PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation?
Linkage: Women’s empowerment and the critical need to incorporate gender concerns into programme design and implementation. The article extensively discuss how empowering women in agriculture is fundamental to achieving food security. For instance, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer to recognize, support, and enhance the role of women in ensuring food security, fostering economic prosperity, and promoting sustainability. |
Mentor’s Comment: The United Nations has declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer to recognise the important but often overlooked role women play in growing food around the world. Over 100 countries supported this move, which highlights a major issue: while women produce up to 80% of food in developing countries, they are still left out when it comes to owning land. For example, in India, although 80% of working women are in farming, only 14% own land.
Today’s editorial talks about the problems faced by women farmers, which is an important topic for GS Paper I (women-related issues), GS Paper II (social justice), and GS Paper III (agriculture).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The International Year of the Woman Farmer in 2026 should focus on supporting strong, sustainable farming and ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women in agriculture.
What challenges do women farmers face in land and credit access?
- Low Land Ownership Limits Entitlements: Despite forming nearly 80% of the economically active female workforce in agriculture, only 14% of landowners in India are women, and just 8.3% according to NFHS data. Eg: A woman working her family’s farmland may still lack legal ownership, preventing her from claiming government subsidies or schemes like PM-KISAN.
- Difficulty Accessing Credit: Without land titles, women are often denied collateral-based loans from banks and formal financial institutions. Eg: A woman farmer in rural Bihar cannot access a loan for irrigation equipment because she doesn’t hold a land deed, pushing her to rely on informal moneylenders.
- Inadequate Access to Financial Technology and Information: Women have limited access to mobile phones and agricultural advisories, which are crucial for credit applications and crop planning. Eg: In Assam, women supported by the ENACT project lacked timely access to climate forecasts, making it harder to plan credit usage for flood-resistant crop seeds.
Why is 2026 declared the International Year of the Woman Farmer?
- To Recognise Women’s Vital Role in Agriculture: Women contribute to 60–80% of food production in developing countries and nearly 39% of the agricultural labour force in South Asia.
- To Raise Awareness About Structural Challenges: The declaration aims to highlight barriers women face such as limited land ownership, market access, and credit availability. Eg: Only 14% of agricultural landowners in India are women, restricting their ability to access loans and government schemes.
- To Promote Gender Equality and Empowerment: It seeks to promote gender-transformative agricultural development by encouraging inclusive policies, technology access, and self-help group participation. Eg: The ENACT project in Assam supports women farmers by linking them with agri-experts and providing mobile-based advisories to adapt to climate change.
What is the ENACT project?
The ENACT project stands for Enhancing Climate Adaptation of Vulnerable Communities through Nature-based Solutions and Gender-Transformative Approaches. Supported by the World Food Programme (WFP), the Government of Assam, and funded by Norway, it empowers women farmers in Nagaon |
How does the ENACT project help women farmers adapt to climate change?
- Access to Climate-Resilient Agricultural Information: ENACT provides weekly agricultural and climate advisories through mobile phones, enabling informed decision-making. Eg: Over 300 women farmers in 17 villages of Assam’s Nagaon district receive timely updates on weather and crop planning.
- Promotion of Flood-Resistant Crop Varieties: The project introduces flood-tolerant rice varieties and promotes livelihood diversification to reduce climate-related risks. Eg: In Roha village, new rice varieties introduced by the project can survive underwater, helping farmers secure better yields during floods.
- Strengthening Institutional and Technical Support: ENACT facilitates collaboration with local institutions, including agri-departments, universities, and meteorological agencies. Eg: Climate Adaptation Information Centres offer video conferencing tools for expert guidance and community meetings.
What policies support women farmers in India?
- Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP): Enhances skills, capacity building, and promotes sustainable agriculture among women farmers. Eg: MKSP supports self-help groups (SHGs) in improving agricultural practices and income generation.
- Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation: Provides 50% to 80% subsidies on farm machinery and equipment to reduce drudgery and improve productivity. Eg: Women farmers receive subsidised tools for sowing, weeding, and harvesting, enabling more efficient farm operations.
- National Food Security Mission (NFSM) – Women’s Component: Allocates 30% of the budget for women farmers in select States and Union Territories to improve food production. Eg: Women beneficiaries receive support in seed distribution, training, and input provision under NFSM.
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How does climate change impact women farmers?
- Increased Domestic Burden and Agricultural Risk: Climate variability forces women to juggle household responsibilities with unpredictable farming conditions. Eg: In Assam, women like Nirmali Bora Hazarika report increased workload due to erratic weather and flood-prone crops.
- Limited Access to Climate Information and Resources: Women have less access to weather updates, advisory services, and resilient crop technologies. Eg: Many women farmers lack mobile phones or connectivity to receive timely climate advisories.
- Greater Vulnerability to Crop Loss and Livelihood Disruptions: Floods, droughts, and extreme weather events hit women-led farms harder due to lack of land rights and insurance. Eg: Without land ownership, women cannot claim compensation or loans to recover from climate-induced losses.
Way forward:
- Enhance Land Rights and Legal Ownership: Governments must promote joint land titles, ensure inheritance rights, and simplify land registration processes for women. Eg: Initiatives like the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP) can help ensure legal recognition of women’s land ownership.
- Expand Financial and Technological Access: Strengthen women’s inclusion in formal credit systems, promote mobile-based agricultural advisories, and invest in climate-resilient infrastructure. Eg: Scaling up programs like ENACT can equip women with timely climate information, insurance, and input support.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2022] Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.
Linkage: The article highlight that the world needs to “lower its dependence on fossil fuels” because “greenhouse gas emissions are increasing worldwide,” leading to “rising surface temperatures”. The discussion around Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI) in the sources is presented as a controversial technology proposed to “directly cool the planet rather than bank on reducing emissions alone” as a means of “reducing the impacts of climate change |
Mentor’s Comment: The world needs to rely less on fossil fuels, but progress has been slow because of problems like war, poverty, and rising prices. As a result, greenhouse gas emissions are still going up. To deal with this, some scientists suggest using new technologies to cool the Earth directly, instead of only focusing on cutting emissions. One such method is Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI), where tiny particles are sprayed into the upper atmosphere to block sunlight and reduce warming.
Today’s editorial discusses the Stratospheric Aerosol Injection technique, a key topic for GS Paper III (Science, Technology & Environment), highlighting its potential, challenges, and relevance to climate change mitigation efforts.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
A recent study in the journal Earth’s Future shared a new idea that could make SAI cheaper and easier to use, even though many people are still against it.
What was the new idea?
- Use of Existing Aircraft: Instead of waiting a decade and spending billions to build special high-altitude planes, the study proposes modifying existing aircraft (like the Boeing 777F) to spray aerosols at lower altitudes.
- Low-Altitude Injection in Polar Regions: The study suggests carrying out aerosol injections at lower altitudes (around 13 km) in polar and extratropical regions, where the stratosphere is more easily reachable. This approach is more cost-effective, technically simpler, and can be implemented sooner.
What is Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI)?
SAI is a proposed method of cooling the planet by injecting tiny reflective particles (aerosols) into the stratosphere. It is inspired by volcanic eruptions, which naturally cool the Earth by spewing particles that reflect sunlight. These aerosols reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth’s surface, creating a cooling effect. |
Why is the spraying of aerosol needed?
- To Reflect Sunlight and Cool the Planet: Aerosols (like sulphur dioxide) reflect some of the sun’s rays back into space, reducing the heat reaching Earth’s surface. Eg: The 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption released sulphur dioxide, cooling Earth by about 0.5°C for over a year.
- To Temporarily Reduce Global Warming Effects: SAI can lower atmospheric temperatures temporarily, helping to reduce severe climate effects like heatwaves, ice melt, and sea-level rise. Eg: A study showed spraying 12 million tonnes of sulphur dioxide at 13 km altitude could cool the planet by 0.6°C.
- To Buy Time for Emissions Reductions and Climate Adaptation: While long-term solutions like clean energy are built, SAI could provide a temporary buffer against extreme climate impacts. Eg: It could delay serious effects like crop failure or habitat loss, allowing time for sustainable reforms.
Why is low-altitude SAI seen as cost-effective?
- No Need for Specialized Aircraft: Low-altitude SAI can be conducted using existing aircraft, avoiding the high costs of developing planes that fly above 20 km. Eg: Standard jets like the Boeing 777F can reach stratospheric levels in polar regions, making deployment more affordable.
- Technically Less Challenging: Operating at lower altitudes reduces technical complexity, such as extreme temperature and pressure challenges faced at higher elevations. Eg: Modifying existing jets with pressurized tanks is easier than designing new high-altitude aircraft.
- Faster Implementation Timeline: It enables quicker deployment, avoiding the 10-year delay and multi-billion dollar investment needed for high-altitude SAI systems. Eg: Using current infrastructure, SAI programs could begin much earlier to address urgent climate risks.
Where is low-altitude injection feasible and why?
- Feasible in Polar and Extratropical Regions: In these regions, the stratosphere starts at lower altitudes, making it accessible to standard aircraft. Eg: Over the Arctic or Antarctic, the tropopause (boundary between troposphere and stratosphere) is around 8–13 km, suitable for existing jets.
- Infeasible Near the Equator: At equatorial regions, the stratosphere begins at 18 km or higher, which is beyond the reach of most commercial or military jets. Eg: Areas like Indonesia or the Amazon basin would require specially built aircraft for SAI.
- Altitude Determines Aerosol Effectiveness: While higher altitude injections last longer in the atmosphere, lower altitude in polar zones allows SAI to be conducted with less cost and effort. Eg: Studies show that even at 13 km altitude in polar spring and summer, SAI can cool the planet by ~0.6°C with 12 million tonnes of sulphur dioxide.
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How does the use of existing aircraft like the Boeing 777F influence the implementation of SAI technology?
- Reduces Deployment Costs: Using existing aircraft avoids the high capital expenditure needed to design and build specialized high-altitude jets. Eg: The Boeing 777F, a widely available cargo aircraft, can be adapted for SAI at lower stratospheric levels, cutting costs significantly.
- Speeds Up Implementation: Existing jets can be modified and deployed faster, enabling earlier testing and potential use of SAI to address urgent climate risks. Eg: Building high-altitude aircraft may take nearly a decade, but using modified commercial planes could allow operations to start much sooner.
- Requires Feasible Technical Modifications: Though not originally built for aerosol spraying, planes like the Boeing 777F can be retrofitted with specialized equipment. Eg: An August 2024 study proposed adding insulated double-walled pressurized tanks to safely carry and release sulphur dioxide.
What are the Risks and Controversies of SAI?
- Environmental and Health Side Effects: SAI could lead to acid rain, delayed ozone recovery, and unknown ecological disruptions due to aerosol particles in the atmosphere. Eg: Sulphur dioxide, commonly proposed for SAI, can form sulphuric acid in the atmosphere, harming ecosystems and human health.
- Uneven Global Effects: SAI’s cooling impact may not be uniform worldwide, potentially benefiting some regions while worsening droughts, rainfall patterns, or crop yields in others. Eg: Cooling could be stronger in polar regions, while tropical areas, which face the worst climate impacts, may not benefit equally.
- Governance and Ethical Concerns: SAI affects the entire planet, raising questions about who decides when, where, and how it’s used. It may lead to geopolitical tensions and misuse. Eg: A single country unilaterally injecting aerosols could trigger international disputes, especially if neighbouring regions suffer unintended consequences.
Way forward:
- Establish a Global Governance Framework: International collaboration is essential to regulate research, testing, and potential deployment of SAI, ensuring transparency, accountability, and consent from all affected nations.
- Focus on Complementary Climate Strategies: SAI should be treated as a temporary, supplementary tool, not a replacement for emission reduction. Massive investments must continue in renewables, carbon capture, and adaptation strategies.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2013] Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process inadequacy or both? Discuss.
Linkage: India’s water management problems are explicitly stated to be a result of a “fragmented and sectoral approach”. This contrasts sharply with the need for a holistic “new course.” The existing situation is problematic because “rivers and other waterbodies are often interstate and multiple political jurisdictions are involved in administering the same waterbody”. |
Mentor’s Comment: In 2025, global water governance takes a historic turn as the United Nations declares it the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation and launches the Decade of Action on Cryospheric Science (2025–2034). These initiatives, aligned with World Water Day 2025 and World Day for Glaciers (March 21), focus directly on the vital connections between mountain glaciers, freshwater, and ocean ecosystems. They promote the “Source-to-Sea (S2S)” approach, which integrates water governance from glacial sources all the way to ocean outlets, acknowledging their ecological and hydrological continuity.
Today’s editorial will talk about water governance in India and the world. It will help with GS Paper I (Geography), GS Paper II (Policy Making) and GS Paper III (Environment).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Scientists and decision-makers need to pay attention to the Source to Sea (S2S) approach.
What is the theme of World Water Day 2025?
- Theme: Glacier Preservation
- 2025 is also declared the International Year of Glaciers Preservation by the United Nations.
- Marks the start of a Decade of Action on Cryospheric Science (2025-2034).
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Why is it significant?
- Crucial Source of Freshwater: Glaciers act as natural water reservoirs, supplying freshwater to millions downstream. Their preservation ensures sustained water availability for drinking, agriculture, and ecosystems. Eg: The Himalayan glaciers feed rivers like the Ganga and Brahmaputra, supporting millions of people in India.
- Indicator of Climate Change: Glaciers are sensitive to global warming; their rapid melting signals climate change impacts. Protecting them helps monitor and mitigate broader environmental risks. Eg: Melting Himalayan glaciers contribute to changing river flows, affecting flood and drought patterns in South Asia.
- Supports Sustainable Development: Preserving glaciers helps maintain mountain ecosystems and supports downstream communities dependent on glacier-fed waters for their livelihoods and economic activities. Eg: Alpine glaciers support mountain agriculture and tourism, critical to local economies in regions like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Why is the Source-to-Sea (S2S) approach important for global water governance?
- Integrated Management of Water Systems: S2S treats freshwater and marine systems as a connected continuum, ensuring that actions upstream (rivers, lakes) consider their impact downstream (coastal and marine environments). Eg: Pollution control in river basins like the Ganges directly affects the health of the Bay of Bengal ecosystem.
- Improves Coordination Across Jurisdictions: S2S promotes cooperation among multiple stakeholders and political jurisdictions, bridging fragmented governance to manage shared water resources effectively. Eg: The Manila Declaration encourages countries to work together on ridge-to-reef management to protect water quality from land to ocean.
- Facilitates Sustainable Solutions for Water and Marine Challenges: By addressing the entire water cycle, S2S enables holistic strategies that tackle issues like pollution, water diversion, and habitat loss, benefiting both terrestrial and marine biodiversity. Eg: Initiatives under the SIWI Action Platform connect freshwater and marine experts to develop better water management practices globally.
What is the cryosphere?
The cryosphere includes all frozen water parts of Earth, such as glaciers, snow, sea ice, and permafrost. It helps regulate the climate, reflects sunlight, and stores Earth’s freshwater. |
How does the changing mountain cryosphere impact downstream water resources?
- Altered Water Flow Patterns: Melting glaciers and shrinking snowpacks change the timing and volume of water flow downstream, leading to seasonal water shortages or floods. Eg: Reduced glacial melt in the Himalayas affects the flow of rivers like the Ganges, impacting water availability for millions.
- Reduced Water Storage Capacity: Glaciers act as natural reservoirs, storing water during cold months and releasing it slowly. Their retreat means less buffering capacity during dry periods, causing water stress downstream. Eg: Declining glacier size in the Alps affects water supplies for European river basins in summer.
- Increased Risk of Natural Hazards: Glacier melt can lead to the formation and sudden breach of glacial lakes, causing flash floods and damaging downstream ecosystems and communities. Eg: Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the Himalayas pose risks to villages and infrastructure along rivers like the Indus.
What are the key challenges India faces in managing its water resources?
- Groundwater Depletion: Over-extraction of groundwater for irrigation, industrial use, and domestic consumption has led to alarming depletion rates of aquifers. This poses a significant threat to long-term water availability and agricultural productivity. Eg, states like Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan report over 100% utilization of groundwater resources, leading to critical water scarcity.
- Water Pollution: Water pollution from industrial effluents, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff has made large quantities of freshwater unusable. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, more than 70% of India’s surface water is polluted, with rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna being majorly affected.
- Climate Change and Erratic Weather Patterns: Changing rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and frequent floods induced by climate change are altering water availability. The Indian Meteorological Department has noted a decline in monsoon rainfall, which is critical for replenishing rivers, lakes, and groundwater reserves.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Formulation and Revision of National Water Policies: The government introduced the first National Water Policy in 1987, and since then, it has been periodically updated to address emerging challenges. The latest draft policies emphasize integrated water resource management and sustainability. Eg, the 2019 draft National Water Policy focuses on water conservation, efficient use, and equitable distribution.
- Institutional Reforms and Coordination Bodies: Committees have been set up to improve water governance by restructuring key institutions. Eg, in 2015, a committee was formed to merge the Central Water Commission and Central Ground Water Board into a unified National Water Commission to foster better coordination and planning.
- Promotion of Sustainable and Integrated Approaches: The government supports approaches like Source-to-Sea (S2S) management, which integrates land, freshwater, coastal, and marine resource management. Eg, pilot projects in the Indo-Gangetic basin and Delhi waterbodies are being explored under the S2S framework to address pollution and water quality comprehensively.
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Way forward:
- Adopt Source-to-Sea (S2S) Approach Nationwide: Implement integrated water governance that connects glacial sources to coastal ecosystems, ensuring coordinated action across sectors and regions.
- Strengthen Climate-Resilient Water Infrastructure: Invest in glacier monitoring, early warning systems, and sustainable groundwater management to adapt to climate-induced water variability and safeguard water security.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2018] How far do you agree with the view that tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of ordinary courts? In view of the above, discuss the constitutional validity and competency of the tribunals in India.
Linkage: The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), India’s first comprehensive bankruptcy law enacted in 2016, fundamentally relies on a specialized tribunal system for its implementation. This system includes the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). The effectiveness of the IBC as a resolution tool is intrinsically linked to the efficiency, competency, and operational challenges faced by these tribunals. |
Mentor’s Comment: India’s Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), started in 2016, has been running for over eight years now. It has helped recover ₹3.89 lakh crore with a recovery rate of 32.8%, changing how companies deal with unpaid debts. But delays in courts, problems after settlements, and a recent Supreme Court decision on Bhushan Steel have created new worries.
Today’s editorial will talk about the effectiveness of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) in India. It will help with GS Paper II (Policy Making) and GS Paper III (Banking).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
As India works towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, there is growing discussion about whether the IBC is ready for the future, whether its decisions are respected, and how efficient the courts are in handling cases.
Why was the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) enacted in India in 2016?
- To Establish a Time-bound Resolution Mechanism: The IBC aimed to replace India’s slow and fragmented insolvency system with a fast-track process for resolving distressed assets within a maximum of 330 days. Eg: Earlier, recovery through legal channels often took years; under IBC, cases like Essar Steel were resolved with clear timelines.
- To Shift Control from Debtors to Creditors: It empowered creditors by giving them control over the insolvency process and discouraging willful default. Eg: In the case of Bhushan Steel, creditors approved Tata Steel’s resolution plan, overriding promoter control.
- To Improve Recovery Rates and Credit Culture: IBC sought to improve debt recovery rates and create a culture of responsible borrowing and repayment. Eg: As per IBBI data, creditors have recovered over ₹3.89 lakh crore with an average recovery rate of 32.8%, much higher than earlier systems.
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What makes IBC the preferred route for debt recovery according to the RBI and IBBI data?
- Highest Share in Total Recoveries: According to the RBI’s 2024 report, the IBC accounted for 48% of all recoveries made by banks in FY 2023-24, making it the dominant recovery mechanism. Eg: Compared to other channels like DRTs and SARFAESI, IBC recovered nearly half of total dues in just one financial year.
- Better Realisation Than Liquidation: As per IBBI, resolution plans under IBC are yielding 93.41% of the fair value and 170.1% of liquidation value, showing greater efficiency. Eg: In the case of Electrosteel Steels, creditors recovered more than they would have in a liquidation scenario.
- Timely Resolution and Settlement: The IBC’s time-bound process has led to early settlements, with 30,310 cases settled before admission, involving defaults worth ₹13.78 lakh crore. Eg: Companies facing insolvency threats often clear dues or settle quickly, improving the overall credit discipline.
How has the IBC impacted the credit culture and corporate governance in India?
- Improved Credit Discipline: The IBC has fostered a repayment-oriented credit culture by creating a credible threat of insolvency, discouraging willful defaults. Eg: The Supreme Court observed that “the defaulter’s paradise is lost,” reflecting a clear shift in borrower behavior post-IBC.
- Reduction in NPAs: The IBC has contributed to a sharp fall in Gross Non-Performing Assets (NPAs), which declined from 11.2% in 2018 to 2.8% in 2024 for scheduled commercial banks. Eg: Many firms have restructured or repaid loans early to avoid IBC proceedings, improving asset quality in the banking sector.
- Boosted Corporate Governance Standards: Firms resolved under IBC show better board practices, including a rise in the number of independent directors, enhancing transparency and accountability. Eg: A study by IIM Bangalore showed firms post-resolution had more professionalised management and stronger compliance norms.
What are the key challenges currently affecting the effectiveness of the IBC framework?
- Judicial Delays and Backlogs: Delays in approvals by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and prolonged litigation undermine the IBC’s goal of time-bound resolution. Eg: Even after creditor approval, resolution plans like that of Jaypee Infratech have been stuck for years due to legal battles, leading to erosion in asset value.
- Post-resolution Uncertainty: Lack of legal finality and frequent challenges after plan approval create investor hesitation and risk derailment of settled cases. Eg: In the Bhushan Power and Steel case, a previously approved resolution plan was reopened, shaking confidence in the system.
- Inadequate Framework for Emerging Assets: The IBC lacks clear mechanisms to deal with issues like intellectual property valuation, employee dues, and tech continuity, making it unfit for resolving non-traditional businesses. Eg: Tech start-ups and IP-heavy firms may not be efficiently resolved under current provisions, leading to value destruction.
Why is the Bhushan verdict seen as a setback?
- Erodes Commercial Certainty: The verdict questioned a resolution plan that had already been approved and operational for years, undermining the finality of the IBC process. Eg: The reopening of the Bhushan Power and Steel Ltd. case raised fears that even completed transactions are not immune from future legal scrutiny.
- Deters Investor Confidence: If resolution applicants fear judicial reversal after making large investments, they may hesitate to participate, weakening the IBC’s appeal. Eg: A successful bidder may now think twice before committing to a resolution plan if legal sanctity isn’t guaranteed.
- Delays in Execution and Recovery: Continuous litigation post-approval increases the risk of liquidation for otherwise viable firms due to delayed implementation. Eg: In the Bhushan case, years of uncertainty stalled asset utilisation, resulting in a loss of economic value.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Tribunal Infrastructure and Capacity: Expand the capacity of NCLT and NCLAT by appointing more judges, improving case management systems, and digitising proceedings to reduce delays and ensure time-bound resolutions.
- Ensure Legal Finality and Commercial Certainty: Introduce clear jurisprudential safeguards to prevent post-resolution litigations and uphold the sanctity of approved resolution plans, thereby boosting investor confidence and preserving the IBC’s credibility
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Explain the role of millets for ensuring health and nutritional security in India.
Linkage: In this article, discuss how millets, classified as Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) and now as “opportunity crops,” are nutritionally dense and climate-resilient. This question directly aligns with the core components of ‘biohappiness’ that emphasize “nutrition security” and bringing “forgotten foods back to the table”. |
Mentor’s Comment: India’s traditional food habits, especially in tribal and rural areas like Arunachal Pradesh, are at risk because many local plants and crops are disappearing. This loss is not just about rare plants but also about losing foods that are nutritious, climate-resilient, and hold cultural importance, along with the traditional knowledge that supports them.
Today’s editorial will talk about the quick loss of biodiversity and traditional food knowledge in India. It will help with GS Paper II (Policy Making) and GS Paper III (Agriculture & Environment).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The fast loss of biodiversity and food knowledge, caused by cash crops, global diets, and weak policies, urges India to use new science and revive orphan crops (Neglected and Underutilized Species) like millets for better food and environment.
What are Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS)?
- NUS are traditional crops like millets, legumes, tubers, and wild fruits that have been largely ignored or underused in modern agriculture and food systems.
- These species are nutritionally rich, climate-resilient, and well-adapted to local environments, offering potential to improve food security and support sustainable farming.
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Why are they now referred to as “opportunity crops”?
- Nutritionally Dense: These crops are rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, making them excellent for improving health. Eg: Small millets are high in fiber and micronutrients compared to rice and wheat.
- Climate-Resilient: They can withstand harsh environmental conditions like drought and poor soils, helping farmers adapt to climate change. Eg: Finger millet (ragi) grows well in dry and marginal lands.
- Locally Adapted: These crops are naturally suited to local soils and climates, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and irrigation. Eg: Buckwheat thrives in the hilly regions of Northeast India without intensive inputs.
- Support Biodiversity: Cultivating these crops preserves agrobiodiversity and traditional farming knowledge, maintaining ecological balance. Eg: Indigenous legumes help fix nitrogen in soil, improving fertility naturally.
- Economic Potential: Reviving these crops can create new market opportunities, increase farmers’ incomes, and diversify food production. Eg: Millet-based products are gaining popularity in urban markets for their health benefits.
Why is agrobiodiversity declining in Northeast India?
- Rapid Disappearance of Traditional Plants: Many native plant species are disappearing quickly due to changing land use and environmental pressures. Eg: Traditional greens and wild fruits once common in Arunachal Pradesh are becoming rare.
- Loss of Traditional Knowledge: Indigenous knowledge about the nutritional and medicinal properties of local plants is being lost as younger generations move away from traditional lifestyles. Eg: Nyishi and Apatani tribes’ understanding of forest plants is fading.
- Shift to Commercial Crops: Farmers are moving from diverse local crops to cash crops for better income, reducing crop variety. Eg: In Kolli Hills, many farmers switched from millets to coffee and pepper.
- Environmental Changes and Species Extinction: Habitat loss and climate change are causing a rise in species extinction, mirroring a global trend. Eg: Forest degradation in Northeast India is threatening native biodiversity.
- Lack of Awareness and Support: There is limited awareness and institutional support for conserving local agrobiodiversity, leading to neglect. Eg: Many minor millets remain neglected in government schemes despite their benefits.
Where has millet revival been successfully implemented?
- Kolli Hills, Tamil Nadu: The M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) has worked with local farmers for over 20 years to prevent millet diversity loss. Efforts include documenting traditional knowledge, improving soil health, diversifying crops, and enhancing income, especially among women farmers. Eg: Farmers shifted back from cash crops to locally adapted millets.
- Koraput District, Odisha: Collaboration with the Odisha Millet Mission has supported a community-led millet revival, focusing on seed conservation to consumption, expanding the range of millets beyond the commonly promoted ragi, jowar, and bajra. Eg: Minor millets are being reintroduced into local diets and markets.
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How does a few crops’ dominance affect global nutrition?
- Over-Reliance on Few Crops: Global food systems mainly depend on rice, wheat, and maize, which provide over 50% of plant-based calories. This limits dietary diversity. Eg: Many populations rely heavily on rice, leading to monotonous diets.
- Loss of Biodiversity: Dominance of a few crops causes a decline in agricultural biodiversity, reducing availability of diverse nutrients. Eg: Traditional millets and legumes are neglected, despite being nutrient-rich.
- Nutritional Imbalances: Diets based on a limited number of staple crops can cause deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Eg: Populations depending mainly on wheat may face iron and zinc deficiencies.
- Vulnerability to Climate Shocks: Dependence on few crops makes food systems more susceptible to climate change impacts, threatening food security. Eg: Droughts affecting maize crops can lead to widespread shortages.
- Rise in Non-Communicable Diseases: Limited crop diversity correlates with an increase in diseases like diabetes and obesity, due to poor diet quality. Eg: High consumption of refined wheat and maize products contributes to obesity trends.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- International Year of Millets & Shree Anna Yojana: Launched focused strategies to enhance millet production, productivity, consumption, and export, while raising awareness about health benefits.
- State Millet Missions: Several states have started their own Millet Missions to support local cultivation, value chain strengthening, and branding of millets.
- Inclusion in Public Distribution System (PDS): Efforts are underway to include minor millets in the PDS to promote wider access and consumption among the population.
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Way forward:
- Expand Millet Coverage and Integration: Broaden the focus beyond major millets (ragi, jowar, bajra) to include minor millets and other neglected crops in state missions and the Public Distribution System (PDS) for greater reach and impact.
- Strengthen Farmer Empowerment and Research: Support community-led conservation, improve value addition technologies, and invest in interdisciplinary researchto enhance crop resilience, nutritional value, and market opportunities.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2022] How will India transform from being a net import dependent country to a net export dependent in renewable energy by 2030 ? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain.
Linkage: “A strategy fuelled by vision, powered by energy” as it discusses India’s explicit goal for a future energy landscape – transforming into a net export-dependent country in renewable energy by 2030. It also delves into the strategic policy shift – moving subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables – intended to power this transformation. |
Mentor’s Comment: Energy is very important for India’s industry, saving foreign money, and global influence. India’s energy needs will grow 2.5 times by 2047, and it will use 25% of the world’s new energy. India’s shift to stronger, cleaner energythrough smart policies and renewable sources is a great success for the country.
Today’s editorial will explain India’s energy sector strategy and challenges. This will be useful for GS Paper II(International Relations) and GS Paper III (Energy & Environment).
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Why in the News?
India is now the world’s fourth-largest economy, moving ahead of Japan, with its GDP reaching $4.3 trillion in 2025. This major success happened because of important changes in the economy and energy sector.
What are the key components of India’s energy strategy?
- Four-pronged approach: a) Diversification of energy sources and suppliers, b) Expansion of domestic production, c) Transition to renewables, d) Ensuring affordability for citizens
- Structural transformation: Significant reforms in both upstream and downstream sectors, including new revenue-sharing models, pricing reforms, and logistics integration.
- Digital mapping & infrastructure: PM Gati Shakti digitally mapped over 1 lakh energy assets, integrated with the National Master Plan for real-time visibility and route optimization.
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Why is energy security considered equivalent to development security for India?
- Rapidly Growing Energy Demand: With India projected to account for 25% of global energy demand growth by 2047, uninterrupted energy supply is essential to fuel economic growth, industrial output, and urban development. Eg: India’s rise to the 4th-largest oil consumer shows its energy needs are deeply tied to its global economic standing.
- Foundation for Self-Reliance and Sovereignty: Ensuring access to affordable and sustainable energy strengthens national resilience and reduces geopolitical vulnerabilities. Eg: Ethanol blending (19.7% in 2025) and expanding biofuels have saved ₹1.26 lakh crore in foreign exchange, enhancing energy independence.
- Social Stability and Equitable Access: Affordable and stable energy supply supports welfare schemes and shields vulnerable populations from price shocks. Eg: Under PM Ujjwala Yojana, LPG cylinder prices for beneficiaries remain at ₹553 despite a global 58% rise, ensuring energy access for the poor.
How has India expanded its domestic oil and gas exploration acreage from 2021 to 2025?
- Doubling Exploration Acreage: India increased its exploration area from 8% in 2021 to 16% in 2025, aiming to cover 1 million sq km by 2030 to unlock vast hydrocarbon resources. Eg: This expansion includes frontier basins like the Andamans and the Mahanadi.
- Landmark Policy Reforms: Reforms such as reducing ‘No-Go’ zones by 99% and streamlining licensing through the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) rounds have facilitated easier access for exploration. Eg: The OALP rounds attract new investors by offering simplified licensing.
- Attractive Pricing and Revenue Sharing: New pricing mechanisms link gas prices to 10% of the Indian crude basket with a 20% premium for new wells, and revenue-sharing contracts allow shared infrastructure, boosting investment incentives. Eg: These incentives encourage development of new gas wells and city gas networks.
Which renewable energy initiatives have contributed significantly to India’s green energy transition?
- Ethanol Blending in Petrol: Ethanol blending increased from 1.5% in 2013 to 19.7% in 2025, expanding the ethanol supply from 38 crore litres to 484 crore litres, reducing emissions and saving foreign exchange. Eg: This has saved ₹1.26 lakh crore in foreign exchange and reduced 643 lakh MT of emissions.
- Compressed Biogas (CBG) through SATAT Initiative: The SATAT program has commissioned over 100 CBG plants and targets a 5% CBG blending mandate by 2028, promoting circular and affordable bioenergy. Eg: Central support for biomass procurement and CBG pipeline connectivity accelerates adoption.
- Green Hydrogen Production: India has produced 8.62 lakh tonnes of green hydrogen and awarded 3,000 MW electrolyser tenders, with public sector units leading large-scale hydrogen projects. Eg: Indian Oil Corporation’s 10 KTPA green hydrogen tender for the Panipat refinery.
What are the challenges?
- Infrastructure and Technology Gaps: Limited infrastructure for large-scale production, storage, and distribution of renewables like green hydrogen and biofuels slows down adoption. Eg: Need for expanded electrolyser manufacturing capacity to meet tender targets.
- Feedstock Availability and Supply Chain Issues: Securing consistent and diversified feedstock for biofuels like ethanol and CBG is challenging due to agricultural dependencies and regional disparities. Eg: Ensuring steady supply of molasses, maize, and biomass for ethanol and CBG production.
- High Initial Costs and Financing Constraints: Capital-intensive nature of renewable projects and lack of affordable financing options can hinder MSMEs and smaller players from scaling up. Eg: Limited access to credit for startups working on cutting-edge green hydrogen technologies.
Way forward:
- Boost Infrastructure and Technology: Invest in large-scale renewable production, storage, and distribution facilities—especially for green hydrogen and biofuels—and expand domestic manufacturing of key technologies like electrolysers.
- Enhance Feedstock Supply and Financing: Develop diversified, reliable feedstock supply chains for biofuels, and create affordable financing schemes to support MSMEs and startups in scaling clean energy innovations.
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[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 strategic imperative of countering China’s influence and building alternative supply chains and alliances, which is a primary reason why strengthening the U.S.-India subsea cable agenda is crucial. |
Mentor’s Comment: The strategic and commercial engagement between India and the United States is being deepened, with subsea cables emerging as a frontline asset in this collaboration. Subsea cables, which carry over 95% of international data and form the backbone of global internet infrastructure, are being recognized for their critical geostrategic value. Efforts are being made by India to diversify its digital infrastructure under the proposed TRUST framework (Technology for Resilient, Open and Unified Security and Trust).
Today’s editorial will discuss the problems related to subsea cable systems and the actions taken by the Indian Government. This information will be useful for GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Science & Technology).
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Why in the News?
The urgency to secure and expand subsea cable systems is rising, particularly in light of disruptions like the Red Sea cable sabotage by Houthi rebels in 2024.
Why are Subsea Cables crucial in India-U.S. strategic cooperation?
- Foundation of Global Digital Connectivity: Subsea cables carry over 95% of international data traffic, forming the physical backbone of the internet and digital economy. Securing these is vital for protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted communication between nations. Eg: The U.S. and India are focusing on trusted subsea cable systems under the TRUST framework to reduce reliance on Chinese-controlled infrastructure.
- Strategic Response to China’s Digital Expansion: China’s Digital Silk Road is rapidly laying subsea cables across the Indo-Pacific, posing geopolitical and cybersecurity concerns. India-U.S. cooperation on secure cable networks counters this influence and promotes trusted alternatives. Eg: The upcoming India-U.S. trade agreement includes provisions for enhancing digital infrastructure as a counter to China’s presence in the Indo-Pacific.
- Enabling Regional Digital Resilience and Trade: Joint efforts in building resilient cable systems support broader technology cooperation and secure trade flows, particularly as India emerges as a digital hub in Asia. Eg: Meta’s investment in a 50,000-km undersea cable project connecting five continents is backed by U.S.-India cooperation, reinforcing digital ties and strategic alignment.
What is the role of the TRUST framework in securing digital supply chains?
- Promotes Resilient and Secure Digital Infrastructure: The TRUST (Technology for Resilient, Open and Unified Security and Trust) framework aims to build trusted digital ecosystems by reducing dependence on untrusted vendors and creating secure, interoperable technology supply chains. Eg: TRUST supports investments in secure subsea cables that avoid reliance on Chinese-controlled infrastructure.
- Strengthens India’s Role as a Regional Security Provider: The framework acknowledges India’s potential as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific, aligning with U.S. efforts to de-risk strategic technologies and build redundancy in digital connectivity. Eg: TRUST initiatives encourage India to lead regional subsea cable projects using trusted suppliers.
- Facilitates U.S. Investment and Technical Cooperation: TRUST enables concessional finance, cybersecurity assistance, and encourages American companies to anchor digital infrastructure projects in India and the region. Eg: Under TRUST, Meta’s multi-year undersea cable investment project aligns with U.S.-India strategic digital cooperation.
How can India become a regional hub for subsea connectivity?
- Leverage Strategic Geographic Location: India is centrally positioned between Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia, near key maritime choke points like the Strait of Hormuz, Strait of Malacca, and Bab-el-Mandeb, making it ideal for global cable routes. Eg: India can serve as a transit junction for Africa-Asia and Europe-Asia subsea cables.
- Expand and Diversify Cable Landing Infrastructure: India must increase the number of landing stations beyond existing clusters to reduce regional risk and build redundancy in the network. Eg: Most of India’s 17 cables land in Mumbai; expanding to ports along the east and west coasts can distribute traffic load.
- Streamline Regulatory and Clearance Processes: Simplifying India’s licensing regime and enabling faster cable repair operations will attract more international projects and reduce downtime risks. Eg: Reducing the current requirement of over 50 clearances can boost investor confidence and facilitate timely repairs.
What challenges hinder India’s subsea cable infrastructure?
- Complex and Burdensome Licensing Regime: Deploying subsea cables in India requires navigating a maze of over 50 clearances across multiple ministries, discouraging investment and delaying projects.
Eg: Lengthy approvals from customs, naval authorities, and telecom departments hinder timely cable deployments.
- Overconcentration of Landing Stations: Most cables land in a narrow stretch in Mumbai, making the network vulnerable to disruption from natural disasters or sabotage. Eg: 15 of 17 subsea cables land in Mumbai, despite India’s 11,098 km coastline, limiting redundancy and resilience.
- Lack of Domestic Repair Capabilities: India depends on foreign-flagged ships for cable repairs, which take 3–5 months to respond due to long travel times and clearance delays. Eg: Repair vessels from Singapore or Dubai face delays due to India’s slow customs and naval permissions process.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Policy push for TRUST framework: India is partnering with the U.S. to implement the Technology for Resilient, Open and Unified Security and Trust (TRUST) framework, focusing on trusted digital infrastructure and secure supply chains. Eg: TRUST includes collaboration on regional subsea cable investments and cybersecurity standards.
- Expansion of Subsea Cable Projects: The government has supported large-scale undersea cable initiatives to expand India’s role in global connectivity. Eg: The India-U.S. backed Meta project, spanning 50,000 km, aims to connect five continents, enhancing India’s digital footprint.
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Way forward:
- Accelerate Regulatory Reforms: Simplify and streamline the complex licensing and clearance processes to attract greater investments and enable faster deployment and repair of subsea cables.
- Build Domestic Repair and Infrastructure Ecosystem: Develop Indian-flagged cable repair vessels and expand cable landing stations along the coast to enhance network resilience, reduce downtime, and establish India as a reliable regional connectivity hub.
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[UPSC 2021] What is Cryptocurrency? How does it affect global society? Has it been affecting Indian society also?
Linkage: India’s leadership in grassroots crypto adoption and the significant investment by retail investors, indicating its presence and potential impact on Indian society. Understanding this impact is a foundational aspect of the broader discussion on regulating VDAs. |
Mentor’s Comment: The Supreme Court’s recent observation questioning the absence of comprehensive crypto regulation highlights the urgent need for India to replace punitive taxation with structured oversight. Between December 2023 and October 2024, Indian investors traded over ₹2.63 trillion worth of crypto on offshore platforms, causing the country to miss out on substantial tax revenues and governance control. The article emphasizes this contradiction—a rapidly growing industry at the grassroots level and a fragmented, reactionary policy at the top.
Today’s editorial will talk about the comprehensive crypto regulation. This content would help in GS Paper II ( Governance) and GS Paper III (Science & Technology).
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Why in the News?
India has kept its top position in grassroots crypto adoption for the second year in a row, according to the 2024 Chainalysis Geography of Crypto report. But this achievement comes at a time when clear regulations are missingand government policies on crypto remain confusing and inconsistent.
What drives India’s lead in grassroots crypto adoption?
- High Retail Investor Participation: Indian retail investors have shown strong enthusiasm, investing $6.6 billion into crypto assets (NASSCOM report). Eg: A large number of small-ticket retail trades contribute to India topping Chainalysis’ 2024 grassroots crypto adoption index.
- Growing Web3 Developer Ecosystem: India hosts one of the fastest-growing Web3 developer communities, driving innovation and ecosystem engagement. Eg: Startups and developers building decentralized apps (dApps) and blockchain solutions across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
- Youthful Demographic and Digital Penetration: A young, tech-savvy population, high smartphone usage, and digital literacy foster wide crypto experimentation. Eg: College students and freelancers using stablecoins and crypto wallets for micro-transactions and cross-border payments.
- Lack of Traditional Investment Access and Inflation Hedge: Limited access to formal investment channels and search for inflation-resistant assets prompt people to explore crypto. Eg: Young earners in semi-urban areas using crypto as an alternative to gold or fixed deposits for wealth storage.
Why did the Supreme Court flag regulatory gaps in 2025?
- Absence of a Comprehensive Legal Framework: The Court noted the lack of clear and cohesive legislation for Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs), which hampers effective regulation and enforcement. Eg: In May 2025, the Supreme Court remarked, “Banning may be shutting your eyes to ground reality,” highlighting the disconnect between policy and practice.
- Overreliance on Prohibitive Taxation Instead of Regulation: India imposed heavy taxes (30% capital gains, 1% TDS) as a stop-gap, without establishing regulatory clarity or investor safeguards. Eg: Despite taxation, crypto users shifted to offshore platforms, leading to over ₹60 billion in uncollected TDSand loss of oversight.
- Risk of Pushing Activity Underground: The absence of regulation combined with enforcement gaps drove users towards non-compliant and unregulated exchanges, increasing systemic risk. Eg: The Court observed that without enabling regulation, users bypassed restrictions via VPNs and mirror sites, undermining regulatory intent.
Who ensures compliance in India’s crypto ecosystem?
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI): As the monetary authority, RBI oversees the impact of crypto on financial stability, capital controls, and payment systems. Eg: RBI issued circulars in 2013 and 2018 warning financial institutions against dealing with crypto-related entities.
- Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND): FIU-IND monitors suspicious transactions, enforces anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terror financing (CFT) norms. Eg: Indian Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) collaborated with FIU-IND to strengthen AML/CFT compliance, gaining positive feedback from FATF.
- Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs): VASPs act as domestic intermediaries ensuring KYC norms, reporting standards, and overall ecosystem transparency. Eg: After the 2024 crypto hack ($230 million loss), Indian VASPs enhanced cybersecurity, created insurance funds, and implemented industry-wide security guidelines.
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Where are most Indian crypto assets traded?
- Offshore, Non-Compliant Platforms: A significant portion of Indian crypto trading happens on offshore exchanges that do not comply with Indian regulations. Eg: Between July 2022 and December 2023, Indians traded over ₹1.03 trillion worth of VDAs on such platforms.
- Limited Domestic Exchange Usage: Only about 9% of India’s estimated ₹1.12 trillion worth of crypto assets are held or traded on domestic exchanges. Eg: This limited use reflects investor preference for platforms with broader asset choices or less stringent controls.
How have Indian Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) improved security and compliance?
- Strengthened Anti-Money Laundering (AML): Indian VASPs have collaborated closely with the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) to enhance monitoring and reporting standards. Eg: This cooperation earned positive feedback from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for improved compliance.
- Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures: After the 2024 crypto hack that resulted in a $230 million loss, many Indian exchanges implemented stronger security protocols and real-time risk monitoring. Eg: Exchanges set up dedicated insurance funds to protect users against future thefts.
- Industry-Wide Standardization and Collaboration: Indian VASPs united to create and enforce common cybersecurity guidelines and best practices across the ecosystem. Eg: This collective effort has improved overall trust and resilience of India’s crypto platforms.
Way forward:
- Formulate a Comprehensive, Risk-Based Regulatory Framework: India must develop clear, future-ready legislation that classifies, governs, and monitors Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) in alignment with global standards (like FATF, IMF). Eg: A dedicated VDA Regulatory Authority or inclusion under SEBI/RBI oversight can ensure investor protection, AML enforcement, and innovation support.
- Strengthen Domestic VASP Ecosystem Through Incentives and Integration: Encourage onshore compliance by lowering tax burdens, supporting innovation sandboxes, and integrating VASPs into India’s formal financial ecosystem. Eg: Offering tax rebates or compliance credits to VASPs adopting stringent KYC/CFT and cybersecurity norms can enhance trust and reduce offshore migration.
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[UPSC 2016] Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in the internal affairs of several member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for the future of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation). Explain with suitable examples.
Linkage: Pakistan is “continually finding ways and means every few years to provoke a conflict” and seeks to “bleed India by a thousand cuts”. These actions are often manifested as cross-border attacks and interference, making this question highly relevant to the conflict dynamic described in the article. This question directly addresses “cross-border terrorist attacks in India” and “interference in the internal affairs… by Pakistan”. |
Mentor’s Comment: India’s recent clash with Pakistan highlights a troubling and ongoing pattern — Pakistan’s military-led and radicalised government keeps trying to destabilise India. Even though India has a clear advantage in technology and strategy, the risk of future conflict remains high. This is due to Pakistan’s lowering nuclear threshold, rising religious nationalism, and growing ties with powerful allies. The clash also showed how modern warfare now relies heavily on technology like drones, radar, and advanced missiles. It exposed India’s weak spots, especially in space-based defence — a major concern if India faces a two-front war with both China and Pakistan.
Today’s editorial will talk about the ongoing pattern — Pakistan’s military-led and radicalised government keeps trying to destabilise India. This content would help in GS Paper II ( IR) and GS Paper III (Defence).
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Why in the News?
The recent conflict shows that Pakistan’s military-led leadership keeps trying to find ways to disrupt or hold back India’s progress.
What drives Pakistan to provoke India repeatedly?
- Military Mindset Seeking to Undermine India’s Progress: Pakistan’s military-dominated leadership aims to weaken India continuously despite past defeats, pursuing a strategy to “bleed India by a thousand cuts.” Eg: Recurrent cross-border skirmishes and proxy insurgencies in Kashmir.
- Ideological and Religious Nationalism: Pakistan’s identity is deeply rooted in religious nationalism, seeing India’s secular democracy as its ideological enemy. Kashmir is viewed as a “jugular vein” essential to Pakistan’s national ambition. Eg: Statements by Pakistan’s army chief emphasizing Pakistan as a religious state based on the ‘Kalima’.
- Political Instability and Military Control: The military controls Pakistan’s politics, using conflict with India to legitimize its authority and distract from internal issues. Eg: Military interference in elections and sidelining of civilian leaders like Imran Khan.
Why is Pakistan’s military leadership crucial to regional peace?
- Military Dominance Over Political Power: Pakistan’s military controls key decisions, often overriding civilian government, making it the primary actor in India-Pakistan relations. Eg: The military’s role in disqualifying Imran Khan from elections and influencing the civilian leadership.
- Driver of Conflict and Peace Prospects: The military’s stance determines whether Pakistan pursues conflict or peace with India, as it often promotes hostility to maintain its influence. Eg: Recent provocations and cross-border attacks orchestrated under military leadership despite diplomatic efforts.
- Influence on Regional Stability: As a nuclear-armed force, the military’s policies significantly impact regional security and peace, especially given Pakistan’s alliance with China and involvement in proxy wars. Eg: Pakistan’s military endorsement of religious nationalism and hardline Kashmir policies increases tensions in South Asia.
How did the conflict show the role of drones and tech in warfare?
- Rise of Drone Warfare: The conflict highlighted the increased use of drones for reconnaissance and strikes, making warfare more precise and cost-effective. Eg: Pakistan deployed Turkish Songer drones, while India used Kamikaze drones for targeted responses.
- Airborne Systems & Escalation Dominance: Advanced airborne early warning systems and electronic warfare tools played a key role in gaining escalation dominance quickly. Eg: India’s use of Rafale jets supported by multi-layered air defence systems like Aakash, S-400, and Barak ensured superior aerial control.
- Integration of Tech in Modern Combat: The conflict revealed the importance of system integration, electronic countermeasures, and kill chain efficiency in tech-driven warfare. Eg: Speculation on whether a Chinese J-10C could use Pakistani radar guidance underscored interest in interoperability and tech collaboration in proxy conflicts.
Who controls Pakistan’s key decisions today?
- Pakistan’s military, specifically the Chief of Army Staff (now Field Marshal) Asim Munir, controls the country. The civilian government, led by Shehbaz Sharif, is a puppet government subordinate to the military.
- The military interferes with elections, denies political rights (e.g., to Imran Khan), and shapes Pakistan’s strategic outlook.
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Where are the gaps in India’s defence readiness?
- Lack of Space-Based Surveillance: India lacks a dedicated satellite system for real-time surveillance, early warning, and secure communication, which is critical for modern warfare. Eg: India must improve its satellite-based reconnaissance to prepare for a two-front warscenario involving Pakistan and China.
- Limited Preparedness for Two-Front War: While India’s strength is sufficient against Pakistan alone, a simultaneous conflict with China would strain resources and expose strategic vulnerabilities. Eg: The need to balance the combined capabilities of both adversaries highlights the absence of a cohesive dual-front strategy.
Way forward:
- Boost Indigenous Space and Surveillance Capabilities: India must rapidly invest in and deploy a dedicated constellation of military satellites for real-time reconnaissance, early warning, and secure communication to ensure situational awareness across borders. Eg: Collaboration between ISRO, DRDO, and private players can fast-track satellite-based surveillance systemsto monitor threats from both Pakistan and China.
- Formulate a Coherent Two-Front War Doctrine: India should develop a comprehensive dual-front military strategy, including integrated theatre commands, logistics readiness, and joint force training, to ensure faster, coordinated responses. Eg: Establishing Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) and enhancing border infrastructure can increase India’s mobility and readiness for high-intensity, multi-front warfare.
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[UPSC 2013] The product diversification of financial institutions and insurance companies, resulting in overlapping of products and services strengthens the case for the merger of the two regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA. Justify.
Linkage: The structure and efficiency of financial sector regulation by discussing the potential merger of two key regulatory bodies (SEBI for capital markets and IRDA for insurance). In this article, talks about the reforming India’s Financial Sector” calls for a “coherent, forward-looking strategy that harmonises rules across verticals” and mentions the need for regulatory scrutiny and transparency. |
Mentor’s Comment: India’s financial sector is at a critical turning point. Even after years of policy changes, major problems remain — especially in areas like corporate bond markets, retirement savings, nomination rules across banks and financial services, and the growing risks from unregulated shadow banking. These aren’t just small technical issues; they are deep flaws that hurt investor confidence, customer safety, and the country’s economic strength.
Today’s editorial will talk about the issues related to the Financial sector in India. This content would help in GS Paper III ( Indian Economy).
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Why in the News?
There must be consistent rules across all financial sectors, support for a strong corporate bond market, active development of retirement savings options, and better regulation to control shadow banking.
What are the major structural issues plaguing India’s financial sector?
- Fragmented Nomination Rules Across BFSI Sectors: Inconsistent nomination rules in banks, mutual funds, and insurance create confusion and legal disputes. Eg: A person can nominate multiple people for a mutual fund but only one for a bank account, with different legal interpretations of nominee rights—leading to litigation among family members.
- Underdeveloped Corporate Bond Market: The bond market remains shallow, illiquid, and lacks transparency, increasing the cost of capital for businesses. Eg: The RBI once directed the NSE to build a secondary bond market, but the exchange prioritized more profitable equity trading instead.
- Opaque Capital Flows and Weak UBO Disclosures: Lack of transparency in identifying Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) hinders regulatory oversight. Eg: SEBI struggled to get ownership details from Mauritius-based Elara and Vespera Funds, delaying investigations into their Indian stock market investments.
- Unregulated Shadow Banking Activities: NBFCs and brokers offer bank-like services without full regulatory supervision, exposing the system to financial risks. Eg: Brokers provide margin funding to retail investors at interest rates over 20%, without clear disclosure—mirroring unregulated lending seen before the 2008 global financial crisis.
Why is a harmonised nomination framework across BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) verticals necessary?
- Reduces Legal Ambiguity: Different sectors (banks, mutual funds, insurance) treat nominees differently—causing confusion between nominee rights and legal heirs’ claims. Eg: A nominee in a mutual fund may only act as a trustee, while in a life insurance policy, the nominee may receive full benefits—leading to conflicting court battles.
- Prevents Exploitation of Loopholes: Inconsistent rules create loopholes that can be exploited by unscrupulous actors to divert funds or delay inheritance. Eg: A person can deliberately name different nominees across instruments to cause confusion or suppress rightful heir claims.
- Simplifies Compliance for Citizens: A uniform nomination system makes it easier for ordinary people to understand, update, and track their financial nominations. Eg: A senior citizen managing multiple accounts would benefit from a single, standard process rather than navigating different forms and rules for each institution.
- Reduces Litigation and Administrative Burden: Courts and financial institutions face prolonged legal disputes due to conflicting nominee laws, which could be avoided with uniformity. Eg: Banks and mutual funds spend years contesting claims when legal heirs and nominees disagree—slowing down asset transfer.
- Increases Trust and Transparency: Harmonisation builds trust in the financial system by making processes predictable and fair, thus encouraging formal savings. Eg: When savers know that nomination rules are clear and uniformly applied, they are more likely to invest in insurance or mutual funds without hesitation.
How can a well-developed corporate bond market benefit India’s economy?
- Lowers Cost of Capital for Businesses: A deep bond market enables companies to raise funds at competitive interest rates, reducing their dependence on bank loans. Eg: An efficient bond market could lower borrowing costs by 2–3%, improving viability for sectors like infrastructure and manufacturing.
- Diversifies Sources of Funding: It provides an alternative to bank financing, thereby reducing systemic risks and enhancing financial stability. Eg: Large firms like NTPC or Reliance can raise capital directly from investors through bonds, easing pressure on public sector banks.
- Encourages Long-Term Investment: Corporate bonds are ideal for funding long-gestation projects like highways, power plants, and green energy, attracting pension funds and insurance firms. Eg: The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) can tap bond markets to finance long-term infrastructure.
- Boosts Financial Market Development: A vibrant bond market leads to greater depth, liquidity, and transparency in the financial system. Eg: Countries like South Korea and Malaysia have developed strong bond markets that support efficient capital allocation.
- Enhances Retail Participation and Savings Mobilization: If made accessible and credible, bond markets can attract retail investors, expanding financial inclusion and mobilizing household savings. Eg: Government-backed platforms could offer secure corporate bonds to middle-class savers as an alternative to fixed deposits.
Who is responsible for regulating and curbing the risks of shadow banking in India?
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI): RBI regulates Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), ensuring they comply with capital adequacy, liquidity norms, and risk management frameworks. Eg: After the IL&FS crisis, RBI tightened norms on NBFCs’ asset-liability management and enhanced their supervision.
- Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI): SEBI oversees brokers, margin lenders, and mutual funds that may engage in shadow banking-like activities, ensuring transparency in trading and lending practices. Eg: SEBI took steps to curb margin funding risks offered by brokers to retail investors under complex lending structures.
- Ministry of Finance: The Ministry designs regulatory frameworks and inter-agency coordination, enabling RBI and SEBI to monitor and respond to emerging risks in shadow banking. Eg: The government supported RBI’s proposal to bring large NBFCs under bank-like regulations and backed a risk-based supervision model.
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Way forward:
- Unified and Risk-Based Regulatory Framework: Adopt a harmonised, activity-based regulation where entities performing similar financial functions are subjected to similar oversight, regardless of their institutional form. Eg: Apply the same capital, disclosure, and consumer protection standards to both NBFCs and banks offering credit, ensuring no regulatory arbitrage.
- Enhanced Supervisory Capacity and Real-Time Monitoring: Strengthen inter-agency coordination (RBI, SEBI, Ministry of Finance) and invest in AI-powered data analyticsto track complex transactions and hidden risks. Eg: Use advanced analytics to monitor NBFC balance sheets and digital lending platforms in real time, enabling early warning systems and prompt corrective action.
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[UPSC 2019] The time has come for India and Japan to build a strong contemporary relationship, one involving global and strategic partnership that will have a great significance for Asia and the world as a whole.’ Comment.
Linkage: The term “strategic partnership” in the context of India’s relationship with another major country (Japan). It is directly analogous to the India-Germany strategic partnership and prompts discussion on its global and regional significance, mirroring the description in article. |
Mentor’s Comment: India and Germany have built a strong bilateral relationship based on shared democratic values, economic complementarity, and a common vision for global peace and sustainable development. Germany launched its dedicated ‘Focus on India’ strategy and committed €10 billion under the Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP). Over 2,000 German companies now operate in India, generating 750,000 jobs. With 50,000 Indian students studying in Germany and expanding business integration, both countries have transformed their partnership from a transactional engagement into a strategic, transformational alliance.
Today’s editorial will discuss the relationship between India and Germany. This content would help in GS Paper II ( International Relations).
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Why in the News?
his month marks 25 years of the Indo-German Strategic Partnership, celebrating a key milestone in their growing ties, shared goals, and long-standing cooperation across defence, economy, and sustainability.
What are the Key Pillars of the India-Germany partnership?
- Peace: Both countries share a vision of a peaceful, stable, and rules-based world. Eg: Regular Intergovernmental Government Consultations that strengthen political ties and cooperation.
- Prosperity: Focuses on economic growth, job creation, and improving quality of life. Eg: Around 2,000 German companies operate in India, creating more than 750,000 jobs.
- People-to-People Ties: Cultural and educational exchanges deepen bilateral relations. Eg: Over 50,000 Indian students study in Germany, the largest foreign student group there.
- Future of the Planet (Green Development): Cooperation on climate change, renewable energy, and sustainability projects. Eg: Germany’s €10 billion Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership supporting solar and wind projects in Gujarat.
- Technology and Innovation Collaboration: Joint scientific research and integration in high-tech industries. Eg: Indian researchers in top German institutions and operation of Delhi-Meerut Rapid Rail by Deutsche Bahn.
How has defence cooperation progressed recently?
- First Joint Exercise: In August 2024, Germany’s Air Force participated in Exercise Tarang Shakti at Sulur, marking the first-ever India-Germany joint military exercise on Indian soil. Eg: The exercise included advanced jets like Germany’s Eurofighter Typhoon, France’s Rafale, and India’s LCA Tejas.
- High-Level Interoperability: Senior military leaders from India, Germany, France, and Spain took part, showcasing enhanced coordination and joint operations. Eg: A joint sortie involved Air Chief Marshal V. R. Chaudhari (India), Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz (Germany), General Stéphane Mille (France), and Air General Francisco Braco Carbo (Spain).
- Strategic Defence Ties: The exercise paves the way for deeper defence collaboration and future joint initiativesbetween India and Germany. Eg: Germany’s participation aligns with its strategic interest in the Indo-Pacific region amid shifting global power dynamics.
Why is the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership important?
- Climate Action and Energy Transition: The partnership is vital for accelerating India’s shift towards clean energy and meeting its climate commitments. Eg: Germany pledged €10 billion to support India’s goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, through initiatives in solar, wind, and green hydrogen sectors.
- Sustainable Urban Development and Mobility: It promotes eco-friendly infrastructure and efficient public transport systems in growing urban centres. Eg: German-backed metro projects and Smart Cities initiatives in Nagpur and Pune have helped advance green mobility and urban resilience.
- Biodiversity Conservation and Climate Resilience: The partnership helps protect ecological zones while enhancing local livelihoods and climate adaptability. Eg: Joint projects in the Western Ghats and Himalayas focus on afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and water resource management.
Where are major Indo-German projects being implemented in India?
- Gujarat – Renewable Energy Projects: Gujarat hosts large-scale solar and wind energy initiatives under the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP). Eg: German companies are contributing to the production of wind turbine blades and setting up solar parks in the state.
- Delhi-Meerut – Rapid Rail Project: India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) between Delhi and Meerut is operated in partnership with Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national railway operator. Eg: The project showcases Indo-German cooperation in high-speed rail and urban mobility.
- Maharashtra – Smart Cities and Urban Infrastructure: German collaboration supports urban planning, sustainable transport, and waste management under the Smart Cities Mission. Eg: Pune and Nagpur are key cities benefiting from German-backed smart infrastructure initiatives.
- Himachal Pradesh & Uttarakhand – Biodiversity and Climate Projects: Joint efforts are underway to protect forests, watersheds, and biodiversity in India’s ecologically sensitive hill states. Eg: Indo-German projects focus on climate-resilient agriculture, forestation, and ecosystem preservation.
- Tamil Nadu – Defence Collaboration and Skill Development: The Tarang Shakti 2024 exercise at Sulur Air Force Station marked a high point in joint military training. Eg: It highlights growing defence cooperation and also supports local capacity-building in the aerospace sector.
Way forward:
- Deepen Strategic and Technological Collaboration: Expand cooperation in defence manufacturing, AI, green hydrogen, and critical technologies to strengthen strategic autonomy and shared innovation goals.
- Enhance Sustainable Development and People-Centric Ties: Accelerate green partnerships, vocational training, and student exchanges to promote inclusive growth, climate resilience, and stronger people-to-people engagement.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] What is disaster resilience? How is it determined? Describe various elements of a resilience framework. Also mention the global targets of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015- 2030).
Linkage: The heat health crisis falls under the broader domain of disaster risk reduction and building resilience, especially considering extreme heat events as climate-induced disasters. It prompts discussion on defining resilience and the frameworks needed, aligning with the call for embedding heat resilience into public health systems. |
Mentor’s Comment: India is going through a serious climate-health crisis as rising temperatures and frequent heatwaves put more pressure on the already stretched public health system. At the recent national conference “India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future,” experts shared not only scientific facts like wet-bulb temperatures but also the real-life struggles of informal workers. This showed how heat stress and social inequality are closely linked. The conference highlighted the need to move beyond isolated emergency care and take united, cross-sector, and fair action to build climate resilience into the way we manage public health.
Today’s editorial discusses the serious climate-health crisis as rising temperatures and frequent heatwaves. This content would help in GS Paper II ( Governance & Health Sector) and GS Paper III (Climate change impact).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
As extreme weather increases, we need to move from only treating emergencies to preventing problems by focusing on fair and caring public health.
Why is linking weather alerts with health systems crucial?
- Enables Timely Preventive Action: Early warning systems allow health workers to prepare and respond before heatwaves lead to medical emergencies. Eg: In Ahmedabad, heat alerts trigger distribution of hydration kits and public advisories, reducing heatstrokecases.
- Strengthens Community-Level Response: Alerts shared through ASHA workers or local networks can activate door-to-door checks, especially for the elderly and chronically ill. Eg: ASHAs sending WhatsApp messages and visiting vulnerable residents during red alerts.
- Reduces Burden on Emergency Healthcare: By preventing illness through early interventions (like avoiding midday work, increasing hydration), the pressure on hospitals and emergency services is reduced. Eg: Pre-monsoon planning with meteorological inputs helps health centers stock cooling kits and prepare treatment spaces.
What is the impact of extreme heat on India’s public health?
- Rise in Heat-related Illnesses and Deaths: Extreme heat leads to heatstroke, dehydration, and worsens heart and kidney conditions. Eg: According to the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), over 25,000 heat-related deaths were recorded in India between 1992 and 2020.
- Overburdened Healthcare Infrastructure: Hospitals face a surge in emergency cases during heatwaves, straining limited resources. Eg: During the 2022 heatwave, Delhi’s Lok Nayak Hospital reported a 30% increase in patients with heat-related symptoms in just a week.
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How does extreme heat act as a “social injustice multiplier”?
- Greater Risk to Vulnerable Populations: Outdoor workers, elderly, and slum dwellers suffer disproportionately due to poor shelter and exposure. Eg: A study by the Indian Institute of Public Health (Ahmedabad) found construction workers had a 2.5 times higher risk of heat illness compared to the general population during peak summer.
- Limited adaptive capacity: Daily wage workers, street vendors, and waste pickers cannot afford to stop working during heatwaves, making them more vulnerable to heat stress and illness. Eg: Construction workers under tin roofs suffer intense heat but have no choice but to continue working.
- Excludes the marginalised from public guidance: Advice like “stay indoors” or “avoid exertion” is often irrelevant to those who lack shelter, depend on outdoor jobs, or live in overcrowded spaces, highlighting deep systemic inequalities. Eg: A homeless person or a street vendor cannot follow “stay indoors” guidance during a red alert.
Who can act as frontline heat-safety champions?
- ASHA Workers and Primary Health Workers: Trained Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and staff at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are well-placed to spread awareness, monitor vulnerable groups, and respond early to heat-related illnesses. Eg: An ASHA worker in a rural village sends heat alerts via WhatsApp and conducts door-to-door visits during a heatwave.
- Health and Wellness Centre Staff: Staff at Health and Wellness Centres can play a key role in educating communities, distributing hydration kits, and advising on preventive measures like staying hydrated and avoiding midday sun. Eg: A nurse at a wellness centre trains local youth on recognizing signs of heat stress and first-aid response.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Development of Heat Action Plans (HAPs): The government, in collaboration with local bodies and NGOs, has promoted city-level Heat Action Plans to reduce heat-related mortality through early warnings, public awareness, and cooling strategies. Eg: The Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan (2013) includes early warning systems, public cool spaces, and training for health workers.
- Integration with Meteorological Services: India Meteorological Department (IMD) provides heat alerts, which are increasingly being integrated into local health response systems to trigger preventive action. Eg: Heat alerts in Odisha are linked to ASHA worker messaging and hydration kit distribution before peak summer.
- Policy Push for Climate-Resilient Health Systems: The National Action Plan on Climate Change and Human Health (NAPCCHH) encourages health systems to be climate-ready by building infrastructure, developing clinical protocols, and training staff. Eg: Health ministries now issue advisories on heat stress, including guidance on modifying medication for chronic patients during heatwaves.
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What preventive steps can make India’s health system heat-resilient? (Way forward)
- Strengthening Primary Health Infrastructure: Equip primary health centres, Health & Wellness Centres, and ASHA workers with training and protocols to identify and respond to heat-related illnesses. Eg: Trained ASHA workers in rural Gujarat conduct door-to-door checks during heat alerts and share hydration tips via WhatsApp groups.
- Integrating Heat Risk into Chronic Disease Care: Clinicians should adjust medications, provide heat safety counselling, and track high-risk patients like those with heart or kidney conditions during summer. Eg: In Delhi, doctors monitor diabetic patients more closely during red alerts and advise them on avoiding midday exposure.
- Standardising Clinical Protocols for Heat Illness: Create and implement national clinical guidelines for diagnosing and treating heatstroke and heat stress, including summer drills and heat corners in hospitals. Eg: Rajasthan hospitals now stock cooling kits and have designated heat response units during summer months.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2023] Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.
Linkage: India’s geography and physical features, like its coastlines, are often discussed in terms of resources and natural hazards. This question is relevant as it pertains to India’s coastline and is categorized under the Geography subject in GS1. |
Mentor’s Comment: In December 2024, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs revised India’s coastline length from 7,516.6 km to 11,098.8 km, not due to any geographical change, but because of the use of advanced cartographic tools and improved measurement techniques. This revision, made nearly 50 years after the original measurement in the 1970s, demonstrates the coastline paradox — the idea that coastline length increases with more detailed measurement scales. The update has significant implications for maritime security, disaster preparedness, and exclusive economic zone delineation, showcasing how technology redefines our geographic understanding.
Today’s editorial discusses the updated length of India’s coastline and its effects. This information is useful for GS Paper I (Geography), GS Paper II (Policy Making), and GS Paper III (Environment & Disaster Management).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Home Affairs updated India’s coastline length to 11,099 km in its 2023–24 report, increasing it from the earlier measurement of 7,516.6 km.
What caused the increase in India’s coastline length?
- Use of High-Resolution Mapping Techniques: Earlier measurements (1970s) used low-resolution maps (1:4,500,000), missing finer features. The updated 2024 figure uses high-resolution charts (1:250,000), capturing detailed coastal geometry. Eg: Narrow tidal creeks and sandbars that were previously omitted are now included.
- Features like estuaries, tidal flats, coastal ridges, and inlets are now accurately mapped. Eg: Island groups like Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep, which were inadequately covered earlier, are now comprehensively included.
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Why is it hard to measure coastlines accurately?
- Coastline Paradox (Dependence on Scale of Measurement): The measured length of a coastline changes based on the size of the measuring unit (“ruler”). Eg: Using a 200-km ruler smooths over small curves, but a 1-km ruler captures every inlet and estuary, increasing total length.
- Irregular and Dynamic Coastal Features: Coastlines are shaped by natural features like creeks, deltas, estuaries, and shifting sediments, which are not fixed. Eg: River mouths may change shape over time due to erosion or sediment deposition, making boundaries unclear.
- Influence of Tides and Sea-Level Changes: High and low tides alter visible land boundaries, affecting measurements at different times. Eg: Areas that are exposed during low tide but submerged at high tide (like mudflats) may or may not be counted depending on timing.
Which tools were used to update the measurement?
- Electronic Navigation Charts (ENCs): Provided detailed and accurate mapping at a finer scale (1:250,000). Eg: These charts helped capture small features like estuaries and creeks which were missed in older maps (1:4,500,000 scale).
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Enabled spatial analysis and integration of various data layers for precise mapping. Eg: GIS combined data from satellites, surveys, and field measurements to create a more accurate coastline outline.
- LIDAR-GPS and Satellite-Based Imaging: Laser-based LIDAR and GPS were used for high-resolution topographic mapping. Eg: Drones and satellite altimetry helped detect elevation and shoreline changes, especially in island regions like Andaman & Nicobar.
How does the revised coastline length impact India’s maritime security and disaster preparedness?
- Enhanced Maritime Surveillance and Border Security: A longer coastline means more area to monitor for smuggling, infiltration, and illegal fishing. Eg: The Indian Coast Guard may need more outposts, vessels, and patrol routes to guard the extended 11,099.8 km coastline.
- Expansion of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): The increased length helps in demarcating a wider EEZ, enabling better control over marine resources. Eg: India can assert rights over fisheries, oil, and gas exploration in a broader sea area.
- Improved Disaster Preparedness and Early Warning: Better understanding of coastal geography aids in creating precise models for cyclones, tsunamis, and storm surges. Eg: Coastal States like Odisha and Tamil Nadu can now develop more accurate evacuation and shelter plans.
- Refined Coastal Regulation and Zoning: Accurate coastline data supports zoning laws to restrict construction in vulnerable areas. Eg: Authorities can update Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms to better safeguard ecosystems and infrastructure.
- Better Climate Resilience and Adaptation Planning: Updated coastline measurements help assess vulnerability to sea-level rise and erosion. Eg: Low-lying areas in Kerala and island regions like Lakshadweep can be prioritized for climate adaptation projects.
What are the resource potentials of the long coastline of India?
- Fisheries and Marine Biodiversity: India’s coastline supports a vast fishing industry, providing employment and food security. Eg: States like Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have thriving marine fishing sectors contributing to exports and coastal livelihoods.
- Port Infrastructure and Trade: The long coastline facilitates maritime trade through major and minor ports. Eg: Ports like Mumbai, Chennai, and Visakhapatnam are crucial for imports, exports, and shipping connectivity under the Sagarmala Project.
- Offshore Energy Resources: Coastal waters have potential for oil, natural gas, and renewable energy like offshore wind and tidal energy. Eg: Mumbai High is a major offshore oil field, while Gujarat and Tamil Nadu are exploring offshore wind energy projects.
- Tourism and Blue Economy Development: Scenic beaches, islands, and marine ecosystems attract tourism and support the blue economy. Eg: Goa’s coastal tourism and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands’ ecotourism contribute significantly to local economies.
- Aquaculture and Coastal Agriculture: Coastal zones are suitable for shrimp farming, seaweed cultivation, and salt production. Eg: Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal have developed large-scale shrimp aquaculture for domestic and export markets.
What is the status of natural hazard preparedness in the coastal Area?
- Improved Early Warning Systems: India has strengthened early warning capabilities for cyclones and tsunamis through institutions like the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and IMD. Eg: The Odisha government’s timely evacuation during Cyclone Fani (2019) saved thousands of lives.
- Development of Coastal Infrastructure and Shelters: Construction of cyclone-resistant shelters, embankments, and flood control systems has improved disaster resilience. Eg: The National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) has led to the building of multi-purpose cyclone shelters in vulnerable states like Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.
- Community Awareness and Disaster Drills: Government and NGOs have promoted community-based disaster preparedness, training locals in evacuation procedures and first aid. Eg: Regular mock drills in coastal villages of Tamil Nadu and Kerala help improve response readiness.
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Way forward:
- Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Expansion:Strengthen ICZM plans across all coastal states with real-time monitoring, climate-resilient infrastructure, and ecosystem-based approaches. Eg: Expand initiatives like ICZM Phase II to include mangrove restoration, sustainable livelihoods, and coastal erosion control in states like Kerala and Goa.
- Technology-Driven Risk Mapping and Community-Centric Planning: Deploy AI-powered hazard models, geospatial mapping, and mobile-based alert systems to ensure last-mile connectivity. Eg: Use drone mapping for vulnerable areas in the Sundarbans, and integrate local communities into planning via participatory risk assessments.
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PYQ Relevance:
[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 role of the state in the public healthcare system and asks for measures to enhance the reach of public healthcare, particularly at the grassroots level. The “medical oxygen access gap” is fundamentally a problem of the public healthcare system’s inability to reach everyone with this essential medicine. |
Mentor’s Comment: Recently, the oxygen shortage has been very serious in South Asia and East Asia-Pacific, where 78% and 74% of people do not have proper access to medical oxygen. Even though oxygen is essential for saving lives and became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic, many low- and middle-income countries still face problems with its high cost, low supply, and poor access. Unlike medicines, there is no replacement for oxygen, which makes this a serious issue of fairness, basic rights, and survival. The WHO and The Lancet have suggested solutions, but progress has been slow. This is not just about fixing systems—it’s about saving lives, and action is urgently needed.
Today’s editorial talks about the problem of oxygen shortage in Southeast Asia. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations and Health Sector).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Recently,’ The Lancet Global Health Commission has pointed out a serious and ongoing medical oxygen crisis, with 5 billion people around the world unable to get safe, good-quality, and affordable medical oxygen.
What challenges hinder global access to medical oxygen?
- Lack of Equipment: Many hospitals in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) lack basic tools like pulse oximeters and oxygen supply systems. Eg: Only 54% of hospitals in LMICs have pulse oximeters; 58% have access to medical oxygen.
- High Financial Burden: Expanding oxygen infrastructure requires large investments, which LMICs struggle to afford. Eg: An estimated $6.8 billion is needed globally, with $2.6 billion required in South Asia alone.
- Shortage of Trained Technicians: Lack of biomedical engineers leads to poor maintenance of oxygen plants and frequent equipment failures. Eg: In rural areas, oxygen concentrators remain unused due to absence of trained personnel.
- Power Supply Issues: Unreliable electricity hinders oxygen production, especially in remote or rural regions. Eg: Nigeria and Ethiopia adopted solar-powered oxygen systems to address power disruptions.
- Weak Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Absence of strong regulations affects the quality, storage, and distribution of medical oxygen. Eg: In Bangladesh, a 2021 health system assessment by PATH and USAID found that lack of national oxygen guidelines and standardised protocols led to irregular supply chains and compromised oxygen quality in many public hospitals, especially in rural areas.
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Why is oxygen demand high in South and East Asia?
- High Population Density: These regions have some of the world’s most densely populated countries, leading to higher disease burden and medical oxygen demand. Eg: India and China together account for over one-third of the global population, increasing strain on healthcare infrastructure during health crises like COVID-19.
- Prevalence of Respiratory Diseases: High rates of respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) elevate oxygen needs. Eg: According to WHO, India sees over 120,000 pneumonia-related child deaths annually, many requiring oxygen therapy.
- Inadequate Healthcare Infrastructure in Rural Areas: Many remote and underserved areas lack sufficient oxygen production, storage, and delivery systems. Eg: During the second COVID-19 wave in Nepal, rural hospitals reported severe oxygen shortages due to lack of concentrators and cylinders.
Where has WHO improved oxygen access through cooperation?
- Bhutan: WHO partnered with Nepal’s National Health Training Center to train biomedical engineers and technicians. Eg: This led to the installation of state-of-the-art PSA oxygen plants in Bhutan, ensuring sustainable operations and maintenance.
- Nepal: WHO supported capacity-building through regional training programs and technical support. Eg: Trained personnel strengthened Nepal’s oxygen infrastructure, especially during COVID-19.
- South-East Asia Region (broad cooperation): WHO facilitated intra-regional collaboration to boost oxygen capacity and resource sharing. Eg: Regional cooperation helped countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka improve oxygen planning and emergency response.
Who is responsible for strengthening oxygen ecosystems?
- Governments: They must integrate oxygen access into universal health coverage and emergency preparedness plans, while ensuring quality standards and regulatory frameworks. Eg: The Indian government scaled up PSA oxygen plants under the PM CARES Fund during the COVID-19 crisis.
- Private Sector: Industry must invest in local manufacturing, supply chain optimisation, and cost-effective technologies. Eg: Indian companies like Inox Air Products ramped up production and collaborated with the government to meet surging oxygen demand.
- Global Health Agencies: Agencies like WHO and UNICEF must provide technical and financial support for infrastructure and workforce training. Eg: WHO supported several LMICs (e.g., Bhutan) in installing and operating oxygen plants through cross-border cooperation.
What has been done by the Indian government in Southeast Asia?
- Oxygen Supply to Bangladesh: In July 2021, India dispatched 200 metric tonnes of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) to Bangladesh via the ‘Oxygen Express’ train service. This marked the first international deployment of the Oxygen Express, showcasing India’s commitment to assisting neighboring countries in crisis.
- Medical Aid to Vietnam: In August 2021, the Indian Navy’s INS Airavat delivered 100 metric tonnes of LMO and 300 oxygen concentrators to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Local Infrastructure: Governments and partners must invest in decentralised oxygen production, solar-powered systems, and skilled workforce development to ensure reliable access, especially in rural and remote areas.
- Establish Robust Policies & Partnerships: Create strong regulatory frameworks and foster public-private-global collaborations to improve oxygen quality, supply chain efficiency, and emergency preparedness across regions.
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PYQ Relevance:
[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: India as a strategic “third option” in the technological rivalry between the U.S. and China, driven by tariffs. It notes that India might benefit if companies seek alternatives to China for manufacturing due to tariff-induced supply chain disruptions. |
Mentor’s Comment: After the 2024 U.S. election, the government raised tariffs on AI hardware, increasing costs and making the U.S. expensive for building AI technology. These tariffs disrupt global supply chains and push companies to move data centers abroad. India’s growing tech sector positions it as a key alternative to the U.S. and China in this changing AI rivalry and supply chain realignment.
Today’s editorial explains how the USA raised tariffs on AI hardware and the impact of these tariffs. This information will help with GS Paper II (International Relations) and Paper III (Indian Economy).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
After the 2024 U.S. presidential election, new high tariffs on AI hardware could significantly change the global supply chains that support artificial intelligence (AI) development.
What is the effect of 2024 U.S. tariffs on AI supply chains and costs?
- Increased Hardware Costs: Tariffs have raised import duties up to 27% on critical AI components, making AI infrastructure significantly more expensive in the U.S. Eg: Imports of data processing machines worth $200 billion from countries like China, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Mexico are now tariff-affected.
- Disruption of Global Supply Chains: Tariffs have caused companies to rethink and relocate data center construction abroad due to higher costs in the U.S. Eg: Some firms are shifting operations to China, which was ironically a key target of the tariffs.
- Reduced Innovation and Investment: Tariffs create uncertainty, discourage investment, and slow innovation due to higher costs and fragmented supply chains. Eg: Studies show that a standard deviation increase in tariffs could reduce output growth by 0.4% over five years.
Why is India seen as a potential third option in the U.S.-China tech rivalry?
- Strategic Geopolitical Position: India is being positioned as a neutral and reliable alternative amidst U.S.-China tensions. Eg: India is increasingly chosen for data center locations and AI collaborations as companies seek to reduce dependence on China.
- Growing Tech and AI Sector: India’s AI and digital engineering sectors are among the fastest-growing within its IT industry. Eg: IT exports have grown at 3.3% to 5.1% annually in recent years, with a major focus on AI services.
- Skilled Workforce: India produces about 1.5 million engineering graduates every year, many with strong AI-related skills. Eg: This talent pool supports global R&D needs, especially in software and algorithm development.
- Policy Support and Investment: The Indian government is heavily investing in semiconductor and AI infrastructure. Eg: AMD’s $400 million design campus in Bengaluru and multi-billion-dollar fab proposals are part of this initiative.
- Comparative Cost Advantage: Lower labor costs and an expanding tech ecosystem make India economically attractive. Eg: Companies find operations in India more cost-effective compared to both the U.S. and China.
How do tariffs influence AI innovation and efficiency?
- Disruption of Global Supply Chains: Tariffs increase the cost of critical AI components, slowing innovation and access to cutting-edge technologies. Eg: A 27% tariff on AI chips in 2025 made the U.S. one of the most expensive places to build AI infrastructure.
- Shift Toward Efficiency Over Raw Power: Rising hardware costs push companies to focus on algorithmic efficiency and model compression instead of raw compute. Eg: AI model usage costs are falling rapidly (by ~40x/year) due to optimisation rather than increased hardware.
- Deadweight Loss and Slowed Productivity: Tariffs reduce trade volume and create inefficiencies that neither benefit producers nor consumers, slowing innovation cycles. Eg: Studies show a 1 standard deviation rise in tariffs can cut output growth by 0.4% over 5 years.
Where is India investing to boost its AI and semiconductor sector?
- Semiconductor Manufacturing Facilities: India is setting up large-scale chip fabrication units to reduce dependency on imports. Eg: A ₹2,500 crore semiconductor chip manufacturing facility is being established in Lucknow under the India Semiconductor Mission.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Collaborations with global tech companies are being encouraged to build domestic capacity. Eg: HCL and Foxconn are jointly setting up a semiconductor unit near the Yamuna Expressway in Uttar Pradesh.
- AI Skilling and R&D Initiatives: Programs are being launched to train talent in AI and expand research. Eg: The ‘AI Pragya’ initiative aims to upskill 1 million individuals in areas like AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
When could over 50% of AI workload accelerators become custom ASICs?
By 2028, over 50% of AI workload accelerators are expected to be custom ASICs: This marks a shift from general-purpose chips to highly specialized hardware tailored for specific AI tasks. Eg: ASICs designed for language model inference (like Google’s TPU) outperform GPUs in efficiency and cost for specific applications.
Note: ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) are specialised chips designed to perform a specific task or set of tasks more efficiently than general-purpose processors like CPUs or GPUs.
What does it imply?
- Shift Toward Decentralised and Specialised AI Development: Indicates a move away from one-size-fits-all hardware to task-specific solutions, enhancing performance and energy efficiency. Eg: Companies may deploy custom ASICs for voice assistants, facial recognition, or autonomous driving systems instead of relying on generic GPUs.
- Cost Optimisation: Encourages innovation in hardware design and reduces long-term operational costs, benefiting firms with large-scale AI deployments. Eg: Startups and emerging economies like India can leapfrog legacy systems by adopting efficient ASIC-based infrastructure tailored to specific AI needs.
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What are the challenges for India?
- Dependence on Imported Hardware: India relies heavily on imported semiconductor components, which makes its AI ambitions vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions and tariffs. Eg: Tariffs on AI hardware can increase costs, slowing India’s AI infrastructure development.
- Limited Semiconductor Manufacturing Capacity: India currently has insufficient domestic chip manufacturing facilities, making it difficult to compete with established producers like Taiwan and China. Eg: India has announced semiconductor fab proposals but is still far from meeting demand for advanced chips.
Way forward:
- Boost Domestic Manufacturing: Accelerate investments in semiconductor fabs and public-private partnerships to build self-reliant AI hardware supply chains, reducing dependence on imports and mitigating tariff impacts.
- Enhance R&D and Skilling: Strengthen AI-focused research, innovation, and workforce training programs to develop specialized hardware solutions like custom ASICs, driving cost efficiency and global competitiveness.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2022] What are the forces that influence ocean currents? Describe their role in fishing industry of the world.
Linkage: While it focuses on the influence of ocean currents rather than the threat of overfishing, it establishes the fishing industry as a subject of examination in the context of geography and marine environments. |
Mentor’s Comment: India’s marine fisheries sector produces around three to four million tonnes of catch annually, showing that the country has reached its maximum sustainable yield. However, large mechanised fishing operations dominate the catch, while small-scale fishers—who make up 90% of the fishing population—harvest only about 10% of the total volume. Despite the high output, nearly three-quarters of marine fisher families live below the poverty line. When fishers invest in newer nets and bigger engines to catch ‘just one more kilo,’ they often fail to increase their catch significantly and instead incur higher debts, fuel expenses, and other costs, worsening the economic condition of these vulnerable communities.
Today’s editorial discusses issues in the Indian marine fisheries sector. This content will help you with GS Paper 2 (Policy Making) and GS Paper 3 (Indian Economy and Environment).
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Why in the News?
India’s marine fisheries sector faces an ecological and economic crisis. Although it produces 3–4 million tonnes of fish each year, it hides serious problems of unfairness and unsustainability.
What causes inequity in India’s marine fisheries despite high yields?
- Dominance of Mechanised Fishing: Large mechanised vessels capture the majority of fish, leaving small-scale fishers with a minimal share. For example, though small-scale fishers make up 90% of the population, they catch only 10% of the total marine output.
- Low Incomes Despite High Effort: Marginal increase in catch requires high investment in fuel, engines, and nets, increasing debts for traditional fishers. Eg: Even with larger engines, returns don’t rise proportionally, worsening poverty in fishing communities.
- Bycatch and Wasteful Practices: High-volume trawling discards significant juvenile and non-target species, reducing long-term resource availability. Eg: Shrimp trawlers discard over 10 kg of bycatch for every 1 kg of shrimp caught.
- Regulatory Fragmentation: Varying state laws allow exploitation of legal loopholes, enabling illegal or unsustainable practices. Eg: A fish species banned in one state can be caught and sold by landing in a neighbouring state.
- Lack of Inclusive Governance: Small-scale fishers have limited role in fisheries decision-making and benefit-sharing mechanisms. Eg: Fisheries subsidies and infrastructure mainly support large operators, sidelining traditional communities.
Why is shrimp trawling harmful to marine ecosystems?
- High Bycatch: Shrimp trawling results in excessive capture of non-target species, including juveniles. Eg: For every 1 kg of shrimp, over 10 kg of juvenile fish and other marine life are discarded.
- Juvenile Fishing: Small mesh sizes allow immature fish to be caught, reducing breeding populations. Eg: Sub-legal mesh sizes (<25 mm) trap juvenile sardines and mackerel, threatening their recovery.
- Habitat Destruction: Bottom trawling disturbs seabeds and coral reefs, degrading marine habitats. Eg: Trawl nets drag along the ocean floor, damaging reef ecosystems and invertebrate habitats.
- Ecosystem Imbalance: Removing large quantities of multiple species disrupts food webs and marine biodiversity. Eg: Multi-species shrimp trawling affects dozens of species, weakening ecosystem stability.
- Encourages Unsustainable Practices: The bycatch feeds fish-meal and fish-oil industries, incentivising further exploitation. Eg: Over half of trawl fishery hauls in some states are low-value bycatch ground into meal for export.
How do state-level laws hinder effective fisheries regulation?
- Fragmented Legal Framework: Each coastal State/UT has its own Marine Fisheries Regulation Act (MFRA), leading to inconsistency in rules. Eg: A fish species protected as juvenile in one State may be legally caught in a neighbouring State.
- Easy Circumvention: Fishers exploit legal loopholes by landing catch across State borders to avoid stricter regulations. Eg: Unscrupulous trawlers bypass juvenile fish bans by selling catch in States with weaker enforcement.
- Undermines Conservation: Lack of harmonised standards weakens conservation efforts and encourages overfishing of vulnerable stocks. Eg: Inconsistent mesh size limits and closed season rules reduce the overall effectiveness of protection policies.
Which models show success in sustainable fisheries management?
- Quota Management System (QMS): Aligns science and policy by setting total allowable catches based on stock assessments and allocating tradable quotas. Eg: New Zealand’s QMS, introduced in 1986, helped stabilise and rebuild key fisheries through individual transferable quotas.
- Minimum Legal Size (MLS) Regulation: Enforcing size limits allows fish to mature and reproduce, leading to long-term stock recovery and improved fisher incomes. Eg: After Kerala implemented MLS for threadfin bream, catches rose by 41% in a single season.
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Who should act to ensure marine fisheries sustainability in India?
- Central Government: Should promote an ecosystem-based regulatory approach by reforming vessel licenses, infrastructure grants, and subsidies. Eg: Aligning subsidies with sustainability goals can discourage overfishing by mechanised fleets.
- State Governments: Must strengthen enforcement of fisheries laws with better patrols and real-time reporting tools. Eg: Uniform implementation of gear restrictions and closed seasons across coastal states.
- Fisher Cooperatives and Village Councils: Can act as co-managers of marine protected areas and breeding sanctuaries, ensuring community participation. Eg: Local councils enforcing seasonal bans and gear regulations in Kerala’s coastal villages.
- Consumers (Urban & Rural): Should exercise responsible seafood consumption by choosing legally sized, sustainably sourced fish. Eg: Rejecting undersized fish in markets can reduce demand for juvenile catch and promote biodiversity.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- Infrastructure Development: The government is modernising fisheries-related infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce post-harvest losses. Eg: Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), over ₹20,000 crore has been allocated to develop fishing harbours like the Mangalore fishing harbour and Paradeep harbour in Odisha with modern landing and storage facilities.
- Fisheries Subsidies and Financial Support: Financial aid is provided to fishers for deep-sea fishing, insurance, and the adoption of sustainable practices. Eg: The Blue Revolution scheme supported the acquisition of deep-sea tuna longliners by Tamil Nadu fishers, promoting offshore fishing and reducing coastal pressure.
- Policy Reforms and Conservation Measures: The government is implementing biological conservation through legal reforms like fishing bans, gear restrictions, and MLS regulations. Eg: The Kerala government’s implementation of Minimum Legal Size (MLS) for threadfin bream in 2017 resulted in a 41% increase in catch in just one season, showing improved fish stock regeneration.
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Way forward:
- Implement a unified national fisheries law to harmonise regulations across states, closing legal loopholes and strengthening enforcement for sustainable resource management.
- Empower local fishing communities through co-management models, enhancing their participation in decision-making and conservation to ensure equitable benefits and long-term ecosystem health.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2021] Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India.
Linkage: While the PYQ focuses on empowerment and women within the gig economy, it aligns with the broader theme of identity and status challenges faced by workers in non-traditional/precarious employment structures, a challenge explicitly highlighted for SBWs and then linked to gig workers in the article. |
Mentor’s Comment: The central government employs millions of regular and contract workers, including around 60 million in schemes like ICDS, NRHM, and mid-day meals. These workers—such as Anganwadi workers, helpers, ASHAs, and mid-day meal staff—support children, mothers, and nutrition. They connect communities with public health and help improve school enrollment and overall health.
Today’s editorial talks about the problems faced by Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs). This content is useful for GS Paper I (Women’s Issues) and GS Paper II (Social Justice).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent developments surrounding Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs)—particularly Anganwadi workers, ASHAs, and MDM workers—have reignited the debate on labour identity, social security, and worker rights in India.
Who are scheme-based workers (SBWs)?
- Workers employed under various government social welfare schemes but not formally recognized as government employees. Around 60 million workers across government schemes. Eg: Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs), Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Mid-Day Meal Workers (MDMWs).
- ICDS (since 1975), National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), and Mid-Day Meal Scheme.
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What roles do they perform?
- Childcare and Nutrition Services: SBWs play a vital role in early childhood care by ensuring nutritional support, immunization, and preschool education. Eg: Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) under the ICDS scheme provide nutrition and basic health services to children and lactating mothers.
- Public Health Outreach: They serve as a crucial link between the public health system and rural communities, improving health awareness and access. Eg: ASHAs under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) assist in maternal care, vaccination drives, and promote institutional deliveries.
- Educational and Nutritional Support in Schools: They help enhance school enrollment and retention by providing mid-day meals, which also address child malnutrition. Eg: Mid-Day Meal Workers (MDMWs) prepare and distribute meals in schools under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme.
What challenges do SBWs face in gaining formal recognition and benefits?
- Lack of Worker Status: SBWs are often classified as “volunteers” or “honorary workers” rather than formal employees, denying them recognition as government workers. Eg: The Supreme Court in State of Karnataka vs Ameerbi (2006) ruled that Anganwadi workers are not state employees as they don’t hold statutory posts.
- Absence of Minimum Wages: Most SBWs receive honorariums instead of wages, which are far below minimum wage standards. Eg: Anganwadi workers and helpers across states earn as low as ₹4,500–₹9,000 per month, without alignment to state minimum wage norms.
- No Social Security Benefits: SBWs are denied access to pensions, provident fund, maternity benefits, and health insurance. Eg: Despite working in public health, ASHAs are not covered under schemes like EPFO or ESI.
- Policy Delay and Avoidance: Governments often cite financial burden or the need for long-term planning to delay regularisation. Eg: In 2016, the Labour Minister told Parliament that there’s no fixed timeline to implement ILC recommendations for SBWs.
- Suppression of Collective Action: SBWs’ strikes are often met with state repression or legal barriers. Eg: Maharashtra invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) in 2017 to curb Anganwadi workers’ right to strike.
Why is the government reluctant to regularise SBWs?
- Financial Burden: Regularising SBWs would significantly increase the government’s salary and welfare expenditure, making it fiscally unsustainable. Eg: The central government employs over 60 lakh SBWs, and converting them to regular employees would involve massive budgetary allocations for wages and benefits.
- Policy Ambiguity: Successive governments delay decisions by citing the need for long-term policy formulation without committing to a timeline. Eg: In 2016, the Labour Minister told the Rajya Sabha that implementing Indian Labour Conference (ILC) recommendations requires indefinite planning.
- Privatisation Push: The government aims to reduce its role in welfare delivery by promoting public-private partnerships, weakening the case for regularisation. Eg: There have been attempts to privatise the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), directly affecting the employment security of Anganwadi workers.
How have trade unions and courts supported SBWs’ demands?
- Union Mobilisation: Major trade unions have organised SBWs to demand minimum wages, worker status, and social security through strikes and negotiations. Eg: In March 2025, Anganwadi workers in Kerala ended a 13-day indefinite strike organised by unions like AITUC, BMS, and CITU demanding regularisation and fair pay.
- Judicial Recognition: Courts have gradually recognised some labour rights of SBWs, even when earlier rulings were unfavourable. Eg: In Maniben Maganbhai Bhariya vs District Development Officer (2022), the Supreme Court ruled that Anganwadi workers are eligible for gratuity under the Payment of Gratuity Act.
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What are the policy implications of granting SBWs formal employee status?
- Fiscal Burden: Recognising SBWs as formal employees would significantly increase the government’s expenditure on salaries, pensions, and social security. Eg: The central government is concerned about cost implications due to the growing number of SBWs (nearly 6 million), especially as population-linked schemes expand.
- Policy Reorientation: Granting formal status would require new frameworks for recruitment, training, service conditions, and grievance redressal. Eg: The Gujarat High Court in 2024 directed the State and Centre to create a joint policy to regularise Anganwadi workers as Class III and IV employees.
- Precedent for Other Informal Workers: Regularising SBWs could set a precedent for other informal or gig workers demanding similar recognition and protections. Eg: Like SBWs, gig workers (e.g., delivery partners) are also fighting for worker status and social security rights in courts and labour forums.
Way forward:
- Enact Clear Policies: Governments should promptly create and implement policies to grant SBWs formal worker status with fair wages and social security benefits.
- Strengthen Monitoring: Improve enforcement by regional bodies to ensure timely wage revisions, labour rights protection, and prevent exploitation of SBWs.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2013] ‘The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well in India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.
Linkage: Turkiye is a NATO member, and its foreign policy decisions (like supporting Pakistan or Azerbaijan) are influenced by its position within such alliances, which in turn affects India’s relationships and interests in the region. |
Mentor’s Comment: India, Turkey, and Azerbaijan entered into diplomatic tensions after Turkey and Azerbaijan openly supported Pakistan following the Pahalgam massacre. This support sparked a sharp rise in regional political conflicts and strong public reactions. Social media anger quickly escalated, prompting top Indian institutions to pause agreements and causing many travelers to cancel trips to Turkey and Azerbaijan, as reported by travel websites.
Today’s editorial explains the diplomatic tensions between India, Turkey, and Azerbaijan and their implications. This topic will be included in GS Paper I (Unity in Society) and GS Paper II (International Relations).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Data shows that even if India officially bans trade with Azerbaijan and Turkey, it is likely to experience minimal losses due to limited economic dependence on these countries.
What triggered the boycott of Turkiye and Azerbaijan in India?
- Support for Pakistan: Turkiye and Azerbaijan backed Pakistan following India’s military confrontation after the Pahalgam massacre, which angered many Indians.
- Social media-driven calls for boycott: The support sparked calls on social media to boycott both countries, leading to a surge in travel cancellations. Eg: Sharp spike in cancellations of tour bookings to Turkiye and Azerbaijan reported by travel platforms.
- Institutional actions: Indian institutions suspended ties, and trader associations resolved to boycott trade and commercial ties with these countries. Eg: IIT Bombay and IIT Roorkee suspended MoUs with Turkish universities.
Why do Azerbaijan and Turkey oppose India?
- Support for Pakistan in the Kashmir conflict: Historically, Turkiye has aligned with Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, opposing India’s sovereignty over the region. Eg: Turkiye’s consistent diplomatic backing of Pakistan’s claims on Kashmir since the partition of India in 1947.
- Azerbaijan’s conflict with Armenia: India has historically supplied arms and support to Armenia, Azerbaijan’s adversary in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, creating tensions with Azerbaijan. Eg: India’s provision of surface-to-air missile systems to Armenia, opposing Azerbaijan’s territorial claims.
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How have arms trade relations evolved between Turkiye and Pakistan?
- Long-term arms exports since the 1990s: Turkiye has been supplying arms to Pakistan continuously for over three decades. Eg: SIPRI data shows arms exports from Turkiye to Pakistan starting in the 1990s.
- Major focus on artillery systems: A significant part of the trade involves artillery like naval guns, howitzers, self-propelled guns, and multiple rocket launchers. Eg: Pakistan has received multiple rocket launchers and howitzers from Turkiye.
- Supply of armored vehicles: Turkiye exports tanks, armored cars, and personnel carriers to Pakistan’s military. Eg: Delivery of armored vehicles strengthens Pakistan’s ground forces.
- Mutual strategic and political support: Arms trade is supported by reciprocal backing in geopolitical issues such as Kashmir and Cyprus. Eg: Turkiye supports Pakistan on Kashmir; Pakistan supports Turkiye on Cyprus disputes.
- Strengthened ties during regional conflicts: The relationship deepened as Turkiye provided diplomatic and military backing to Pakistan in various geopolitical standoffs. Eg: Turkiye’s vocal support for Pakistan during Kashmir-related tensions.
Who stands to lose more economically if trade is banned?
- India’s low dependency on crude oil: The combined share of crude oil imports from these two countries is less than 1% of India’s total crude imports. Eg: Charts show less than 1% crude import share over the past six years.
- Azerbaijan’s significant reliance on India: India was Azerbaijan’s third largest destination for crude oil exports in 2023. Eg: Azerbaijan could face a bigger impact if India bans trade.
- Limited trade volume in machinery: Turkiye accounts for only about 1% of India’s total imports in machinery, including nuclear reactors and boilers. Eg: India relies more on countries like China and Germany for such equipment.
- India’s diversified import sources: India’s major imports come from several other countries, making it less vulnerable to a ban on trade with Turkiye and Azerbaijan. Eg: China and Germany are larger suppliers of machinery than Turkiye.
- Greater economic impact likely on Azerbaijan: Azerbaijan stands to lose more from India’s trade ban because India is a major crude oil buyer for them. Eg: India being the third largest market for Azerbaijan’s crude oil exports highlights this dependence.
Where has there been a notable rise in Indian tourism and student migration recently?
Indian tourism
- Significant increase in Indian tourists to Turkey: In 2024, about 330,000 Indian tourists visited Turkey, marking a 20.7% increase from the previous year. This growth was due to better air connectivity and Turkey’s appeal as a budget-friendly European destination.
- Rapid growth of Indian tourists in Azerbaijan: Indian tourist arrivals in Azerbaijan jumped from around 60,700 in 2022 to over 243,000 in 2024, fueled by affordability and rich cultural heritage.
Student migration
- Increase in Indian students in Turkey: Indian student numbers in Turkey have grown from less than 100 in 2017 to several hundreds by 2024, attracted by diverse programs and competitive costs.
- Rising Indian student in Azerbaijan: The number of Indian students in Azerbaijan also increased significantly, supported by institutions like Türkiye-Azerbaijan University established in 2024.
Note: This 2024 data is from before Operation Sindoor. The real effects on tourism and student migration will be seen later because it takes time for such events to show their impact. |
Way forward:
- Promote diplomatic dialogue: India should engage in sustained diplomatic efforts with Turkiye and Azerbaijan to address mutual concerns and reduce geopolitical tensions.
- Expand people-to-people and economic ties: Enhancing cultural exchanges, trade, and educational cooperation can build trust and diversify relations beyond political differences.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2017] Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgement on ‘National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India.
Linkage: NJAC Act was struck down (the Collegium system) had its detailed guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court in the Third Judges case, which itself was a Presidential reference made under Article 143. Therefore, understanding the advisory jurisdiction under Article 143 and its outcome in the Third Judges case is essential background for critically examining the NJAC judgment. |
Mentor’s Comment: The Supreme Court recently set time limits for Governors to decide on state bills, so they can’t delay action forever—a practice often called a “Pocket Veto.” The Court said Governors must act within one or three months, based on the case. This raised doubts about the Court’s powers under Article 142, so President Murmu asked for its advice under Article 143.
Today’s editorial talks about Article 143 of the Constitution, where the President has asked the Supreme Court for its opinion on the powers and responsibilities of the President and Governors. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (Indian Polity) in the UPSC Mains exam.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
President Droupadi Murmu has used Article 143 of the Constitution to ask the Supreme Court for its opinion on some important questions about the powers and duties of the President and Governors, especially related to how and when they should act on state bills.
What are the provisions?
- Article 143(1): The President may refer any matter to the Supreme Court for its opinion. In the first case, the Supreme Court may tender or may refuse to tender its opinion to the president.
- Article 143(2): Allows the President to refer disputes arising from pre-Constitution agreements, including state-related matters, for the Supreme Court’s opinion. The Supreme Court must tender its opinion to the President. The Supreme Court’s opinion is advisory—not binding or precedent-setting—but carries strong persuasive value.
- Article 145: Such references must be heard by a bench of at least five judges.
Note: The President makes these references based on the Cabinet’s advice.
What is the historical context?
The advisory jurisdiction of India’s Supreme Court under Article 143 originates from the Government of India Act, 1935, which gave the Governor-General the power to refer important legal questions to the federal court for opinion.
What were past instances?
- Delhi Laws Act Case (1951): Clarified the scope of delegated legislation by the legislature to the executive.
- Kerala Education Bill (1958): Interpreted the balance between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, especially regarding minority education rights under Article 30.
- Berubari Union Case (1960): Held that ceding Indian territory to another country requires a constitutional amendment under Article 368.
- Special Courts Bill (1978): Stated that references must be specific and that the Court may decline to answer vague or political questions.
- Third Judges Case (1998): Laid down detailed guidelines for the appointment of judges and established the collegium system.
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What is the significance of Article 143 and its colonial legacy?
- Provides Advisory Role to the Executive: Allows the President to seek the Supreme Court’s opinion on complex legal or constitutional issues, helping the executive navigate difficult questions. Eg: President referred the question on delegated legislation in the Delhi Laws Act case (1951).
- Ensures Constitutional Clarity: Helps resolve ambiguities or uncertainties in law, thus guiding governance and preventing conflicts. Eg: The Berubari case (1960) clarified constitutional procedures for ceding Indian territory.
- Maintains Separation of Powers: The advisory nature avoids direct judicial interference in executive functions while still providing legal guidance. Eg: The Supreme Court may decline vague or political questions, as in the Special Courts Bill reference (1978).
What key issues are raised in the latest Article 143 reference?
- Judicial Review of Executive Discretion: The reference questions whether the judiciary can review the discretionary powers of the President and Governors, particularly regarding the assent to bills under Articles 200 and 201.
- Imposition of Timelines on Constitutional Authorities: It seeks clarity on whether the Supreme Court can prescribe timelines for the President and Governors to act on bills, given that the Constitution does not specify such timeframes.
- Concept of ‘Deemed Assent’: The reference challenges the Supreme Court’s introduction of the ‘deemed assent’ concept, questioning its compatibility with the constitutional framework.
- Scope of Article 142 Powers: Article 142 gives the Supreme Court power to pass orders to do “complete justice”, but it must be within constitutional bounds. In the present reference questions whether this provision allows the Court to create new rules not found in the Constitution.
- Justiciability of Executive Actions Pre-Legislation: The reference probes whether actions of the President and Governors concerning bills can be subjected to judicial review before the bills become law.
- Impacts Federalism and Democratic Functioning: The Supreme Court’s opinion will influence the Centre-State power dynamics and safeguard democratic processes. Eg: The Cauvery dispute advisory opinion (1992) that reinforced limits on the Court’s advisory role to respect federalism.
How does India’s advisory jurisdiction compare globally?
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India |
Canada |
United States |
| Origin / Legacy |
Inherited from Government of India Act, 1935 |
Similar colonial legacy |
No advisory jurisdiction |
| Nature of Opinion |
Non-binding but persuasive |
Non-binding but persuasive |
No advisory opinions given |
| Who Can Refer |
President on Union Council of Ministers’ advice |
Federal and provincial governments |
Not applicable |
| Judicial Approach |
Supreme Court may decline to give opinion |
Supreme Court provides opinions on request |
Strict separation of powers, no advisory role |
| Example (Eg) |
Article 143 references (e.g., Berubari case) |
Reference re Secession of Quebec (1998) – clarified constitutional secession rules |
In Muskrat v. United States (1911), the Supreme Court rejected advisory jurisdiction |
Way forward:
- Clarify Constitutional Timelines: Amend or clarify constitutional provisions to explicitly define timelines for presidential and gubernatorial actions on bills, reducing ambiguities and potential conflicts.
- Strengthen Centre-State Dialogue: Promote cooperative federalism through regular dialogue and dispute resolution mechanisms to prevent politicization of constitutional functions and ensure smooth governance.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation?
Linkage: Gender concerns are important in programme design, aligning with the article’s argument that nutrition programmes like POSHAN have limited impact. |
Mentor’s Comment: India’s free foodgrain programme, which supports 800 million people, shows a harsh truth: hunger and malnutrition are still big problems. In this fight against malnutrition, women and girls are often ignored. Even though the economy is growing and many welfare schemes exist, nutrition is still very unequal, especially for women. The government started the POSHAN Abhiyaan in 2018 to make India free of malnutrition by 2022. This scheme focuses on improving nutrition for pregnant women, new mothers, teenage girls, and young children. But, big differences in nutrition levels still remain.
Today’s editorial discusses malnutrition among women and girls in India, despite government efforts like the POSHAN Abhiyaan. This topic is useful for GS Paper I (Women-related Issues) and GS Paper II (Welfare State).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The government launched the POSHAN Abhiyaan to end malnutrition by 2022, but it has not achieved its goals.
How does malnutrition in India remain deeply gendered?
- Stark Anaemia Disparity: NFHS-5 reports 57% of women aged 15–49 are anaemic compared to 26% of men, highlighting deep nutritional inequality.
- Underweight Burden: Nearly 1 in 5 women is underweight, a sharp contrast to men and a sign of chronic deprivation.
- Entrenched Norms: In poorer households, women eat last and least, reinforcing invisible cultural biases that deny them basic nutritional rights.
- Economic Disempowerment: 49% of women lack control over their own earnings, which translates into less dietary agency and poor health outcomes.
- Nutrition as Justice: Malnutrition is framed not just as a health issue, but a social justice issue driven by patriarchal household structures.
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Why has POSHAN 2.0 failed to improve women’s nutrition significantly?
- Underutilization of Allocated Funds: Despite a large budget, only about 69% of funds were used by December 2022, limiting the programme’s reach and effectiveness. Eg: ₹24,000 crore allocated in 2022-23, but nearly one-third remained unspent.
- Rising Anaemia Rates Despite Investments: Anaemia prevalence among women increased from 53% to 57%between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5, showing no significant improvement. Eg: NFHS-5 data shows anaemia rates rose even after POSHAN 2.0’s interventions.
- Focus on Awareness Over Actual Nutrition: The programme has raised awareness (Jan Andolan) but awareness alone cannot address the root causes of malnutrition such as poverty and food scarcity.
- Ignoring Social and Economic Barriers: POSHAN 2.0 largely addresses food supply and supplementation but does not sufficiently tackle women’s economic dependence and decision-making power. Eg: 49% of women lack control over how their income is spent, limiting their ability to benefit from nutrition programmes.
How does women’s empowerment impact nutritional outcomes?
- Improved Spending on Nutrition: When women control income, they prioritize food and health for themselves and their families, leading to better nutrition. Eg: Nobel laureate Esther Duflo found that women’s control over extra income increases spending on children’s nutrition.
- Greater Decision-Making Power: Empowered women can make choices about their diet, healthcare, and food allocation, reducing malnutrition risks. Eg: NFHS-5 showed that women with decision-making power over finances had better nutritional status.
- Increased Access to Employment and Income: Economic empowerment through stable jobs helps women afford nutritious food and healthcare. Eg: Women with even modest independent income were found less likely to be undernourished in low-income communities.
- Enhanced Health Awareness and Education: Empowered women tend to have better knowledge of nutrition and health practices, improving family nutrition. Eg: Women participating in financial literacy and health workshops show better child feeding practices.
- Reduced Gender-Based Nutritional Inequality: Empowerment challenges social norms that deprioritize women’s nutrition, leading to more equitable food distribution. Eg: Households where women contribute economically often have less gender disparity in food consumption.
How can inter-scheme convergence tackle gendered malnutrition?
| Note: Inter-scheme convergence is the coordinated collaboration of multiple government programmes across sectors. |
- Integrated Service Delivery: Combining nutrition, health, and livelihood schemes ensures women receive comprehensive support addressing multiple malnutrition causes. Eg: Anganwadi centres providing food supplements along with skill training and job linkages.
- Efficient Resource Utilization: Coordination between departments reduces duplication and optimizes use of funds for women’s nutrition and empowerment. Eg: Joint budgeting for POSHAN Abhiyaan and women’s employment schemes leads to better fund utilization.
- Holistic Empowerment of Women: Linking nutrition programmes with economic and social empowerment schemes increases women’s ability to accessand afford nutritious food. Eg: Combining POSHAN 2.0 with financial literacy and credit schemes for women.
- Targeted Interventions in High-Risk Areas: Collaborative planning allows focused efforts in districts with severe malnutrition, addressing structural and social barriers. Eg: Health, nutrition, and livelihood departments working together in tribal districts to improve women’s nutrition.
- Multi-dimensional Monitoring and Evaluation: Integrated monitoring tracks progress on nutrition and women’s empowerment indicators simultaneously, improving accountability. Eg: Measuring both reduction in anaemia and increase in women’s decision-making power under joint schemes.
What steps can make women active agents in nutrition programmes? (Way forward)
- Enhance Economic Empowerment: Provide women with access to skill training, income opportunities, and financial literacy so they can afford nutritious food and make independent decisions. Eg: Linking Anganwadi centres with local skill development and credit schemes for women.
- Increase Decision-Making Power: Promote women’s participation in household and community decisions related to health, diet, and resource allocation. Eg: Community meetings where women lead discussions on nutrition and health interventions.
- Strengthen Awareness and Capacity Building: Use nutrition programmes to conduct health education, nutritional counselling, and leadership training, empowering women as knowledge bearers and change-makers. Eg: Financial literacy workshops and health awareness sessions at POSHAN Abhiyaan centres.
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