robust maintenance infrastructure. Eg: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) maintained and upgraded Mirage 2000s with French collaboration.
- Joint Exercises and Defence Diplomacy: India and France regularly conduct joint air exercises that enhance IAF’s tactical exposure and interoperability. Eg: The Garuda series of exercises improve coordination between French and Indian air forces.
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Way forward:
- Deepen Strategic Collaboration in Emerging Technologies: India and France should jointly invest in cutting-edge aerospace technologies such as AI-based combat systems, stealth UAVs, and hypersonic platforms to future-proof IAF capabilities.
- Expand Joint Training and Indo-French Defence Industrial Base: Encourage co-development and co-production of next-generation aircraft and defence systems under Make in India, while scaling up joint military exercises like Garuda for enhanced operational synergy.
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Why in the News?
India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), under which 99% of Indian exports to the U.K. will have no import duties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday.
What are the key benefits for India under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom?
- Zero-Duty Access for 99% of Indian Exports: This significantly enhances India’s export competitiveness in the U.K. market. Eg: Indian gems and jewellery, apparel, and engineering goods will enter the U.K. without customs duties, making them more attractive to British buyers.
- Social Security Relief for Indian Workers in the U.K: Indian professionals and their employers will be exempt from social security contributions for up to 3 years. Eg: Indian IT professionals on temporary assignments in the U.K. will take home higher net salaries, encouraging Indian firms to send more workers abroad.
- Boost to Services Trade and Investment Flows: The FTA facilitates easier movement of professionals and investors, promoting service sector growth and foreign direct investment (FDI). Eg: Indian consultancy firms or startups may find it easier to operate or invest in the U.K., supporting India’s goal of becoming a services export hub.
Who are the major Indian stakeholders expressing optimism about the FTA with the U.K., and why?
- Engineering Goods Sector: Expects a significant boost in exports due to reduced or zero tariffs. Eg: The Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) projects engineering exports to the U.K. to nearly double to $7.55 billion by 2029-30.
- Apparel and Textile Industry: Gains price competitiveness in the U.K. market through zero-duty access. Eg: Indian garments become more competitive against Bangladeshi or Vietnamese exports, enhancing market share in Europe.
- Gems and Jewellery Sector: Welcomes duty-free access for high-value products, boosting profitability. Eg: Indian jewellers can export gold and diamond jewellery to the U.K. with lower cost structures.
- Information Technology (IT) and Professional Services: Benefits from easier mobility and recognition of qualifications for professionals. Eg: Indian IT firms can deploy professionals to the U.K. more efficiently, with less visa friction.
- Indian Employers of Workers in the U.K: Gain from exemption from social security contributions for Indian workers temporarily in the U.K. Eg: Firms hiring Indian talent in the U.K. will save on mandatory contributions for 3 years, reducing costs and encouraging cross-border placements.
Why are Indian farmer organisations opposing the India-U.K. FTA?
- Threat from Imported Agricultural Products: Reduced tariffs on U.K. agri-exports like lamb, salmon, and dairy products may hurt Indian farmers. Eg: Cheaper U.K. lamb and salmon could enter the Indian market, undercutting local producers who already operate on thin margins.
- Concerns Over Low-Income, Low-Margin Conditions: Indian farmers fear intensified competition could worsen their already precarious economic situation. Eg: Many Indian farmers rely on traditional and small-scale farming, which cannot compete with heavily subsidised U.K. agriculture.
- Lack of Protective Mechanisms: The FTA lacks clear safeguards to protect Indian farmers from market shocks due to sudden import surges. Eg: No countervailing duties or quotas have been announced to cushion farmers from a flood of imported agri-goods.
How could the India-U.K. FTA influence future trade agreements with the European Union and the United States?
- Establishing a Negotiation Template: The India-U.K. FTA may serve as a reference framework for structuring future trade deals. Eg: If India agrees to liberalise tariffs on 85% of imports from the U.K., similar expectations may arise in talks with the EU and U.S..
- Precedent for Sensitive Sector Concessions: Concessions on agricultural and alcohol imports set a precedent for market access in sensitive sectors. Eg: The cut in whiskey and gin tariffs for the U.K. may lead to similar demands from U.S. bourbon producers or EU wine exporters.
- Pressure on Domestic Manufacturing and Policy: As India lowers duties and opens its markets, pressure may grow on its industrial and trade policy in upcoming FTAs. Eg: With less than 2% share in global exports, India’s manufacturing sector could be exposed if future FTAs follow the U.K. model without strong support policies.
Way forward:
- Safeguard Vulnerable Sectors: Introduce protective clauses such as trigger safeguards, quotas, or phased liberalisation to shield Indian farmers and MSMEs from import surges. Eg: Gradual tariff cuts with review mechanisms for sensitive agri-products.
- Strengthen Domestic Competitiveness: Enhance manufacturing capacity, R&D incentives, and export infrastructure to fully capitalise on new market access. Eg: Support engineering and textile sectors with technology upgradation and logistics hubs.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s political and economic dominance.’ Explain this statement with examples.
Linkage: The India-UK FTA, and its potential use as a template for agreements with the EU and the US mentioned in article, can be viewed within the broader context of strengthening India’s economic and strategic ties with Western countries. This PYQ explores the reasons behind such partnerships, which provides a geopolitical backdrop to India’s trade negotiations with the UK and other Western nations.
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Why in the News?
Tensions between the two countries increased as Pakistan launched missiles and drones early Thursday to target 15 Indian military sites. In response, India hit air defence radars in Pakistan, neutralizing one in Lahore.
What are the three main operations that constitute an effective air defence system?
- Detection: The first step involves identifying incoming threats like aircraft, drones, or missiles using radars or satellites. Eg: India’s Rohini Radar can detect multiple aerial targets and is part of the Akash Air Defence System.
- Tracking: Once a threat is detected, it must be tracked continuously using radar, infrared, or laser-based sensors to determine its speed, altitude, and trajectory. Eg: The S-400 Triumf uses advanced tracking radars to simultaneously monitor and engage multiple targets.
- Interception: After detection and tracking, the threat is neutralized using fighter aircraft, surface-to-air missiles, or anti-aircraft artillery. Eg: India’s Akash missile system intercepts enemy aircraft or missiles at medium ranges.
Why is the suppression of enemy air defence systems (SEAD) crucial for establishing air superiority?
- Enables Safe Aerial Operations: Neutralising enemy air defences allows friendly aircraft to operate freely without the constant threat of being shot down. Eg: During the 1991 Gulf War, the U.S. first targeted Iraqi SAM sites to ensure air superiority.
- Supports Ground Forces: Air superiority ensures effective air cover for ground troops, enabling safer movement, airstrikes, and supply drops. Eg: NATO SEAD missions in Kosovo helped protect allied ground forces from Serbian air defences.
- Disrupts Enemy Command and Control: Destroying radar and communication nodes weakens the enemy’s ability to coordinate defences. Eg: Israeli SEAD missions against Syrian defences in 1982 crippled Syria’s radar and SAM systems early in the conflict.
Which types of weapons are commonly used by nations to intercept and neutralise aerial threats?
- Fighter Aircraft (Interceptors): Fast and agile aircraft used to engage enemy fighters and bombers in air-to-air combat. Eg: India’s Dassault Rafale jets can intercept and neutralise enemy aircraft using beyond-visual-range missiles.
- Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs): Ground- or ship-based missiles that target aircraft, helicopters, or incoming missiles. Eg: The S-400 system can engage threats up to 400 km away with high precision.
- Anti-Aircraft Artillery (AAA): High-rate-of-fire guns used as a last line of defence, particularly against low-flying targets.Eg: The L70 Bofors gun is used by India for low-altitude air defence.
How do electronic warfare (EW) systems contribute to air defence without directly engaging enemy aircraft or missiles?
- Radar Jamming: EW systems emit signals that interfere with enemy radar, making it difficult to detect or lock on to targets. Eg: The U.S. Navy’s EA-18G Growler jams enemy radar to protect allied aircraft.
- Deception (Decoys): They send false signals to mislead enemy sensors, creating phantom targets or hiding real ones. Eg: DRDO’s “Samudrika” decoy system confuses enemy missile guidance.
- Communication Disruption: EW tools disrupt enemy communication networks, limiting their coordination and response. Eg: Tactical jammers can cut off enemy ground-to-air communications during attacks.
- Disabling Precision Weapons: EW can block or misguide the guidance systems of smart bombs and missiles. Eg: GPS jammers can prevent guided missiles from striking their intended targets.
- Protection of Own Assets: EW defends friendly aircraft and installations by masking their electromagnetic signature. Eg: Su-30MKI fighters are equipped with EW suites to evade missile lock-ons.
Where can surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) be launched from?
- Land-Based Platforms: SAMs are commonly deployed on fixed launchers or mobile vehicles for ground defence. Eg: India’s Akash missile system is mounted on trucks for mobility and rapid deployment.
- Naval Warships: SAMs are launched from warships to protect against aerial and missile threats at sea. Eg: The Barak-8 missile is deployed on Indian Navy destroyers like INS Kolkata.
- Sub-surface or Strategic Facilities: Some strategic SAM systems are integrated into hardened, underground bunkers or launch silos for protection. Eg: S-400 systems are often placed in secure, semi-permanent launch sites for long-range interception.
What are the different classes of SAMs used by India?
- Long-Range SAMs: These systems are designed to engage high-altitude and long-range targets, including ballistic missiles and aircraft. Eg: The S-400 Triumf system, which has a range of up to 400 km, is a long-range SAM used by India to intercept aircraft and missiles.
- Medium-Range SAMs: These systems are mobile and effective in engaging threats at intermediate ranges, typically between 50-100 km. Eg: The Akash missile system, developed by DRDO, is a medium-range SAM designed to protect tactical areas.
- Short-Range SAMs (MANPADS): These are portable, man-carried systems used to defend against low-flying targets such as helicopters or drones. Eg: The Igla MANPAD, which is used by Indian forces for short-range air defence, can target low-flying aircraft and drones.
Conclusion: India’s air defence system integrates advanced radar, tracking, and interception capabilities through various SAMs, including long, medium, and short-range systems, ensuring comprehensive protection against aerial threats across diverse platforms.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2021] How is S-400 air defence missile system different from any other system presently available in the world?
Linkage: Air defence systems are vital in modern warfare for controlling the skies and protecting against enemy air strikes, including missiles. Understanding how air defence systems generally work (detection, tracking, interception methods) is essential context for discussing the features and differences of a specific system like the S-400 missile system mentioned in the question.
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Why in the News?
India ranks 130th out of 193 countries in the 2025 Human Development Index (HDI), up from 133rd in 2022.
What is the Human Development Index (HDI)?
The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite statistic developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
- Composite Measure of Development: The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite index that measures a country’s overall development based on three key factors: life expectancy (health), education (mean and expected years of schooling), and standard of living (GNI per capita).
- Ranking and Insights: HDI ranks countries on a scale from 0 to 1, where a higher value indicates better human development.
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Why has India’s HDI improved?
- Health (Life Expectancy at Birth): HDI measures the average number of years a person can expect to live, reflecting the overall health conditions in a country. Eg: In 2023, India’s life expectancy increased to 72 years, marking a significant improvement since 1990, when it was just 58.6 years.
- Education (Mean Years of Schooling and Expected Years of Schooling): HDI considers the average number of years adults aged 25 and older have spent in school (mean years of schooling) and the number of years a child of school-entry age can expect to receive (expected years of schooling). Eg: In 2023, children in India are expected to stay in school for 13 years on average, up from 8.2 years in 1990.
- Standard of Living (Gross National Income per Capita): HDI includes the per capita income adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP), which gives a sense of the country’s economic prosperity and standard of living. Eg: India’s GNI per capita increased from $2,167 in 1990 to $9,046 in 2023, reflecting a growth in economic well-being.
- Inequality Adjustments: HDI adjusts for inequality in each of its three dimensions—health, education, and standard of living—through the Inequality-adjusted HDI (IHDI). The more inequality there is in a country, the lower the adjusted HDI score will be. Eg: India’s HDI value of 0.685 in 2023 was influenced by inequalities, including gender and income disparities, which the report highlighted as a key challenge.
- Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): HDI is indirectly linked to the MPI, which measures poverty beyond income, including deprivations in health, education, and living standards. Eg: India has made significant progress in reducing multidimensional poverty, with 13.5 crore people escaping poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21.
How has the pandemic affected India’s HDI recovery?
- Health Impact: The pandemic strained India’s healthcare system, leading to higher mortality rates and disruptions in healthcare services, which affected life expectancy. Eg: The pandemic slowed India’s progress towards improving life expectancy, though it rebounded in the subsequent years, reaching 72 years in 2023.
- Education Disruptions: School closures and lack of access to online education hindered educational outcomes, especially for underprivileged children. Eg: While the expected years of schooling improved, the pandemic delayed educational progress, particularly in rural areas.
- Economic Setbacks: The lockdowns and economic disruptions due to the pandemic led to a sharp contraction in economic activities, affecting income levels and jobs, particularly in the informal sector. Eg: India’s GNI per capita growth faced a slowdown, though it eventually rebounded, reaching $9,046 in 2023.
What challenges remain in improving India’s HDI?
- Income Inequality: Despite progress, income disparity remains a major challenge, with the rich benefiting disproportionately from economic growth, while the poor remain marginalized. Eg: India’s HDI is impacted by a 30.7% loss due to income inequalities, which continues to drag down overall development outcomes.
- Gender Disparities: The gender gap in labor force participation and political representation limits progress in improving India’s HDI. Women’s workforce participation remains low, and the gender wage gap is significant. Eg: The female labor participation rate stood at 41.7% in 2023-24, but a supportive ecosystem for women’s work retention and political representation is still lacking.
How can India use AI to address development while avoiding inequality? (Way forward)
- AI in Public Service Delivery: AI can streamline public services, making them more efficient, transparent, and accessible, especially to marginalized communities. Eg: AI-driven systems can help in targeted welfare distribution, ensuring resources like food and healthcare reach those most in need, reducing administrative inefficiencies.
- Inclusive Education and Skill Development: Leveraging AI for personalized learning can bridge gaps in educational access and quality, particularly for underserved areas. Eg: AI-based platforms like Byju’s and other ed-tech initiatives provide tailored education, improving learning outcomes for students in rural and remote areas.
- AI for Job Creation and Economic Inclusion: AI can be used to create new job opportunities and enhance existing ones, especially in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing. Ensuring that AI adoption leads to inclusive economic growth can help reduce inequality. Eg: AI-driven agricultural technologies can optimize crop yields and provide real-time data to farmers, increasing productivity and income, especially for those in rural areas.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2019] Despite Consistent experience of High growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive.
Linkage: The paradox of economic growth not translating into high human development indicators, which is a central theme when discussing India’s HDI rank and the challenges despite improvements. It also touches upon inclusive development, another concept related to the HDR’s focus on reducing inequalities
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Why in the News?
U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance recently mentioned that the U.S. is ready to work more closely with India on energy and defense.
What are the main areas of India-U.S. cooperation?
- Energy Security: Strengthening access to sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy resources is central to India-U.S. ties. Eg: In 2024, both countries signed an MoU to diversify supply chains for critical minerals like lithium and rare earths, crucial for clean energy and EV technologies.
- Defence and Technology Cooperation: Enhancing strategic and technological collaboration helps address common security challenges and promote innovation. Eg: Under the iCET framework, India and the U.S. are collaborating on defence co-production and advanced systems, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for civilian nuclear use.
- Mobility and Innovation Exchange: Facilitating people-to-people ties and high-tech partnerships boosts economic growth and shared innovation ecosystems. Eg: India and the U.S. are working to ease skilled labor mobility and co-develop innovation corridors in areas like semiconductors and AI.
Why is a minerals partnership vital for both countries?
- Strategic Resource Security: Critical minerals are essential for clean energy, electronics, and defence, and current supply chains are overly dependent on China. Eg: China controls nearly 90% of global rare earth processing, creating a strategic vulnerability for both India and the U.S.
- Economic and Technological Collaboration: Joint exploration and processing of minerals supports cross-sector innovation and economic resilience. Eg: India and the U.S. signed an MoU in 2024 to co-invest in third-country mineral projects in Africa and South America.
- Supply Chain Diversification: A minerals partnership helps build resilient, transparent, and traceable supply chains to withstand geopolitical shocks. Eg: Proposal for an India-U.S. Mineral Exchange and blockchain-based traceability standards to ensure secure mineral sourcing.
How can nuclear energy help India meet its energy goals?
- Low-Carbon Energy Source: Nuclear energy provides a firm, low-emission alternative to fossil fuels, aiding in decarbonisation efforts. Eg: Nuclear power contributes just over 8 GW currently but is crucial for India’s net-zero by 2070 targets.
- Base Load Power Stability: It ensures continuous electricity supply, complementing the intermittency of solar and wind sources. Eg: Nuclear plants provide uninterrupted power, stabilising the grid as renewable sources fluctuate.
- High Energy Output with Small Land Use: Nuclear energy offers high output per unit of land, which is vital in land-scarce regions. Eg: Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) have lower land requirements and are suitable for water-scarce areas due to air-cooling.
- Industrial Decarbonisation Support: Nuclear power can drive clean energy transitions in sectors like steel and AI-based data centres. Eg: SMRs can power green steel manufacturing and meet rising energy needs of AI infrastructure.
- Strategic Energy Independence: Reducing reliance on fossil fuel imports enhances national energy security. Eg: With a 100 GW nuclear target by 2047, India aims to lower its dependence on imported oil and coal.
Which reforms are key to expanding India’s nuclear capacity?
- Faster Deployment and Standardisation: Accelerate construction timelines and adopt standardized reactor designs to lower costs and ensure quick scaling of nuclear energy capacity. Eg: Reducing construction time from 9 to 6 years could reduce electricity costs by 8%, helping India meet its 2047 nuclear capacity goal.
- Private Sector Involvement: Facilitate private investments by providing clear incentives and long-term purchase commitments, especially for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Eg: SMRs, with lower capital expenditure and land requirements, become financially viable when supported by private capital and stable offtake agreements.
- Legislative and Policy Reforms: Amend existing laws to encourage private investment in nuclear energy and enhance the ease of doing business in this sector. Eg: Amending the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, would allow private companies to participate in nuclear projects, boosting investment and technological growth.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- Expansion of Nuclear Power Infrastructure: The government has set a target to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, and is working on commissioning new plants to achieve this, including collaborations with international partners. Eg: The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant and new reactors under construction are key initiatives to expand nuclear capacity.
- Regulatory and Policy Reforms: India has been reforming nuclear energy laws, including the amendment of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, to attract private sector participation and investment in nuclear projects. Eg: The approval for the transfer of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology by Holtec International to Indian companies.
- International Collaborations and Technology Transfer: India is fostering strategic partnerships with global nuclear technology leaders to enable technology transfer, co-production, and joint ventures for nuclear power development. Eg: India’s collaboration with the U.S. on advanced nuclear technology and the approval of SMRs to meet energy goals.
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Way forward:
- Enhanced Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage greater private sector participation through incentives, policy clarity, and long-term contracts, especially for emerging technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This will drive innovation, investment, and rapid scaling of nuclear energy.
- Strengthen International Collaboration and Technology Transfer: Expand partnerships with global leaders in nuclear technology to accelerate the adoption of advanced reactors and improve operational efficiency, positioning India as a global leader in clean nuclear energy.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2013] With growing scarcity of fossil fuels, the atomic energy is gaining more and more significance in India. Discuss the availability of raw material required for the generation of atomic energy in India and in the world.
Linkage: Nuclear energy as a “next frontier” for India-U.S. linkages and a reliable source complementing renewables. This question directly addresses the significance and resources for atomic/nuclear energy in India.
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