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Type: IOCR

  • 50th Anniversary of 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

     

  • Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA)

    Why in the News?

    The 20th meeting of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA-20) is currently underway in Rome.

    About Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA)

    • The CGRFA is the only permanent intergovernmental body addressing all components of biodiversity-related to food and agriculture.
    • It was established in 1983 as the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.
    • It operates under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
    • It aims to create international consensus on managing biodiversity in food systems and ensuring the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from these genetic resources.
    • Membership: 179 countries (including India) and the European Union
    • Focus: Coordinates global efforts on biodiversity affecting agriculture, forestry, livestock, and aquatic species, including pollinators, soil organisms, and other vital species for food production.

    Structure and Mandate

    • Structure:
      • Governed by a biennial session where member countries discuss and make decisions.
      • A bureau, elected by member states, guides the Commission’s work.
      • The CGRFA Secretariat, hosted by FAO, offers technical and logistical support.
    • Mandate:
      • Policy Formulation: Develops global action plans, codes of conduct, and policy instruments for sustainable use and conservation of genetic resources for food and agriculture.
      • Global Assessments: Guides preparation of periodic assessments to monitor the status and trends of genetic resources and biodiversity.
      • Sustainable Use of Biodiversity: Promotes biodiversity use for food security, sustainable agriculture, and climate adaptation.
      • Fair and Equitable Benefit Sharing: Ensures fair distribution of benefits from genetic resources, especially plant materials under international treaties.
    • Achievements:
      • International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA): Adopted in 2001, it recognizes farmers’ contributions to crop diversity and provides a global system for accessing plant genetic materials for breeders, farmers, and scientists.
    [UPSC 2014] Consider the following international agreements:

    1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture

    2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

    3. The World Heritage Convention

    Which of the above has / have a bearing on the biodiversity?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • United Nations World Water Development Report, 2025

    Why in the News?

    On March 21, 2025, the United Nations marked the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, and in conjunction, the United Nations World Water Development Report issued a disturbing warning about the rapid loss of glaciers.

     

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) Glacier Loss: Glaciers are melting 65% faster (2011-2020) than the previous decade, with up to 50% shrinkage by 2100 if global temperatures rise by 1.5-2°C.
    • WMO’s Climate Report: The 2024 climate year was the warmest in 175 years, reinforcing the link between rising temperatures and accelerated glacier melt.
    • Unprecedented Glacier Mass Loss: Over 9,000 billion tonnes of ice lost since 1975, with 450 gigatons lost in 2024 alone.
    • Rising Sea Levels: Melting glaciers contribute to sea level rise, displacing 200,000 to 300,000 people annually and increasing coastal flooding risks.
    • Increased Wildfires and Dust Storms: Rising wildfires and dust storms accelerate glacier melt by darkening their surfaces.
    • Permafrost Thawing: Thawing permafrost releases carbon and nutrients, worsening climate change and increasing landslide risks.
    • Declining Snow Cover: A 7.79% global decline in persistent snow cover from 1979-2022 affects water resources.

    About World Glaciers Day 

    • March 21, 2025, marked the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, aimed at raising awareness about glaciers and the risks posed by their loss due to climate change.
    • It was declared by the UN in its resolution A/RES/77/158 along with the International Year of Glaciers 2025.
    • The day calls for governments, organizations, and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt sustainable water management practices.
    [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits.

    2. Large deposits of ‘methane hydrate’ are found in Arctic Tundra and under the seafloor.

    3. Methane in atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after a decade or two.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • India ranked 118th on the World Happiness Index

    Why in the News?

    India has improved its position in the World Happiness Report 2025, climbing to 118th place among 147 countries, up from 126th last year.

    About the World Happiness Index (WHI)

    • The WHI is part of the World Happiness Report, a global survey conducted by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), an initiative of the United Nations.
    • The report ranks countries based on citizens’ self-reported happiness, focusing on life satisfaction and overall well-being.
    • The rankings are primarily based on data gathered from the Gallup World Poll, where individuals rate their own lives on a 0-10 scale using the Cantril Ladder method.
    • 6 key factors influence these evaluations:
    1. GDP per capita
    2. Healthy life expectancy
    3. Social support
    4. Freedom
    5. Generosity
    6. Perception of corruption

    Key Highlights of the World Happiness Report 2025:

    • Top Countries: Finland remains the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year. Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden are also in the top ranks. Costa Rica (6th) and Mexico (10th) entered the top 10 for the first time. Israel ranked 8th despite conflicts.
    • Declining Happiness in Western Nations: The United States dropped to 24th, and the United Kingdom fell to 23rd, with both countries experiencing increased social isolation.
    • Least Happy Countries: Afghanistan remains the least happy, with Sierra Leone and Lebanon also in the bottom three.
    • India’s Improvement:
    • India improved its ranking from 126th to 118th, with its happiness score rising from 4.054 to 4.389.
      • Despite its economic growth, technological advancements, and improvements in healthcare and education, it continues to rank lower than its neighboring countries like Pakistan (109th).

    PYQ:

    [UPSC 2004] Human Development Index comprises literacy rates, life expectancy at birth and-

    (a) Gross Domestic Product per head in US dollars

    (b) Gross National Product per head in US dollars

    (c) Purchasing Power Parity in US dollars

    (d) National Income per head in US dollars

     

  • India ranked 24th out of 33 countries in Free Speech Index

    Why in the News?

    A global survey by The Future of Free Speech, a US -based think tank, has ranked India 24th out of 33 countries in terms of support for free speech.

    The right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution, allowing citizens to express their opinions freely. This right includes various forms of expression like speech, writing, art, and digital media, RTI, and even the right not to speak. However, it is subject to reasonable restrictions as outlined in Article 19(2), including security, public order, and decency.

    About the Free Speech Index

    • The Future of Free Speech, an independent U.S.-based think tank released this report titled ‘Who in the World Supports Free Speech?’.
    • It evaluates public attitudes towards free speech across 33 countries, highlighting trends, regional variations, and challenges to freedom of expression worldwide.
    • It emphasized the decline in support for protecting controversial speech, despite strong abstract support for free speech in many countries.

    India’s Ranking:

    • India is ranked 24th out of 33 countries in the 2024 Global Free Speech Index, with a score of 62.6.
    • While Indians generally consider free speech important, 37% of respondents support restrictions on criticizing government policies, which is the highest percentage among the surveyed countries.
    • India is an exception to the general trend, as public support for free speech does not align with actual protections, pointing to increasing government restrictions on expression.

    Global Highlights:

    • Norway (87.9) and Denmark (87.0) lead the rankings, demonstrating strong commitment to free speech and dissent.
    • Indonesia (56.8), Malaysia (55.4), and Pakistan (57.0) showed the biggest improvements, although they still ranked lower on the scale.
    • Several democratic nations, including the US, Israel, and Japan, have seen a decline in free speech support since 2021.
    • Countries like Hungary (85.5) and Venezuela (81.8) scored high, indicating a disconnect between government-imposed restrictions and public attitudes towards free speech.

    PYQ:

    [UPSC 2014] What do you understand by the concept of “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.

    [2018] Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply the above statement?

    (a) Article 14 and the provisions under the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution.
    (b) Article 17 and the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV.
    (c) Article 21 and the freedoms guaranteed in Part III.
    (d) Article 24 and the provisions under the 44th Amendment to the Constitution.

     

  • Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI)

    Why in the News?

    New Zealand has expressed its willingness to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).

    About Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI)

    • India launched the IPOI at the East Asia Summit in November 2019 to promote cooperation for a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
    • The initiative aims to strengthen maritime security, stability, and development in the region by fostering multilateral engagement among Indo-Pacific nations.
    • It builds on India’s Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision, which emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts in regional maritime governance.
    • The IPOI operates as a voluntary, non-treaty-based arrangement, relying on existing frameworks like the EAS mechanism, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in cooperation.
    • The IPOI is structured around 7 key pillars, with specific countries taking the lead in each area:
    1. Maritime Security: UK and India
    2. Maritime Ecology: Australia and Thailand
    3. Maritime Resources: France and Indonesia
    4. Capacity Building and Resource Sharing: Germany
    5. Disaster Risk Reduction and Management: India and Bangladesh
    6. Science, Technology, and Academic Cooperation: Italy and Singapore
    7. Trade, Connectivity, and Maritime Transport: Japan and the US

    Mandate of IPOI:

    • The IPOI seeks to establish a rules-based regional order in the Indo-Pacific, facilitating the free movement of goods, services, and people while respecting the sovereignty of nations.
    • The initiative enhances regional maritime security by fostering cooperation among countries to tackle shared challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, and other maritime crimes.
    • IPOI aims to boost regional capacity for disaster risk reduction and management, encouraging collaboration on disaster preparedness and response, thus minimizing the effects of natural disasters.
    • As a non-treaty, voluntary initiative, IPOI offers flexibility, allowing nations to participate according to common interests without adding new institutional responsibilities.
    PYQ:
    [UPSC 2011]     The strategic significance of South-East Asia lies in its:
    (a) It was the hot theatre during the Second World War.
    (b) Its location between the Asian powers of China and India.,
    (c) It was the arena of superpower confrontation during the Cold War period.,
    (d) Its location between the Pacific and Indian Oceans and its preeminent maritime character.

     

  • 30th Session of International Seabed Authority (ISA)

    Why in the News?

    The 30th Session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has officially commenced in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 17, 2025.

    About the International Seabed Authority (ISA)

    • ISA is an autonomous international organization created under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 1994 Agreement relating to Part XI of the UNCLOS.
    • It regulates and manages mineral-resource activities in the “Area”—the seabed and ocean floor beyond national jurisdictions.
    • It is headquartered in Kingston, Jamaica
    • It has 168 Member States, including India, and the European Union
    • Mandate:
      • Regulate exploration and exploitation of deep-sea minerals.
      • Protect the marine environment from harmful effects of seabed activities.
      • Encourage marine scientific research and promote the sustainable use of oceans.
    • The ISA manages about 54% of the world’s oceans, ensuring activities are carried out for the benefit of all humankind and to protect the marine environment.

    Role in Regulating Deep-Sea Mining

    The ISA is responsible for enforcing the Mining Code, which governs all mineral activities in the International Seabed Area. It includes:

    • Regulation of Exploration: Grants exploration licenses for assessing mineral deposits in deep-sea areas, ensuring scientifically responsible activities.
    • Environmental Protection: Sets environmental standards and ensures impact assessments before mining starts.
    • Development of Mining Code: Continuously updates the Mining Code to address scientific, technological, and environmental concerns.
    • Oversight and Compliance: Monitors activities of contractors and member states, ensuring regulatory compliance and environmental safeguards.

    India and ISA

    • In January 2024, India submitted two exploration applications in the Indian Ocean for:
      • Polymetallic sulphides in the Carlsberg Ridge.
      • Cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Afanasy-Nikitin Seamount.
    • India holds two active exploration contracts for polymetallic nodules and sulphides in the Central Indian Ocean Basin and Ridge.
    • India seeks access to critical minerals for energy transition and technological growth, balancing economic needs with sustainable practices.
    • India actively participates in Mining Code negotiations, aligning its actions with international legal standards and environmental protocols.

    PYQ:

    [UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements:
    1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.
    2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters
    3. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on the seafloor in international waters.
    Which of the statements given above are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • International Criminal Court (ICC)

    Why in the News?

    The International Criminal Court (ICC) has taken into custody former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on charges of crimes against humanity, linked to his infamous “war on drugs”.

    About the International Criminal Court (ICC)

    • The ICC is the world’s first permanent international court established to prosecute individuals responsible for the gravest crimes of global concern.
    • Founded under the Rome Statute in 1998, it became operational in 2002 and is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands.
    • The ICC has jurisdiction over 4 core international crimes:
    1. War crimes
    2. Crimes against humanity
    3. Genocide
    4. Crimes of aggression
    • It has 125 member states, signatories to the Rome Statute, though major powers like India, the US, China, Russia, Israel, and Ukraine are NOT members due to concerns over sovereignty and political misuse.
    • The ICC’s budget, primarily funded by member states with additional voluntary contributions, for 2025 is approximately €195 million.
    • The ICC structure includes 18 judges elected for 9-year terms and an independent Office of the Prosecutor responsible for investigations and prosecutions.
    • Key bodies include the Trust Fund for Victims, a Detention Centre, and the Assembly of States Parties, which oversees its administrative functions.
    • The ICC lacks an enforcement mechanism and depends on member states’ cooperation for executing arrest warrants, gathering evidence, and enforcing sentences.

    Reach of an ICC Warrant:

    • Applicability:
      • Applies to crimes committed by nationals of member states or on member state territories.
      • Maintains jurisdiction over crimes committed before a state withdraws from membership.
    • State Obligations:
      • Member states must execute ICC arrest warrants under the Rome Statute.
      • Non-compliance can lead to reporting to the Assembly of States Parties and potential escalation to the UN Security Council (UNSC).
      • This applies particularly in cases involving UNSC-mandated probes, like Darfur and Libya.
    • Challenges to Enforcement:
      • Non-member states (e.g. US, Russia, China) are not bound by ICC warrants.
      • Political considerations lead to inconsistent compliance.
    • Special Mechanisms:
      • In 2016, the ICC formed an Arrest Working Group to improve intelligence-sharing and warrant execution.
    • Duterte Case Implications:
      • Even after Philippines’ withdrawal in 2019, the ICC retains jurisdiction for crimes committed from 2011-2019.
      • Duterte’s arrest highlights how domestic politics, such as the collapse of the Duterte-Marcos alliance, can influence warrant execution.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1.The International Criminal Court (ICC) has jurisdiction to prosecute nationals of even those States that have not ratified the Rome Statute.

    2. The International Criminal Court is a ‘court of last resort’ intended to complement national judicial systems.

    3. The United Nations Security Council can refer a situation to the Prosecutor of the ICC even if the State concerned is not a party to the Statute.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision for Global South

    Why in the News?

    PM Modi has unveiled ‘MAHASAGAR’ (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) during his March 2025 visit to Mauritius, outlining India’s expanded vision for security and development across the Global South.

    What is MAHASAGAR?

    • Mahasagar is India’s expanded strategic vision aimed at enhancing security, trade, and development cooperation across the Global South.
    • It builds on India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy, which focused on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
    • Three Core Pillars:
    1. Trade for Development: Enhancing economic ties through technology-sharing and trade facilitation.
    2. Capacity Building for Sustainable Growth: Supporting nations with infrastructure, education, and economic partnerships.
    3. Mutual Security for a Shared Future: Strengthening regional security, maritime cooperation, and defense ties.
    • It seeks to address China’s expanding presence in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean by promoting India-led cooperation models.
    • It aims to position India as a champion of the Global South, amplifying their voice in global policymaking (e.g., G20, IORA, BRICS).

    How Mahasagar builds on SAGAR (2015)?

    • India’s SAGAR policy (2015) was a regional framework focused on maritime security and economic cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
    • Mahasagar broadens this vision to global engagement with the Global South.
    SAGAR (2015) Mahasagar (2025)
    Geographic Scope Indian Ocean Region (IOR) Global South, Indo-Pacific, Africa, Latin America
    Focus Areas Maritime security, economic ties, blue economy, regional stability Trade-driven development, technology-sharing, capacity building, global security
    Strategic Partnerships Mauritius, Seychelles, Maldives, Sri Lanka, IOR countries Expands to Africa, ASEAN, Latin America, Pacific Island Nations
    Security & Defense Cooperation Anti-piracy, maritime domain awareness, EEZ protection Joint naval exercises, cyber security, defense partnerships
    Economic & Developmental Focus Blue economy, infrastructure, trade corridors in IOR Technology transfer, concessional loans, trade in local currencies
    Diplomatic Strategy Regional cooperation through IORA, BIMSTEC Voice of the Global South in G20, BRICS, UN initiatives

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

    1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.

    2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • [pib] United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW)

    Why in the News?

    India’s Delegation led by Union Minister for Women and Child Developments will participate in the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW).

    About United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW):

    Details
    Establishment and Mandate
    • Founded in 1946 by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) through Resolution 11(II).
    • Initially focused on women’s political, economic, civil, social, and educational rights.
    • Expanded in 1996 to include monitoring the Beijing Declaration and integrating gender perspectives into UN activities.
    Structure and Membership
    • Composed of 45 member states elected by ECOSOC based on geographical representation.
    • 13 from Africa, 11 from Asia, 9 from Latin America and the Caribbean, 8 from Western Europe and other States, 4 from Eastern Europe.
    • Members serve a four-year term.
    Key Roles and Responsibilities
    • Policy Formulation: Establishes global norms and standards for gender equality.
    • Monitoring Progress: Reviews gender-related commitments, including the Beijing Declaration.
    • Advocacy and Awareness: Conducts research, publishes reports, and promotes women’s rights globally.
    • Collaboration: Works with UN entities, NGOs, and civil society organizations to strengthen gender equality.
    Major Contributions Drafted key conventions like:

    • Convention on the Political Rights of Women (1953)
    • Convention on the Nationality of Married Women (1957)
    • Convention on Consent to Marriage (1962)
    • Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) (1979).
    • Influenced the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948).
    • Led preparatory work for the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing (1995).
    Annual Sessions and Key Themes
    • Held annually at UN Headquarters, New York.
    • Engages member states, NGOs, and UN agencies in discussions on gender-related policies.

     

    PYQ:

    [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 2/3rd majority of the General Assembly for a 3-year term.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2