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State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2024 Released: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) launched the sixth edition, developed with Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE), assessing performance for FY 2023-24.

Purpose: Tracks state/UT progress in energy efficiency, encourages peer learning, supports India’s net-zero vision and NDCs.

Coverage: Assesses 36 States and UTs using 66 indicators across sectors like Buildings, Industry, Transport, Agriculture, Municipal Services, DISCOMs, and Cross-Sector initiatives.

Performance Categories: States are grouped into Front Runners (>60%), Achievers (50–60%), Contenders (30–50%), and Aspirants (<30%).

Top Performers:

• Maharashtra (Group 1: >15 MToE)
• Andhra Pradesh (Group 2: 5–15 MToE)
• Assam (Group 3: 1–5 MToE)
• Tripura (Group 4: <1 MToE)

Key Reforms Highlighted:

• 24 states notified Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) 2017.
• 31 states adopted electric mobility policies.
• 13 states promote solar pumps, with Kerala leading at 74% adoption.
• All 36 States/UTs have Energy Efficiency Action Plans.
• 31 have formed State-Level Steering Committees on Energy Transition.

Significance: SEEI 2024 is a crucial policy tool to guide state actions and accelerate India’s energy efficiency and climate goals, with energy efficiency being a key driver for the net-zero by 2070 vision.

Urjit Patel Appointed to IMF Executive Board: India has appointed former RBI Governor Urjit Patel as its Executive Director at the IMF for a three-year term.

• Why it’s news: This appointment signifies India’s continued engagement and representation at a crucial international economic institution. Patel’s expertise will contribute to IMF’s decision-making.

Patel’s Constituency: Patel will represent India in a four-country constituency, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan.

• Why it’s news: This highlights India’s role in regional economic cooperation and representation within the IMF structure.

IMF’s Role and Objectives: The IMF promotes international monetary cooperation, exchange rate stability, balanced trade, and provides financial assistance to countries facing balance of payments issues. It also aims to reduce poverty through economic growth.

• Why it’s news: This provides context on the IMF’s global importance and the significance of India’s participation in achieving these objectives.

IMF Structure and Functions: The IMF has a Board of Governors, an Executive Board overseeing operations, and a Managing Director. Its key functions include economic surveillance, financial assistance (loans), and capacity development (technical assistance). India is a founding member.

• Why it’s news: Understanding the IMF’s structure and functions is crucial for comprehending global economic governance and India’s place within it.

India’s Vulnerability: Heavy reliance on imported hydrocarbons (85% crude oil, 50% natural gas) poses a strategic risk due to geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions. Imported energy is increasingly a liability.

Global Shocks Highlight Fragility: Past events like the 1973 Oil Embargo, Fukushima disaster, Texas Freeze, Russia-Ukraine War, and Iberian Peninsula Blackout demonstrate the dangers of single-source dependence and the need for resilience and diversification in energy systems.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact: While discounted Russian oil has helped India’s import bill, over-reliance on one geopolitical partner is a significant vulnerability, emphasizing diversification over substitution.

Israel-Iran Tensions Show Global Risk: Proximity to conflict in June 2025 threatened massive oil flow disruptions and price spikes, underscoring the precariousness of global energy lifelines.

Energy Realism Over Blind Transition: Fossil fuels still dominate the global energy mix (over 80%), with renewables under 10%. Energy realism acknowledges this while pursuing transition, ensuring security is a survival strategy.

Energy Sovereignty Doctrine: India needs a doctrine anchored in domestic capacity, diversified technology, and resilient systems, making energy sovereignty the new “oil.”

Five Foundational Pillars for India:

• Coal Gasification: Leverage vast domestic coal reserves with new technologies to produce syngas, methanol, and hydrogen, overcoming ash content issues.
• Biofuels: Link rural development with energy security through ethanol blending and compressed biogas (CBG) for fuel and soil improvement.
• Nuclear Energy: Revive the thorium roadmap and invest in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for dispatchable baseload power.
• Green Hydrogen: Localize electrolyser manufacturing and storage systems for sovereign hydrogen production.
• Pumped Hydro Storage: Build critical infrastructure for grid balancing and complementing intermittent renewables.

The Goal: Secure affordable, uninterrupted, and indigenous energy for economic stability and long-term strategic independence, moving from reactive responses to proactive foresight.

• Why: This is significant for understanding the region’s biodiversity and the dragonfly’s distribution.

• Why: This resolves earlier debates about photographic evidence and highlights potential ecological interactions.

• Why: This suggests a potential migration during the Pleistocene Ice Age, offering insights into historical biogeography.

• Why: It reinforces the need for continued conservation efforts in this biodiversity hotspot.

• Simplify admissions by trusting Class 12 board exams with an eligibility threshold (e.g., 80% in PCM).
• Implement a weighted lottery system for seat allocation, incorporating existing reservations and giving higher grades more weight, ensuring fair opportunity for all eligible students.
• Reserve 50% of IIT seats for rural students and those from government schools to promote social mobility.
• Curb coaching culture by banning or nationalizing centres, with the government providing free online study materials.
• Promote student exchange programmes and professor rotation among IITs to ensure uniform standards and dismantle hierarchies.

NHAI Launches ‘Project Aarohan’: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated ‘Project Aarohan’ to support the education of children of toll plaza employees.

Partnership and Implementation: The project is a collaboration with Vertis Infrastructure Trust and implemented by SMEC Trust’s Bharat Cares.

Target Beneficiaries: It focuses on children from economically weaker sections, prioritizing girls, first-generation learners, and those from marginalized communities (SC, ST, OBC, minority).

Financial Support: The initiative provides annual scholarships of Rs. 12,000 to 500 students from Class 11 to undergraduate level, and Rs. 50,000 each to 50 postgraduate students.

Holistic Development: Project Aarohan includes mentorship, skill development, and career guidance to prepare students for future opportunities.

Objective: The aim is to remove financial barriers, ensure equal access to quality education, bridge socio-economic disparities, and nurture talent.

Initial Fund Allocation: The first phase, spanning July 2025 to March 2026, has a fund allocation of Rs. 1 Crore.

Significance: It promotes educational equity, fosters inclusive growth by supporting vulnerable groups, and develops human capital for national development.

The “USD 125.8 billion by 2032” Figure: This figure is not directly explained or referenced in the provided text regarding Project Aarohan. It appears to be a separate data point or a potential future projection for a different sector, unrelated to the details of this specific educational initiative.

Why in News: Two Indian aquanauts recently dived into the Atlantic Ocean as part of preparations for the Samudrayaan Project.

What is Samudrayaan Project:

• India’s first human deep-sea mission.
• A key component of the Deep Ocean Mission.
• Aims to send three humans in a manned submersible to 6,000 meters depth by 2027.
• Will join an elite group of countries with manned deep-sea capability.

Key Objectives:

• Develop technologies for deep-sea mining, submersibles, and ocean robotics.
• Conduct surveys for mineral deposits, particularly polymetallic nodules (containing nickel, cobalt, rare earths).
• Develop an ocean climate change advisory service.
• Explore and conserve deep-sea biodiversity.
• Develop technologies for energy and freshwater from the ocean.
• Establish an advanced marine station for ocean biology and engineering.

Matsya-6000:

• India’s first self-propelled manned submersible.
• Carries three aquanauts for 12 hours, with emergency support for up to 96 hours.
• Made of titanium alloy with a spherical personnel sphere.
• Designed to withstand extreme pressure (600 bar) and low temperatures.
• Equipped with life-support, acoustic communication, and health monitoring systems.
• Developed collaboratively by NIOT, MoES, and ISRO.

Challenges:

• Vessel Development: Fabricating the titanium sphere with precise dimensions using electron beam welding.
• Maintaining Environment: Ensuring adequate life support within the submersible.
• Aquanaut Health: Physical fitness and managing personal needs during missions.
• Acoustic Communication: Developing reliable deep-water communication systems.

• Why: The court observed that social media influencers “commercialise free speech” and their content can harm the dignity of vulnerable groups (disabled, women, children, minorities). This is seen as an overlap of commercial and prohibited speech.

• Why: The court emphasized that criticism of jokes targeting disabled persons undermines efforts to integrate them into mainstream society. Guidelines should ensure consequences for violations proportionate to the harm.

• Why: Influencers commercializing free speech should be mindful of not hurting societal sentiments. The government’s objective for guidelines is sensitizing users and ensuring accountability for violations.

• Why: These frameworks provide “safe harbour” for intermediaries but also allow the government to block content and mandate platforms to ensure user safety and remove unlawful content.

• Why: These rulings establish the boundaries of free speech and privacy, influencing the need for regulations that respect these rights while addressing harmful content.

Supreme Court Regains Full Strength: The Supreme Court now has its sanctioned strength of 34 judges following the swearing-in of Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul M. Pancholi.

• Why it’s news: This restores the apex court to its complete judicial capacity, potentially aiding in faster case disposal.

Justice Pancholi’s Future Role: Justice Vipul M. Pancholi is positioned to become Chief Justice of India in 2031.

• Why it’s news: This highlights a future leadership succession within the highest judicial body.

Collegium Appointment with Dissent: The appointments were made by a 4:1 majority of the Collegium, with Justice B.V. Nagarathna dissenting due to seniority concerns.

• Why it’s news: It demonstrates internal deliberation within the Collegium and points to potential ongoing discussions about appointment criteria and seniority.

Constitutional Basis for Appointments: The appointments are governed by Article 124(2) of the Constitution, which involves presidential appointment after consultation with judges.

• Why it’s news: Reinforces the constitutional framework for judicial appointments and the role of the Collegium system.

Three Joint Doctrines Released: The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) has released three new joint doctrines for the Indian Armed Forces.

• Why: To improve integration, interoperability, and operational effectiveness across all domains (land, sea, air, space, cyber). This is a significant step towards the ongoing drive for jointness and the planned theaterisation of the forces.

Joint Doctrine for Special Forces (SF) Operations:

• Focus: Enhances interoperability between Army Para SF, Navy MARCOS, and IAF Garuds.
• Key Recommendations: Establishment of Joint Service Training Institutes (JsSTIs) as Centres of Excellence for advanced joint training in areas like night operations, adverse weather, electronic warfare, and precision-guided munitions.

Joint Doctrine for Airborne and Heliborne Operations:

• Focus: Emphasizes integration of advanced technology, joint service training, and tactical synergy.
• Goal: To ensure readiness for operations from peacetime engagements to high-intensity conflicts.

Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) Doctrine:

• Focus: Covers integration across land, sea, air, space, cyber, and cognitive domains.
• Aim: To empower decision-making and improve battlefield responsiveness.

Role of CDS: General Anil Chauhan, as CDS, is the principal military advisor to the Defence Minister and heads the Department of Military Affairs, promoting tri-service jointness.

Need for Ethanol Alternatives: Ethanol has lower energy content than petrol, absorbs water, is corrosive, competes with food crops, and can lead to deforestation and soil degradation, offsetting climate benefits.

Butanol and ABE Biofuels:

• Benefits: Higher energy content than ethanol, compatible with existing infrastructure.
• Challenges: Complex separation of multiple products, low economic viability at scale, requires advanced microbes and cost-efficient processing.

Biohydrogen:

• Benefits: High efficiency in fuel cells, produced from various substrates including waste.
• Challenges: Underdeveloped storage/distribution, oxygen-sensitive enzymes, high cost.

Photosynthetic Biohydrogen:

• Benefits: Carbon-neutral, uses sunlight, water, CO₂.
• Challenges: Oxygen-sensitive enzymes, low efficiency, high costs, difficult large-scale production.

Biodiesel:

• Benefits: Reduces CO₂ (up to 55%), SO₂, CO, and particulate emissions.
• Challenges: Can increase NOx and hydrocarbon emissions, potential mutagenic soot, issues with high free fatty acid feedstocks.

Chemically Synthesised Liquid Fuels:

• Benefits: Can reduce fossil fuel emissions by up to 90%, uses low-grade land.
• Challenges: High production costs, not yet viable at large scale.

Microalgal Biodiesel:

• Benefits: Higher productivity than land crops, can utilize CO₂ from power plants, doesn’t compete with food land.
• Challenges: Costly cultivation infrastructure, energy-intensive harvesting, limited large-scale commercialization.

Sustainability Concerns: Biofuels are sustainable only if feedstocks are renewable and supply is abundant, which is rarely met. Agricultural practices often degrade soil and water resources, creating irreversible environmental damage and a “carbon debt” from land-use changes.

Broader Energy Context: Biofuels are best viewed as part of a diversified renewable energy portfolio (solar, wind, etc.), not a sole solution. Biofuel economics can conflict with food production and export value.

Critically Low Numbers: Only about 10 vaquita porpoises, the world’s rarest marine mammal, remain. This extreme scarcity makes them highly vulnerable to extinction.

Primary Threat: Gillnet Bycatch: The main reason for their decline is being unintentionally caught and killed in illegal gillnets used to capture totoaba, an endangered fish highly valued for its swim bladder. This entanglement is the direct cause of their dwindling population.

Mexico’s Enforcement Failures: A report by the North American Environmental Commission (under USMCA) blames Mexico for failing to enforce its own wildlife protection and trade laws. This lack of enforcement allows illegal fishing to continue, directly imperiling the vaquita.

Unabated Illegal Fishing: Despite claims of enforcement, illegal gillnet fishing and totoaba trafficking continue at similar levels in the vaquita’s habitat. On-the-ground observations and interviews contradict Mexico’s assurances.

Insufficient Action on Protection Measures: Mexico has made little progress on measures required under international agreements, such as expanding vessel inspections and installing promised satellite trackers. Only 10 out of 850 planned trackers have been fitted.

Call for US Intervention: Experts urge the United States to use the USMCA to hold Mexico accountable and stop illegal fishing. The US can leverage the report’s findings in ongoing consultations and potentially escalate to dispute panels, which could authorize import penalties until Mexico enforces the gillnet ban.

• Why it’s news: Demonstrates progress and resilience in overcoming challenges for future missions.

• Why it’s news: Key to proving the reusability of both stages, a core design goal.

• Why it’s news: Crucial demonstrations for surviving deep-space conditions and re-entry, essential for lunar and Martian journeys.

• Why it’s news: Confirms Starship as a vital component for humanity’s expansion beyond Earth, promising revolutionized space access.

• Why it’s news: It’s the world’s largest rocket, offering unmatched payload capability and potential for ambitious space endeavors.

• Why it’s news: Aims to make space exploration and access significantly more economical and frequent.

UNGA Establishes AI Governance Mechanisms: The UN General Assembly has launched two new bodies to manage AI globally.

• Why: To harness AI benefits while addressing its risks, as stated by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Independent International Scientific Panel on AI: This panel will bridge AI research and policymaking.

• Why: To provide rigorous, independent scientific assessments that anticipate challenges and guide global AI regulation. It will present annual reports starting in 2026.

Global Dialogue on AI Governance: This will serve as an inclusive platform within the UN.

• Why: For states and stakeholders to discuss critical AI issues facing humanity today.

Milestone for Global Digital Compact: These initiatives represent a significant step forward in advancing the Global Digital Compact adopted in September 2024.

• Why: Demonstrates member nations’ dedication to this broader framework for digital cooperation.

India’s AI Governance Landscape: India currently lacks a dedicated AI law, relying on existing frameworks like the IT Act 2000 and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.

• Why: India’s approach is to regulate AI through current legal structures and national strategies like NITI Aayog’s. India is also active in global AI forums, showcasing its commitment to international AI discussions.

• Swiss cities dominate (Zurich #1, Geneva #3).
• Evaluates cities on health & safety, mobility, activities, opportunities, and governance.
• Dubai and Abu Dhabi show significant upward movement.
• New entrants include AlUla and Astana.

• Indian cities remain outside the top 20, ranking between 104 (Delhi) and 110 (Bengaluru).
• Progress in infrastructure and digital adoption is noted, but challenges persist in governance, mobility, and human development.

• Launched in June 2015 by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• Aims to develop cities with core infrastructure, sustainability, and good quality of life using “smart solutions.”
• Focuses on replicable “lighthouse” models for development.
• Implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
• Strategic components include area-based development (retrofitting, redevelopment, greenfield) and pan-city initiatives.
• Key focus areas: walkways, waste management, traffic management.
• Significant project completion rate (95% of 8,063 projects completed).

• Addresses the need for rural development given India’s majority rural population.
• Leverages technologies like IoT, AI, and digital connectivity for improved living standards.
• Aims to bridge the urban-rural divide and ensure inclusive growth.

• India’s first “Smart and Intelligent Village.”
• Features smart interventions in:
  • Agriculture: IoT sensors for water saving, reduced fertilizer costs, increased yield.
  • Fisheries: Water quality sensors to improve yield and reduce costs.
  • Drones: Precision spraying for fertilizers/pesticides, AI for pest detection, reducing chemical use.
  • Safety & Convenience: IoT streetlights for energy saving and safety, CCTV/drones for real-time monitoring.
  • Drinking Water: AI monitoring for water supply and quality.
  • Healthcare: On-site testing, telemedicine for remote consultations.
  • Education: Smart classrooms, e-learning platforms, high-speed Wi-Fi.
  • Security: Centralized control for emergency response integrated with police/disaster forces.
  • Waste Management: IoT-enabled bins for efficient collection and disposal.
  • Fire Control: Automatic extinguishers and drone deployment for remote areas.
• Managed by a Central Network Operations Centre (C-NOC) for device monitoring.

India’s Significant Participation: Over 700 Indian Armed Forces personnel (Army, Navy, Air Force) are participating in Exercise Bright Star 2025.

• Why: This demonstrates India’s commitment to regional security and its growing military capabilities. It allows for tri-service synergy and international military cooperation.

Multinational Scale: The exercise, hosted by Egypt and the US, is one of the largest in the Middle East, involving 43 nations (13 active contingents, 30 observers).

• Why: This highlights India’s engagement in a broad international defense forum, promoting interoperability and building relationships with diverse military forces.

Comprehensive Training: Activities include live firing, command post exercises, modern warfare training, and expert exchanges on cyber warfare and logistics.

• Why: This provides hands-on experience in complex joint operations, enhances India’s readiness for modern conflicts, and facilitates knowledge sharing on critical defense domains.

Enhancing Regional Stability: The exercise aims to boost interoperability, regional security, and defense diplomacy.

• Why: India’s participation directly contributes to peace and stability in the region and strengthens its position in coalition operations.

Robot Rabbits as a New Control Tool: Florida is testing robot rabbits that mimic the heat and scent of real prey to lure invasive Burmese pythons. This is significant because it offers a novel approach to overcoming the pythons’ strong camouflage.

Devastating Ecological Impact: Burmese pythons have caused severe declines in native wildlife in Florida, with some prey populations, like rabbits, dropping by over 95% since 1997. Their lack of predators and effective camouflage allows them to decimate local ecosystems.

Limited Effectiveness of Current Methods: While methods like hunting contests and tracking devices are used, the success of the robot rabbit strategy could significantly improve python capture rates.

Restoring Florida’s Ecosystem: If successful, robot rabbits could become a crucial tool for ecological restoration in the Everglades, helping to bring back native species.

Burmese Pythons: An Invasive Threat: Originally from Southeast Asia, these large, non-venomous constrictors became invasive in Florida, likely through the pet trade. They prey on a wide variety of animals, including alligators.

• Why it’s news: This highlights the current government’s acknowledgment and commemoration of significant historical figures who fought for social reform.

• Why it’s news: It underscores the enduring relevance of his struggles for equality and justice in contemporary India.

• Why it’s news: These specific historical actions exemplify his practical and impactful approach to social change.

• Why it’s news: His focus on fundamental rights like education and public access remains a crucial aspect of the ongoing fight for social justice.

• Why it’s news: It connects Ayyankali’s historical impact to the present-day pursuit of a just and equitable society.

• Why it’s news: This adds another dimension to his legacy, emphasizing the role of education in empowerment.

• Why: To provide continued support and financial inclusion to street vendors.

• Why: To expand the scheme’s reach and empower more vendors.

• Why: To provide greater working capital for business needs and expansion.

• Why: To offer quick access to credit for business and personal needs, promoting digital financial inclusion.

• Why: To reach a wider base of street vendors in diverse urban and semi-urban settings.

• Why: To ensure holistic socio-economic development and welfare for vendors and their families.

• Why: To improve business management, digital adoption, and hygiene standards for vendors.

• Why: To ensure efficient facilitation of loans and credit cards through banks and financial institutions.

• Why: To encourage and boost digital transaction adoption among street vendors.

• Why: Acknowledges the scheme’s success in innovation, digital transformation, economic boost, and financial inclusion.

Rare Quadruple Star System Discovered: Astronomers found a system with four stars (UPM J1040-3551 AabBab) in our galaxy.

• Why it’s news: Quadruple star systems are uncommon, making this discovery significant.

System Composition: It consists of two pairs of cold brown dwarfs orbiting two young red dwarf stars.

• Why it’s news: Brown dwarfs are “failed stars” and rarely found in pairs, so having two pairs within one system is exceptionally rare.

Significance for Astronomy: The discovery offers new insights into star and planet formation and galactic celestial body behavior.

• Why it’s news: Studying these rare configurations helps astronomers understand fundamental processes in the universe, such as stellar evolution and planetary formation.

Fiji PM’s India Visit: Fiji PM Sitiveni Rabuka’s visit signals a deepening strategic partnership, particularly in defence and maritime security, aligning with India’s Indo-Pacific vision.

Defence and Maritime Cooperation:

• Establishment of a Defence Attaché post in Suva.
• Planned Indian naval port call to Fiji.
• Gift of two sea ambulances and a Cyber Security Training Cell to Fiji.
• Enhanced cooperation in peacekeeping, military medicine, and white shipping.
• India’s assurance to support the monitoring of Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Indo-Pacific Partnership:

• Both nations reaffirmed commitment to a free, open, secure, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
• India’s support for Fiji’s ‘Ocean of Peace’ initiative.
• Fiji is seen as a key partner against China’s growing influence in the region.

Key Agreements & Initiatives:

• MoU for a 100-bed Super Specialty Hospital in Suva, the largest Indian grant project in the Pacific.
• Supply of medicines under the Jan Aushadhi scheme.
• Declaration of Intent on migration and mobility.
• Provision of agricultural support (drones, soil testing labs, seeds) and training for Fiji’s sugar industry.

Historical Ties & Forums:

• Relations rooted in the indenture system (1879-1916) and strong people-to-people connections.
• Active participation in FIPIC and the International Solar Alliance.

Significance for India: Fiji’s strategic location in the South Pacific is crucial for India’s Indo-Pacific strategy, and Fiji’s alignment on regional security matters is beneficial.

Why in News: India’s economic growth is increasingly driven by women’s higher workforce participation, entrepreneurship, and access to finance, making their empowerment central to the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

Significant Surge in Female Workforce Participation:

• Women’s employment rate (WPR) rose from 22% (2017-18) to 40.3% (2023-24).
• Female unemployment dropped from 5.6% to 3.2%.
• Rural female employment grew by 96%; urban by 43%.
• 1.56 crore women joined the formal workforce in seven years.
• Employability of female graduates increased from 42% (2013) to 47.53% (2024).

Shift from Women Development to Women-Led Development:

• Gender budgets increased by 429% over a decade (₹0.85 lakh crore to ₹4.49 lakh crore).
• Nearly 50% of DPIIT registered startups have at least one woman director.
• Two crore women have become Lakhpati Didis.
• Women-led MSMEs nearly doubled from 1 crore (2010-11) to 1.92 crore (2023-24).
• 89 lakh additional jobs for women generated by women-led MSMEs (FY21–FY23).

Financial Inclusion:

• Women received 68% of MUDRA loans (₹14.72 lakh crore).
• 44% of PM SVANidhi beneficiaries are women street vendors.

Significance of Women-Led Development:

• Transforms women from welfare recipients to agents of change.
• Aims to reduce gender inequality (India ranked 131st globally).
• Potential 30% GDP increase by bridging the gender employment gap.
• Boosts productivity, innovation, and inclusive decision-making.

INS Himgiri & INS Udaygiri Commissioned: Two advanced Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) multi-mission stealth frigates have joined the Indian Navy.

Stealth & Modernization: These frigates feature enhanced stealth capabilities through improved hull design and advanced weapon systems compared to previous classes.

Indigenous Development Milestone: This marks the first time two major surface combatants were commissioned simultaneously from different Indian shipyards (GRSE and MDL). INS Udaygiri is also the 100th ship designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau.

Advanced Capabilities: Equipped with BrahMos missiles, Barak-8 missiles, supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, medium-range surface-to-air missiles, and advanced radars, they are designed for ‘Blue Water’ operations and can handle diverse threats.

Economic Impact: The project involved over 200 MSMEs, supporting significant direct and indirect employment.

Self-Reliance Focus: The commissioning underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in warship design and construction, with around 75% of equipment and systems sourced from indigenous firms.

Legacy Continues: Both ships revive historic names of earlier frigates that played key roles in significant naval operations.

Future Outlook: Project 17 Bravo (P-17B), the next phase of stealth frigates with even more advanced features, is already approved and in the pipeline.

Successful Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-1) conducted.

• Why: To test the parachute-based deceleration system essential for the safe landing of the Gaganyaan crew module.

Test Details: A 5-tonne dummy crew capsule was dropped from 3 km by an Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter.

• Why: To simulate the descent and splashdown conditions the crew module will experience during its return from space.

Sequential Parachute Deployment: The parachutes deployed in a staged manner.

• Why: This validates the entire parachute system’s effectiveness in slowing down the capsule for a safe landing.

Inter-agency Collaboration: Supported by IAF, DRDO, and Coast Guard.

• Why: Showcases the integrated effort of multiple Indian agencies in developing critical spaceflight technologies, contributing to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) in space.

Validation for Human Certification: This test is part of multiple trials to ensure the safety of parachute systems, crew escape, and other subsystems for human spaceflight.

• Why: Crucial for certifying the Gaganyaan mission for carrying astronauts, a significant step in India’s human spaceflight ambitions.

Foundation for Future Goals: Gaganyaan is the first step towards India’s long-term space goals, including a space station by 2035 and a crewed lunar landing by 2040.

• Why: Demonstrates India’s growing capability and ambition in space exploration, positioning it among elite spacefaring nations.

Migrant Invisibility in Urban Planning: Despite contributing significantly to India’s urban economy and forming a substantial portion of the urban population (34.6%), migrants are largely excluded from urban planning, governance, and policy agendas. This leads to their marginalization in destination cities.

• Why in News: This invisibility was starkly highlighted during the COVID-19 lockdown when millions of migrants were left without support and forced to undertake arduous journeys home, revealing their lack of integration into urban welfare systems. The proposed National Migration Policy (2021) remains unimplemented.

Saskia Sassen’s “Global City” Concept: Cities like Indian metros rely heavily on cheap, flexible migrant labor for essential services (construction, domestic work, gig economy) but often fail to provide them with recognition, rights, or a voice in city planning, effectively making them “invisible.”

• Why in News: This paradox of cities thriving on migrant labor while denying their visibility is a persistent issue in India’s urban experience.

Epistemic and Symbolic Violence:

• Epistemic Violence (Gayatri Spivak): Knowledge production and policy-making often ignore or misrepresent migrants, creating an “elite vision” of cities (e.g., Smart City Mission focusing on technology and middle-class lifestyles), thus marginalizing migrant realities.
• Symbolic Violence (Pierre Bourdieu): Inequality faced by migrants (lack of access to housing, ration cards) is normalized as bureaucratic issues, masking the underlying systemic exclusion and making it seem natural or inevitable.
• Why in News: These concepts help explain how the Smart Cities Mission’s focus on technological advancement and aesthetic infrastructure (metros, flyovers) often prioritizes middle-class concerns, inadvertently sidelining migrants and informal workers, making their marginalization appear acceptable.

Smart Cities Mission vs. Inclusive Cities: The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) has invested heavily in visible infrastructure and IT-based solutions, leading to technological advancement. However, it has often created “exclusive spaces” and prioritized elite concerns, failing to become socially just and inclusive for migrants and the urban poor.

• Why in News: While SCM projects are largely completed, their focus on “aesthetic infrastructure” over equitable planning means cities are becoming “smart” technologically but not socially fair or inclusive.

Need for Inclusive Urbanism:

• Stakeholder Inclusion: Migrants must be involved in city development boards and ward committees.
• Social Protection: Ensuring portability of ration cards, access to healthcare, housing rights, and voting rights for internal migrants.
• Equity-Driven Planning: Shifting focus from aesthetic infrastructure to affordable housing, transport, and public services for all.
• Redefining Urban Citizenship: Embracing migrants as rightful stakeholders and acknowledging their diversity, rather than viewing them as “outsiders.”
• Why in News: As India urbanizes rapidly, building inclusive cities is a moral, constitutional, and critical necessity to ensure social justice and sustainable urban development, moving beyond the current exclusionary, class-focused governance models.

Why in News: India’s 79th Independence Day highlights the crucial, often overlooked, role of women in the freedom struggle, who fought both British rule and social restrictions.

Active Participation in Mass Movements:

• Mobilized support, strengthened nationalism, inspired by “Bharat Mata.”
• Non-Cooperation Movement: Boycotted goods, promoted khadi, courted imprisonment.
• Salt Satyagraha: Led marches, picketed, mobilized rural women.
• Quit India Movement: Organized rallies, ran underground radios, ensured continuity.

Revolutionary Contributions:

• Participated in armed raids and underground networks (e.g., Pritilata Waddedar, Kalpana Dutta).
• Smuggled arms, distributed pamphlets, coordinated covert resistance.
• Became symbols of sacrifice (e.g., Rani Laxmibai, Matangini Hazra).

Leadership and Organizational Role:

• Formed women’s organizations (AIWC, WIA) for political and social reform.
• Key leaders (Sarojini Naidu, Aruna Asaf Ali) guided protests and fostered female leadership.

Social Reform and Gender Empowerment:

• Promoted women’s education, legal equality, and fought against child marriage and purdah.
• Linked social reform with political activism through khadi promotion and literacy drives.

Iconic Women Leaders: Rani Lakshmibai, Rani Chennamma, Savitribai Phule, Pandita Ramabai, Sarojini Naidu, Sucheta Kripalani, Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, Rani Gaidinliu, Annie Besant, Kamala Nehru, Aruna Roy, Bhikaiji Cama, Aruna Asaf Ali, Kasturba Gandhi, Fatima Sheikh, Rukmini Devi Arundale, Usha Mehta, Bina Das, Pritilata Waddedar, Kalpana Datta, Kamala Das Gupta, Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, Labanya Prabha Ghosh, Matangini Hazra.

Methods of Resistance: Ranged from armed assaults and weapon smuggling to intellectual resistance, literary activism, and covert courier work.

Challenging Norms: Women defied caste, gender, and societal orthodoxies, proving they were “equal tacticians and partners” in the struggle.

Foundational Architects: Women were not just participants but architects of India’s freedom, merging political struggle with social liberation.

Advancing Defense Framework: India and the US are working on a new 10-year defense framework to boost defense production, cooperation, and industrial ties. This signifies a commitment to deepening military partnership and technology sharing.

Strengthening Trade and Energy Security: Discussions included enhancing trade and investment, civil-nuclear cooperation, and critical minerals exploration, indicating a focus on economic and energy interdependence.

Reaffirming Indo-Pacific Commitment via Quad: Both nations reaffirmed their dedication to a secure, strong, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region through the Quad. This is particularly timely as India prepares to host the 2025 Quad Leaders Summit, highlighting the alliance’s strategic importance.

First Bilateral Contact Amidst Tariffs: This dialogue served as the first official communication after recent US tariffs on Indian goods, signifying a diplomatic effort to manage tensions and maintain bilateral engagement despite economic disputes.

COMPACT Framework Advancement: Cooperation will be strengthened under the US-India COMPACT framework, aimed at accelerating military partnership, commerce, and technology for the future.

Why in News: Parliamentary Standing Committee highlights escalating cyber threats and calls for better public awareness, cyber safety, and digital security due to increased internet use and online transactions.

Key Cyber Threats:

• Financial Frauds: Surge in phishing, ransomware, identity theft, UPI, and online banking scams (1.91 million complaints in 2024).
• Ransomware & Malware: Targeting hospitals, government, and private enterprises (e.g., AIIMS Delhi attack).
• Critical Infrastructure Vulnerability: Risks to power grids, telecom, nuclear facilities from cyber sabotage (e.g., Kudankulam attack).
• Data Breaches: Large-scale personal data leaks from government and private sectors (e.g., Air India breach).
• Deepfakes & Misinformation: Threatening social cohesion and elections through AI-generated fake content.
• Dark Web: Exploited for radicalization, illegal trade, and terror financing.

Factors Undermining Framework:

• Inadequate Laws: Existing laws like IT Act, 2000, lack provisions for AI/deepfake threats; DPDP Act, 2023 needs strong enforcement.
• Skilled Professional Shortage: Significant gap in cybersecurity experts (need 1 million, have less than half).
• Rapid Digitalization & Low Awareness: Increased threats alongside low cyber hygiene and limited digital literacy, especially in rural areas.
• Weak Critical Infrastructure Protection: Outdated protocols, reliance on imported equipment.
• Fragmented Agency Coordination: Limited cooperation between agencies like CERT-In and NCIIPC.

Strengthening Measures:

• Strengthen Legal Framework: Update IT Act for AI/deepfakes; enforce DPDP Act.
• Institutional Reforms: Mandate cybersecurity audits, establish district-level units.
• Secure Critical Infrastructure: Enforce 2FA, encryption, real-time monitoring, Zero-Trust Architecture.
• Promote Indigenous Solutions: Support “Make in India” tools and AI-based threat detection startups.
• Improve Cyber Hygiene: Launch nationwide literacy campaigns in regional languages; integrate cybersecurity in education.

Why in News: RBI affirmed the successful performance of the Flexible Inflation Targeting (FIT) framework in maintaining price stability, with inflation remaining low and stable since its introduction.

What is FIT:

• Adopted in 2016 based on Urjit Patel Committee recommendations.
• Aimed to improve monetary policy credibility after high inflation post-Global Financial Crisis.
• Targets CPI inflation at 4% with a ±2% tolerance band (2%-6%).
• Allows short-term deviations to manage supply shocks and economic crises, prioritizing growth during downturns while returning to the target medium-term.

Performance:

• Successes: Achieved disinflation (average 4.9% post-FIT vs 6.8% pre-FIT), anchored expectations, increased transparency via MPC, and provided policy flexibility during crises.
• Challenges: Faced exogenous shocks (pandemic, conflicts), an outdated CPI base year, and periodic dissent/interference within the MPC.

Key Debates:

• Headline vs. Core Inflation:
  • Headline: More representative, global norm, aligns with household experience.
  • Core: More stable, better reflects demand pressures, avoids reacting to supply shocks.
• Point Target vs. Range-Only:
  • Point Target (4% with band): Clear anchor for expectations, promotes clarity and accountability.
  • Range-Only: Greater flexibility, acknowledges forecasting limits, avoids over-tightening.

Way Forward:

• Revise CPI base year.
• Retain core FIT tenets and adaptability.
• Strengthen policy credibility through consistency.
• Address food-energy shocks via complementary supply-side management.

India-EAEU FTA Negotiations Launched: India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) to start negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

• Why in News: This development follows stalled trade talks with the US and rising US tariff threats, signaling India’s move towards trade diversification.

EAEU Overview: An international organization for regional economic integration, established in 2015, comprising Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, and the Russian Federation. Its aim is free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor.

Significance for India:

• Market Access: Provides access to a USD 6.5 trillion market, boosting Indian exports (textiles, pharmaceuticals, engineering, electronics) and benefiting MSMEs.
• Trade Diversification: Reduces dependence on US/EU markets amid tariff disputes and strengthens the India-EAEU economic partnership, with bilateral trade reaching USD 69 billion in 2024.
• Energy Security: Offers access to abundant natural resources and energy vital for India’s growth.
• Connectivity Boost: Complements initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and Chennai–Vladivostok Corridor.

Challenges:

• Trade Deficit: Significant trade deficit with Russia.
• Geopolitical Sensitivity: Potential alarm to NATO/Western allies due to the Russia-led deal and sanctions.
• Domestic Industry Concerns: Risk of cheap imports impacting Indian producers.
• Low FTA Utilization: India’s existing FTAs are underutilized.
• Non-Tariff Barriers: Bureaucratic delays and complex customs procedures.
• SPS Standards: Strict sanitary and phytosanitary standards hindering agricultural exports.
• Dollar Dependency: Reliance on the US dollar for trade, with limited local currency mechanisms.

Extreme heat is a growing global health risk for workers: Climate change is causing more frequent and intense heatwaves (40-50°C+), impacting workers indoors and out.

• Why it’s news: This highlights a tangible, present danger from climate change affecting a significant portion of the workforce.

Productivity and health are severely impacted: Worker productivity drops by 2-3% for every degree above 20°C. Heat stress leads to heatstroke, dehydration, kidney, and neurological disorders.

• Why it’s news: Quantifies the economic and physical toll of heat on workers, showing a direct link between heat and decreased output/health issues.

Millions of workers are at risk: Over 2.4 billion workers globally face excessive heat, resulting in 22.85 million occupational injuries annually. Heat stress is now spreading beyond traditional hot regions.

• Why it’s news: Emphasizes the sheer scale of the problem and its expanding reach, affecting a vast number of individuals and causing widespread injuries.

Vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected: Manual laborers (agriculture, construction, fisheries), older adults, low-income groups, and children/elderly in developing nations are at higher risk.

• Why it’s news: Identifies specific groups that need immediate attention and targeted support, highlighting an issue of inequality exacerbated by climate change.

Urgent policy and practical solutions are needed: Recommendations include developing occupational heat-health policies, raising awareness, co-creating strategies, and implementing affordable, sustainable solutions.

• Why it’s news: Provides actionable steps for governments, employers, and workers, indicating a clear path forward to mitigate the risks.

Aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals: The report supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

• Why it’s news: Frames the issue within a global framework for development, underscoring its importance for broader societal progress.

India partners with World Food Programme (WFP) to supply fortified rice: A Letter of Intent signed signifies India’s commitment to using its agricultural surplus to support vulnerable populations globally, addressing food and nutritional needs in crisis zones.

• Why in News: This collaboration directly aids in fighting global hunger by leveraging India’s resources for humanitarian distribution.

India’s role as a major global producer and exporter: India is a food-surplus nation and a leading producer of milk, pulses, spices, and grains, exporting various products to support global nutrition.

Champion of food security solutions: India shares agricultural technology and seeds, implements domestic programs like the National Food Security Act and POSHAN Abhiyaan as replicable models, and provides humanitarian food aid to crisis-hit countries.

Advocacy in international forums: India champions developing nations’ rights in WTO negotiations, particularly concerning public stockholding for food security.

Promotion of climate-resilient agriculture: India promotes millets as a sustainable solution to global hunger, aligning with climate-smart practices.

Key Challenges & Solutions:

• Food Wastage: Improve storage and transportation, invest in cold chains.
• Climate Change Vulnerability: Implement climate-resilient agriculture schemes, promote crop diversification, and expand drip irrigation.
• Nutritional Challenges: Fortify foods with micronutrients, implement supplementation programs.
• Public Distribution System (PDS) Issues: Enhance digital tracking, transform fair price shops, and strengthen the One Nation One Ration Card plan.

Contribution to SDGs: India’s efforts directly contribute to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Chalk9 Gene Identified for Rice Chalkiness: Scientists discovered the Chalk9 gene controlling chalkiness, a trait causing brittle, opaque grains that reduce milling yield and commercial value.

• Why: Chalkiness lowers rice quality. Identifying Chalk9 provides a direct target to reduce this trait.

Mechanism of Chalkiness: Chalk9, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, tags the protein OsEBP89 for degradation. OsEBP89 regulates genes (Wx and SSP) involved in starch synthesis and storage.

• Why: Controlling OsEBP89 levels via Chalk9 directly influences starch accumulation, impacting grain translucency and brittleness.

Breeding for Improved Quality: Rice varieties with the low-chalkiness version (Chalk9-L) have become more common since the 1990s due to breeding efforts aimed at reducing chalkiness.

• Why: This shows a historical shift towards prioritizing grain quality through genetic selection and offers a straightforward method for breeders to introduce Chalk9-L.

Other Key Genetic Determinants:

• Pi54, Pi9: Confer blast disease resistance, crucial for durable disease tolerance.
• BADH2: Regulates aroma, a marker for premium fragrant rice.
• Sd1: Controls semi-dwarfing, key to the Green Revolution’s yield boost.
• Saltol QTL: Provides salt tolerance at the seedling stage, vital for coastal and saline areas.
• Why: These genes highlight the broader genetic basis of rice quality and resilience, essential for food security and agricultural advancement.

Rice’s Importance in India: Rice is a staple food, grown on 25% of cropped area, with India as the second-largest producer and largest exporter.

• Why: Understanding rice genetics is critical for India’s agricultural economy and food supply.

Nepal Joins International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA): Nepal has officially become a member of the IBCA by signing the Framework Agreement.

• Why in News: This signifies Nepal’s commitment to global big cat conservation efforts.

IBCA Overview: An India-led global coalition of over 90 countries focused on conserving seven big cat species and their habitats.

• Why in News: Highlights the growing international cooperation for wildlife protection.

Nepal’s Conservation Success: Nepal has significantly increased its tiger population, tripling it from 121 in 2009 to 355 in 2022.

• Why in News: Demonstrates Nepal’s capability and dedication to conservation, making it a valuable partner for the IBCA.

IBCA Objectives: The alliance aims to curb illegal wildlife trade, conserve habitats, mobilize resources, and mitigate climate change impacts on big cats.

• Why in News: Nepal’s membership supports these crucial conservation goals.

Focus Species: The IBCA covers Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.

• Why in News: Nepal’s participation directly contributes to the conservation of species like the tiger and potentially snow leopards, which inhabit its region.

Supreme Court Collegium Recommended Elevations: The Collegium, led by CJI B.R. Gavai, recommended Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul Manubhai Pancholi for elevation to the Supreme Court.

• Why News: This is the operational aspect of the Collegium system, showing recent activity in judicial appointments at the highest level.

Collegium System Appoints Higher Judiciary: Judges of High Courts and the Supreme Court are appointed through this system, not directly by the President.

• Why News: Highlights the unique mechanism for judicial appointments in India, distinguishing it from direct executive appointment.

Unwritten Constitutional Basis: The term “collegium” is not in the Constitution but was established through Supreme Court judgments.

• Why News: Emphasizes the judicial creation and evolution of a critical institutional process.

Evolution of the Collegium:

• First Judges Case (1981): Allowed the CJI’s recommendation to be refused for valid reasons.
• Second Judges Case (1993): Established the Collegium as an institutional opinion of the CJI and two senior-most judges, meaning “consultation” is “concurrence.”
• Third Judges Case (1998): Expanded the Collegium to a five-member body (CJI + four senior-most judges).
• Why News: Shows the historical development and increasing scope of the Collegium’s power and composition, demonstrating its dynamic nature.

ICMR Initiative: India expands wastewater surveillance to 50 cities, monitoring 10 viruses over six months, aiming for an early-warning system.

Purpose: To detect early signs of infectious disease outbreaks like COVID-19, polio, influenza, and other viral threats, including those causing fever, diarrhea, encephalitis, and respiratory distress.

Wastewater Surveillance Explained: Collects and tests sewage samples for pathogens (viruses, bacteria) using Wastewater-Based Epidemiology (WBE).

WBE Advantages:

• Population-wide: Captures infections from asymptomatic/pre-symptomatic individuals, providing a community-level snapshot.
• Early Detection: Identifies rising virus loads and predicts outbreaks before clinical symptoms.
• Cost-Effective: Cheaper than mass individual testing, reducing healthcare burden.
• Targeted Interventions: Pinpoints hotspots for focused public health action.
• Non-invasive: Monitors health trends without individual participation.

How it Works: Wastewater operators collect samples before treatment; labs test for viral/bacterial load, with results typically in 5-7 days.

Broader Applications: Beyond public health, it aids in identifying land-based pollution sources and protecting freshwater/marine ecosystems.

Context: Driven by the increasing emergence of pathogens due to population growth, urbanization, environmental changes, and human-animal interaction.

Integration: Complements existing surveillance systems like ILI, SARI, and IDSP.

Way Forward: Expansion to rural areas, integration with digital health platforms, capacity building, and global data sharing are crucial.

US-Sahel Relations Reset: Under Trump, the US reset relations with West African military leaders.

• Why it’s news: This signifies a shift in US foreign policy towards a transactional approach in the region.

Mutual Back-Scratching Deal: The US bartered anti-jihadist help for the Sahel’s mining riches.

• Why it’s news: It highlights the strategic and economic motivations behind US engagement in the Sahel, prioritizing resource access alongside security.

Sahel Region Overview: A vast, arid, semi-arid stretch of land in Africa from the Atlantic to the Red Sea.

• Why it’s news: Provides essential geographical context for understanding the region’s challenges and strategic importance.

Historical Crossroads and Conflict Seeds: Historically a trade crossroads, European colonization disrupted tribal boundaries, sowing seeds for current conflicts.

• Why it’s news: Explains the deep-rooted historical factors contributing to ongoing instability and conflict in the Sahel.

Global Economic Cost: Invasive Alien Species (IAS) have cost over $2.2 trillion globally between 1960-2022, with management costs potentially underestimated by 16 times.

• Why in News: A recent study highlights the massive, often hidden, economic burden of IAS.

India’s Hidden Costs: India shows a staggering 1.16 billion percent discrepancy in reported management costs, indicating gross underestimation of financial and administrative measures.

• Why in News: This highlights a significant financial drain and lack of comprehensive data collection in India.

What are IAS: Non-native organisms that establish self-sustaining populations, outcompeting native species and disrupting ecosystems. They “arrive, survive, and thrive.”

• Definition: Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India).

Drivers of IAS Spread: Globalisation (trade, travel), climate change (creating favourable conditions), habitat disturbance, and deliberate human introduction for various purposes.

• Examples: African catfish, Water Hyacinth, Lantana, Parthenium hysterophorus.

Key Impacts:

• Ecological: Major driver of biodiversity loss, causing decline/extinction of native species, disrupting ecosystems.
• Economic: Substantial financial burdens on agriculture, forestry, fisheries; plants are most damaging.
• Health: Transmit diseases (malaria, Zika), cause allergies/toxicity.
• Threat Multiplier: Alter fire regimes, reduce carbon sequestration, weaken climate regulation, exacerbated by climate change.

Challenges for India: Underreporting and lack of data, resource constraints, high eradication costs, policy gaps, and weak enforcement.

• Way Forward: Strengthen data systems, allocate dedicated resources, promote community-centric solutions (biological control, participation), fortify policies and inter-agency coordination.

Management Strategies: Prevention, eradication, control, suppression, and slowing the spread. International agreements like the Ballast Water Management Convention are crucial.

• Conclusion: Requires strong institutions, integration with biodiversity-climate strategies, and community involvement.

Andhra Pradesh’s Greenfield Airport Push: The state plans to develop new airports at Srikakulam, Bhogapuram, Tuni–Annavaram, Tadepalligudem, Ongole, Dagadarthi, Kuppam, and Nagarjuna Sagar. This signifies a significant expansion of aviation infrastructure in the region.

What are Greenfield Airports? These are entirely new airports built on undeveloped land, offering a fresh start without the complexities of existing infrastructure. Pakyong Airport in Sikkim is India’s first in the Northeast.

Regulatory Framework: The Greenfield Airports (GFA) Policy, 2008, governs their development. Proposals require a two-stage approval process from the Ministry of Civil Aviation: Site-Clearance and then In-Principle approval.

Benefits of Greenfield Development:

• Faster Construction: Building from scratch eliminates demolition, leading to quicker and more efficient development.
• Improved Connectivity: Enhances both regional and international air travel.
• Decongestion: Alleviates pressure on already crowded urban airports.
• Economic Boost: Stimulates investment and trade in surrounding areas.
• Sustainability: Allows for the integration of eco-friendly practices, such as green energy and sustainable construction methods.

100th Anniversary Commemoration: Delhi Legislative Assembly hosted the All India Speakers’ Conference to mark 100 years since Vithalbhai Patel became President of the Central Legislative Assembly.

Vithalbhai Patel’s Significance: Celebrated as the first Indian Speaker of the Central Legislative Assembly, marking a significant step in India’s parliamentary journey.

Early Political Career: Patel was elected to the Bombay Legislative Council (1912) and Imperial Legislative Council (1918). He later co-founded the Swaraj Party with C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru after leaving Congress.

Parliamentary Reforms: Patel played a crucial role in shaping India’s parliamentary traditions by:

• Establishing the ward and watch system for Parliament security, preserving the Speaker’s control.
• Defending Parliament’s security against British takeover attempts, upholding the Speaker’s authority.
• Creating an independent Parliament Secretariat for unbiased advice and functioning.
• Leading the establishment of a separate department for the legislative body, enhancing Speaker’s autonomy.

National Recognition: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will release a postal stamp in Patel’s honor, highlighting his lasting legacy.

Supreme Court forms SIT to probe Vantara: The Supreme Court has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by former judge Justice J. Chelameswar.

• Why: To independently assess allegations and complaints of violations against Vantara.

Vantara’s Nature and Purpose: Vantara is a private, non-commercial wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre.

• Why: It’s presented as a philanthropic initiative by Reliance Foundation, led by Anant Ambani, focused on animal care and conservation, not recreation.

Location and Scale: Situated on 3,500 acres within the Jamnagar Refinery Township in Gujarat.

• Why: Highlights its significant size and private management, distinguishing it as the largest facility of its kind in India.

Facilities: Includes the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC) and a specialized Elephant Centre with advanced care features.

• Why: Showcases the infrastructure and resources dedicated to animal welfare and rehabilitation.

CBSE Introduces Open-Book Assessments (OBEs): CBSE will implement OBEs for Class IX from the 2026–27 academic session.

What is OBE? Students can use notes, textbooks, or approved materials. Focus shifts from memory/recall to understanding, application, and analysis.

Benefits:

• Promotes higher-order thinking (analysis, application, problem-solving).
• Reduces exam anxiety by focusing on understanding, not rote memorization.
• Encourages deeper learning through note organization and better comprehension.
• Develops resource management, information synthesis, and critical reasoning.
• Mirrors professional environments where information access and application are key.

Challenges:

• Student Readiness: Many students are accustomed to memorization and may struggle with analytical thinking and applying knowledge to new contexts.
• Teacher Preparedness: Teachers often lack training in designing higher-order questions and evaluating responses.
• Systemic/Cultural Factors: A culture that glorifies memorization, exam pressures, syllabus demands, and parental expectations perpetuate rote learning.
• Shortage of Trained Teachers: Limited opportunities for professional development hinder the adoption of effective teaching methods.

Necessary Steps:

• OBEs should complement, not replace, other assessment methods.
• Teachers need training in Bloom’s Taxonomy to design higher-order questions (analysis, evaluation, creation, problem-solving).
• Foster critical thinking through classroom debates, discussions, and collaborative projects.
• Focus on nurturing critical thinking and application, not just introducing OBEs.

Conclusion: OBEs can shift Indian education from rote learning to creativity and analysis, but require adequate teacher training and student guidance to be effective; otherwise, they risk becoming a “hollow exercise.”

Criticism of 50% Price Hike on Essential Drugs: The Parliamentary Standing Committee criticized the NPPA for allowing a 50% price increase on 11 essential drug formulations in 2024, impacting treatments for bacterial infections, asthma, and bipolar disorder.

• Why in News: This decision raises concerns about public health and the affordability of critical medicines.

Limited Justification for Price Increases: The committee found NPPA’s justifications (production costs, APIs, exchange rates) inadequate, as they didn’t sufficiently consider the impact on patient affordability.

• Why in News: Lack of affordability consideration directly affects patient access to necessary treatments.

Regulatory Gaps in Cancer Drug Pricing: A significant number of oncology medicines remain outside price control, leading to high and unaffordable prices for cancer drugs.

• Why in News: This severely restricts patient access to life-saving cancer treatments.

Recommendations for NPPA:

• Reconsider Price Hike Mechanism: NPPA should re-evaluate its process to ensure price increases are reasonable and affordable.
• Expand Price Control on Critical Drugs: Government should broaden price control, especially for oncology drugs.
• Ensure Transparency: Future price hikes need transparency and clear criteria prioritizing public welfare.
• Strengthen Oversight on Non-Essential Drugs: NPPA should monitor non-essential drugs to limit unjustified MRP increases to 10% annually.
• Regular Monitoring and Inclusion: Continue monitoring drug prices and include more medicines under price control for broader affordability.
• Why in News: These recommendations aim to improve affordability, accessibility, and regulatory oversight of medicines in India.

NPPA’s Role: NPPA is India’s independent regulator for drug pricing, ensuring availability and affordability, balancing consumer needs with industry growth.

• Why in News: NPPA’s actions directly impact the pharmaceutical landscape and public health in India, often referred to as the “Pharmacy of the World.”

Why in News: A parliamentary committee wants the fertilizer sector reclassified as ‘strategic,’ arguing its current ‘non-strategic’ status contradicts India’s self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) goals, especially with high import dependency and food security risks.

Link to Food Security: Fertilizers are vital for agricultural productivity. High import reliance (urea 25%, phosphates 90%, potash 100%) necessitates strengthening domestic fertilizer PSUs for production, price stability, and disaster resilience.

Low PSU Market Share: PSUs contribute only ~25% of urea and ~11% of non-urea fertilizer production, with the private sector dominating. PSUs act as price stabilizers for small farmers, highlighting the need for strategic status.

Recommendations:

• Classify the sector as ‘strategic’ to attract investment and align with Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Launch a mission to upgrade PSU technology, diversify products, and adopt sustainable practices.

Fertilizer’s Role in Economy: Agriculture contributes ~16% to GDP and supports over 46% of the population. India is the 2nd largest user and 3rd largest producer globally.

Import Dependency: Despite increased domestic production, India imports significant quantities of fertilizers, particularly potash (100% imported) and DAP (60% imported).

Sustainability Push: Initiatives like ONOF (One Nation One Fertilizer), nano-fertilizers, neem-coated urea, PM-PRANAM scheme, and the Soil Health Card scheme aim for efficiency and reduced chemical reliance.

Challenges to Strategic Status: Global supply agreements reduce the need for large strategic reserves. Old PSU plants are inefficient and require modernization. Policy incoherence between ministries hinders progress.

Retired Judges Condemn Amit Shah’s Remarks: 18 retired Supreme Court and High Court judges have criticized Home Minister Amit Shah’s statements regarding the Supreme Court’s Salwa Judum judgment.

• Why in News: They believe his “prejudicial misinterpretation” could undermine the Supreme Court’s independence and deter future judges.

Salwa Judum’s Controversial History: The Salwa Judum, meaning “Peace March” or “Purification Hunt” in Gondi, was a militia formed to combat Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in Chhattisgarh.

• Why in News: It was reportedly backed by the state government, allegedly forcibly recruited minors (over 12,000 according to one survey), displaced villagers, and killed those accused of collaborating with Naxalites.

Supreme Court’s Intervention: The Supreme Court ordered Chhattisgarh to stop supporting the Salwa Judum in 2008 and declared the militia illegal and unconstitutional in 2011, ordering its disbandment.

• Why in News: Despite the court’s orders, the Salwa Judum continues to operate as an auxiliary police force, highlighting ongoing legal and governance issues.

Government’s LWE Strategy: India’s strategy to counter LWE includes the SAMADHAN doctrine and Operation Green Hunt.

• Why in News: This provides broader context for the government’s approach to Naxalism, within which the Salwa Judum controversy is situated.

• Why: This is the most significant find from recent excavations, which resumed this year after a 30-year pause.

• Why: Highlights the Gulf region’s historical legacy of cultural harmony and coexistence.

• Why: Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized this connection, stating it’s not a modern construct but a historical principle.

• Why: Provides context for the island’s role in early Christian spread and settlement in the Gulf.

• Why: Demonstrates a long history of archaeological interest and ongoing efforts to uncover the island’s past.

• Why: Allows public access to this historical site and showcases previous finds, promoting cultural heritage awareness.

Why in News: The Haryana Human Rights Commission highlighted a severe case where a 14-year-old was allegedly subjected to bonded labour, physically abused, and abandoned after a serious injury, calling it a violation of human dignity and a breakdown of protective mechanisms. The commission has sought detailed reports from police and health departments, emphasizing the need for rehabilitation and investigation into the accused.

Key Points:

• Bonded Labour Definition: Labour where individuals are forced to work for creditors, often without pay or minimal wages, to repay a debt.
• Constitutional/Legal Frameworks:
  • Articles 21 & 23: Guarantee right to life with dignity and prohibit human trafficking/forced labour.
  • Article 24: Prohibits child labour below 14 in hazardous jobs.
  • Directive Principles (Arts 42, 43, 46): Promote humane working conditions, living wages, and protection for weaker sections.
  • Acts: Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976; Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986; Juvenile Justice Act, 2015; Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
  • International Obligations: UN CRC (Article 32), ILO Convention 182.
• Systemic Drivers (BONDAGE): Bureaucratic inefficiency, overwhelming poverty, no education, debt traps, agricultural/allied sectors, gender discrimination, and exploitation by employers.
• Measures Needed (RESCUE): Revive law enforcement, educate children, support families, create awareness, unite communities, and empower NGOs.
• Case Details: A 14-year-old boy, Santosh, was allegedly forced into labour for two months, suffered a severed arm while working, and was then abandoned by his employer. The incident highlights the failure of surveillance and rescue mechanisms, especially in migration corridors.

• Market Leadership: Target 10% global market share by 2030.
• Abatement of Emissions: Aim for ~50 MMT CO₂ reduction annually.
• Powering Production: Target 5 MMT per annum production capacity by 2030.
• Employment Creation: Generate 6 lakh+ green jobs.

• Cost Barrier: High production costs compared to grey hydrogen.
• Access to Capital: High upfront investment requirements.
• Gaps in Infrastructure: Lack of pipelines, storage, and refuelling networks.
• Economic Viability Issues: Fossil fuel hydrogen remains cheaper due to delayed carbon pricing.

• Pricing Carbon: Implement carbon tax/market mechanisms.
• Obligation Mandates: Enforce purchase obligations in key sectors.
• Widen Infrastructure Base: Develop electrolyser capacity and export corridors.
• Economic Reallocation: Shift subsidies to green hydrogen and offer incentives.
• Risk Pooling through Demand Aggregation: Create pooled procurement platforms.

• Why in news: This period is a unique, irreversible opportunity to build human capital.

• Why in news: Emphasizes the synergistic relationship crucial for optimal development.

• Why in news: Highlights the urgency and scale of the challenge.

• ICDS: World’s largest early childhood care program, providing nutrition, health, and preschool education through Anganwadis.
• Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi: Integrates nutrition with cognitive/early learning to transform Anganwadis into vibrant learning centers.
• Navchetana: National framework with play-based activities for 0-3 years, promoting holistic development.
• Why in news: Showcases policy efforts to address the nutrition-cognition gap.

• Why in news: Points out critical areas needing immediate improvement for effective program delivery.

• Why in news: Provides actionable recommendations for strengthening early childhood development to harness India’s demographic dividend.

• Reason: This action was taken due to reports of refugees being arrested upon arrival in Sri Lanka, allegedly for violating immigration laws.

• Significance: This marks the first time Sri Lankan authorities are arresting voluntarily returning refugees on charges of leaving the country without valid travel documents. Previous repatriations since 2002, which saw 18,643 refugees returned, did not involve such arrests.

• Condition for Resumption: Repatriation will remain on hold until Sri Lankan authorities provide assurances that returning refugees will not be arrested for immigration rule violations and will be treated with dignity.

• Why: Natural climate cycles (Pacific Decadal Oscillation, Atlantic Multidecadal Variability) are bringing colder waters temporarily.

• Why: Greenhouse gas emissions are still the main driver of long-term ice loss. Models predict faster melting after this pause, potentially losing 0.6 million sq. km per decade.

• Why: The pause is due to natural variability, not a reversal of climate change trends. Urgent action on mitigation is still crucial.

Successful Flight Tests of IADWS: DRDO conducted first flight tests of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) under Mission Sudarshan Chakra. This is a significant step towards enhancing India’s self-reliant air defence capabilities.

Mission Sudarshan Chakra: Announced on India’s 79th Independence Day, this national security initiative aims to develop an indigenous, Iron Dome-like air defence system by 2035. It seeks to protect critical infrastructure and enable swift counterstrikes.

IADWS Components: The system is a multi-layered indigenous air defence system comprising Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM), Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), and Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) – a laser-based high-energy system.

Integrated Operation: The IADWS operates under a Centralized Command and Control Centre, ensuring real-time detection and neutralization of various aerial threats like UAVs and missiles.

Operational Success: During the tests, the system successfully engaged and destroyed three different targets, including high-speed UAVs and a multi-copter drone, at various ranges and altitudes, demonstrating flawless performance of all components.

Strengthening Strategic Autonomy: The IADWS builds on India’s existing air defence assets and aims to bolster strategic autonomy by providing advanced, multi-layered defence against enemy aerial threats.

Collaborative Effort: Defence research organizations and the private sector are expected to collaborate on this project. The system is likely to be integrated with existing IAF and Army command and control systems.

Bistable Gene Expression: Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibits bistable gene expression, meaning identical cells can have the same genes “on” or “off.”

GlpD Gene Variation: The glpD gene, crucial for glycerol utilization, shows variable expression. Some cells have it “on” for increased infectivity, while others have it “off.”

Epigenetic Inheritance: This gene expression variability is passed to offspring without DNA alteration, a form of epigenetic inheritance.

Survival Strategy: Bistability might be a survival mechanism for adapting to fluctuating environments.

Impact on Pathogenicity: Higher glpD expression is linked to increased infectivity, as shown by reduced ability to kill moth larvae and increased fluorescence near mouse immune cells.

Opportunistic Pathogen: P. aeruginosa is a deadly, opportunistic pathogen causing community and hospital-acquired infections, including burn infections, keratitis, and ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Antibiotic Resistance: It possesses high antibiotic resistance, making few antibiotics effective.

Therapeutic Target: Targeting this gene expression variability could be a strategy to combat P. aeruginosa infections.

• Why it’s news: It highlights a catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, underscoring the severity of the crisis driven by conflict and blockade.

• Why it’s news: It’s the authority behind the famine declaration, making its assessment credible and globally recognized.

• Why it’s news: These strict criteria explain why famine declarations are rare and emphasize the extreme suffering in Gaza.

• Why it’s news: Its standardized approach ensures comparability and provides a basis for international response and resource mobilization.

• Why it’s news: This framework allows for nuanced understanding and targeted interventions based on the severity of the situation.

• Why it’s news: This adds context to the declaration, acknowledging potential limitations while reaffirming the global recognition of its famine designations.

• Removal after 30 consecutive days of arrest/detention for offenses punishable by 5+ years imprisonment.
• Central Government: President removes on PM’s advice; automatic cessation if no advice by day 31.
• State Government: Governor removes on CM’s advice; automatic cessation if no advice by day 31.
• Delhi: President on CM’s advice; automatic cessation if PM/CM doesn’t resign by day 31.
• Re-appointment possible after release from custody.

• Loss of position based on mere police action before trial.
• Undermines PM/CM’s power to choose cabinet.
• Potential misuse by central agencies against opposition.
• May violate “innocent until proven guilty” principle.

• Historical: British colonial era concentration in select regions (e.g., Bengal for jute, Maharashtra for cotton).
• Geographical & Infrastructure: Difficult terrains and poor connectivity in Himalayan and North-Eastern states vs. better infrastructure (ports, highways) in coastal/plain regions like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra.
• Skilled Manpower: Clusters like Bengaluru and Chennai benefit from skilled labor and educational institutions, unlike states with limited training infrastructure.
• Policy & Planning: Targeted policies (e.g., Green Revolution) benefited certain regions, while others lagged. Proactive state policies attract more investment.
• Agglomeration Effects: Industries cluster for economies of scale and supply chain benefits, reinforcing regional disparities.

• Regional Inequality: States with higher industrial concentration have higher income, employment, and GDP.
• Migration & Urban Stress: Industrial hubs attract internal migrants, leading to overcrowding and infrastructure strain in cities.
• Fiscal Disparities: Industrialized states earn higher tax revenues, while less-industrial states depend more on central transfers.
• Federal Friction: Tensions can arise between Centre and States over resources and investment policies.

• Industrial Location Policy: Guide investments to underdeveloped regions with incentives like tax breaks and subsidies.
• Targeted Infrastructure: Invest in transport, industrial parks, power, and digital infrastructure in backward states.
• Skill Development: Establish technical and vocational training centers in less-developed regions.
• Cluster Development: Promote sector-specific clusters to boost local economies and employment.
• Policy Coordination: Strengthen Centre-State collaboration for equitable industrialization.

National Space Day Celebrated: India observed National Space Day on August 23, 2025.

Theme: The 2025 theme, “Aryabhatta to Gaganyaan: Ancient Wisdom to Infinite Possibilities,” highlights India’s space journey from ancient astronomy to modern exploration.

Nationwide Events: Celebrations included nationwide events, with a main ceremony at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, also available online.

PM’s Address: The Prime Minister lauded youth and scientists, emphasizing achievements from satellites to future projects like Gaganyaan and an indigenous space station.

Student Engagement: ISRO is organizing competitions and educational programs to foster interest in space among students.

Significance: The day showcases India’s growing influence in space technology and its commitment to future exploration.

Origin of National Space Day: First celebrated on August 23, 2024, to commemorate the Chandrayaan-3 soft landing near the Moon’s south pole.

Chandrayaan-3 Achievement: This mission marked India as the fourth nation to achieve a lunar landing and the first to land near the scientifically vital lunar south pole.

Declaration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared August 23 as National Space Day after the Chandrayaan-3 success.

Purpose: To honor India’s space accomplishments, inspire STEM careers, and recognize ISRO’s role in India’s global space leadership.

India Elected Chairman of AIBD Executive Board: India secured the highest votes for the Chairmanship of the Executive Board of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) at the 23rd General Conference in Phuket, Thailand. This signifies strong international trust in India’s leadership.

India’s Enhanced Role in Media Cooperation: This election strengthens India’s influence in shaping global media cooperation, digital adoption, public service broadcasting, and cross-border collaboration.

India’s Continued Presidency of General Conference: India already holds the Presidency of the AIBD General Conference until August 2025, further solidifying its leadership position within the organization.

Commitment to “Media for People, Peace & Prosperity”: Shri Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati, emphasized India’s dedication to this theme, highlighting a collaborative approach to media development.

Long-Standing Partnership: India, a founding member of AIBD since its establishment in 1977 under UNESCO, has a five-decade history of trusted partnership and commitment to collaborative media growth.

AIBD’s Focus: AIBD is an intergovernmental organization promoting regional cooperation in broadcasting, media development, and capacity building, with over 92 member organizations from 45 countries.

• To address the criminalization of politics, as many elected representatives have pending cases, eroding public trust.
• To strengthen ministerial accountability, as Ministers can influence investigations.
• To enhance public confidence in governance and maintain ethical standards.

• Amends Articles 75, 164, and 239AA to allow removal by the President on the Prime Minister’s advice if a minister is arrested and detained for 30 consecutive days for offenses punishable by five years or more imprisonment.
• Removal can be reversed upon release from custody.

• The SC cannot legislate new disqualification grounds but urged Parliament to enact strong laws for parties to revoke membership of those charged with heinous offenses.
• In Manoj Narula v Union of India, the SC suggested the PM consider not appointing individuals with criminal antecedents.
• Recent observations in cases of Ministers facing money laundering charges highlighted the tension between a minister’s position and ongoing investigations, leading to resignations or choices between “freedom or post.”

AI Entering Indian Courts: Kerala High Court released the first formal policy for AI use in district judiciary, acknowledging AI’s potential for faster translations, transcriptions, and legal research amidst over 5 crore pending cases.

Risks of Errors & Hallucinations: AI translation/transcription can lead to significant misinterpretations (e.g., “leave granted” to “holiday approved,” claimant name “Noel” to “no”). AI like OpenAI’s Whisper can “hallucinate” entire phrases, potentially weakening judgments.

Bias in Legal Research: AI legal research tools may show biased results by favouring past search patterns, hiding crucial precedents. LLMs can even invent fake case laws or cite incorrect sources, impacting fairness.

Structural Concerns & Lack of Frameworks: AI might reduce complex judgments to simple rule-based outputs, ignoring human judgment and context. Current AI pilots lack clear frameworks for data use, privacy, and sustainability.

Inadequate Risk Management: Courts are cautious but often lack robust risk management for ethical/legal issues. Human checks are insufficient against AI’s potential errors in new contexts, especially with LLM hallucinations.

Way Forward – AI Literacy & Training: Judges, lawyers, and staff need training on AI use, limitations, and risks. Judicial academies and bar associations should lead capacity-building.

Way Forward – Transparency & Litigant Rights: Clear rules for generative AI in research/judgment writing are needed. Litigants must be informed if AI is used in their case and should have opt-out options.

Way Forward – Procurement Safeguards: Courts need standardized procurement guidelines to assess AI reliability, suitability, explainability, data security, and risk management before adoption.

Ultimate Goal: AI adoption must strengthen justice delivery and not undermine human-centered adjudication.

Why in News: India faces a growing drug abuse crisis. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), launched five years ago to combat this, is celebrating its anniversary with a special event on August 13, 2025, highlighting the continued need for action.

Key Challenges (DOPE):

• Dark Net & New Substances: Rise of new psychoactive substances and online illicit trade.
• Organizational & Infrastructure Gaps: Lack of trained personnel, labs, and rehab centers.
• Poor Awareness & Prevention: Inadequate education and community engagement, especially among youth.
• Exclusion & Stigma: Social stigma discourages rehabilitation.

Measures to Eradicate Drug Abuse (SAFE):

• Strengthen Law Enforcement: Enhance NDPS & PITNDPS Acts with resources and coordination.
• Awareness & Prevention: Expand de-addiction facilities and conduct awareness campaigns.
• Focus on Supply Reduction: Improve border control, use technology, and support alternative livelihoods.
• Enhance International Cooperation: Collaborate with neighboring countries and international bodies.

NMBA Achievements:

• Sensitized over 18.10 crore people, including 6.02 crore youth and 4.08 crore women.
• Engaged 4.85 lakh educational institutions.
• Trained 20,000+ Master Volunteers.
• Utilized social media and a mobile app for data collection and outreach.
• 1.67 crore students took a national online pledge to be drug-free.
• Partnered with spiritual/social service organizations for mass awareness.

Kerala Declared India’s First Fully Digitally Literate State: This marks a significant achievement in bridging the digital divide.

Digi Keralam Project at the Forefront: The initiative specifically targeted senior citizens, homemakers, and other excluded groups.

Youth Volunteers and K-SMART Platform Crucial: Youth volunteers, along with the K-SMART platform, were instrumental in providing online access and boosting inclusion.

Extensive Survey and Training: 83 lakh households were surveyed, identifying 21 lakh digitally illiterate individuals, including those over 90.

Comprehensive Training Modules: The training covered basics like photos, videos, social media, WhatsApp, and Google Search, alongside using state e-services.

High Success Rate: 99.98% of the identified digitally illiterate individuals successfully completed the program.

Building on Past Initiatives: This builds upon the earlier Akshaya project launched in 2002 to promote IT access and citizen service delivery.

Context of National Digital Literacy: This achievement stands out as India’s overall digital literacy rate is around 38%, with previous government schemes like NDLM and DISHA now closed. The current Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) has trained 6.39 crore people in rural areas.

Combating Fake News: A key component included the ‘Satyameva Jayate’ campaign against fake news.

• Why in News: This indicates a positive trend in conservation efforts and the health of the ecosystem.

• Why in News: The rise in hatchlings is an “encouraging sign” for the species’ future in the SBR.

• Why in News: This provides insights into their ecological needs and helps in targeted conservation strategies.

• Why in News: This highlights their crucial role in keeping water bodies clean and their importance for the overall Sundarbans ecosystem.

• Why in News: This points to a potential vulnerability due to climate change impacts on the Sundarbans, a critical concern for the species’ long-term survival.

• Why in News: This demonstrates successful past interventions that have contributed to the current population growth.

Shift from Content to Meaningful Learning: NCF operationalizes NEP 2020’s vision by moving education from rote memorization to holistic development, emphasizing exploration, creation, and reflection.

Restructured School Education (5+3+3+4): Replaces 10+2 structure with stages: Foundational (3-8), Preparatory (8-11), Middle (11-14), Secondary (14-18), focusing on age-appropriate learning and flexibility.

Emphasis on Foundational Literacy & Numeracy: Early years learning is play-based and activity-driven.

Multilingual Education: Mandates mother tongue instruction in early years, promoting linguistic diversity and national integration.

Competency-Based and Experiential Learning: Focuses on understanding, application, and real-world connections through projects and field visits.

Teacher Reforms (ITEP): Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) prepares teachers for student-centric classrooms, focusing on NCF approaches like play-based and multilingual learning.

Holistic Assessment (PARAKH): Progress cards beyond marks, incorporating self-reflection and peer feedback to track overall growth.

Flexible Board Exams: CBSE to conduct board exams twice a year (from 2026) for better student outcomes.

Challenges: State-level adoption variations, balancing national goals with regional identities, infrastructure gaps (especially rural), need for robust monitoring.

Measures Needed: Low-cost teacher training, real-time monitoring dashboards, community engagement, bridging rural-urban divides, expanding multidisciplinary programs.

Why in News: ECI has launched 28 initiatives in 6 months to improve electoral processes, focusing on transparency, voter participation, and democratic integrity.

Electoral Roll Management:

• 476 inactive Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) identified for delisting.
• Special summary revision of electoral rolls for by-elections.
• Special intensive revision in Bihar for accurate rolls.
• Duplicate EPIC numbers eliminated, ensuring unique voter identification.
• Linking death registration data to update electoral rolls.

Technology-Driven Transparency:

• ECINET, a one-stop digital platform integrating 40+ apps/websites.
• 100% webcasting of polling stations for monitoring.
• Real-time voter turnout updates via ECINET App.
• Digital index cards and reports for data accessibility.
• Mandatory VVPAT slip counting for data mismatches.

Booth-Level Improvements:

• Photo ID cards for Booth Level Officers (BLOs) for transparency.
• Polling stations limited to 1,200 voters to reduce crowding.
• Candidate booths allowed beyond 100 meters of polling stations.

Voter Facilitation:

• Mobile deposit facility at polling stations for voters.
• Clearer Voter Information Slips (VIS).
• Faster EPIC delivery within 15 days of update.

Capacity Building:

• Training for BLOs, supervisors, BLAs, media officers, and police.
• Enhanced remuneration for election officials.
• Honorarium for EROs and AEROs for the first time.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Nationwide all-party meetings and regular meetings with party leadership.
• Bilateral meetings with Heads of Election Management Bodies.

The Great Calcutta Killing (August 16–19, 1946): This event, one of India’s deadliest communal riots, resulted in 5,000–10,000 deaths and widespread violence, rioting, and arson between Hindus and Muslims.

Triggered by “Direct Action Day”: The Muslim League’s call for “Direct Action Day” on August 16, 1946, to press for Pakistan, sparked the catastrophic violence.

Deepening Communal Divide: The riots exposed and exacerbated the growing divide between Hindu and Muslim communities, fueled by political tensions between the Muslim League and Congress over the issue of Partition.

Failure of Governance: Chief Minister H.S. Suhrawardy faced widespread blame for his administration’s inability to control the escalating violence, highlighting a breakdown in law and order.

Preview of Partition: The religious segregation of Calcutta during this period served as a grim precursor to the widespread bloodshed that would follow the Partition of India in 1947.

Failed Cabinet Mission Plan & Demand for Pakistan: The violence followed the failure of the Cabinet Mission Plan and the Muslim League’s intensified demand for a separate Pakistan under Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Spread of Violence: The initial riots in Calcutta led to subsequent outbreaks of violence in other regions like Noakhali, Bihar, Punjab, and the United Provinces in the months that followed.

Piprahwa Gems Repatriated: Sacred Buddhist relics, including bone fragments, gem-inlaid reliquaries, and gold ornaments linked to Lord Buddha, have been repatriated to India from Hong Kong.

• Why it’s news: This marks a significant restitution of one of India’s most precious Buddhist treasures, thought to be lost to private collections.

Historical Significance: Discovered in 1898 at the Piprahwa stupa in Uttar Pradesh, these relics are considered among the earliest archaeological evidence directly connected to Lord Buddha and his clan, the Shakyas.

• Why it’s news: They offer tangible links to the early life and teachings of Lord Buddha.

Journey from Colonial Excavation to Auction: Unearthed by W.C. Peppé during colonial times, some relics remained with his family and later resurfaced for a $13 million auction in Hong Kong, prompting government intervention.

• Why it’s news: Highlights the issue of cultural heritage being dispersed and the success of government efforts to reclaim it.

Return and Future Display: The relics were ceremonially welcomed back and will be displayed at their original site in Piprahwa, Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh.

• Why it’s news: Ensures public access to these sacred artifacts at their historical location.

Development Plans for Piprahwa: Uttar Pradesh plans to develop Piprahwa into a major Buddhist tourism hub with a theme park, a new stupa to house the relics, and thematic meditation areas.

• Why it’s news: Signals a commitment to preserving and promoting India’s Buddhist heritage, potentially boosting tourism and economic activity.

Tourism Growth: The site has seen a significant rise in tourist footfall, with official records indicating a doubling of visitors in 2023 and continued growth in 2024.

• Why it’s news: Demonstrates increasing interest in India’s Buddhist circuit and the potential impact of the repatriation and development plans.

India successfully test-fired Agni-5: This is the primary event.

• Why in news: It’s a significant achievement in India’s defense capabilities, as stated by the Ministry of Defence.

Nuclear-capable Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM): Agni-5 is designed for nuclear warheads and falls into the IRBM category.

• Why in news: This highlights its strategic importance and potential deterrent role.

Purpose: Validate operational and technical parameters, maintain credible minimum deterrence: The test was conducted to ensure the missile’s readiness and reaffirm India’s nuclear posture.

• Why in news: Demonstrates India’s commitment to its security and strategic autonomy.

Advanced surface-to-surface ballistic missile (SSBM): Developed under India’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).

• Why in news: Shows the advancement of India’s indigenous missile technology.

Range: Around 5,000 km: This gives it a significant reach.

• Why in news: A 5,000 km range is substantial for strategic deployment and deterrence.

Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) capable: Agni-5 possesses this advanced technology.

• Why in news: MIRV capability places India in an elite group of nations with sophisticated missile technology.

Test Location and Date: Successfully test-fired from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur in Odisha on August 20, 2025.

• Why in news: Provides specific details of the event and confirms its execution.

Conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command: This indicates its strategic deployment readiness.

• Why in news: Emphasizes the military’s control and operationalization of such advanced weapons.

Why in News: World Senior Citizen Day (August 21st) highlights the growing importance of the “Silver Economy” and the contributions of senior citizens.

What is the Silver Economy: It encompasses all economic activities, goods, and services catering to senior citizens.

Importance for India:

• India’s elderly population is projected to significantly increase, reaching 193.4 million by 2031 and over 20% by 2050.
• Seniors are becoming key economic players, driving demand in healthcare, technology, insurance, housing, and wellness.
• The 45-64 age group, often the wealthiest, are becoming a key consumer class.

Main Drivers of Growth:

• Active Aging: Seniors are healthier, more independent, and increasingly participating in the workforce.
• Home Care Services: High prevalence of chronic diseases fuels demand for home-based healthcare.
• Health Technology: Telehealth and remote monitoring are transforming elderly care, with the remote patient monitoring market showing strong growth.
• Ayush-based Services: Growing preference for traditional and holistic health solutions.

Challenges in India’s Silver Economy:

• Healthcare Gaps: Limited geriatric facilities, high out-of-pocket expenses, and low insurance coverage (~18% insured).
• Financial Insecurity: Many seniors lack pensions or savings, particularly in the unorganized sector.
• Digital Divide: Low digital literacy and access hinder seniors’ use of digital services.
• Social Isolation: Changing family structures lead to loneliness and mental health issues.
• Policy and Infrastructure Gaps: Lack of age-friendly infrastructure and targeted policies.
• Workforce Barriers: Age-based stereotypes and lack of flexible work models limit employment.
• Awareness and Accessibility: Limited knowledge of available schemes and services.

Reforms Needed:

• Healthcare: Expand geriatric care, promote health literacy, integrate senior care into Ayushman Arogya Mandir.
• Financial Security: Develop age-specific insurance, expand pension coverage (e.g., APY), promote reskilling (SACRED Portal).
• Social Inclusion: Foster social engagement and community sensitization.
• Infrastructure: Develop age-friendly spaces, housing, and transport.
• Digital Inclusion: Launch digital literacy campaigns, provide user-friendly platforms.
• Economic Integration: Encourage PPPs (SAGE Programme), support startups, integrate seniors as consumers and contributors.

SLINEX-25 Concluded Successfully: The 12th edition of the India-Sri Lanka bilateral naval exercise, SLINEX-25, successfully concluded in Colombo on August 18, 2025.

• Why in news: This marks the completion of a significant bilateral military exercise, reinforcing maritime cooperation between the two nations.

IPKF Memorial Tribute: Participants paid tribute at the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial, honoring Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during peacekeeping operations in Sri Lanka (1987-1990).

• Why in news: This highlights the historical context of India-Sri Lanka defense relations and acknowledges past sacrifices.

Enhanced Interoperability and Maritime Security: The exercise, initiated in 2005, aims to enhance interoperability, mutual understanding, and best practice exchange, contributing to maritime security and stability.

• Why in news: Demonstrates the ongoing efforts to strengthen defense capabilities and cooperation for regional maritime safety.

Participation: Indian naval ships INS Jyoti and INS Rana participated alongside Sri Lankan Naval Ships SLNS Sayura and SLNS Vijayabahu.

• Why in news: Details the specific military assets involved, showcasing the operational scope of the exercise.

Comprehensive Training: The exercise involved both a harbour phase (Aug 14-16) and a sea phase (Aug 17-18) with drills covering firefighting, damage control, HADR, gunnery, VBSS, and more.

• Why in news: Illustrates the wide range of skills and technical aspects covered, indicating a thorough and advanced training regimen.

People-to-People Connections: Ships were opened to visitors, including Sri Lankan Navy personnel, government officials, students, and the Indian diaspora, to showcase capabilities and promote understanding.

• Why in news: Shows an emphasis on building broader connections beyond military personnel, fostering goodwill and cultural exchange.

Alignment with SAGAR Policy: The exercise contributes to the vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), reflecting India’s broader security policy.

• Why in news: Positions the exercise within India’s larger strategic objectives for the Indo-Pacific region.

Why in News: India’s growing space achievements (Gaganyaan, Bharat Antariksh Station) are highlighted by National Space Day, but the lack of a national space law hinders commercial and innovative ambitions.

Operationalise Global Commitments: India needs a law to enact principles of Outer Space Treaty (OST) like peaceful use and state responsibility, as UN treaties aren’t self-executing. Other nations have such laws, and India risks non-compliance and falling behind.

Balance Domestic Gaps with Geopolitical Realities: Rising tensions among space superpowers necessitate a robust domestic legal framework to protect India’s commercial interests.

Provide Legal Certainty for Industry: A national space law will give IN-SPACe statutory authority, streamline licensing, reduce delays, and boost investor confidence, moving beyond policy intent.

Support Startups and Innovation: Legislation can mandate third-party liability, create frameworks for insurance and accident investigations, and protect intellectual property, vital for high-risk startups.

Manage Safety and Sustainability: A law is needed for safety standards, space debris management, accident procedures, and unified satellite frameworks for responsible space use.

Challenges Without a Law: Includes regulatory hurdles from multiple ministries, liability concerns for private entities, unclear FDI rules deterring investment, cybersecurity risks, climate change impacts on infrastructure, and strategic military gaps due to lack of statutory support.

Measures Needed: Enacting a comprehensive space law, expanding private sector participation, strengthening IN-SPACe, improving Space Traffic Management, enhancing cybersecurity, and fostering international cooperation are crucial.

Nepal Declared Rubella-Free: The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared Nepal free of rubella.

• Why in News: This is a significant public health achievement, demonstrating the success of vaccination efforts in eradicating the disease.

Rubella’s Nature and Risks: Rubella, or German measles, is a highly contagious viral infection causing mild fever and rash.

• Why in News: While mild in children and adults, it poses severe risks to pregnant women, potentially causing miscarriage, stillbirth, or Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) in infants. CRS leads to preventable disabilities like hearing impairment and heart defects, making rubella a major global cause of such conditions.

Global Vaccination Gaps: In 2024, 14.3 million children missed all vaccinations, and only 84% of infants received the first dose of the measles vaccine globally.

• Why in News: This highlights ongoing challenges in achieving universal vaccination coverage, which is crucial for preventing outbreaks and eliminating diseases like rubella.

India’s Elimination Efforts: India aims to eliminate Measles and Rubella by 2026 through its National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign (2025-26).

• Why in News: India is making substantial progress, with over 90% of children receiving both MR vaccine doses and many districts already declared rubella-free, showcasing a strong commitment to public health.

Why in News: CAG presented its 2023-24 annual review of the FRBM Act, indicating India is moving towards long-term macroeconomic stability.

Central Government Debt: Declined to 57% of GDP in March 2024 from 61.38% in FY 2020-21.

• Why: This shows a positive trend in managing the nation’s direct debt.

General Government Debt (GGD): Declined slightly to 81.3% of GDP in March 2023 from 83% in March 2022, but remains above the 60% target.

• Why: While central debt is improving, the overall government debt (including states) is still a concern for long-term stability.

Debt Sustainability: The debt-to-GDP ratio is stable or declining, indicating the government’s ability to service its debt. The debt stabilisation indicator was positive in 2023-24.

• Why: This suggests the government’s borrowing practices are manageable in the long run.

Unrealised Taxes: Rs 31.11 lakh crore in taxes remained unrealised at the end of FY 2023-24, an increase from FY 2022-23.

• Why: This highlights a challenge in revenue collection, impacting the government’s financial position.

Interest Payments to Revenue Receipts Ratio: Increased to 35.72% in FY 2023-24, up from 33.99% in FY 2021-22.

• Why: A higher ratio means more government revenue is spent on servicing debt, leaving less for other expenditures.

FRBM Act Context: Enacted to ensure long-term macroeconomic stability by setting fiscal deficit and debt reduction targets. The CAG conducts annual reviews to assess compliance.

• Why: The review is mandated by the Act to keep the government accountable for its fiscal management.

• Why: To meet high demand from sectors like EVs, renewable energy, and technology, reducing import dependency (e.g., 100% for lithium and nickel).

• Why: To promote mineral trading, enhance exploration funding, and facilitate mine development.

• Why: To maximize resource utilization, encourage investment in challenging mining environments, and increase output.

• Why: To address India’s supply risks and growing demand for minerals essential for economic growth and national security.

• Why: Demonstrates parliamentary consensus on the need to reform and strengthen the mining sector.

• Economic Hardship: Sanitary products are seen as luxuries, with families prioritizing food and essentials.
• Financial Dependence: Women often lack control over finances, needing male family members’ approval for purchases.
• Access Issues: Long distances to markets and irregular supply/poor last-mile delivery of government schemes hinder consistent access.
• Lack of Awareness: Absence of formal menstrual health education in schools and social taboos perpetuate misinformation.

• Health Risks: Increased exposure to bacterial/fungal infections and reproductive tract infections.
• Educational Disruption: 23% of girls drop out after menarche due to lack of facilities and stigma. Missing school leads to academic lag and potential dropout.
• Economic Loss: Reduced female labor force participation and untapped human capital negatively impact GDP.

• Government Scheme: Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (2011) aims for pad distribution and awareness, but faced disruptions (e.g., COVID-19).
• Civil Society: Menstrupedia uses comics for accessible education, reaching millions. Partnerships with NGOs improve access.

• Integrate menstrual health into adolescent education for both genders.
• Local groups and ASHA workers to lead discussions and break taboos.
• Make menstrual products affordable and accessible through partnerships.
• Ensure adequate toilets with water and disposal facilities in schools and workplaces.
• Treat menstrual health as part of public health, gender equality, and poverty reduction policies.

Why in News: The 6th anniversary of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was observed on August 15, 2025, highlighting its reach to 15 crore households with tap water.

What is JJM?

• About: Launched August 15, 2019, to provide tap water to all rural households (55 lpcd) by 2024 (extended to 2028). It’s a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
• Objectives (TAP):
  • Target Every Rural Household: Provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC).
  • Areas of Priority: Focus on quality-affected, drought-prone, desert regions, and SAGY villages.
  • Public Places: Ensure taps in schools, Anganwadi centers, gram panchayats, and community buildings.
• Features (WATER):
  • Women and Weaker Sections: 50% women representation in committees.
  • Awareness and Stakeholder Involvement: Community participation (Janandolan).
  • Technological Interventions: Real-time monitoring (IMIS, Dashboards, IoT).
  • Empowerment through Education: Train locals on water quality testing.
  • Rural Focus: Shift from habitations to households for decentralized management.

Key Challenges (GAPS):

• Gaps in Data: Unreliable data hinders issue resolution, with many habitations facing water contamination.
• Absence of Infrastructure Quality: Substandard post-pipeline infrastructure restoration in many states.
• Poor Maintenance Planning: Few states have comprehensive repair and maintenance policies.
• Sluggish Execution: Slow implementation of critical actions.

Key Actions to Enhance JJM (REPAIR):

• Revise Infrastructure Quality: Enforce restoration clauses and ensure accountability.
• Ensure Data Authenticity: Mandate third-party audits and geotagging.
• Performance-based Funding: Link funding to states’ progress.
• Awareness & Testing: Conduct drives and mandatory testing by gram panchayats.
• Integrate Financial Reforms: Integrate JJM with rainwater harvesting and Atal Bhujal Yojana.
• Repair & Maintenance Planning: Develop a nationwide policy and conduct regular reviews.

U.S. Sanctions ICC Officials: The U.S. imposed sanctions on ICC judges and prosecutors.

• Why in News: These sanctions target individuals investigating alleged war crimes by Israeli leaders and U.S. officials, reflecting U.S. opposition to ICC jurisdiction in these matters.

U.S. Accusations of Politicization: Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeled the ICC a national security threat, citing politicization and overreach.

• Why in News: This highlights the U.S. rationale for the sanctions, framing the ICC’s actions as illegitimate and politically motivated.

Sanctioned Officials’ Involvement: The sanctioned officials were involved in cases concerning Israel and the U.S.

• Why in News: This clarifies the specific context of the sanctions and the reasons behind the U.S. action.

U.S. Sovereignty Argument: Washington stated the move was to protect its sovereignty.

• Why in News: This reveals the U.S. legal and political justification for imposing sanctions on an international body.

Potential Hindrance to ICC Work: The sanctions may impede the ICC’s efforts on war crimes cases.

• Why in News: This points to the practical consequences of the U.S. action on international justice mechanisms.

ICC Condemnation: The ICC denounced the sanctions as an attack on its independence and a setback for global justice.

• Why in News: This showcases the ICC’s response and its defense of its mandate and autonomy.

Recent ICC Arrest Warrants: The ICC recently issued arrest warrants against Netanyahu and others for alleged crimes in Gaza.

• Why in News: This provides the immediate trigger for the U.S. sanctions and illustrates the ICC’s active investigations.

Successful Test: India successfully test-fired the Agni-5 missile.

• Why: Validated operational and technical parameters, confirming its readiness.

ICBM Status: Agni-5 is an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile.

• Why: Possesses a range of approximately 5,000 km, capable of reaching targets across Asia and parts of Europe and Africa, significantly expanding India’s strategic reach.

MIRV Capability: A MIRV-equipped variant was tested earlier.

• Why: This allows the missile to carry multiple independently guided warheads, enabling it to strike several targets simultaneously and enhancing its effectiveness.

Strategic Significance: Developed by DRDO to meet India’s strategic security requirements.

• Why: Strengthens India’s nuclear deterrence, supports its No First Use doctrine, and bolsters its second-strike capability, particularly important in its strategic posture towards China and beyond.

Technological Advancement: Three-stage, solid-fueled, canisterized missile with road and rail mobility.

• Why: These features ensure quick launch capability and operational flexibility in deployment.

• Why in News: This signifies a concrete step by a state government towards implementing aspects of UCC, reflecting a renewed focus on the issue nationally.

• Why in News: This highlights a specific area where UCC aims to regulate personal conduct beyond traditional marriage, extending to cohabitation.

• Why in News: This change focuses on formalizing marital status, a key aspect of personal law reform.

• Why in News: Understanding the UCC’s fundamental objective is crucial to contextualize the Uttarakhand amendments within the broader national debate.

• Why in News: This provides the constitutional grounding for such legislative efforts, linking state actions to constitutional directives.

• Why in News: These arguments underpin the rationale behind pursuing UCC, explaining the perceived benefits.

• Why in News: These counterarguments represent significant societal and political challenges that any UCC implementation must address.

• Why in News: Judicial pronouncements underscore the legal and societal imperative felt by the apex court regarding UCC.

• Why in News: This highlights that while Uttarakhand is making moves, a comprehensive national UCC remains an aspirational goal.

Mass Deletion of Migrant Voters: Nearly 3.5 million voters (4.4%) were removed from electoral rolls in Bihar due to being marked “permanently migrated” after absence during door-to-door checks, risking disenfranchisement in both home and work states.

Administrative & Electoral Barriers: Voter registration is tied to residence proof and physical verification, which migrants often lack in temporary housing. Their absence during verification leads to name deletions, reflecting a bias against non-resident voters despite their retained ties.

Host-State Resistance: Destination states are reluctant to register migrants due to fears of increased competition for local jobs and altered electoral outcomes, treating them as outsiders.

Systematic Disenfranchisement: Migration leads to lower voter turnout in source states (e.g., Bihar’s 53.2% vs. Gujarat/Karnataka’s 66.4%/70.7%), highlighting a pattern of systematic disenfranchisement.

Triple Burden on Migrants: A study identified administrative barriers, digital illiteracy, and social exclusion as factors preventing migrants’ electoral participation.

Circular Migration Ignored: States fail to recognize circular and seasonal migration patterns, where people frequently return, yet deletions are made without cross-verification.

Need for Portable Voter ID: India requires a shift from residence-based registration to a portable, mobile voter ID system.

Solutions: Halt blanket deletions, use cross-verification with destination state rolls, pilot remote/online voting, empower local bodies to track migrants, and replicate migration survey models (like Kerala’s).

Analogy to ONORC: Just as ‘One Nation One Ration Card’ ensures portability of food entitlements, political rights should also be portable for migrants.

Democratic Rupture: The current situation is a “democratic rupture,” risking a silent voter purge of the poorest citizens.

• Why it’s News: Streamlines documentation, enhances transparency, and makes meeting insights accessible.

• Why it’s News: Bridges language barriers and promotes uniformity in meeting records nationwide.

• Why it’s News: Showcases government’s commitment to AI for inclusive governance and digital inclusion.

• Why it’s News: Simplifies the process for over 2.5 lakh village panchayats, enabling easier adoption.

• Why it’s News: Part of a broader digital transformation effort to strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and rural governance.

Why in News: Honour killings are increasing in India, particularly to enforce caste hierarchies and against inter-caste unions. Recent incidents highlight how families and communities legitimize this violence, contradicting constitutional values.

What are Honour Killings: Violence, usually murder by family members, against couples who defy caste, community, or gender norms, especially inter-caste unions.

Legal Framework: Constitutional Safeguards (Articles 14, 15, 19, 21) and statutory provisions classify them as murder under the IPC/BNS. Laws like the Hindu Marriage Act and Special Marriage Act support inter-caste marriage.

Judicial Stance: Supreme Court rulings (Lata Singh, Arumugam Servai, Vikas Yadav, Shakti Vahini, Shafin Jahan) have affirmed the legality of inter-caste marriage, condemned Khap Panchayats, and protected individuals’ freedom to choose partners, linking it to dignity.

Consequences: Honour killings violate human rights, perpetuate gender injustice, reinforce caste hierarchies, weaken democracy, cause psychological trauma, and damage India’s global image.

Driving Factors:

• Family: The primary enforcer of caste norms through socialization and marriage arrangements.
• Community: Informal bodies like Khap Panchayats often support or condone such violence.
• Paradox of Progress: Increased honour killings in states with greater Dalit empowerment, indicating caste hierarchies are threatened.
• Conflicting Attitudes: Public rejection of caste violence contrasted with private glorification and fear of losing social power, amplified on social media.
• Weak Enforcement: Honour killings not recognized as a separate crime, making tracking difficult.

Impact of Changing Social Dynamics: Weakening family influence and evolving lifestyles, especially among urban youth prioritizing individual autonomy, challenge the mechanisms that sustain caste and honor killings.

Measures: Enact a standalone law, implement witness protection, train law enforcement/judiciary, establish fast-track courts, create shelter homes, conduct public awareness campaigns, integrate education on gender equality and human rights, and promote digital counter-narratives.

Why in News: First ministerial-level meeting between India’s External Affairs Minister and Chinese Foreign Minister in Delhi since November 2024 LAC disengagement, signaling efforts to stabilize relations.

De-escalation & Stability: Both nations stressed the importance of peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) for stable bilateral ties. India reiterated its “3 Ds” (disengagement, de-escalation, de-induction) and “3 mutuals” (respect, sensitivity, interest). Discussions focused on next steps for troop de-escalation, though significant troop numbers remain deployed.

Economic & Trade Links: Talks included boosting trade facilitation, connectivity, river data sharing, and technology transfer. China agreed to supply fertilizers and rare earths, and border trade via Lipulekh, Shipki La, and Nathu La will resume. Visa facilitation for tourists and businesses was also discussed.

Cultural & People-to-People Ties: Resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and tourist visas were reiterated. Plans for the High-Level Mechanism on People-to-People Exchanges in 2026 and joint commemoration of 75 years of diplomatic relations were agreed upon.

Regional Security & Global Engagement: India raised concerns about Pakistan-backed terrorism. Both countries emphasized cooperation on a multipolar world, regional stability, and multilateral platforms like SCO and BRICS.

Underlying Challenges: Persistent border disputes (Aksai Chin, Arunachal Pradesh claims), economic asymmetry (large trade deficit for India), strategic insecurities (CPEC, Pakistan cooperation, NSG/UNSC aspirations), and technological dependence on China remain significant issues. Hydrological concerns over shared rivers and competition for regional leadership are also key challenges.

Path Forward: India aims for constructive engagement through border stability, trade, and dialogue, advocating for incremental confidence-building, selective economic engagement, enhanced trans-boundary river governance, and leveraging multilateral platforms.

• Why: To address governance vacuums caused by prolonged detention of ministers in serious cases, recognizing their higher responsibilities compared to legislators.

• Manoj Narula v. Union of India (2014): While no bar on appointing those with criminal cases, constitutional morality is expected from PM/CM.
• Lily Thomas (2013): Legislators are disqualified upon conviction without delay.

India Rejects Nepal’s Lipulekh Claims: India has dismissed Nepal’s objections to resuming border trade through the Lipulekh Pass, stating Nepal’s claims lack historical basis.

• Why it’s news: This highlights a direct diplomatic disagreement between India and Nepal over territorial claims and border management.

Nepal Claims Lipulekh as its Territory: Nepal’s constitution reportedly includes Lipulekh as part of its territory, forming the basis of its objection.

• Why it’s news: This underlines the core of the dispute – differing constitutional and territorial assertions.

India Cites Historical Trade: India asserts that border trade through Lipulekh Pass began in 1954 and continued for decades before COVID-19 disruptions.

• Why it’s news: This presents India’s justification for its actions and its view on the historical precedent.

Lipulekh’s Strategic and Historical Importance: The pass is a high-altitude route near the India-Nepal-China trijunction, linking Uttarakhand with Tibet. It served as an ancient trade route and was the first Indian border post opened for trade with China in 1992.

• Why it’s news: This explains the significance of the location, both for trade and its role in regional connectivity and historical trade routes.

Religious Significance for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: The Old Lipulekh Pass is crucial for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

• Why it’s news: This adds another layer of importance to the pass, connecting it to religious pilgrimage and cultural ties.

Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) planned by 2035: India aims for a fully operational space station by this year. This is a significant step in developing independent Indian human spaceflight capabilities.

Moon mission by 2040: India plans to send a crewed mission to the Moon ahead of the ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 vision. This demonstrates ambitious lunar exploration goals.

Similar to ISS: BAS will orbit at 400-450 km and focus on scientific research, mirroring the functionality of the International Space Station. This indicates a collaborative and research-oriented approach.

Five modules, phased development: The station will be built in phases, with the Base Module targeted for 2028. This phased approach suggests a structured and manageable development process.

Boosts global space stature: BAS will enhance India’s position in the global space arena. This signifies India’s growing influence and technological advancement.

Enables microgravity research and collaborations: The station will support research in areas like biotechnology and materials science, fostering international partnerships. This highlights the scientific and economic benefits of the project.

Supports long-duration human space missions: BAS will be crucial for future extended human presence in space. This is a foundation for more complex future missions.

Enhances Earth observation and space economy: It will improve Earth observation capabilities for disaster monitoring and boost the space economy. This points to practical applications and economic growth potential.

Inspires STEM talent: The project aims to inspire young minds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This emphasizes the educational and inspirational aspect.