Why in the News?
According to a new World Bank report, extreme poverty in India has fallen from 27.1% in 2011–12 to just 5.3% in 2022–23, based on a revised international poverty line.
Understanding World Bank’s Poverty Lines:
- The World Bank defines extreme poverty as living on less than a fixed amount per person per day, adjusted using Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) to account for inflation and cost of living.
- PPP compares currencies by showing how much money is needed in different countries to buy the same goods. It helps measure real cost of living and economic strength.
- Previous thresholds:
- $1.90 per day (2011 PPP)
- $2.15 per day (2017 PPP)
- Revised in June 2025:
- Low-income countries: $3 per day
- Lower middle-income countries (LMIC): $4.20 per day (up from $3.65)
- Upper middle-income countries: $8.40 per day (up from $6.85)
- Why it matters: These new thresholds help track progress in poverty reduction and align better with today’s economic conditions.
India’s Progress and Challenges:
- Reduction in Poverty:
- At the $3/day level, poverty dropped from 27.1% (2011–12) to 5.3% (2022–23).
- At the $2.15/day level, poverty fell from 16.2% to 2.3%, lifting 171 million people.
- At the $4.20/day level, poverty declined from 61.8% to 28.1%, benefiting 378 million people.
- Rural-Urban Trends:
- Rural poverty dropped from 69% to 32.5%, and urban poverty from 43.5% to 17.2%.
- The rural-urban gap narrowed from 25 to 15 percentage points.
- Inequality Measures:
- Consumption inequality improved (Gini fell from 28.8 to 25.5).
- Income inequality, however, worsened (Gini rose from 52 to 62).
- Employment Trends:
- Since 2021–22, employment growth has outpaced the working-age population.
- Urban unemployment dropped to 6.6%, the lowest since 2017–18, but youth unemployment remains high at 13.3%, and 29% among graduates.
- State-Level Dynamics:
- UP, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and MP contributed to 65% of the extreme poor (2011–12) and now represent 54% of the remaining poor.
- Multidimensional Poverty:
- Declined significantly from 53.8% in 2005–06 to 15.5% in 2022–23, reflecting progress in health, education, and living standards.
| [UPSC 2019] In a given year in India, official poverty lines are higher in some States than in others because:
Options: (a) poverty rates vary from State to State (b) price levels vary from State to State* (c) Gross State Product varies from State to State (d) quality of public distribution varies from State to State |
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Why in the News?
India has been elected to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the term 2026–2028.
About the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC):
- Establishment: It is one of the 6 principal UN organs, created in 1945 under the UN Charter.
- Mandate: It coordinates the UN’s economic, social, humanitarian, and cultural work.
- Role: ECOSOC serves as the central platform for global policy dialogue, review, and development recommendations.
- Composition: ECOSOC has 54 member states, elected by the UN General Assembly for three-year terms.
- Decision-Making: Decisions are made by simple majority; no permanent members; presidency rotates annually.
- Functions and Powers:
- Coordination: Oversees 15 specialized agencies (e.g., WHO, ILO), 8 functional commissions, and 5 regional commissions.
- Promotion Areas: Focuses on living standards, employment, human rights, education, healthcare, and environmental protection.
- Engagement with NGOs: Grants consultative status to over 1,600 NGOs and organizes global conferences.
- UN Oversight: Supervises agencies such as UNICEF, UNDP, and UNHCR.
- Sessions and Meetings:
- Main Sessions: Held each July, along with an organizational session.
- Finance Dialogues: Hosts April meetings with finance ministers from the IMF and World Bank.
- SDG Monitoring: Organizes the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) to track progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Legal and Institutional Details:
- UN Charter Basis: Defined under Chapter X (Articles 61–72) of the Charter.
- Headquarters: Located in New York.
- Scope: ECOSOC is the largest and most complex UN body, shaping global development policy.
India and ECOSOC:
- Membership: India is serving its 18th term as a member, elected for the 2026–28 period.
- Subsidiary Roles: India has held positions in bodies like the UN Statistical Commission, Commission on Narcotic Drugs, and UNAIDS Board.
- Recent Milestone: India recently joined the UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD), highlighting its data expertise.
- Policy Priorities: India supports inclusive growth, SDG progress, and south-south cooperation through evidence-based multilateral leadership.
| [UPSC 2009] With reference to the United Nations, consider the following statements:
1. The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of UN consists of 24 member States.
2. It is elected by a 2/3 majority of The General Assembly for a 3-year term.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only* (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
China will lead global energy investments in 2025, making up over a quarter of total spending, says the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) 10th edition Global Energy Investment Report, 2025.
Back2Basics: International Energy Agency (IEA)
- Establishment: The IEA was formed in 1974 under the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in response to the 1973 oil crisis, with headquarters in Paris, France.
- Membership: It has 31 member countries (e.g., US, UK, France, Japan) and 11 association countries like India, China, and Brazil.
- India’s Role: India joined as an Association Country in 2017, gaining access to data-sharing, policy support, and technical cooperation.
- Expanded Mission: The IEA now supports energy security, clean energy transitions, emissions tracking, and policy development.
- Global Influence: Its major reports—World Energy Outlook, Net Zero by 2050, and Energy Technology Perspectives—guide governments and investors worldwide.
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About the Global Energy Investment Report:
- Origin and Purpose: Officially titled World Energy Investment Report, is the IEA’s flagship annual publication.
- Published since 2016: To assess investment flows across the global energy system.
- Scope of Coverage: It tracks investments in fossil fuels, renewables, electricity supply, critical minerals, energy efficiency, R&D, and innovation financing.
- Strategic Value: The report helps determine if current investments support climate goals and universal energy access.
Key Highlights from the 2025 Report:
- China’s Role: China will account for over 25% of global energy investment, with over $625 billion in clean energy, though it also approved 100 GW of new coal plants in 2024.
- Global Trends: Clean energy investment will hit $2.2 trillion, over twice the amount spent on fossil fuels, yet still falls short of COP28 targets.
- Africa’s Investment Gap: Africa’s fossil fuel investment dropped from $125 billion to $54 billion, and it still receives only 2% of global clean energy funds, mainly due to debt burdens.
- India’s Position: India’s renewables investment rose from $13 billion (2015) to $37 billion (2025), while fossil fuel investment also increased. However, grid and storage spending declined to $25 billion.
- Financing Barriers: India’s high cost of capital—80% above advanced economies—limits clean energy growth. The “Baku to Belem Roadmap” seeks to mobilize $1.3 trillion by 2035 for such regions.
- Global Mismatch: While $1 trillion is spent annually on power generation, only $400 billion goes to grid infrastructure, affecting distribution capacity.
| [UPSC 2022] Consider the following statements:
1. The Climate Group” is an international non-profit organisation that drives climate action by building large networks and runs them.
2. The International Energy Agency in partnership with The Climate Group launched a global initiative “EP100”.
3. EP100 brings together leading companies committed to driving innovation in energy efficiency and increasing competitiveness while delivering on emission reduction goals.
4.Some Indian companies are members of EP100.
5. The International Energy Agency is the Secretariat to the “Under2 Coalition”.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) 1,2,4 and 5 (b) 1,3 and 4 only* (c) 2,3 and 5 only (d) 1,2,3,4 and 5 |
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Why in the News?
India has strongly objected to the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) decision to provide an $800 million loan to Pakistan under its Resource Mobilisation Reform Programme.
About the Asian Development Bank (ADB):
- Established: 1966, following a UN-led conference on Asian Economic Cooperation.
- Headquarters: Manila, Philippines
- Status: Official Observer at the United Nations
- Objectives:
- To reduce poverty in Asia and the Pacific.
- To promote inclusive and environmentally sustainable growth and regional economic integration.
- Functions:
- Provides loans (hard and soft), grants, and technical assistance.
- Offers direct funding to private sector projects with social benefits.
- Supports countries through policy dialogues, co-financing, and advisory services.
- Funding Sources:
- Issues bonds on global capital markets.
- Receives member contributions, loan repayments, and retained earnings.
- Membership and Shareholding:
- 67 members: 48 from Asia-Pacific.
- Major shareholders: Japan and USA (each 15.607%), China (6.444%), India (6.331%), Australia (5.786%).
- Climate Goals:
- Aims to mobilize $100 billion for climate finance between 2019 and 2030.
- Promotes sustainable development initiatives such as green fuel projects, including one in Pakistan funded partly by ADB.
India’s concerns over ADB Funding:
- India emphasized that Pakistan’s defense spending has risen significantly even as its tax-to-GDP ratio fell from 13% in 2017-18 to 9.2% in 2022-23.
- This tax ratio is significantly below the Asia-Pacific average of 19%, suggesting poor revenue collection and financial mismanagement.
- India stressed to ADB that it expects strict oversight mechanisms to be implemented to avoid diversion of funds.
- India has previously opposed financial aid to Pakistan at other fora like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and is reportedly preparing a dossier to request Pakistan’s re-entry into the FATF grey list.
| [UPSC 2024] Which one of the following launched the ‘Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific’?
(a) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) * (b) The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) (c) The New Development Bank (NDB) (d) The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) |
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Why in the News?
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) released the first-ever State of the World’s Animal Health report.
Key Highlights of the Report:
- India faces high risk from transboundary animal diseases, with 47% of global outbreaks between 2005–2023 being zoonotic, affecting both animals and humans.
- African Swine Fever (ASF), which jumped 1,800 km to Sri Lanka in 2024, threatens India’s northeast pig-rearing regions already impacted in past years.
- Avian Influenza (HPAI) saw outbreaks in non-poultry species surpass poultry in 2024; India’s dense poultry population makes cross-species transmission a growing concern.
- Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), endemic in India, showed new serotype SAT 3 and SAT 1 activity in other countries, posing vaccine adaptation challenges.
- Diseases like Lumpy Skin Disease and PPR, both reported in India earlier, are now spreading to new global regions, highlighting potential for reintroduction.
- WOAH urges global action on vaccine equity, surveillance, and biosecurity, which align with India’s need to safeguard livelihoods, trade, and food security.
About the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH):
- Establishment: WOAH, formerly known as OIE, was founded in 1924 and is headquartered in Paris, France.
- Membership: It has 183 member countries, including India, and operates independently from the United Nations.
- Mandate: WOAH is the global authority on animal health, working to control animal epidemics (epizootics) and improve global animal welfare.
- Key Functions:
- Runs the World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS) to track disease outbreaks.
- Sets international health standards for trade in animals and animal products.
- Promotes science-based animal welfare policies and transparent disease reporting.
- Offers technical support to countries, especially developing nations.
- Global Cooperation: Works with over 70 global partners, including the FAO.
- India’s Role: India is a member and an active participant through the World Assembly of Delegates.
| [UPSC 2005] Which one of the following diseases of milching animals are infectious?
1. Foot and Mouth disease
2. Anthrax
3. Black Quarter
4. Cowpox
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4* |
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Why in the News?
At the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva, the World Health Organisation (WHO) adopted a new Pandemic Agreement that aims to make the global response to future pandemics more equitable and effective.
About the WHO Pandemic Agreement:
- Adoption: It was unanimously adopted at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva after 3 years of negotiation since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Legal Basis: It was adopted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, making it only the second such legally binding agreement after the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (2003).
- Primary Goal: To ensure fair and timely access to vaccines, medicines, and diagnostic tools during future pandemics.
- Stakeholders: It promotes collaboration among countries, WHO, pharmaceutical firms, civil society, and other stakeholders.
- Next Steps: It will come into force once ratified by at least 60 countries; the final annex is expected by May 2026.
- Irritant: The US has not joined, raising concerns about the agreement’s global effectiveness.
Key Highlights of the Agreement:
- Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS): A new system will ensure quick virus sample sharing with companies, who must give 20% of vaccines and medicines to WHO—10% as donations and 10% at affordable prices.
- Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network (GSCL): A WHO-managed network will ensure emergency access to critical supplies during pandemics.
- Coordinating Financial Mechanism: A funding system will support countries in pandemic preparedness and response.
- Sustainable Local Production: Countries are encouraged to build vaccine and medicine production capacity to ensure rapid and equal access.
- Technology and Knowledge Transfer: Supports technology sharing with developing nations using licensing, financing, and regulatory tools, coordinated via WHO-managed hubs.
- Pandemic Prevention and Surveillance: Countries must improve early detection, routine vaccinations, and address lab safety, antimicrobial resistance, and zoonotic threats.
- Respect for Sovereignty: The WHO will not enforce national policies like lockdowns, vaccine mandates, or travel bans; countries retain full control over responses.
| [UPSC 2022] In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements:
1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector-based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
On May 20, 2025, the Department of Consumer Affairs celebrated World Metrology Day, marking the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Metre Convention in Paris on May 20, 1875.
About the Metre Convention:
- Inception: Also called the Treaty of the Metre, it was signed in Paris on May 20, 1875, to establish a global system of standardised measurements.
- 17 Founding Members: Argentina, Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Brazil, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Peru, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden and Norway, Switzerland, Ottoman Empire (Turkiye), USA, and Venezuela.
- Institutions Created: The treaty established the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), and two governing bodies—CGPM (General Conference on Weights and Measures) and CIPM (International Committee for Weights and Measures).
- Early Prototypes: It created international prototypes of the metre and kilogram, stored at the BIPM; member countries received national copies for comparison.
- Expansion in 1921: The Convention was extended to cover all physical quantities, forming the basis for the International System of Units (SI).
- Global Reach: As of October 2024, there are 64 member states in the Convention.
- Collaboration: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), European Space Agency (ESA) participate in the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA).
India and the Convention:
- Membership: India joined the Metre Convention in 1957 after passing the Standards of Weights and Measures Act, 1956.
- Participation Benefits: India gained the ability to participate in BIPM work, align with global systems, and ensure international recognition of its standards.
- Recent Milestone: India is now the 13th country authorized to issue OIML (International Organisation of Legal Metrology) Certificates.
| [UPSC 2007] Consider the following statements:
1. The series of the International Paper Sizes is based on A0 size whose area is 0.5 m² (approximately).
2. The area of A4 size paper is 1/8th of that of the A0 size paper.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 * |
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Why in the News?
The Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2025 has revealed that more than 295 million people in 53 countries and territories faced acute hunger in 2024.
About the Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC):
- Publication: The GRFC has been published every year since 2016 by the Global Network Against Food Crises (GNAFC).
- Supporting Organisations: It is backed by the Food Security Information Network (FSIN) and includes input from UN agencies, the EU, and various NGOs.
- Purpose: Provides a consensus-based analysis of acute food insecurity and malnutrition worldwide.
Key Highlights from GRFC 2025:
- Scope: The 2025 report covers 65 countries, with complete data for 53. India was not included in the analysis.
- Global Hunger Level: In 2024, 295 million people faced acute food insecurity, up 13.7 million from 2023 — the sixth consecutive year of rising hunger.
- Severity: 23% of the analysed population experienced food insecurity, remaining above 20% for five years.
- Catastrophic Hunger: A record 1.9 million people were in Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) Phase 5—catastrophic levels of hunger.
| [UPSC 2023] Which of the following countries has been suffering from decades of civil strife and food shortages and was in the news in the recent past for its very severe famine?
Options: (a) Angola (b) Costa Rica (c) Ecuador (d) Somalia * |
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Why in the News?
The Sixth Meeting of the Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine (GFTM) was hosted by the Permanent Mission of India in Geneva.
About Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine (GFTM):
- GFTM is an informal platform launched by India in May 2023 under the WHO to promote cooperation on traditional medicine.
- It is coordinated via India’s Permanent Mission in Geneva; it hosts regular meetings to explore integration of traditional systems into health strategies.
- It supports global efforts like the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034, fostering knowledge exchange and research collaboration.
- It focuses on policy development, capacity building, and scientific validation of traditional practices.
- It builds momentum for global events such as the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Summit and World Health Assembly sessions.
India’s Key Initiatives in Traditional Medicine:
The National AYUSH Mission (NAM) promotes Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy through dedicated facilities and education. Key efforts include:
- Establishment of Ayush Arogya Mandirs (wellness centres) for integrated care.
- Expansion of insurance coverage for AYUSH treatments.
- Promotion of collaborative research with DBT, DST, ICMR, and CSIR.
- Use of AI, genomics, and bioinformatics to bolster scientific credibility.
- Strengthening of global outreach via bilateral agreements, international events, and multilateral platforms.
| [UPSC 2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies? |
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Why in the News?
India and Pakistan agreed to cease all firing and military actions following precision strikes by India under Operation Sindoor as a Self-Defence against the Pahalgam massacre that killed 26 civilians.
About Right to Self-Defence under UN Charter:
- The United Nations Charter generally prohibits the use of force under Article 2(4).
- Article 51 provides an exception, permitting the use of force in self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a Member State.
- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Nicaragua v. U.S. (1986) interpreted “armed attack” as the gravest form of the use of force.
- The right of self-defence is subject to two key conditions:
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- Necessity: The force must be essential to respond to an armed attack.
- Proportionality: The response must not exceed what is required to repel the attack.
- Under Article 51, states must immediately notify the UN Security Council (UNSC) of any action taken in self-defence.
- In India’s case, the May 7, 2025 missile strikes were described as a “measured response” to the Pahalgam massacre, implying invocation of Article 51, though not explicitly stated.
- India’s May 8 briefing to 13 of 15 UNSC members was likely in fulfilment of this reporting obligation.
‘Unwilling or Unable’ Doctrine:
- This is an emerging principle in international law, particularly after 9/11.
- It allows a state to use self-defensive force against non-state actors operating from another state’s territory if that state is:
- Unwilling or
- Unable to stop the threat.
- It was prominently invoked by the US:
- In 2011 (killing of Osama bin Laden in Pakistan).
- In 2014 (airstrikes on ISIS in Syria).
- However, it is criticised by countries like Russia, China, and Mexico for undermining state sovereignty and the UN system.
India’s Stance:
- India’s position is unclear but evolving. At a UNSC Arria Formula meeting in Feb 2021, India listed 3 conditions:
- The non-state actor has repeatedly attacked the state.
- The host state is unwilling to neutralize the threat.
- The host state actively supports or sponsors the non-state actor.
- Legal scholars note it is uncertain if these conditions are cumulative or independent.
- In response to the Pahalgam attack, India accused Pakistan of inaction and labelled it a safe haven for terrorists.
- This suggests implicit reliance on the “unwilling or unable” doctrine, though it is not codified in customary international law.
| [UPSC 2005] Consider the following statements:
1. The Charter of the United Nations Organization was adopted at Geneva, Switzerland in June, 1945;
2. India was admitted to the United Nations Organization in the year 1945;
3. The Trusteeship Council of the United Nations Organization was established to manage the affairs of territories detached from Japan and Italy after WWII.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 only* (c) 1 and 3 (d) 3 only |
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Why in the News?
The Quad nations—India, Australia, Japan, and the United States—conducted a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) in Honolulu, Hawaii to simulate the launch of the Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN).
About IPLN (Indo-Pacific Logistics Network)
- The IPLN is a Quad-led initiative focused on coordinating shared logistics for civilian disaster response across the Indo-Pacific region.
- It aims to enable the rapid deployment of humanitarian aid during natural disasters such as cyclones, tsunamis, and public health emergencies.
- The initiative strengthens interoperability, resource-sharing, and real-time coordination among the four Quad countries — India, the US, Japan, and Australia.
- Key features of IPLN include digital logistics mapping, joint resource planning, and real-time tracking capabilities.
- IPLN was launched through a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) held in Honolulu, Hawaii from April 28 to May 2, 2025.
- The initiative complements other Quad efforts like the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) and the Quad Pandemic Preparedness Workshop.
- IPLN reinforces the Quad’s broader goal of acting as :a “force for good” in the Indo-Pacific region.
Back2Basics: QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue)
- The QUAD is a strategic forum comprising India, the United States, Japan, and Australia, aiming to promote a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
- It does not have a formal structure but functions through summits, ministerial meetings, joint exercises, and policy alignment.
- Its core objectives include countering China’s influence, and supporting democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law.
- The group originated in 2004 during the Indian Ocean tsunami relief efforts and was formally proposed in 2007 by Japanese PM Shinzo Abe.
- Although suspended in 2008, the Quad was revived in 2017 due to emerging regional challenges and cooperation needs.
- Notable activities include the Malabar Naval Exercises, and initiatives like IPMDA, Quad Fellowship, Open RAN, and AI-ENGAGE, emphasizing humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and emerging technology collaboration.
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| [UPSC 2023] With reference to India’s projects on connectivity, consider the following statements:
1. East-West Corridor under Golden Quadrilateral Project connects Dibrugarh and Surat.
2. Trilateral Highway connects Moreh in Manipur and Chiang Mai in Thailand via Myanmar.
3. Bangladesh-China -India -Myanmar Economic Corridor connects Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh with Kunming in China.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three* (d) None |
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Why in the News?
India ranks 130th out of 193 countries in the 2025 Human Development Report (HDR), marking continued progress in human development according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
About Human Development Index (HDI):
- HDR has been published by UNDP since 1990, exploring various human development themes.
- HDI is a composite index that measures the average achievement in human development based on 3 key indicators:
- Life expectancy at birth (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being).
- Expected years of schooling and Mean years of schooling (SDG 4: Quality Education).
- Gross National Income (GNI) per capita (SDG 8: Economic Growth).
India’s Progress on HDI:
- India ranks 130th, improving from 133rd in 2022.
- India’s HDI value increased from 0.676 in 2022 to 0.685 in 2023, remaining in the medium human development category.
- Life expectancy in India reached 72 years in 2023, the highest recorded since the inception of the index, reflecting recovery post-pandemic.
- Children in India now stay in school for 13 years on average, up from 8.2 years in 1990, driven by initiatives like the Right to Education Act and National Education Policy (2020).
- India’s Gross National Income (GNI) per capita is $2,230 in 2023, reflecting moderate economic growth.
- Among BRICS members, India trailed Brazil (89th), Russia (59th), China (75th), and South Africa (110th).
- Regionally, Sri Lanka led while Nepal and Bhutan lagged.
| [UPSC 2003] As per the Human Development Index given by UNDP, which one of the following sequences of South Asian countries is correct, in the order of higher to lower development?
Options: (a) India-Sri Lanka-Pakistan-Maldives (b) Maldives-Sri Lanka-India-Pakistan (c) Sri Lanka-Maldives-India-Pakistan* (d) Maldives-India-Pakistan-Sri Lanka |
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Why in the News?
A recent legal dispute between the US and Russia has brought the issue of Total Allowable Catch (TAC) into the spotlight.
About Total Allowable Catch (TAC):
- TAC refers to the maximum quantity of a specific fish species that can be legally harvested in a defined period.
- It is established to prevent overfishing and ensure sustainable fish populations.
- These limits are essential for maintaining ecological balance and supporting long-term fishing industries.
Various Laws Governing TAC:
- TACs are set by international fisheries management organizations like:
- FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization).
- RFMOs (Regional Fisheries Management Organizations) for shared or migratory fish stocks.
- European Union (EU): TACs are managed under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), which sets quotas for member states based on scientific advice. Landing obligations ensure that all catches are counted against quotas, preventing waste.
- India: India enforces a seasonal fishing ban in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for 61 days to protect breeding fish. This ban serves as a TAC equivalent of zero for specific periods, supporting fish stock regeneration.
- New Zealand: The Fisheries Act sets TACs for various stocks and specifies catch limits in terms of weight or numbers, updated by official notices.
| [UPSC 2013] The most important fishing grounds of the world are found in the regions where:
Options: (a) Warm and cold atmospheric currents meet (b) Rivers drain out large amounts of freshwater into the sea (c) Warm and cold oceanic currents meet* (d) continental shelf is undulating. |
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Why in the News?
Pakistan has announced its decision to suspend the Simla Agreement with India, a landmark peace accord signed in 1972 following the India-Pakistan war.
About the Simla Agreement
- The Simla Agreement was signed on July 2, 1972, between Indira Gandhi (India) and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (Pakistan) following the 1971 India-Pakistan war and the creation of Bangladesh.
- The agreement aimed to establish lasting peace, address issues arising from the war, and reaffirm respect for the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Terms of the Agreement:
- Respect for Territorial Integrity: Both countries agreed to respect sovereignty and internal affairs, with the LoC as the de facto boundary in Kashmir.
- Line of Control (LoC): Both parties agreed not to alter the LoC unilaterally, maintaining its status established after the 1971 ceasefire.
- Promotion of Durable Peace: A commitment to resolve disputes peacefully and normalize relations, including transportation, postal services, and trade.
- Dispute Resolution: The agreement emphasized bilateral dialogue for resolving issues, particularly the Kashmir dispute, without third-party intervention.
- Non-interference & No Use of Force: Both nations pledged to refrain from interfering in internal matters and from using force or threats of force.
Line of Control (LoC) and the 1949 Karachi Agreement:
- Following the 1947-48 India-Pakistan war, a UN-brokered ceasefire led to the establishment of the LoC.
- The 1949 Karachi Agreement demarcated the ceasefire line, running from Manawar (south) to the glaciers (north), forming the basis for the LoC.
- Despite the Simla Agreement, there have been multiple conflicts, such as Siachen (1984) and Kargil War (1999), where Pakistan attempted to alter the LoC, leading to military responses from India.
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Challenges in Implementing the Agreement
- Kargil War (1999): Pakistan’s violation of the LoC during the Kargil War highlighted ongoing tensions.
- Siachen Glacier: Pakistan’s actions in the Siachen Glacier conflict violated the agreement, leading to military action (Operation Meghdoot, 1984) by India.
| [UPSC 2003] Consider the following statements regarding the relations between India and Pakistan:
1. During Shimla Agreement, Indira Gandhi and Zulfikar Bhutto agreed to maintain the sanctity of LOC.
2. Lahore Summit took place in the year 1997.
3. Islamabad Summit was held between Rajiv Gandhi and Nawaz Sharif.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 (c) Only 2 (d) Only 1* |
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Why in the News?
With recent cuts in USAID funding the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Development Fund (SDF), with a capital base of $672 million and $1.5 billion in authorized funds, is gaining attention.
About the SAARC Development Fund (SDF):
- The SDF was established in 2010 by SAARC member countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
- It focuses on social, economic, and infrastructure development across SAARC countries.
- It has evolved from SAARC Fund for Regional Projects (SFRP) and SAARC Regional Fund (SRF) proposed in 1990.
- In 2005, the SDF was reconstituted as the umbrella financial mechanism for all SAARC projects.
- Finally, it was endorsed in 2006; Charter signed in 2008 during the 15th SAARC Summit in Colombo.
- Its permanent Secretariat opened in Thimphu, Bhutan, in 2010.
Funding Mechanism:
- The SDF has authorized funds of $1.5 billion, with a capital base of $672 million.
- It aims to expand its credit portfolio to $300 million in the coming years.
- Member countries contribute to the SDF’s capital, and the funds are allocated for regional projects based on proposals from member states.
- It operates on a collaborative funding model, with contributions from both the government and development partners.
| [UPSC 2016] The term ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’ often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as:
(a) G20 (b) ASEAN (c) SCO (d) SAARC |
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Why in the News?
On April 8, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla delivered the keynote address at the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
About the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU):
- The IPU is the global organization that connects national parliaments, promoting democracy and cooperation among countries.
- Moto: “For democracy. For everyone.”
- It is based in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Establishment:
- It was established in 1889 as the first multilateral political organization aimed at fostering international cooperation and dialogue.
- It was founded by Englishman William Randal Cremer and Frenchman Frederic Passy, two visionaries who believed in resolving international disputes through peaceful arbitration.
- Both went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901.
- Structure and Mandate:
- It comprises 181 national Member Parliaments and 15 Associate Members (mostly regional parliamentary bodies).
- It is funded by its members out of public funds.
- The Governing Council is made up of 3 MPs from each Member Parliament.
- Core Functions:
- It advocates for stronger, more inclusive, and diverse parliaments.
- It defends the human rights of parliamentarians and organizes biennial assemblies to bring together parliamentary delegates and partners from around the world.
- It works on issues like global governance, the United Nations, and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Key Milestones Achieved:
- The first IPU conference was held in 1889 in Paris, with participation from MPs across Europe and beyond.
- The IPU played a key role in establishing the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 1899.
- It laid the groundwork for the creation of the League of Nations in 1919 and the United Nations in 1945.
India’s Participation in the IPU:
- India’s membership in the IPU is facilitated through the Indian Parliamentary Group, which serves as the National Group of the IPU.
- The IPG was established in 1949 following a motion adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India.
- The Speaker of the Lok Sabha serves as the ex-officio President of the IPG, while the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha serve as Vice Presidents.
| [UPSC 2005] Consider the following statements:
1. The Charter of the United Nations Organization was adopted at Geneva, Switzerland in June 1945; 2. India was admitted to the United Nations Organization in the year 1945; 3. The Trusteeship Council of the United Nations Organization was established to manage the affairs of territories detached from Japan and Italy after WWII.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Maternal Mortality trends, Schemes
Why in the News?
In 2023, India had the second-highest maternal deaths globally, with 19,000 deaths, tied with the Democratic Republic of Congo, and second only to Nigeria. This equated to 52 fatalities daily according to the UN Report.
About the UN Report
- The report, titled ‘Trends in Maternal Mortality 2000-2023’, was prepared by the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, UN Population Fund, World Bank, and the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (population division).
- It provides global data on maternal mortality and highlights the countries with the highest rates of maternal deaths.
Note:
- Maternal Mortality refers to the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days after delivery, due to complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, as per WHO.
- Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) refers to the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in a given time period, usually over a year.
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Key Highlights of the Report:
- Nigeria had the highest number of maternal deaths with 75,000 deaths, accounting for 28.7% of global deaths in 2023.
- The top four countries (India, Nigeria, DRC, Pakistan) accounted for 47% of global maternal deaths.
- Despite a population similar to India, China had only 1,400 maternal deaths in 2023.
- Maternal mortality globally declined by 40% between 2000 and 2023, due to improved healthcare access.
- COVID-19 caused an additional 40,000 maternal deaths in 2021 due to service disruptions.
- The global MMR remained high, with 260,000 maternal deaths in 2023, one death every two minutes.
India’s Progress in Reducing Maternal Mortality:
- India’s MMR declined by 78% from 362 in 2000 to 80 in 2023 (NFHS 2019-21).
- Institutional deliveries increased from 79% in 2015-16 to 89% in 2019-21, with Kerala achieving 100%.
- Eight states (including Kerala, Maharashtra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu) reduced MMR to below the SDG target of 70 per 100,000 live births.
Various Schemes for Maternal Health in India:
| Scheme |
Launched |
Objective |
Notable Features |
Target Beneficiaries |
| Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) |
2005 |
To reduce maternal and neonatal mortality by promoting institutional deliveries. |
Cash incentives, Focus on rural areas, Increased access to institutional deliveries. |
Pregnant women from poor socio-economic backgrounds. |
| Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) |
2017 |
To provide maternity benefits and promote institutional deliveries. |
Cash benefit of ₹5,000 for the first child, Additional incentives for girl child under PMMVY 2.0. |
Women pregnant with their first child after 01.01.2017. |
| Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK) |
2011 |
To eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for pregnant women and sick infants. |
Free delivery services, Free transport, Free post-delivery services. |
Pregnant women and sick infants in public health institutions. |
| Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan (SUMAN) |
2019 |
To provide assured, dignified, and quality healthcare at no cost. |
Zero denial policy, Quality of care, Focus on respectful care. |
All pregnant women and newborns visiting public health institutions. |
| LaQshya |
2017 |
To improve the quality of care in labor rooms and maternity operation theatres. |
Focus on improving infrastructure, Monitoring and evaluation, Quality assurance. |
Pregnant women receiving care in labor rooms and maternity OT. |
| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojna:
1. It is safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments.
2. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women.
3. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Technology and Innovation Report
Why in the News?
The Technology and Innovation Report, 2025 was recently issued by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
About the Technology and Innovation Report
- The report is released by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
- It addresses critical issues related to science, technology, and innovation, with a particular focus on developing countries. The report emphasizes policy-relevant analysis and conclusions.
- The theme for the 2025 edition is “Inclusive Artificial Intelligence for Development.”
Key Highlights of the Report:
- Global Highlights:
- Developed countries lead in technology preparedness, but nations like China, India, and Brazil outperform their income levels.
- AI market projected to reach USD 4.8 trillion by 2033, fuelling global digital transformation.
- 100 companies, mostly in the U.S. and China, account for 40% of global corporate R&D spending.
- AI will affect 40% of jobs globally, raising concerns over automation and job displacement.
- U.S. leads in AI investment with USD 67 billion, followed by China (USD 7.8 billion) and India (USD 1.4 billion).
- AI Governance Gap: 118 countries, mainly from the Global South, are absent from global AI governance discussions.
- Indian Prospects:
- India ranks 36th in the Readiness for Frontier Technologies Index in 2024, up from 48th in 2022. It ranks 10th globally with USD 1.4 billion in AI investments.
- India has a talent pool of 13 million AI developers, contributing significantly to open-source platforms like GitHub.
- The India AI Mission (2024) focuses on AI innovation through collaborations with the private sector and academia.
- India leads in nanotechnology and has AI excellence centres like IIT Hyderabad and IIT Kharagpur.
| [UPSC 2019] The Global Competitiveness Report is published by the:
(a) International Monetary Fund (b) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (c) World Economic Forum (d) World bank |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ottawa Convention
Why in the News?
NATO members including Poland, Finland, and the three Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania) have recently expressed intentions to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention.
About the Ottawa Convention
- The Ottawa Convention is an international treaty adopted in 1997 aimed at banning the use, production, stockpiling, and transfer of anti-personnel mines.
- It is also known as the ‘Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty.’
- It specifically targets anti-personnel mines and EXCLUDES anti-vehicle mines, remote-controlled mines, and other types of munitions.
- Signatories: 165 countries had joined by March 2025.
- But major powers like the United States, China, Russia, India, and Israel have not signed.
- Key Features: Signatories must destroy all stockpiled anti-personnel mines within 4 years of ratification, with some allowances for mines retained for training.
Objectives of the Treaty
- End Human Suffering: The primary goal is to end the human suffering caused by landmines.
- Prevent Civilian Casualties: It seeks to prevent civilian casualties, especially long after conflicts have ended.
- Rehabilitation and Restoration: The treaty also aims to assist in the rehabilitation of victims and the restoration of land previously mined for civilian use.
Significance of the Convention
- Victims’ Profile: According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), more than 80% of mine victims are civilians.
- Convention Provisions: The convention includes provisions to assist victims, many of whom suffer permanent disabilities such as loss of limbs.
| [UPSC 2015] Which among the following are Nuclear Weapons States as recognized by the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of nuclear weapons, commonly known as Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)?
1. China 2. France 3. India 4. Israel 5. Pakistan
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only (c) 2, 4 and 5 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)
Why in the News?
March 26, 2025, marked the 50th anniversary of the entry into force of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), the first multilateral disarmament treaty to ban an entire category of weapons of mass destruction.
About the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)
- The BWC also known as the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC), is a disarmament treaty aimed at banning biological and toxin weapons.
- It prohibits activities related to the development, production, acquisition, transfer, stockpiling, and use of biological and toxin weapons.
Negotiation and Adoption of BWC:
- Negotiated in Geneva, Switzerland, from 1969 to 1971.
- Draft versions were tabled by the USA and USSR in August 1971.
- The treaty was opened for signature on April 10, 1972, in London, Moscow, and Washington, D.C.
- It entered into force on March 26, 1975, after the required ratifications.
Key Provisions of BWC:
- Article I: Prohibits development, production, stockpiling, and use of biological weapons.
- Article II: Requires destruction or conversion of biological agents, toxins, and weapons to peaceful purposes before joining.
- Article III: Prohibits transfer or assistance in acquiring biological weapons.
- Article VI: Allows states to file complaints with the UN Security Council about treaty violations.
- Article X: Promotes the exchange of materials and information for peaceful purposes.
Structure and Membership of BWC:
- Depositaries: United States, United Kingdom, and Russian Federation are the depositary governments.
- Membership: As of February 2025, 188 states are parties to the treaty, with 4 states having signed but not ratified, and 9 states have neither signed nor ratified.
- Review Conferences: Held every 5 years to assess the treaty’s implementation and strengthen confidence-building measures.
India and the BWC:
- India is a party to the BWC.
- India has implemented national measures and established legal frameworks to comply with the provisions of the BWC, preventing the development or use of biological weapons.
| [UPSC 2017] With reference to the Biological Weapons Convention, consider the following statements:
1.It prohibits the development, production, stockpiling or use of biological and toxin weapons.
2. It has a verification mechanism to check compliance by member States.
3. It is an umbrella treaty under the aegis of the United Nations.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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