PYQ Relevance:
[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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PYQ Relevance:
[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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PYQ Relevance:
[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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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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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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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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Let’s learn!
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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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?
|
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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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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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2022] The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 remains only a legal document without intense sensitisation of government functionaries and citizens regarding disability. Comment.
Linkage: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. |
Mentor’s Comment: On 30 April, 2025, the Supreme Court’s directive to revise digital KYC norms to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities (PwDs), recognizing digital access as a fundamental right under Article 21. It highlights legal safeguards like the RPwD Act 2016, challenges faced by PwDs in current KYC processes, and the Court’s emphasis on inclusive, accessible digital infrastructure for marginalized groups.
Today’s editorial discusses the Supreme Court’s order to update digital KYC rules to make them accessible for persons with disabilities (PwDs). This topic is useful for GS Paper II (covering governance, the Supreme Court’s role, and issues related to vulnerable groups like PwDs).
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Why in the News?
Recently, the Supreme Court of India directed the revision of digital Know Your Customer (KYC) norms to ensure they are accessible to persons with disabilities (PwDs), especially the visually impaired.
What KYC changes did the Supreme Court direct for PwDs?
- Mandated Accessible Digital KYC Processes: KYC procedures must include accessible design features like screen-reader compatibility, audio cues, and simplified verification steps.
- Alternative Identity Verification Methods: KYC systems must allow thumb impressions, signatures in accessible formats, and alternative ways to verify identity without facial recognition or selfies. Eg: An acid attack survivor unable to use facial recognition can verify their identity using thumb impression linked with Aadhaar and OTP verification.
- Uniform Accessibility Standards Across Institutions: All regulated entities (banks, telecom, SEBI, etc.) must follow a standardized, inclusive KYC frameworkrather than creating their own tests Eg: Every bank and mobile provider must adopt unified, accessible KYC apps that meet 2021 and 2022 ICT Accessibility Standards, ensuring consistency and inclusion.
Which laws protect the rights of PwDs in India?
- Constitution provision: Guarantees equality, dignity, and non-discrimination through the Preamble, Fundamental Rights(Articles 14, 15, 21), and Directive Principles (Article 38). Eg: Under Article 21, the Supreme Court reinterpreted the right to life to include digital access for PwDs.
- Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016: Adopts a social-barrier model of disability and mandates measures for accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Eg: Section 42 requires the government to ensure accessible electronic media, including sign-language, audio descriptions, and captions.
- UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD): India is a signatory and is obligated to promote, protect, and ensure full human rights and freedoms of PwDs. Eg: The RPwD Act, 2016 was enacted to give domestic effect to the UNCRPD’s principles like accessibility, dignity, and non-discrimination.
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Accessibility Standards (2021, 2022): Prescribe technical standards for websites, apps, and digital services to be screen-reader friendly, with audio/video guidance. Eg: Despite these standards, most KYC platforms lack audio prompts or camera alignment assistance, which the SC directed to be rectified.
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Why do banks and other financial and government institutions mandate collecting KYC details?
- Ensures Security: KYC helps identify and verify customers, reducing risks of money laundering, fraud, and terrorism financing. Eg: Under the Prevention of Money-laundering Act, 2002, banks are required to verify identities and report suspicious transactions to the Financial Intelligence Unit.
- Availing Financial and Telecom Services: KYC is a regulatory requirement to access services like bank accounts, SIM cards, demat accounts, insurance, and pension schemes. Eg: A person must complete KYC to open a bank account or activate a mobile number.
- Enables Access to welfare schemes: Digital KYC links individuals to Aadhaar-based Direct Benefit Transfers (DBTs), ensuring targeted delivery of welfare schemes. Eg: Students must complete e-KYC to receive national scholarshcips or access Aadhaar-linked subsidieslike LPG or pensions.
How do current KYC methods exclude PwDs?
- Visual Verification Disadvantage: Steps like reading flashing codes, aligning for selfies, or signing on paper are inaccessible to those with visual impairments or disfigurements. Eg: A blind user cannot complete video-KYC if the app lacks screen-reader prompts or audio guidance for camera positioning.
- Lack of Alternative Biometric Methods: Common alternatives like thumb impressions are not accepted as valid signatures, and PAN cards aren’t issued with them. Eg: A visually impaired person using thumbprint verification may be denied KYC approval due to lack of signature or photo verification.
- Non-Compliant Digital Infrastructure: Most KYC apps and portals violate ICT Accessibility Standards by lacking features like text-to-speech, audio cues, or accessible form inputs. Eg: A KYC website without voice feedback or keyboard navigation makes it impossible for a person using assistive tech to complete the process independently.
Why did the SC link digital access to Article 21?
- Digital Access is Integral to the Right to Life and Dignity: The Court held that in today’s digital era, access to essential services through digital means is part of living with dignity and autonomy. Eg: Denying blind users the ability to complete KYC digitally affects their right to life under Article 21 by limiting access to banking or welfare services.
- Ensures Substantive Equality: The Court emphasized substantive equality, noting that equality is not just about treating everyone the same, but removing barriers for the disadvantaged. Eg: People with visual impairments face unique hurdles with video-KYC, which violates their equal access to services guaranteed under Articles 14 and 21.
- Bridges the Digital Divide: The judgment recognized that digital exclusion impacts not just PwDs, but also rural citizens, elderly people, and linguistic minorities, deepening socio-economic inequality. Eg: During COVID-19, the Court earlier ruled that digital vaccine portals must be accessible, reinforcing the idea that public digital infrastructure must be inclusive.
Way forward:
- Adopt Inclusive Digital Design Standards: Ensure all KYC platforms follow universal design principles with features like screen-readers, voice prompts, and alternative authentication methods.
- Mandate Regulatory Oversight and ComplianceRBI, SEBI, and DoT must monitor and enforce accessibility standards across all regulated entities to guarantee equal digital access for PwDs.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2021] How is S-400 air defence missile system different from any other system presently available in the world?
Linkage: Air defence systems are vital in modern warfare like Operation Sindoor for controlling the skies and protecting against enemy air strikes, including missiles. |
Mentor’s Comment: Operation Sindoor is no longer just a conflict between two countries. It shows how wars are now fought around the world, with new technology, smart strategies, and control of information changing the way military battles happen.
Today’s editorial explains how Operation Sindoor has changed the way military conflicts happen. This information is useful for preparing GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Defence).
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Why in the News?
The recent India-Pakistan standoff shows an important change in how wars are fought in today’s world.
How has Operation Sindoor reshaped the nature of military confrontation?
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)/Drones: India used SkyStriker Kamikaze drones for precision strikes, while Pakistan deployed 300–400 Turkish-made Songar drones across 36 locations, marking a shift to unmanned, low-risk, and high-impact warfare.
- Swarm Drone Technology: The large-scale use of drone swarms by Pakistan showcased how mass deployment of inexpensive, expendable drones can overwhelm enemy defences and replace traditional air force formations.
- Layered Air Defence Systems: India’s defence relied on a combination of Akash, QRSAM, S-400 (Russia), and Barak-8 (India-Israel) systems, reflecting a transition from fixed missile platforms to multi-layered, dynamic defence networks.
- Real-time Digital Integration Systems: The Akashteer system allowed India to digitally integrate radar inputs for real-time threat assessment and response, enabling smarter and quicker decision-making in combat.
- Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS): IACCS enabled seamless coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force, turning joint operations from theory into an operational reality and enhancing battlefield synchronization.
How have drones transformed India’s aerial warfare strategy?
- Unmanned Combat: India has shifted from relying on costly manned fighter jets to using drones, enabling precision strikes with minimal risk to personnel. Eg: Deployment of SkyStriker Kamikaze drones for targeted attacks during Operation Sindoor.
- Swarm Warfare: The ability to deploy large numbers of inexpensive drones allows India to overwhelm enemy defences through swarm tactics, increasing operational effectiveness. Eg: Use of multiple expendable drones to saturate Pakistan’s air defence systems.
- Intelligence and Precision: Drones provide real-time reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, improving accuracy and reducing collateral damage in strikes. Eg: SkyStriker drones probing Pakistan’s air defence and conducting precise strikes with minimal human risk.
Why is information warfare crucial in the India-Pakistan standoff?
- Strategic Weapon Beyond Propaganda: Information warfare has evolved from mere propaganda to a powerful strategic tool that can influence perceptions and morale. Eg: Pakistan circulated doctored videos and fabricated claims to manipulate international and domestic opinions.
- Psychological Impact on Morale: It aims to weaken the enemy’s resolve by creating confusion, fear, and doubt among both military personnel and civilians. Eg: Disinformation campaigns targeting India’s morale during the standoff.
- Control of Narratives: Controlling information flow helps shape global and domestic narratives, influencing diplomatic support and international response. Eg: Both India and Pakistan using social media to project their respective versions of events.
- Creation of Strategic Ambiguity: Manipulating information can create uncertainty and complicate the opponent’s decision-making process. Eg: Use of conflicting reports and misinformation to keep adversaries guessing about actual military capabilities and intentions.
What are the three key doctrines outlined by the Prime Minister in his first speech on Operation Sindoor?
- Decisive Retaliation on India’s Terms: India will respond firmly and appropriately to any terrorist attack, delivering a befitting response strictly on its terms and taking action against all sources of terrorism.
- No Tolerance for Nuclear Blackmail: India will not tolerate nuclear blackmail and will strike precisely and decisively at terrorist hideouts operating under the shield of nuclear threats.
- No Distinction Between Terrorists and their Sponsors: India will treat the government sponsoring terrorism and the terrorist masterminds as the same, continuing decisive steps to counter state-sponsored terrorism and protect the nation.
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Way forward:
- Enhance Indigenous Innovation: Accelerate the development and deployment of homegrown advanced technologies like AI-enabled drone swarms, next-gen air defence, and electronic warfare to maintain a strategic edge over Chinese-origin systems.
- Strengthen Joint Operations & Intelligence Sharing: Improve seamless integration among armed forces and boost real-time intelligence to swiftly counter emerging threats from adversaries using sophisticated foreign defence platforms.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] The groundwater potential of the gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India?
Linkage: The concept that ecological health (groundwater levels) is fundamental to human survival and security (food security). It highlights how the depletion of a natural resource affects a critical aspect of the economy and human well-being, demonstrating the link between ecology and a “permanent economy” that sustains life. |
Mentor’s Comment: The phrase “Ecology is the permanent economy” means much more than just a catchy line. It reminds us of a basic truth: human well-being depends on the health of nature. We cannot grow our economy without using natural resources, and we cannot keep our economy stable without protecting them. Today, as we face big problems like climate change and loss of wildlife, we need to seriously think about whether we truly understand and follow this idea.
Today’s editorial discusses the idea that “Ecology is the permanent economy”. This topic is useful for GS Paper III in the UPSC Mains Exam, especially for questions related to the economy and environment.
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Why in the News?
Understanding the idea that “Ecology is the permanent economy” will help us see that a healthy environment is essential for our survival, a strong economy, and protection against climate change.
What does the phrase “Ecology is the permanent economy” signify in relation to human prosperity and ecological health?
- Foundation of Human Survival and Economy: Ecology provides essential resources like air, water, food, and fertile soil — the base of all economic activity. Eg: Agriculture depends on healthy soil, pollinators, and water cycles. Degraded ecosystems lead to crop failures and food insecurity.
- Long-term Economic Stability Requires Ecological Balance: Sustainable use of natural resources ensures continued economic benefits without exhausting the environment. Eg: Overfishing depletes fish stocks, harming both marine biodiversity and the fishing industry. Conservation efforts like fishing quotas help restore balance and maintain livelihoods.
- Ecological Health Mitigates Climate and Disaster Risks: Ecosystems act as buffers against natural disasters and climate change impacts, protecting both lives and infrastructure. Eg: Mangroves protect coastal areas from storms and floods. Their destruction increases disaster vulnerability and economic loss.
How has human evolution led to a disconnection from nature?
- Shift from Nomadic to Settled Life: Early humans lived in close contact with nature, relying on it for daily survival. With agriculture and settlements, dependency became indirect. Eg: Nomads hunted and gathered in forests, while modern societies buy packaged food, unaware of its natural source.
- Urbanisation and Infrastructure Development: Rapid urban growth has replaced natural landscapes with concrete, isolating people from natural surroundings. Eg: Children growing up in cities often have limited exposure to forests, rivers, or wildlife.
- Technological Advancements: Machines, internet, and artificial environments have reduced daily interaction with the natural world. Eg: Air conditioning replaces the need to adapt to seasons; virtual reality replaces outdoor experiences.
- Consumerism and Resource Overuse: The pursuit of material comfort leads to overexploitation of nature without regard for ecological balance. Eg: Excessive mining or deforestation for products like electronics or furniture disrupts ecosystems.
- Loss of Traditional Knowledge and Practices: Indigenous ecological wisdom is being lost as modern lifestyles dominate, weakening the cultural connection to nature. Eg: Practices like rainwater harvesting or sacred groves are being forgotten in many regions.
What impact has this had on biodiversity?
- Habitat Destruction: Expansion of urban areas, agriculture, and infrastructure has led to large-scale loss of natural habitats. Eg: Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest has destroyed habitats for countless species, pushing many toward extinction.
- Species Extinction: Disruption of ecosystems and overexploitation of species has accelerated extinction rates. Eg: The dodo bird and the western black rhinoceros became extinct due to hunting and habitat loss.
- Invasive Species Introduction: Human activities have introduced non-native species that outcompete or prey on native species. Eg: Introduction of Nile perch in Lake Victoria led to the decline of hundreds of native fish species.
- Pollution and Climate Change: Industrial waste, plastic pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions degrade ecosystems and affect species survival. Eg: Coral bleaching caused by ocean warming has severely damaged coral reef biodiversity.
- Disruption of Natural Cycles: Unsustainable development alters food chains, migration patterns, and breeding cycles. Eg: Light pollution in cities affects nocturnal species like sea turtles, which rely on natural darkness for nesting.
Why is balancing environmental protection and economic development crucial for long-term sustainability?
- Ensures Resource Availability for Future Generations: Overexploitation today can lead to resource depletion, affecting future livelihoods. Eg: Sustainable forestry in countries like Sweden ensures timber is harvested without degrading forests.
- Prevents Environmental Degradation: Economic development without ecological concern leads to pollution, soil erosion, and climate change. Eg: Unchecked industrialisation along the Ganga River caused severe water pollution, harming both people and biodiversity.
- Supports Climate Resilience: Ecosystem protection helps buffer against climate impacts like floods, droughts, and heatwaves. Eg: Mangrove conservation in the Sundarbans protects coastal areas from cyclones and sea-level rise.
- Boosts Green Economic Opportunities: Investing in renewables and green technology creates jobs while reducing emissions. Eg: India’s solar energy mission has generated employment and reduced dependency on fossil fuels.
- Promotes Health and Well-being: A clean environment ensures access to clean air, water, and food, essential for human health. Eg: Delhi’s vehicular emission controls aim to reduce air pollution, improving public health outcomes.
What paradox arises from relying on nature-based solutions while continuing to exploit natural resources?
- Dual Dependence Creates Contradiction: We expect ecosystems to mitigate climate change while simultaneously degrading them through deforestation and pollution. Eg: Planting trees for carbon offset while clearing rainforests for agriculture defeats the purpose.
- Undermines Long-Term Effectiveness: Continuous exploitation weakens the very systems relied upon for climate resilience and biodiversity restoration. Eg: Wetlands restoration projects fail when nearby urban expansion continues to encroach on wetland areas.
- Ecological Imbalance Intensifies: The more we harm natural systems, the less capable they become in acting as buffers against environmental crises. Eg: Overfishing damages marine ecosystems, reducing their ability to regulate carbon and support livelihoods.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
Way forward:
- Integrate Ecology into Economic Planning: Make environmental sustainability a core part of all development policies to ensure long-term resource security and resilience.
- Promote Community-Led Conservation: Empower local communities with incentives and rights to manage natural resources, ensuring inclusive and effective environmental protection.
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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 shipping industry’s contribution to GHG emissions (approximately 1 billion metric tonnes annually, about 2.8% of total global emissions) and the IMO’s efforts to reduce these emissions to align with goals like the Paris Agreement. The question’s focus on international climate agreements (Kyoto Protocol) is relevant to the IMO’s regulatory efforts. |
Mentor’s Comment: The adoption of the Net Zero Framework, which is based on Market-Based Measure (MBM) by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to regulate and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping, marking a historic shift in global climate governance. It highlights the geopolitical negotiations, competing national interests, and the struggle to balance environmental effectiveness with economic fairness in formulating a global carbon levy on shipping emissions.
Today’s editorial talks about regulation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations and Policy Making) and GS Paper III (Environment).
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Why in the News?
At the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC-83) session of the IMO, a major step was taken by approving a new system to cut shipping emissions.
What is the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)?
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a United Nations specialized agency responsible for regulating international shipping, promoting maritime safety, environmental protection, legal matters, and technical cooperation among member states. |
Why is it a landmark step?
- First Legally Binding Global Emission Levy: Shipping is the first industry with a mandatory, global emissions levy under the MARPOL treaty—unlike aviation (ICAO) or manufacturing, which follow voluntary or regional norms.
- Equity Through CBDR-RC: The mechanism incorporates equity—ZNZ fuel users are rewarded, while underperformers bear the financial burden, aligning with developing countries’ interests.
- Clear, Time-Bound Targets: IMO sets concrete milestones: 40% cut in carbon intensity by 2030, 70% by 2040, and net-zero by 2050—unlike ICAO’s vague goals.
What were the challenges while taking this step?
- Resisted by the Oil-Exporting Nations: Countries like Saudi Arabia, which depend heavily on fossil fuel exports, opposed stringent carbon levies, fearing these would harm their economies. They resisted the transition to green fuels, advocating for minimal changes.
- Developed vs. Developing Countries: Developed nations like the EU supported aggressive emission reductions, while developing countries like China pushed for a market-driven approach to preserve competitiveness and avoid excessive financial burdens.
How is the shipping industry tackling emissions as per the IMO?
- Reduction of GHG emissions: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has implemented measures like the Energy Efficiency Design Index and the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan to reduce carbon emissions from ships.
- Targets for carbon intensity: The IMO has set a goal to reduce carbon intensity by at least 40% by 2030 (compared to 2008 levels) and 70% by 2040, with the ultimate aim of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
- Green technologies and fuel alternatives: The IMO is pushing for cleaner fuels and innovative technologies for emissions reduction, including efforts in alternative fuels such as green hydrogen.
What is the Net Zero Framework adopted by the IMO?
The Net Zero Framework is a Market-Based Measure (MBM) to reduce emissions in the shipping industry. It aims to implement a mandatory emissions levy on global shipping to ensure that the sector meets net-zero targets by 2050.
How would it work?
- Emission-Based Levy with Incentives: Ships emitting high greenhouse gases must pay a carbon levy, while those using Zero or Near-Zero (ZNZ) fuels receive financial rewards or credits. Eg: A ship using green hydrogen below the IMO’s emission threshold earns surplus credits, reducing its future levy.
- Tiered Compliance via GHG Fuel Standard (GFS): Ships are classified based on fuel efficiency and emission levels. Underperformers must purchase remedial units, while high performers gain tradable surplus units. Eg: A vessel exceeding emission targets must buy units from a cleaner ship, creating a carbon market within global shipping.
What is the limit on carbon emissions?
- As per IMO reward thresholds:
- Until 2034: The carbon limit is 19.0 g CO₂e/MJ
- From 2035 onwards: It tightens to 14.0 g CO₂e/MJ
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How will the Market-Based Measure (MBM) framework impact India’s maritime sector and trade costs by 2030 and 2050?
- Trade Costs: The MBM framework is likely to increase shipping costs due to carbon pricing and fuel surcharges, making Indian exports less competitive. Eg: Textile and agricultural exports from India to Europe may become costlier by 2030 due to EU’s Emission Trading System (ETS) expansion to maritime transport.
- Equity Concerns: Uniform carbon levies do not consider developmental disparities, placing a higher burden on countries like India with limited historical emissions. Eg: India has argued at the IMO that MBMs should reflect Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), as it is still building infrastructure and trade capacity.
- Green Shipping Transition: To comply with decarbonization norms by 2050, India must shift to alternative fuels (e.g., green hydrogen, ammonia) and upgrade port infrastructure, requiring massive investments. Eg: Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust may need to install green bunkering facilities and electrified cargo handling systems.
- Technological and Financial Gaps: Lack of access to clean technology and climate finance may hinder India’s ability to transition smoothly, increasing dependence on foreign solutions. Eg: Advanced nations may dominate green shipbuilding, while Indian shipyards lag due to lack of R&D support and capital.
- Opportunity for Green Growth: If supported with international finance and technology transfer, MBMs can stimulate domestic innovation and green job creation in maritime sectors. Eg: India’s “Green Ports” initiative could align with MBM goals and boost employment in clean energy, retrofitting, and logistics.
Way forward:
- Differentiated Levy Design: IMO should adopt a flexible carbon pricing model that reflects Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), allowing developing countries like India room to grow while contributing to climate goals. Eg: Tiered levy based on national capacities and emission intensity.
- Technology Transfer & Climate Finance: Establish dedicated funding mechanisms for green shipping innovation, infrastructure upgrades, and capacity building in developing nations. Eg: An IMO-led global Green Maritime Fund supported by developed countries.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2023] Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard.
Linkage: The importance of the manufacturing sector for economic growth and asks about government policies concerning it, including MSMEs. This aligns perfectly with the theme of driving manufacturing growth as discussed in the article. |
Mentor’s Comment: Global manufacturing and trade are quickly changing, focusing more on products that use advanced technology and innovation. This shift is being powered by strong research and development (R&D), modern technology, skilled workers, and complex supply chains. Also, the high tariffs recently introduced by the United States are expected to further change how the manufacturing industry works.
Today’s editorial talks about how global manufacturing and trade are changing because of the use of advanced technology and innovation. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations and Policy Making) and GS Paper III (Manufacturing Sector).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
As global changes are set to reshape the manufacturing industry, it is important to focus on technical education, core engineering skills, and new ideas (innovation).
What challenges hinder India’s efforts to match global manufacturing standards?
- Low Manufacturing Productivity: India’s manufacturing sector is far less efficient compared to global benchmarks. Eg: In 2023, India’s productivity stood at $8.9K, while the global average was $32K, and the U.S. reached $159K.
- Limited R&D Investment: Innovation-driven manufacturing requires substantial R&D support, which remains inadequate in India. Eg: India spends just 0.65% of its GDP on R&D, while China spends 2.4% and South Korea 4.5%.
- Skills Mismatch and Weak Technical Education: The gap between academic training and industrial skill requirements slows the shift to high-tech manufacturing. Eg: Most engineering institutions focus on theory, grading, and rote learning, with less than 50% emphasis on practical training.
- Underdeveloped Industrial Infrastructure: India lacks world-class manufacturing ecosystems with integrated supply chains and R&D support. Eg: Unlike China’s fully equipped industrial parks, many Indian parks lack plug-and-play facilities, design labs, and testing centers.
- Low Per Capita Manufacturing Output: India’s contribution to manufacturing per individual is among the lowest in major economies. Eg: In 2023, India’s per capita value added was $0.32K, while the global average was $2K.
Why must India reform technical education for innovation-led manufacturing?
- Lack of Practical Skill Development: Engineering education in India emphasizes theoretical knowledge over hands-on experience. Eg: Less than 50% of curriculum time is dedicated to lab work or industry projects, reducing readiness for real-world manufacturing tasks.
- Weak Focus on Creativity and Problem-Solving: Entrance exams and academic culture focus on rote learning rather than fostering innovation. Eg: Students are trained to solve predefined problems, but lack the ability to tackle open-ended, real-world challenges in engineering and design.
- Outdated Laboratory and Workshop Infrastructure: Many technical institutions lack modern facilities to train students in advanced manufacturing techniques. Eg: Few colleges have tool rooms, CNC machines, or 3D printing labs, which are standard in global manufacturing training programs.
- Disconnect Between Industry Needs and Curriculum: The current syllabus often fails to align with rapidly evolving industrial technologies and skills. Eg: Courses in AI integration, robotics, and IoT in manufacturing are still missing or underdeveloped in most core engineering streams.
- Limited Industry-Academia Collaboration: Technical education lacks structured partnerships with manufacturing companies for internships, research, and product development. Eg: Unlike Germany’s dual education model, Indian students rarely work on live industry problems during their course of study.
How do state-specific manufacturing parks boost industrial ecosystems?
- Accelerate Industrial Setup with Plug-and-Play Infrastructure: Ready-to-use facilities reduce time and cost for new manufacturing units. Eg: Tamil Nadu’s SIPCOT parks offer land, power, and water connections upfront, attracting auto and electronics manufacturers quickly.
- Encourage Localized Skill Development and Employment: Parks drive local job creation and training programs aligned with industry needs. Eg: Gujarat’s Dholera SIR includes skill centers to train youth for electronics, EV, and robotics industries.
- Foster Innovation and Prototype Development: Dedicated facilities help companies develop, test, and refine products. Eg: Karnataka’s Aerospace SEZ near Bengaluru hosts R&D labs, testing units, and design centers supporting aerospace startups.
- Build Industry Clusters and Supply Chains: Concentration of allied industries creates efficient ecosystems with shared logistics and services. Eg: Andhra Pradesh’s Sri City SEZ houses over 180 companies across sectors like consumer goods and automotive, fostering collaboration.
- Attract Investment Through Tailored State Policies: State-specific incentives aligned with local strengths draw both domestic and foreign investors. Eg: Maharashtra’s Aurangabad Industrial City (AURIC) offers tax benefits and sector-specific infrastructure to attract high-tech industries.
Way forward:
- Revamp Technical Education and Skilling: Align curricula with industry 4.0 needs, strengthen practical training, and build strong industry-academia partnerships to boost innovation-led manufacturing.
- Strengthen Industrial Ecosystems: Expand world-class infrastructure, ensure faster regulatory clearances, and scale up R&D investment to create globally competitive manufacturing hubs.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Explain the role of millets for ensuring health and nutritional security in India.
Linkage: Nutrition-sensitive agriculture and promoting the cultivation of climate-resilient, biofortified crops, and enhancing crop diversity. Millets are a prime example of such crops that contribute to health and nutritional security, making this question highly relevant to the article’s proposed solutions for improving dietary quality and nutritional outcomes. |
Mentor’s Comment: The global food system is under pressure due to limited resources and climate change, while still needing to make food accessible and affordable. Even though India is a top producer of milk, fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock, it still faces serious nutrition problems. These include both undernutrition and rising obesity, along with a lack of essential vitamins and minerals. Such issues put India’s future workforce and economic strength at risk. With a low rank of 105 out of 127 countries in the Global Hunger Index 2024, India’s food insecurity needs immediate attention.
Today’s editorial discusses the problem of malnutrition in India. This topic is useful for GS Paper 2 (which covers the role of the welfare state and government schemes to fight malnutrition) and GS Paper 3 (which looks at India’s food system).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
India’s fight against nutrition problems should lead to a change where nutrition is included as a key part of farming and economic planning.
What is the situation of India in malnutrition?
- Alarming Dual Burden of Malnutrition: NFHS-5 data highlights India’s pressing nutrition crisis — with high rates of stunting (35.5%), underweight (32.1%), wasting (19.3%) among children, and rising obesity in adults (24% women, 22.9% men), reflecting a dual burden of undernutrition and overnutrition that demands urgent policy attention.
- Hidden Hunger and Women’s Health: The prevalence of anaemia in 57% of women of reproductive age signals widespread micronutrient deficiencies, indicating that calorie sufficiency alone is not enough — interventions must ensure access to diverse, nutrient-rich foods.
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What are the key causes of malnutrition in India despite being a major food producer?
- Inequitable Access: Despite high food production, millions cannot afford or access diverse and nutritious diets. Eg: As per FAO (2022), 55.6% of Indians are unable to afford a healthy diet, highlighting widespread economic and geographic disparities.
- Hidden Hunger (Micronutrient Deficiency): Diets often lack essential vitamins and minerals, affecting physical and cognitive development. Eg: 57% of Indian women of reproductive age are anaemic, despite surplus grain availability.
- Food System Inefficiencies: Overreliance on staples, poor storage, and inadequate supply chains limit access to nutrient-rich food. Eg: Focus on rice and wheat in PDS sidelines coarse grains and pulses, leading to reduced dietary diversity.
- Double Burden of Malnutrition: India faces both undernutrition in children and growing rates of overweight/obesity in adults. Eg: 35.5% of children under 5 are stunted, while 24% of women are overweight, showing nutrition imbalance.
- Climate Vulnerability: Extreme weather events and resource stress reduce crop yield and diversity, harming food security. Eg: Erratic monsoons and heatwaves reduce the productivity of small-scale farmers, limiting supply of fresh produce.
How can nutrition-sensitive agriculture contribute to addressing India’s food security issues?
- Crop Diversification: Promotes the cultivation of a variety of nutrient-rich crops to improve dietary diversity. Eg: Encouraging farmers to grow millets, pulses, and vegetables alongside cereals enhances household nutrition and resilience.
- Biofortification: Increases the nutritional content of staple crops to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Eg: Use of iron-rich pearl millet and zinc-enhanced wheat has shown success in improving child and maternal health.
- Climate-Resilient Crops: Supports food security under changing climate conditions by using crops that can withstand droughts and floods. Eg: Drought-tolerant varieties of sorghum and finger millet help ensure food supply in arid and semi-arid regions.
- Improved Post-Harvest Management: Reduces food loss and maintains nutrient quality through better storage and transportation. Eg: Solar dryers and community storage units help preserve perishable crops like fruits and vegetables in rural areas.
- Farmer-Nutrition Linkages: Connects local farmers with schools and public schemes to supply nutritious food, boosting rural incomes and food access. Eg: The Nutri-Garden model in schools sources biofortified grains and vegetables from nearby farms, improving child nutrition.
Who should play a key role in transforming India’s food systems for better nutrition and sustainability?
- Government: Must align agricultural, health, and economic policies with nutrition and sustainability goals. Eg: The government can enhance the Public Distribution System (PDS) by including nutrient-rich millets and local vegetables.
- Private Sector: Should innovate and invest in nutrition-focused food products, fortification, and sustainable practices. Eg: Food companies using clear nutrition labels and QR codes to promote awareness and adopting plant-based alternatives.
- Community and Civil Society: Essential in driving grassroots efforts, promoting awareness, and implementing local nutrition initiatives. Eg: Nutrition-Sensitive Community Planning (NSCP) empowers villages to improve diet through local food, water, and health solutions.
Where can community-led nutrition interventions like the Nutrition-Sensitive Community Planning (NSCP) model be most effective in India?
- Rural Areas with Poor Nutrition Indicators: Effective where malnutrition, stunting, and anaemia are high among children and women. Eg: In parts of Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, NSCP can address undernutrition by linking local farming to nutritious diets.
- Tribal and Remote Regions: Helps revive indigenous food systems and addresses deep-rooted nutrition gaps. Eg: In Odisha’s tribal districts, NSCP can promote traditional millets and forest foods as part of daily meals.
- Climate-Vulnerable Zones: Strengthens resilience through climate-adaptive farming and diversified diets. Eg: In Bundelkhand (UP-MP), NSCP can integrate drought-tolerant crops and water-saving practices.
- Regions with High Migration Rates: Targets nutritional needs of women and children left behind in migrant families. Eg: In eastern Uttar Pradesh, NSCP can ensure food security through community gardens and village nutrition hubs.
- Urban Slums and Peri-Urban Settlements: Addresses the dual burden of undernutrition and rising obesity in low-income households. Eg: In Delhi’s informal settlements, NSCP can promote rooftop kitchen gardens and access to local fresh food markets.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- Universal Fortified Rice & Diversified Safety Nets: India has rolled out fortified rice (iron, folic acid + B12) across every food-security scheme—PDS, PM-GKAY, ICDS, Mid-Day Meal/PM POSHAN—to cut anaemia and hidden hunger.
- Mission Poshan 2.0 (Saksham Anganwadi + Nutrition Mission): Combines ICDS, Poshan Abhiyaan and allied schemes into one platform that uses real-time growth monitoring, fortified take-home rations and community “Poshan Maah” drives to reduce stunting, wasting and anaemia. Eg: Mission Poshan 2.0 uses a three-pronged strategy—convergence, technology and social behaviour change—through 1.4 million Anganwadis.
- Millet Promotion & Climate-Resilient Farming: The government declared 2023 the International Year of Millets, rebranded them as “Nutri-Cereals,” and launched programmes to expand climate-smart, nutrient-dense crops.
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Way forward:
- Enhance Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Strengthen coordination between government, private sector, and civil society to scale up nutrition-sensitive initiatives and ensure equitable access to nutritious food for all segments of society.
- Promote Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Agricultural Practices: Encourage the adoption of climate-smart farming techniques and crop diversification to ensure food security in the face of climate challenges while improving nutritional outcomes.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2023] Give out the major sources of terror funding in India and the efforts being made to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective of the ‘No Money for Terror (NMFT)’ Conference recently held at New Delhi in November 2022.
Linkage: Pakistan’s terror infrastructure, including ISI funding, Gulf-based private donors, diaspora contributions through charities, business operations, money laundering via hawala networks, narcotics trafficking, and cryptocurrency. This question directly asks about the sources of terror funding, which is a central theme in the source. |
Mentor’s Comment: The Soviet-Afghan War in 1979 was a turning point when Pakistan’s intelligence agency (ISI), with support from U.S. funding, started building a network of jihadi groups. This network has since developed into the advanced terrorist groups we see today. Pakistan intentionally supported these fighters, who had various goals, including attacking Kashmir, gaining control in Afghanistan, causing sectarian violence, and fighting ideological battles. Recent data shows that terrorism sponsored by Pakistan has been rising again in the region.
Today’s editorial looks at Pakistan’s long-standing terrorist network using open-source intelligence, declassified documents, and academic studies. This content would help in GS Paper II (International Relation) and GS Paper III (Internal Security).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Pakistan’s security forces have supported terrorist groups for a long time, seeing them as useful for their goals. Since 2008, Pakistan has repeatedly been added to and removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) ‘grey list’ because it has not effectively stopped the funding of terrorism.
What role did the Soviet-Afghan War of 1979 play in the evolution of Pakistan’s terror infrastructure?
- ISI’s Strategic Empowerment with U.S. and Saudi Funding: During the war, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) became the main conduit for channeling billions of dollars in U.S. (CIA) and Saudi funds to Afghan mujahideen fighting Soviet forces. Eg: This funding network empowered the ISI to build covert training camps and logistical bases, which later supported outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Haqqani Network.
- Creation of a Jihadi Ecosystem and Proxy Network: The war institutionalised jihad as a tool of foreign policy, with ISI actively recruiting, training, and radicalising fighters. These fighters, once trained, were later redeployed for operations in Kashmir, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. Eg: The Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HUM), originally formed to fight in Afghanistan, later became one of the first Pakistani terror outfits to target Indian interests in Kashmir.
- Spread of Radical Ideology through Madrassas and Seminaries: To support the Afghan jihad, Pakistan encouraged the growth of radical madrassas, often funded by Gulf donors, to indoctrinate youth. These institutions outlived the war and became feeders for future terror groups. Eg: Many madrassas aligned with Ahl-e-Hadith and Deobandi ideologies became recruiting hubs for groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and LeT.
Where are the major training camps and headquarters of Pakistan-supported terrorist groups located?
- Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK): PoK serves as a key launchpad and training ground for anti-India terror operations, especially focused on Kashmir. Eg: Training camps of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have been reported in Muzaffarabad and Kotli, where cadres are prepared for infiltration into India.
- Punjab Province (Especially Lahore and Bahawalpur): Several extremist groups operate openly or under charitable fronts in Punjab, with strong logistical and financial networks. Eg: The headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) is based in Bahawalpur, and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), the front of LeT, has operated from Muridke near Lahore.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): The rugged terrain along the Afghanistan border provides safe havens for jihadist groups with transnational reach. Eg: The Haqqani Network, linked to the Afghan Taliban, has operated out of North Waziristan, conducting cross-border attacks into Afghanistan.
How is the terror network in Pakistan financed and sustained despite international pressure?
- State and Deep State Support: Elements within Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies, particularly the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), have been accused of providing logistical, financial, and strategic support to terrorist groups to serve foreign policy objectives, especially in India and Afghanistan. Eg: The ISI’s backing of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) was exposed during investigations into the 2008 Mumbai attacks, where LeT operatives received training, funds, and guidance.
- Charities and Front Organizations: Terrorist groups often operate under the guise of charitable organizations to raise funds both domestically and internationally. These organizations collect donations in the name of humanitarian relief, which are then diverted for militant activities. Eg: The Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), a front for Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), raised significant funds until it was banned for links to LeT.
- Drug Trafficking, Hawala, and Extortion: Illicit economies, including narcotics trafficking, smuggling, extortion, and the hawala system (an informal money transfer network), are widely used by terrorist groups to fund their operations. Eg: The Afghan-Pakistan border region, particularly in Balochistan and former FATA, is a major route for drug trafficking, which provides revenue to groups like the Haqqani Network and TTP.
Why has Pakistan repeatedly appeared on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list rather in black list?
- Partial Compliance and Political Commitments: Pakistan has often shown partial compliance with FATF action plans, such as enacting anti-terror financing laws or prosecuting select terror operatives. These steps, while often symbolic or limited, provide just enough movement to avoid blacklisting. Eg: After being grey-listed in 2018, Pakistan passed laws to regulate charitable donations and froze some accounts linked to UN-designated terrorists like Hafiz Saeed.
- Geopolitical Considerations and Diplomatic Shielding: Global powers, especially China, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, have used their influence within FATF to shield Pakistan from being blacklisted due to strategic and political interests, including Pakistan’s role in regional stability and Afghanistan. Eg: In several FATF meetings, China and Turkey have openly opposed efforts to blacklist Pakistan, arguing that it has made progress.
How did the Indian government execute OPERATION SINDOOR?
- Response Triggered: Launched in retaliation to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. Eg: The attack by a group linked to LeT prompted the operation.
- Precision Airstrikes: Executed 24 missile strikes on nine targeted sites in Pakistan’s Punjab and administered Kashmir regions, lasting about 23 minutes. Eg: Sites in Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad were among those hit.
- Advanced Military Assets: Deployed Rafale jets with precision-guided SCALP missiles and AASM bombs to ensure accurate targeting with minimal collateral damage. Eg: The use of advanced munitions highlighted India’s operational efficiency.
- Disruption of Terror Infrastructure: Targeted key terrorist facilities such as training camps, recruitment centers, and armories linked to groups like LeT and JeM. Eg: A strike in Bahawalpur reportedly affected close aides of a major terror leader.
- Aftermath and Escalation: The operation led to heightened tensions, with Pakistan condemning the strikes and both sides engaging in artillery exchanges along the Line of Control. Eg: The subsequent border clashes underscored the operation’s significant impact on regional stability.
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Way forward:
- Global Accountability and Financial Sanctions: Strengthen FATF enforcement and international cooperation to impose targeted sanctions on Pakistan-based terror networks and their sponsors. Eg: Revive monitoring mechanisms to ensure closure of front charities like JuD and FIF.
- Regional Counter-Terror Framework: India and like-minded nations should push for a South Asia-focused multilateral counter-terrorism initiative with intelligence sharing and cross-border coordination. Eg: Build on QUAD and SCO platforms to diplomatically isolate state-sponsored terrorism.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2016] Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and [UPSC 2024] Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security’. Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level.
Linkage: Terrorism as a global threat and asks about the effectiveness of an international institution (UNSC’s CTC) in addressing it. This directly relates to the article which discusses the lack of a collective fight against terror and highlights how actions within the UN Security Council (like China blocking proposals against Pakistan-based terrorists) demonstrate the challenges and fragmentation in international cooperation against terrorism. |
Mentor’s Comment: The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 has once again revealed the lack of unity in the global fight against terrorism, as well as Pakistan’s tendency to use terrorism whenever there is a possibility of peace returning to Jammu and Kashmir. Although many countries have condemned the attack, they have also urged both India and Pakistan to show restraint. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio asked both nations to find a peaceful solution that ensures long-term peace and stability in South Asia. U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance expressed hope that India’s reaction would not lead to a larger conflict in the region. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that any issues between India and Pakistan should be resolved through political and diplomatic talks. Meanwhile, the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, didn’t even describe the incident as a terror attack.
Today’s editorial talks about how the world is not united in fighting terrorism and highlights how Pakistan often uses terrorism as a tool. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Internal Security).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
In the past, there was a strong global consensus and zero tolerance towards terrorism. However, in the case of India, which continues to be a victim of state-sponsored terrorism, the international response often seems to follow a different set of standards.
What does the Pahalgam terror attack reveal about the global fight against terrorism?
- Fragmentation and Hypocrisy in the Global Anti-Terror Stand: The unified global stance post-9/11 has weakened; countries now view terrorism through selective lenses based on their strategic interests. Eg: While the Pahalgam attack was clearly a terrorist act targeting Hindu pilgrims, the EU failed to call it a “terror attack” and instead used vague diplomatic language, showcasing diplomatic double standards.
- “Your Terrorist vs My Terrorist” Mindset Prevails: Different regions prioritize different types of terrorism, undermining a collective global response. Eg: The U.S. focuses on REMVE (racially and ethnically motivated violent extremism), while Canada ignores pro-Khalistan threats against India, citing freedom of expression.
- Global Inaction Against State-Sponsored Terrorism: Despite clear evidence of Pakistan’s role in cross-border terrorism, major powers avoid taking concrete action, fearing geopolitical consequences. Eg: China has blocked UN sanctions against terrorists operating from Pakistani soil, and the West emphasizes “regional stability” over punishing the perpetrator.
Why are global powers urging restraint between India and Pakistan after the attack?
- Fear of Nuclear Escalation in South Asia: Global powers are wary of any confrontation between two nuclear-armed nations, especially in a volatile region. Eg: Despite India’s position as the victim, the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged both India and Pakistan to maintain “long-term peace and regional stability”, placing equal responsibility on both sides.
- Geopolitical Fatigue Due to Multiple Ongoing Conflicts: With active wars in Ukraine, Gaza, and West Asia, there is a limited appetite among global powers for another escalation in Asia. Eg: U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance expressed hope that India’s response would not trigger a regional conflict, reflecting global fatigue and risk-aversion.
- Pakistan’s Manipulative Use of the ‘Nuclear Threat’ Narrative: Pakistan has long used the “nuclear war” bogey to deter international support for strong Indian countermeasures. Eg: Even as Western powers support Ukraine in a war against nuclear-armed Russia, they urge Indian restraint to avoid a similar escalation with Pakistan.
How has Pakistan’s role in terrorism affected its relations with India and the UN?
- Strained Bilateral Relations with India: Terror attacks traced back to Pakistan-based groups have derailed peace processes and led to diplomatic isolation. Eg: After the Pulwama attack (2019), India withdrew the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status from Pakistan and suspended bilateral talks.
- Global Censure and Blacklisting Threats by the UN and FATF: Pakistan has been repeatedly flagged by international watchdogs like the UN and FATF for harbouring terror networks. Eg: In 2018, the FATF grey-listed Pakistan due to insufficient action against terror financing, affecting its global financial credibility.
- Reduced Legitimacy in Global Forums: Its credibility at the UN is undermined by its ambivalence towards terror groups, weakening its case on Kashmir and other issues. Eg: India has consistently blocked Pakistan’s attempts to internationalize the Kashmir issue at the UN by highlighting its support for cross-border terrorism.
Why is there a double standard in addressing terror attacks on Hindus?
- Global Narrative Often Selective Based on Identity Politics: Attacks on Hindus are sometimes downplayed in international media and forums due to fears of appearing biased or anti-minority. Eg: The 2023 Pakistan Hindu temple attacks received minimal global coverage compared to similar attacks on other communities.
- Lack of Institutional Recognition for Hindu Persecution: Unlike other religious groups, Hindus often lack dedicated international forums or recognition as victims of targeted violence. Eg: The Kashmiri Hindu exodus in the 1990s remains largely absent from global human rights discussions, unlike similar ethnic cleansings.
- Geopolitical Considerations Overshadow Justice: Nations avoid condemning attacks on Hindus in countries like Pakistan or Bangladesh to maintain strategic ties, even at the cost of justice. Eg: Western powers rarely impose sanctions or raise strong objections to sectarian violence against Hindus in South Asia.
What actions should India take against state-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan? (Way forward)
- Strengthen Diplomatic Pressure through Global Alliances: India should leverage platforms like the UN, G20, and Quad to diplomatically isolate Pakistan and expose its terror links. Eg: After the Uri and Pulwama attacks, India launched diplomatic campaigns leading to Pakistan’s continued presence on the FATF grey list.
- Enhance Intelligence and Surgical Response Capabilities: India must invest in real-time intelligence and conduct targeted counter-terror operations across the Line of Control when credible evidence exists. Eg: The 2016 Surgical Strikes and 2019 Balakot air strikes demonstrated India’s shift to proactive defense strategies.
- Cut Economic and Water Leverage: India can revisit the Indus Waters Treaty and limit trade relations to exert pressure without crossing into full-scale conflict. Eg: Post-Pulwama, India reviewed the Indus treaty and imposed 100% customs duty on Pakistani imports.
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