Current Affairs Exam

• Why: To accelerate the adoption of advanced energy-efficient technologies in India’s MSME sector and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

• Why: To make energy efficiency projects accessible and affordable for MSMEs.

• Why: To facilitate the entire process from planning to implementation for MSMEs.

• Why: To mobilize an estimated ₹9000 crore in investments, including ₹6750 crore in MSME lending.

• Why: To ensure broad impact across key industrial segments and allow for progressive deployment.

• Why: To facilitate easy access to scheme benefits and information.

• Why: To enhance industrial productivity, reduce environmental impact, and support sustainable growth.

• Why in News: This aims to give individuals control over their digital identity and protect them from AI-driven manipulation.

• Technology: Utilizes deep learning, Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), and Natural Language Processing (NLP).

• Imitation Protection: Bans public sharing of realistic digital recreations of a person’s features.
• Post-Mortem Protection: Extends protection of likeness for up to 50 years after death.
• Consent-Based: Requires consent for sharing deepfakes, with the onus on the sharer to prove it.
• Platform Responsibility: Holds platforms accountable for removing deepfakes or facing penalties.
• Harm-Agnostic: Focuses on the act of publishing deepfakes, not specific harms.

• No dedicated deepfake law, relies on IT Act (impersonation, obscenity), IT Rules (platform removal of morphed content), and Copyright Act (unauthorised use of copyrighted material).
• Judicial interventions (Anil Kapoor, Rajnikanth cases) have protected celebrity likenesses based on personality rights.

• Denmark’s proposal is significant for extending protections to ordinary citizens, unlike India’s current focus on celebrities.
• Denmark’s law is a direct ban on publication, while India’s existing laws address specific harms.

• Why in News: Adopted at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Sevilla, Spain, amidst rising debt and economic instability.

• Catalyzing Investment: Promotes public-private partnerships and blended finance.
• Addressing Debt Crisis: Proposes debt swaps, pause clauses, and debt-for-development swaps.
• Reforming Global Financial Architecture: Calls for a more equitable and inclusive international financial system.

• Debt Burden: 3.3 billion people in countries spending more on debt servicing than health or education.
• Overlapping Fiscal Demands: Countries must service debt while investing in climate resilience, infrastructure, and public services.
• Debt as Development & Climate Justice Issue: High interest rates and limited access to finance force difficult choices between debt repayment and critical investments, disproportionately affecting vulnerable nations.

• Shift from loans to grants for developing and climate-vulnerable countries.
• Reform credit rating systems to include climate resilience.
• Implement gender-responsive budgeting and invest in care infrastructure.
• Create a UN-led sovereign debt resolution mechanism.

Secondary Sanctions Warning: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned Brazil, China, and India about potential severe secondary sanctions if they continue business with Russia. This highlights NATO’s involvement in enforcing international pressure on Russia and its global reach in imposing economic consequences.

Collective Defence (Article 5): NATO’s core principle is collective defence, meaning an attack on one member is an attack on all. This remains its primary mission, as demonstrated by its continued focus on deterring aggression.

Expansion to 32 Members: Sweden’s recent accession brings NATO’s membership to 32 countries. This expansion signifies the alliance’s growing relevance and appeal in the current geopolitical climate, particularly in response to perceived threats.

Post-Cold War Evolution: While established for Cold War defence against the Soviet Union, NATO has adapted to address a broader spectrum of security challenges, indicating its dynamic nature and ability to respond to evolving threats beyond its original mandate.

GM Maize Field Trials Approved: Two types of GM maize are set for field trials this summer season at Punjab Agricultural University.

• Why it’s news: This signifies progress in GM crop research in India, following regulatory approval.

Trials are for Research Only: Punjab Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor stated the trials are solely for research and will not determine commercial cultivation.

• Why it’s news: This clarifies the immediate scope of the trials, managing expectations about market release.

Opposition to Trials: The Coalition for a GM-Free India has asked the Punjab government to retract its no-objection certificate for the trials.

• Why it’s news: Highlights the ongoing debate and opposition to GM crops in India, showcasing public concern.

GM Crops Explained: GM crops have altered DNA through genetic engineering to introduce or modify traits.

• Why it’s news: Provides essential background context on what GM crops are for readers.

Regulation in India: The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change approves GM organisms.

• Why it’s news: Informs about the regulatory framework governing GM crops in the country.

Bt Cotton Success: Bt Cotton is the only GM crop currently approved for commercial cultivation in India, leading to increased cotton production.

• Why it’s news: Offers a successful precedent for GM crop adoption in India, influencing the discussion around other GM crops.

UIDAI urges children’s biometric updates: Parents of children aged 5-7 are advised to update their biometric details for Aadhaar.

• Why: Biometrics (fingerprints, iris) are not mature enough for children under five, requiring updates as they grow.

UIDAI’s role in Aadhaar: The authority is responsible for assigning the 12-digit Aadhaar number to all Indian residents.

• Why: Aadhaar is linked to demographic and biometric data, serving as a unique identifier for accessing services.

Establishment and Jurisdiction: UIDAI is a statutory authority established in 2016 under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, based on the Aadhaar Act 2016.

• Why: This establishes its legal standing and governmental oversight for managing the Aadhaar system.

Core Functions: UIDAI generates Aadhaar numbers, manages the central database, and sets policies for updating and using Aadhaar for service delivery.

• Why: These functions ensure the integrity, security, and utility of the Aadhaar system for residents.

Chhattisgarh Incident: Chhattisgarh Forest Dept. initially designated itself nodal agency for CFRR, violating Gram Sabha authority for local management plans. It was later withdrawn due to community mobilization. This highlights the ongoing conflict between centralized forest management and community-led conservation.

Community Forest Resource (CFR): Common forest land traditionally protected and sustainably used by a community, with identifiable customary boundaries. Can include various forest types (revenue, classified, unclassified, deemed, DLC, reserve, protected, sanctuaries, national parks).

Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR): Under FRA, 2006, grants Gram Sabhas the right to “protect, regenerate or conserve or manage” CFR. Includes nistar rights (removing forest produce for domestic use) and NTFP rights, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and allowing local practices for conservation.

Significance of CFRR: Addresses historical injustice by restoring customary forest rights. Enables communities to use, manage, and conserve forests they depend on. Crucial inside protected areas, integrating traditional dwellers into management.

Forest Management Debate: Historically, government working plans often focused on timber yield, leading to natural forest clearing and monoculture plantations, causing ecological degradation. These plans remained bureaucratic and detached from local needs.

FRA’s Transformation: Recognizes local communities’ vital role in forest survival. CFR management plans, developed by Gram Sabhas, prioritize local needs and integrate with working plans.

Implementation Challenges: Forest departments often deny legitimacy and funds to Gram Sabhas. A joint letter suggested CFR plans conform to the National Working Plan Code (NWPC) and involve foresters, undermining FRA’s intent.

Way Forward: Reject NWPC compliance for CFR plans; prioritize Gram Sabha plans for community experience and climate adaptation. Provide funds, training, and legal protection to Gram Sabhas. Forest departments need to shift from timber-oriented science to people-friendly forest management.

Conclusion: Effective FRA implementation, with Gram Sabhas central, is key for ecological justice, livelihood security, and sustainable forest management.

• Why in news: This highlights a less-known ecological aspect of the park, broadening its conservation importance beyond rhinos.

• Why in news: This provides concrete data and establishes a baseline for future monitoring and conservation efforts for these birds.

• Why in news: This underscores the critical role Kaziranga plays in the survival of these threatened avian populations and the health of their habitats.

• Why in news: This is a positive indicator for conservation success and the effectiveness of habitat management within the park.

• Why in news: This elevates Kaziranga’s status as a national bird conservation site, especially for grassland species, and emphasizes its ecological significance in Northeast India.

• Why in news: This positions Kaziranga as a crucial site for avian conservation efforts in a region often overlooked in national conservation dialogues.

• Why in news: This is a significant appointment for the apex regulatory body of medical education in India.

• Why in news: This ensures continuity in leadership for crucial medical education processes.

• Why in news: This fills critical leadership gaps within the NMC, which is vital for the smooth functioning of medical education regulation.

• Why in news: This appointment is made in the backdrop of investigations into potential corruption within the medical education regulatory system, highlighting the importance of strong and ethical leadership at the NMC.

WHO Recognition of India’s AI in Ayush: The World Health Organization (WHO) technical brief “Mapping the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Traditional Medicine” acknowledged India’s leadership in integrating AI with Ayush systems. This recognition followed India’s proposal, influencing WHO’s first roadmap on AI in traditional medicine.

‘AI for All’ and Digital Health Vision: India’s efforts align with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘AI for All’ and positioning India as a global leader in digital health innovation and traditional medicine integration.

Key Indian Initiatives Highlighted:

• Ayurgenomics: Merges Ayurveda and genomics for personalized health recommendations and disease prediction.
• Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL): India’s pioneering digital database (launched 2001) protects traditional knowledge from misuse and prevents wrongful patents.
• Ayush Grid: A digital platform enabling AI-driven services like SAHI, NAMASTE, and Ayush Research Portals.

AI Applications in Traditional Medicine: AI is used in India for mapping drug action pathways and analyzing traditional concepts (Rasa, Guna, Virya) using artificial sensors.

Global Impact and Validation: The WHO publication validates India’s influence in global traditional medicine and showcases AI-driven applications in diagnosis support, personalized care, and decoding herbal formulations. It also praises India’s digital platforms for consultations and literacy efforts.

Why in News: A significant rise in dowry-related deaths in states like Uttar Pradesh, Chandigarh, and Tamil Nadu highlights the ongoing prevalence of this illegal practice, with women facing harassment, assault, and suicide over dowry, often with slow investigations and rare convictions.

Reasons for Persistence:

• Cultural Entitlement/Tradition: Dowry is treated as a social custom, often disguised as “gifts,” with women’s worth linked to dowry received, and societal pressure fuels demands leading to abuse and deaths.
• Gender Discrimination/Patriarchy: Dowry is used to assert control over women, viewed as a burden, with demands rooted in patriarchal attitudes devaluing women.
• Normalization of Abuse: Despite laws, dowry has normalized abuse, with violence often unreported and treated as a private family matter.
• Economic Factors: Rising economic pressures, consumerism, social media, and the desire for grand weddings contribute to higher dowry expectations.

Legal & Judicial Challenges:

• Inadequate Investigation: Many cases lack charge sheets due to delayed or mishandled investigations, with a high percentage of investigations pending for extended periods.
• Judicial Bottlenecks: Cases face significant delays in courts, leading to limited convictions and a sense of impunity for perpetrators.
• Lack of Coordination: Police sometimes mediate rather than register cases as criminal offenses, and slow charge sheet filing and court delays hinder justice.
• Underreporting: Fear of stigma, lack of awareness, and family/societal pressure lead to many dowry deaths going unreported.

Solutions:

• Economic Empowerment: Financial independence for women through education and skill development is crucial.
• Easier Reporting: Tech-based platforms for anonymous complaints and protection for whistleblowers.
• Strengthen Law Enforcement: Sensitive, urgent handling of cases, timely investigation, and strict action.
• Exit Pathways: Shelters, counseling, legal aid, and financial support for women leaving abusive situations.
• Judicial Reforms: Fast-track courts for dowry death cases.
• Awareness & Legal Support: Easier access to legal aid and public awareness campaigns to change societal attitudes.

IRDAI Forms Panels to Decide on Insurer Violations: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has established panels comprising its whole-time members.

• Why in News: This is a direct exercise of its enforcement function, specifically to adjudicate violations of the Insurance Act and its regulations by insurers and intermediaries.

IRDAI’s Role: A statutory body under the IRDA Act 1999, operating under the Ministry of Finance.

• Why in News: Its primary objective is to protect the interests of insurance policyholders.

Key IRDAI Initiatives:

• Bima Sugam: An online marketplace for insurance transactions, part of the broader ‘Bima Trinity’ (Bima Vistaar, Bima Vahak, Bima Sugam).
• Saral Jeevan Bima: A basic protection product for self-employed and low-income groups.
• Integrated Grievance Management System: A centralized system to track and analyze policyholder grievances.
• Why in News: These initiatives demonstrate IRDAI’s proactive approach to improving insurance accessibility, affordability, and customer grievance redressal.

50% Non-Fossil Fuel Power Capacity Achieved: India’s installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources reached 242.78 GW out of a total of 484.82 GW as of June 2025.

• Why it’s news: This milestone signifies a significant shift in India’s energy landscape, demonstrating a strong commitment to clean energy.

Ahead of Target: The 50% non-fossil fuel capacity was achieved five years ahead of India’s 2030 target set under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for the Paris Agreement.

• Why it’s news: This early achievement positions India as a global leader in climate action and sustainable development, showcasing effective policy implementation.

Breakdown of Non-Fossil Sources: Non-fossil fuel capacity includes Renewable Energy (184.62 GW, 38.08%), Large Hydropower (49.38 GW, 10.19%), and Nuclear Energy (8.78 GW, 1.81%).

• Why it’s news: This highlights the diversified nature of India’s clean energy portfolio.

Key Initiatives Driving Growth: Success is attributed to flagship programs like PM-KUSUM, PM Surya Ghar Yojana, National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy, and the PLI Scheme for Solar PV Modules.

• Why it’s news: These policies have been instrumental in accelerating the adoption of renewable energy and promoting domestic manufacturing.

Global Leadership and Co-Benefits: India is demonstrating that economic growth and environmental stewardship can coexist, achieving this milestone with low per capita emissions. The transition also brings co-benefits like enhanced energy access, employment, and reduced pollution.

• Why it’s news: India’s progress serves as a model for other nations, emphasizing inclusive growth alongside decarbonization.

Future Focus Areas: The next phase will emphasize quality, equity, and resilience, including doubling per capita clean electricity consumption, strengthening the grid with AI and digitalization, deploying energy storage, and promoting green hydrogen.

• Why it’s news: This indicates a forward-looking strategy to maintain momentum and achieve even more ambitious climate goals.

India Highlights Terror Threat at SCO Meeting: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed the SCO-CFM in China that the Pahalgam terrorist attack was intended to harm Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and create religious division. This underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by member states.

SCO’s Broad Membership and Scope: The SCO, originating from the Shanghai Five in 1996 and formally established in 2001, now includes nine members: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, and Belarus. It is the world’s largest regional organization geographically and by population, covering 24% of the Earth’s landmass and 42% of its people, with member countries contributing significantly to global GDP.

Focus on Security and Counter-Terrorism: The SCO is notable for its focus on security issues, particularly through its Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS). RATS serves as a permanent body for coordination and information sharing among member states to combat terrorism, extremism, and separatism. India actively participates in RATS, having held its chairmanship in 2021.

Consensus-Based Decision Making: The SCO operates on a consensus-based decision-making system. While this promotes inclusivity, it can also lead to diplomatic deadlocks when national interests diverge, impacting the organization’s ability to achieve unified action on certain issues.

• Why: Highlights the significant financial impact of cybercrime on individuals.

• Why: Shows a disconnect between general knowledge of digital threats and practical knowledge of how to combat them or report incidents.

• Why: Underscores a systemic issue of trust deficit and ineffective redressal mechanisms, discouraging reporting and victim support.

• Why: Reveals a digital security divide, leaving vulnerable populations more exposed to cyber threats.

• Why: Demonstrates proactive government efforts to build a cybercrime prevention and response framework.

• Why: Points to ongoing structural and operational challenges that need addressing to strengthen India’s cyber defense.

Revival of Historic Port: Machilipatnam, an ancient trading hub, is being revived with a new Greenfield port at Manginapudi.

• Why it’s news: This marks a significant return for a port with a rich historical past.

Operational by End-2026: The new port is nearing 50% completion and is expected to become operational by the end of 2026.

• Why it’s news: Provides a concrete timeline for a major infrastructure project.

Ancient Trade Significance: Machilipatnam, historically known as Masulipatnam or Maisolia, was a prominent trading center from the 1st century AD, trading with Rome, China, Persia, and Southeast Asia.

• Why it’s news: Highlights the strategic importance of the location and its historical trading prowess.

Golconda Era Flourishing: Under the Qutb Shahi dynasty, it was a profitable port (Bandar-i-Mubarak), exporting goods across Asia, Africa, and Europe.

• Why it’s news: Underscores its past economic and global connectivity.

Cultural Melting Pot: The ancient port hosted a diverse population of various nationalities.

• Why it’s news: Adds a cultural dimension to the port’s historical significance.

Development Model: The port is being developed under a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) using the Landlord Model.

• Why it’s news: Indicates the structure and approach to the port’s construction.

Economic Growth Driver: Expected to handle exports of coal, pharma, cement, fertilizers, and container traffic, with potential for enhanced regional trade via a dry port and freight corridor from Telangana.

• Why it’s news: Signals substantial economic benefits and improved trade connectivity for the region.

Local Benefits: The project is expected to increase land prices and create employment opportunities for local communities.

• Why it’s news: Highlights the positive impact on the local economy and population.

Decline Factors: Past decline was attributed to cyclones and shifting British focus to Madras.

• Why it’s news: Provides context for why the port fell into disuse.

Successful Test-Fire of Astra Missile: DRDO and IAF successfully test-fired the indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) from a Su-30MKI fighter jet off the coast of Odisha. This is significant as it demonstrates India’s capability in developing advanced air-to-air weaponry.

Indigenous RF Seeker: The Astra missile is equipped with an indigenously developed Radio Frequency (RF) Seeker. This feature is crucial for detecting, tracking, and locking onto targets using radar, ensuring high accuracy and enabling “fire-and-forget” capabilities.

Beyond Visual Range Capability: Astra is India’s first indigenous BVRAAM, designed to engage enemy aircraft beyond visual line-of-sight. It can target supersonic, manoeuvrable aircraft at altitudes up to 20 km and ranges exceeding 100 km.

Advanced Technology: The missile utilizes inertial navigation, mid-course data link updates, and active radar homing. It also features a smokeless solid-fuel engine for enhanced stealth and supports a “buddy launch” mode for operational flexibility.

Su-30MKI Platform: The test was conducted from a Su-30MKI fighter aircraft, a key asset in India’s combat fleet. This successful integration validates Astra’s compatibility with India’s frontline fighter jets.

• Why: Timely and data-rich analysis is crucial for understanding India’s trade performance and navigating global shifts.

• Exports grew by 3% to USD 108.7 billion.
• Imports rose by 6.5% to USD 187.5 billion.
• Why: Shows a growth in exports despite a larger increase in imports, indicating a need to monitor the trade deficit.

• Services surplus of USD 52.3 billion.
• Services exports increased by 17%.
• Why: Highlights the growing global competitiveness and importance of India’s services sector in offsetting merchandise trade deficits.

• High-tech products like aircraft, spacecraft, and parts saw 200% year-on-year growth.
• Electrical machinery and arms/ammunition growing at 10.6% CAGR since 2014.
• Why: Demonstrates diversification of India’s export basket towards higher-value and technologically advanced goods.

• India ranked 5th globally in Digitally Delivered Services (DDS) exports in 2024, with USD 269 billion.
• Why: Underscores India’s strong position in the digital economy and its significant contribution to services exports.

• Shifts in US trade policies present risks and opportunities.
• India has a tariff advantage over competitors in the US market.
• Potential for growth in sectors like pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electrical machinery.
• Why: Crucial for policymakers to leverage these advantages and adapt to evolving international trade dynamics and policy changes.

Why in News: Mizoram is facing a growing refugee crisis, with a significant new influx of around 4,000 from Myanmar’s Chin State in early July 2025 following armed clashes. This adds to existing refugees from Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Manipur, straining the state’s humanitarian capacity.

How Mizoram is Managing:

• Ethnic Ties: Mizoram’s Mizo community shares deep ethnic and cultural bonds with the Chin (Myanmar), Bawm (Bangladesh), and Kuki-Zo (Manipur) people, leading to solidarity and support.
• Community Support: Civil society groups like the Young Mizo Association (YMA), churches, and individuals are providing essential aid (food, shelter).
• Government Stance: The Mizoram government cites humanitarian and ethnic reasons for not deporting refugees, though local pressure has led some villages to impose restrictions on refugee movement.
• Central Assistance: The Centre has provided ₹8 crore in relief, deemed insufficient by state authorities.

Legal Framework:

• International Law: Refugees flee persecution; asylum seekers await status adjudication. India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention.
• Indian Law: Refugees are governed by the Foreigners Act, 1946, and other immigration-related laws.
• FMR: The Free Movement Regime allows limited cross-border travel for hill tribes but faces security concerns.
• UNHCR: Registered refugees have limited protection and services, lacking government-issued documents and access to welfare.

Measures Needed:

• Legal Reform: Enact a National Refugee Law and empower local identification mechanisms.
• Institutional Strengthening: Enhance coordination between central and state governments, and with UNHCR.
• Community Integration: Promote inclusive development and protect vulnerable groups.
• Infrastructure: Establish reception centres and refugee data management systems.
• Border Management: Utilize technology while ensuring humanitarian corridors and community engagement.

Denmark’s Deepfake Proposal: Denmark is extending copyright protection to individuals’ facial features, appearance, and voice to prevent deepfake misuse.

What are Deepfakes: Synthetic media using AI to create realistic, fabricated videos, pictures, or audio of people saying or doing things they never did.

How Deepfakes Work: Utilize AI, specifically Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), where two neural networks (generator and discriminator) compete to produce increasingly realistic fake content.

Rising Deepfake Concerns: India saw a 400% rise in reported deepfake crimes (2022-24), and Europol predicts 90% of online content could be synthetic by 2026.

Potential Uses: Entertainment, virtual assistants, education, dubbing, and accessibility.

Key Threats:

• Misinformation/Fake News: Spreading false narratives, blurring truth and fiction.
• Privacy Violations: Superimposing faces onto explicit content without consent.
• Identity Theft: Impersonating individuals, harming reputations.
• Cybersecurity Risks: Facilitating phishing and social engineering.
• Reputation Damage: Manipulating content to harm individuals and businesses.
• National Security: Creating fake political statements to cause diplomatic issues.
• Erosion of Trust: Undermining public faith in media and information.
• Social Engineering/Scams: Manipulating individuals for financial gain.

Legal & Ethical Challenges: Difficulty in assigning responsibility and accountability for creation and dissemination.

Denmark’s Bill Highlights:

• Imitation Protection: Bars public sharing of realistic digital recreations.
• Performance Protection: Covers artistic acts not meeting typical copyright.
• Protection for Performing Artists: Targets digital mimicry.
• Protection for Ordinary Individuals: Extends protection for up to 50 years post-death.
• Consent-Based: Requires individual permission, with consent withdrawable.
• Platform Responsibility: Online platforms liable for takedown; penalties for failure.

India’s Current Legal Framework: Relies on privacy, defamation, and publicity rights (e.g., Bachchan, Kapoor cases).

• IT Act 2000: Sections 66E (privacy), 67 (obscenity).
• IPC Section 469: Forgery to harm reputation.
• Proposed Digital India Act 2025: Aims to define and regulate AI-generated content.

Way Forward: Legal definition and penalties for misuse, AI detection/watermarking tools, public education, and responsible AI development.

Conclusion: Deepfakes are a double-edged sword, requiring a robust legal, technological, and ethical framework in India to combat misuse.

High Grassland Bird Diversity Recorded: Kaziranga National Park recorded 43 grassland bird species in a recent survey. This is significant as wet grasslands are historically less surveyed in India.

Critically Endangered Species Found: The survey identified critically endangered species like the Bengal florican and endangered Finn’s weaver, highlighting Kaziranga’s importance for threatened avian populations.

Vulnerable Species Identified: Six bird species were found in the vulnerable category, including the black-breasted parrotbill and swamp francolin, underscoring the need for continued conservation.

Milestone for Conservation: The survey marks a crucial step in documenting and protecting grassland-dependent birds in the Brahmaputra floodplains, allowing for comparisons with dry grassland ecosystems.

Kaziranga’s Significance: Located in Assam, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest undisturbed representative area in the Brahmaputra Valley floodplain and is famous for its one-horned rhinos, often focusing conservation on its “big four” species.

Why in News: India’s limited disaster insurance coverage makes it vulnerable to natural disasters. Catastrophe Bonds (Cat Bonds) offer a strategic solution to improve disaster risk financing and resilience amidst rising climate-induced disasters.

What are Cat Bonds:

• Insurance-linked securities that transfer natural disaster financial risk from governments/insurers to private investors.
• Combine insurance and bond features to raise quick post-disaster relief funds.
• Investors earn high returns for taking on risk but may lose principal if a disaster occurs.
• Primarily bought by institutional investors, increasingly attracting retail investors.

Working Mechanism/Key Features:

• High Returns: Compensate investors for principal risk.
• Diversification: Cat bond risks are uncorrelated with financial markets.
• Quick Capital Mobilization: Facilitate faster post-disaster payouts.
• Multi-Year Coverage: Provide long-term disaster protection.
• Fiscal Buffer: Reduce pressure on government finances.
• Investor Vigilance: Encourages disaster preparedness.

Significance for India:

• Addresses India’s high vulnerability to climate disasters.
• Can supplement the government’s annual disaster mitigation allocation.
• India can partner with institutions like the World Bank or ADB for issuance.
• India could lead a South Asian Cat Bond initiative for transboundary risks, spreading risk and reducing costs.

Disadvantages:

• Poorly designed bonds might not pay out despite significant damage.
• Cost-effectiveness needs comparison with historical reconstruction costs.

• Why in News: This action is significant as it involves the highest judicial leadership positions in the High Courts, directly impacting the administration of justice.

• Why in News: This highlights the constitutional process involved in judicial appointments, with the President acting on government advice.

• Why in News: The collegium system for judicial appointments is a frequently debated topic, and these decisions reflect its ongoing application.

• Why in News: This reinforces the constitutional framework within which these judicial personnel decisions are made.

• Why in News: This provides context on how the current system for judicial appointments has evolved and the reasoning behind it.

• Why: Deep-rooted societal notions, workplace safety concerns, pay inequity, and inadequate policies for life transitions (marriage, childbirth, caregiving) deter women from sustaining STEM careers.

• Why: Increased female participation directly correlates with economic growth and development.

• Why: Government policies aim to equip women with skills, increase access to technical education, and support entrepreneurship and safety.

• Why: Industry can bridge the gap by providing mentorship, flexible policies, skill upgradation, and ensuring workplace safety. Initiatives like UN Women’s WeSTEM Programme demonstrate this by linking training to placements and engaging communities.

• Why: These measures address practical challenges, provide career guidance, and create an inclusive environment for women to thrive in STEM fields, ultimately contributing to national development.

MGNREGS Attendance Manipulation: The Union government has informed states that the digital attendance system (NMMS) for MGNREGS workers is being manipulated. This is a significant issue because it undermines the integrity of the employment guarantee program.

NMMS Flaws Exposed: Despite a digital system requiring geo-tagged photos twice daily, various “misuses” have been discovered, indicating loopholes in the existing monitoring.

Introduction of Analog Monitoring: To address the manipulation, the Centre has introduced four new layers of analog monitoring to supplement the digital NMMS platform. This is a response to the failure of the purely digital system to prevent fraud.

Editing Muster Rolls Allowed: States are now permitted to edit muster rolls before making wage bills, a change from the previous system where only District Collectors could do this and take action on complaints. This could be a way to correct errors but also potentially a loophole for manipulation if not strictly overseen.

Multi-Level Verification Mandated: States are directed to ensure verification of worker attendance and photographs at Gram Panchayat (100% physical verification), block, district, and state levels, with decreasing physical verification percentages at higher levels. This aims to create a more robust audit trail and accountability mechanism.

MGNREGA’s Importance: MGNREGA is a crucial rural employment program guaranteeing 100 days of work, emphasizing women’s participation and minimum wages, and acting as a right to work. The manipulation of its attendance system directly impacts its effectiveness and the livelihoods of rural workers.

• Cause: An RNA virus from the Paramyxoviridae family, genus Henipavirus.
• Transmission: Zoonotic (animal to human), via contaminated food, and direct human-to-human contact.
• Hosts: Initially found in pigs, dogs, cats, goats, horses, and sheep.
• Fatality: High case fatality rate, ranging from 40% to 75%.
• Symptoms: Fever, headache, drowsiness, disorientation, mental confusion, leading to coma and death.
• Diagnosis: RT-PCR on bodily fluids and antibody detection via ELISA.
• Prevention: No vaccines are currently available for humans or animals.

Expansion to Tier 2 & 3 Cities: STPI is shifting focus from metro hubs to smaller cities for inclusive IT growth, aiming to trigger entrepreneurship in software, products, and Business Process Management (BPM) nationwide.

• Why in News: This signifies a strategic move to decentralize IT development and spread economic opportunities across the country, fostering growth in emerging regions.

Driving Digital Transformation & Product Innovation: STPI is repositioning to lead the next wave of digital transformation, encouraging product innovation under the National Policy on Software Products (NPSP) 2019.

• Why in News: This highlights a proactive approach to evolve the IT sector beyond services towards building a strong software product ecosystem, crucial for future economic competitiveness.

Supporting Startups and MSMEs: STPI provides incubation facilities, infrastructure, training, mentoring, funding, and market connect to support startups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

• Why in News: This demonstrates STPI’s role as a key enabler for new ventures, fostering job creation and economic growth in nascent tech hubs.

Significant Contribution to Software Exports: STPI-registered units contributed $110 billion to India’s total software exports of over $200 billion in FY 2024-25.

• Why in News: This reaffirms STPI’s historical importance and continued impact on India’s foreign exchange earnings and global IT standing.

Focus on Centres of Entrepreneurship (CoEs): STPI has established 24 CoEs to cultivate a startup culture specifically in the product development domain.

• Why in News: This signifies a targeted effort to boost India’s capabilities in creating proprietary software products, a sector where India currently lags.

Sluggish IIP Growth: India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) growth hit a nine-month low of 1.2% in June 2025, indicating weak industrial activity and raising concerns about growth and employment.

Weak Demand is the Primary Driver: Despite government support like corporate tax cuts and interest rate reductions, corporate investment remains sluggish because of persistently weak consumer demand.

• Reason: Profits have increased post-tax reforms, but low demand disincentivizes companies from expanding capacity. Firms fear poor returns if they borrow and invest. Capacity underutilization also discourages new investment.

Lower Investment to GDP Ratio: The corporate investment to GDP ratio has declined significantly compared to previous growth periods, indicating reduced confidence in long-term growth prospects. This is insufficient to achieve India’s ambitious growth targets.

Limited Impact of Government Capex: While the government has increased infrastructure spending, its multiplier effect on private investment is limited due to long project timelines, high import content, and low job creation from machine-heavy projects, which curtails consumption boosts.

Delayed Loan Disbursements: The disbursement of loans, especially for large infrastructure projects, is slow. Credit growth to key infrastructure sectors has lagged, while personal loans show strong growth, highlighting a disconnect between household demand and industrial investment appetite.

Global Trade Headwinds: Protectionist global policies, particularly tariff regimes in major markets, have weakened export-led investment opportunities.

Government Measures: India has implemented schemes like Make in India, PLI, and GatiShakti, along with Ease of Doing Business reforms, to boost investment.

Policy Recommendations: To revive investment, policies should focus on boosting aggregate demand through social sector spending and rural employment, reforming factor markets, de-risking private investment, supporting green and digital transitions, and enhancing corporate confidence through stable inflation and fiscal transparency.

Assam Initiates DNA Profiling of 2,573 Rhino Horn Samples: The Assam Forest Department, with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), has begun DNA profiling of these samples, collected from horns destroyed in 2021.

Purpose: Strengthen Conservation & Crime Investigations: The initiative aims to create individual DNA profiles for a national forensic database under the RhoDIS (Rhino DNA Index System) India programme. This will aid in tracking illegal rhino horn trade and understanding population genetics.

Samples from Public Burning: The samples are from rhino horns seized or from naturally deceased rhinos, retained during the public burning of a large number of horns on September 22, 2021. Tiny samples were kept from all but those involved in court cases.

RhoDIS India Program: Launched in 2016, RhoDIS India is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), rhino-range states, WII, and WWF-India. It standardizes DNA profiling for rhinos.

Significance for Assam & India’s Rhinos: Assam holds 80% of the global one-horned rhino population. The DNA profiling will support the genetic conservation planning and scientific management of this vulnerable species, whose population has significantly increased due to conservation efforts.

Technical Process: Samples were verified at Kaziranga National Park and sent to WII, Dehradun, for analysis following a protocol approved by the MoEFCC. The repackaging process was independently observed and recorded.

Abuse of Free Speech on Social Media: The Supreme Court observed that the right to free speech is being increasingly abused, particularly on social media platforms. This highlights a growing concern about the misuse of online platforms for harmful or divisive purposes.

Need for Self-Restraint and Regulation: The Court emphasized the necessity for self-restraint and potential regulation to address this abuse. This indicates the judiciary’s recognition that the unfettered exercise of free speech can have negative consequences, prompting a discussion on control mechanisms.

Reasonable Restrictions Apply: The Supreme Court reminded that the right to freedom of speech and expression is not absolute and comes with reasonable restrictions as per Article 19(2) of the Constitution. This reinforces the legal framework that allows for limitations to protect public order, security, and other societal interests.

Curbing Divisive Content: The Court specifically pointed out the need to curb the use of free speech to instigate divisive tendencies on social media. This signals a judicial intent to tackle speech that undermines social harmony and national unity.

Court May Frame Guidelines: The Supreme Court is considering framing guidelines to regulate abusive and divisive social media posts. This suggests a proactive approach by the judiciary to establish clearer rules for online discourse.

Fraternity to Reduce Hatred: Justice Viswanathan remarked that greater fraternity among citizens is essential to reduce mutual hatred, underscoring the social and ethical dimensions of online interactions. This points to a belief that fostering positive relationships is crucial for a healthier public sphere.

Focus Beyond the Petition: The Court indicated its intention to delve deeper into the issue of social media abuse beyond the scope of the current petition, implying a broader concern for the impact of online speech on constitutional values like fraternity, secularism, and individual dignity.

• Reason: Public backlash and systemic challenges, including technological integration issues and lack of inter-state coordination, made implementation infeasible.

• Request to CAQM: The minister wrote to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) requesting a hold on the directive.

• CAQM’s directive mandated fuel denial to ELVs via ANPR cameras from July 1, 2025.
• NGT banned diesel vehicles over 10 years and petrol vehicles over 15 years in NCR in 2015.
• Supreme Court upheld NGT orders in 2018.
• Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, govern vehicle registration validity and fitness.
• Environment Protection (End-of-Life Vehicles) Rules, 2025, mandate scrapping after registration expiry.

Yamuna Clean-up Aligns with National Goals: Delhi’s prioritized Yamuna river pollution clean-up is linked to the national Namami Gange Programme (NGP), integrating local efforts with broader objectives for Ganga basin rejuvenation.

Major Causes of River Pollution:

• Industrial Effluents: Toxic discharge from industries like textiles and chemicals, with many factories bypassing treatment plants.
• Agricultural Runoff: Fertilizers and pesticides leading to nutrient pollution, harming aquatic life. Stubble burning ash also contributes.
• Religious & Cultural Practices: Idol immersion and cremation practices introduce materials like plastic and toxic paints.
• Solid Waste & Plastic Dumping: India’s high plastic emission results in significant river clogging; landfill runoff contaminates water.
• Thermal & Radioactive Pollution: Discharges from thermal plants and uranium mining introduce heat and radioactive waste.
• Climate-Related Stress: Erratic rainfall concentrates pollutants during low-flow periods and flushes contaminants during storms.

Namami Gange Programme (NGP): A flagship initiative to rejuvenate the Ganga and its tributaries through pollution reduction and ecosystem restoration. It features a five-tier implementation structure from national to district levels.

Key NGP Pillars & Interventions: Include sewerage treatment, river surface cleaning, afforestation, industrial effluent monitoring, river-front development, biodiversity conservation, public awareness, and village development. Efforts focus on pollution abatement (Nirmal Ganga), improving ecology and flow (Aviral Ganga), strengthening people-river connect (Jan Ganga), and facilitating research (Gyan Ganga).

NGP Achievements: Significant increase in sewage treatment capacity, notable improvements in water quality (reduced BOD), and growth in Gangetic river dolphin populations. The program received global recognition from the UN.

Mitigation Steps: Strict industrial regulations (Zero Liquid Discharge, ETPs), managing agricultural runoff (organic farming, buffer zones), improving solid waste management (segregation, bans on single-use plastics), restoring river ecosystems, and leveraging technology and innovation (AI, IoT, GIS).

Monsoon Session to Begin: Parliament’s Monsoon Session starts July 21.

• Why: Ahead of the session, the Congress is strategizing for upcoming discussions.

Key Issues for Discussion:

• Bihar’s electoral roll revision.
• Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
• US tariffs on India.
• Economy, inflation, and unemployment.
• Why: These are critical national issues demanding parliamentary attention.

Opposition Demands Deputy Speaker Post: Congress-led opposition likely to demand the Deputy Speaker post in Lok Sabha.

• Why: Kodikunnil Suresh is a strong contender, signaling the opposition’s intent to claim this position.

Parliamentary Sessions Overview:

• Summoned under Article 85 of the Constitution.
• Government, via Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs and President, decides session timings.
• Maximum six-month gap between sessions, requiring at least two meetings annually.
• Why: These constitutional provisions ensure regular parliamentary functioning.

Parliamentary Session Cycle: India has three customary sessions: Budget, Monsoon, and Winter.

• Why: This structure facilitates legislative business and government oversight throughout the year.

Why in News: The Mahisagar River Bridge collapse, killing 20, highlights critical infrastructure quality issues nationwide.

Reasons for Poor Infrastructure:

• Corruption & Substandard Materials: Kickbacks allow politically linked firms to use cheap materials, leading to weak structures (e.g., Bihar’s illegal ghost bridge).
• Poor Maintenance & Overloading: Neglect and lack of inspection cause collapses (e.g., Morbi, Indrayani River bridges). Overloading, with unchecked heavy vehicles, also leads to failures (e.g., Assam’s Harang Bridge).
• Engineering Flaws: Poor planning and lack of expert oversight result in unsafe designs (e.g., Bhopal, Indore bridges).
• Lack of Accountability: Officials and contractors are rarely punished after disasters; lax regulations allow unsafe structures to remain in use.
• Climate & Environmental Factors: Floods and erosion weaken foundations without preventive action (e.g., Assam, Bihar). Unplanned urbanization stresses existing infrastructure.
• Political Interference: Rushed inaugurations of incomplete projects bypass safety checks; state-centre mismanagement and fund disputes cause delays.

Current Infrastructure State:

• Highways: Second-largest road network globally.
• Railways: Bullet train project progressing; decline in consequential accidents despite some crashes.
• Civil Aviation: Third-largest domestic market; significant increase in operational airports.
• Maritime: Aiming for top shipbuilding nations status; mega port and economic corridor projects underway.
• Urban Metro: Substantial expansion in network and cities served.
• Ropeways: Projects planned under the Parvatmala Pariyojana.

How to Improve Infrastructure:

• Strict Quality Control: Independent audits (e.g., IITs), lifetime bans for non-compliant firms, real-time fund tracking via blockchain.
• Advanced Engineering & Materials: Use of high-quality, durable materials; AI/IoT sensors for real-time monitoring.
• Shift to Maintenance: Proactive maintenance approach with dedicated budgets and structured policies.
• Strengthen Planning: Integrated, data-driven planning using GIS and AI tools.
• Deepen Financing: Maintain public capital expenditure, encourage PPP, monetize assets, promote municipal bonds and InvITs.

Presidential Nominations: President Droupadi Murmu nominated Harsh Vardhan Shringla (former Foreign Secretary), Ujjwal Nikam (26/11 prosecutor), C. Sadanandan Master (Kerala BJP leader), and Meenakshi Jain (historian) to the Rajya Sabha.

• Why: To fill vacancies caused by the retirement of nominated members, as per Article 80 of the Constitution. These nominations are made from individuals with special knowledge or practical experience in art, literature, science, and social service.

Notable Nominees and their Backgrounds:

• Harsh Vardhan Shringla: Praised for diplomatic, intellectual, and strategic contributions, and G20 Presidency coordination.
• Ujjwal Nikam: Recognized for exemplary legal contributions and seeking justice in important cases. He was previously the BJP’s Lok Sabha candidate.
• Meenakshi Jain: A Padma Shri awardee, academic, and historian known for her books on Indian history and indigenous education.
• C. Sadanandan Master: A former teacher and BJP candidate known for his resilience after violence and commitment to national development and youth empowerment.

Context of Nominations:

• Prime Minister Modi welcomed each nomination, highlighting their specific achievements.
• The nomination of Sadanandan Master is seen as significant given upcoming Assembly polls in Kerala.

Rajya Sabha Nomination Process:

• The President nominates 12 members to the Rajya Sabha, representing expertise in various fields. Four seats were vacant and have now been filled.

Criticism of Nominated Members (General Context):

• Past criticism has focused on poor attendance and lack of engagement in legislative work by some nominated members.
• Concerns exist about ruling dispensations using nominations to increase party numbers or reward loyalists.

Lithuania Launches Grey Seal Rehabilitation Effort: Why: To support the survival and restore population balance of grey seals in the Baltic Sea, which are threatened by climate change, pollution, and overfishing.

Grey Seals Threatened by Environmental Issues: Why: Baltic Sea grey seals face threats from receding ice cover, pollution, shrinking fish stocks, and disease, impacting their survival.

Grey Seals as Marine Ecosystem Indicators: Why: As apex predators, they absorb high levels of pollutants, making them indicators of marine ecosystem health.

Grey Seal Habitat and Characteristics: Why: They live in North Atlantic coastal waters, haul out on coasts, islands, sandbars, and ice. Males can reach 10 feet, and pups are born with white fur.

Grey Seal Behavior, Diet, and Lifespan: Why: They gather for mating/molting but are often solitary. They eat fish, squid, and seabirds. They live 25–35 years and females have one pup annually.

Conservation Status: Why: The Baltic Sea subpopulation of grey seals is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, despite facing significant threats.

India’s Growing Energy Demand & Transition Goals: India’s energy demand is doubling by 2030, necessitating a sustainable transition to meet targets of 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and net-zero by 2070, aligning with Paris Agreement.

AI’s Transformative Role: AI can enhance energy sector efficiency, optimize grid management, and facilitate renewable energy integration by:

• Predicting generation/demand fluctuations for grid balance.
• Enabling smart grids to detect faults and reduce transmission losses.
• Optimizing energy supply based on real-time usage to reduce wastage.
• Promoting consumer-side energy efficiency.

Key Energy Statistics & Sector Lacunas:

• Total electricity generation is approx. 15,20,000 GWh (FY 2023-24).
• Significant renewable energy potential exists (21,09,655 MW).
• However, 20-30% of electricity is lost in transmission/distribution.
• Coal dominates (75%), leading to high GHG emissions.
• Infrastructure gaps (outdated grids, outages, theft) persist, especially in smaller cities.

Challenges in AI Implementation:

• Outdated infrastructure and recurring issues like outages and theft.
• Fragmented data systems hindering AI analysis.
• Financial barriers (high upfront costs, limited support) for utilities.
• Lack of supportive policy frameworks and guidelines.
• Shortage of AI/data analytics experts and cybersecurity risks.

Global Best Practices: Examples include smart meters (Barcelona), cloud analytics (LA), specialized training (Germany), retraining programs (UK), consumer empowerment (Copenhagen), and cybersecurity protocols (New York).

Way Forward:

• Invest in smart grids, meters, and cloud platforms.
• Develop clear AI adoption guidelines and incentives.
• Build a skilled AI/data analytics workforce.
• Protect energy data systems from cyber threats.
• Address ethical concerns, ensure community engagement, and reskill workers.

• Why: This is a significant inclusion as it aims to gather crucial demographic data for these often isolated communities.

• Why: These are the primary indigenous groups of the islands, with most being classified as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), highlighting their unique needs and vulnerability.

• Why: This classification underscores their extreme vulnerability and the need for targeted government interventions and protections, making their accurate enumeration vital for scheme delivery like PM-JANMAN.

• Why: This indicates that the government’s welfare measures are fostering trust, which is expected to facilitate better cooperation during the census. It also demonstrates the positive impact of targeted interventions on tribal health and survival.

• Why: This acknowledges the difficulties in reaching and counting highly isolated groups and points to the evolving methodologies employed by the government for more reliable data.

• Why: This demonstrates the success of a sensitive approach to tribal healthcare, which respects their practices while supplementing them, leading to improved well-being and population stability.

• Why: This highlights the ongoing tension between development infrastructure and the need to protect tribal populations from unwanted external influences, crucial for their continued existence and well-being during and after the census.

• Why: Physician Ratan Chandra Kar, who has worked with the Jarawa since 1998 and combatted a measles outbreak in 1999, highlighted the existing relationship.

• Why: The next census has not yet been conducted, making it hard to gather precise demographic data for scheme implementation.

• Why: Understanding their lifestyle and historical context is crucial for effective welfare and census operations.

• Why: This marked a significant shift in their interaction with the outside world.

• Why: Provides a baseline population figure for the tribe.

Sierra Leone’s Tiwai Island Added to World Heritage List: This is significant as it’s Sierra Leone’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its global importance.

Pioneering Conservation Efforts by Tommy Garnett: Activist Tommy Garnett’s decades of work, including founding a conservation group, were crucial in preserving Tiwai island, which faced near destruction during the civil war. This highlights the impact of dedicated individuals on heritage preservation.

Exceptional Biodiversity in Gola-Tiwai Complex: The site is a “treasure chest of biodiversity,” home to endangered primates like the western chimpanzee and king colobus monkey, as well as animals like the pygmy hippopotamus and African forest elephant. This emphasizes the site’s natural value.

Threats to Biodiversity: The spectacular biodiversity has been imperilled by threats like deforestation, underscoring the ongoing challenges in protecting such sites.

UNESCO World Heritage Designation Explained: World Heritage Sites are recognized by UNESCO for “outstanding universal value” under the World Heritage Convention, categorized as Cultural, Natural, or Mixed heritage. This provides context for the designation.

Maharashtra Special Public Security (MSPS) Bill Passed: The state Assembly passed a stringent bill to effectively prevent unlawful activities of left-wing extremist (LWE) organizations.

Concept of Urban Naxalism: This refers to Maoist strategy of using urban areas for leadership, mass organization, and providing personnel and infrastructure for their movement.

• Why it’s a concern: Maoists aim to organize urban populations like workers, students, intellectuals, and minorities, and use front organizations for logistics and safe havens, bolstering rural insurgency.

Naxalism Defined: It’s a serious internal security challenge in India, driven by Maoist ideology stemming from socio-economic inequalities, aiming to undermine the state through armed rebellion and parallel governance.

• Origin: Naxalbari movement (1967).
• Affected Areas: Primarily the “Red Corridor” (Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, etc.).
• Methods: Armed violence, extortion, infrastructure destruction, child recruitment.

Impact of Urban Naxalism:

• Provides ideological, logistical, and financial support to rural cadres.
• Influences universities, media, and civil society to spread extremist narratives.
• Radicalizes urban youth and facilitates planning/recruitment in urban safe havens.
• Creates public dissent through misinformation and legal activism supporting extremist causes.

Bill’s Provisions:

• Empowers government to declare organizations “unlawful.”
• Punishes membership in unlawful organizations, fundraising, managing them, and “unlawful activity” (2-7 years jail, Rs 2-5 lakh fine).
• “Unlawful activity” includes interfering with public order/law administration, propagating violence/fear, disrupting communications, and encouraging disobedience to law.
• Allows District Magistrate/Police Commissioner to evict individuals from places used for unlawful purposes.

Concerns Raised:

• Broad definitions and wide police powers could be misused.
• Criminalizes a wide range of actions, including influencing public order and disobedience to law.
• Allows property forfeiture before guilt is established, potentially diluting principles like presumption of innocence.

Context: The bill is a response to the evolving threat of LWE spreading into urban networks. Special laws can sometimes dilute constitutional safeguards present in ordinary criminal laws.

• Why in News: This is a significant leadership change for the apex regulatory body of medical education.

• Why in News: It upholds the highest standards in healthcare education and ensures quality medical training nationwide.

• Why in News: This marks a generational shift in medical regulation, moving away from the older MCI which governed since 1934.

• Why in News: Highlights the comprehensive structure designed to govern medical education effectively.

Why in News: India’s household savings are declining while liabilities are rising, signaling potential risks to long-term economic stability and domestic capital formation.

Current Trends:

• Falling Gross Savings: India’s gross domestic savings rate is at a four-decade low.
• Declining Household Net Savings: The proportion of savings from households has also decreased.
• Rising Household Debt: Household liabilities have reached a near-record high, driven by consumption, housing, and education loans.
• Shift to Physical Savings: Households are increasingly saving in physical assets like gold and real estate, with a decline in financial savings.
• Reduced Bank Deposits: Savings in bank deposits have fallen significantly.
• Increased Equity/MF Investment: Investments in equities and mutual funds have nearly doubled.
• Urban-Rural Divide: Urban households are more inclined towards financial instruments, while rural households prefer physical assets.
• Post-Pandemic Impact: Reduced spending during Covid-19 initially boosted savings, but high inflation and low real interest rates have reversed this trend.

Implications:

• Reduced Capital Formation: Lower savings can slow GDP growth and increase reliance on foreign capital.
• Consumption-Driven Growth Risks: Over-reliance on consumption can lead to debt-fueled growth bubbles.
• Fiscal & Monetary Policy Pressure: Governments may need to cut spending or raise taxes, while the RBI faces interest rate trade-offs.
• Household Debt Stress: Increased risk of defaults and debt traps, potentially leading to higher NPAs.
• Social & Inequality Concerns: Weakened household resilience, increased reliance on borrowing, and retirement insecurity.

Strategies:

• Boost Financial Literacy: Improve education on saving habits, investment risks, and debt management.
• Incentivize Savings: Offer tax deductions and inflation-indexed bonds.
• Strengthen Social Security: Expand pension coverage for informal workers.
• Regulate Lending: Implement stricter norms on unsecured loans.
• Encourage Productive Investments: Promote gold monetization schemes and affordable housing.

Andhra Pradesh’s Sub-Replacement Fertility Rate: Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu highlights the state’s fertility rate of 1.7, below the replacement level of 2.1.

• Why it’s news: This low rate is a cause for concern due to potential negative consequences.

Consequences of Low Fertility:

• Economic slowdown: Fewer young people entering the workforce.
• Labour shortage: Difficulty filling jobs.
• Geriatric care burden: An increasing proportion of elderly people requiring care.
• Widening urban-rural disparities: Potential impact on regional development.
• Long-term population sustainability: Questions about future population levels.

India’s Fertility Trend: India’s overall fertility rate has fallen to 1.9, below the replacement level. Projections show a further decline. Southern states have reached this level earlier.

Government’s Response:

• Policy on the way: A comprehensive policy with incentives and support systems will be introduced soon to increase the fertility rate to above 2.1.
• Focus shift: The emphasis is moving from family planning to viewing people as “human capital” for investment.

Addressing Imbalances: The state needs to tackle gender imbalances, teenage pregnancies, and rising early hysterectomies. Real-time data is crucial for monitoring.

Impact on Representation: Declining populations in South India could lead to reduced representation in Parliament due to delimitation.

Global Context: Developed nations are now looking to populous countries for their workforce as their own fertility rates fall.

Reasons for Decline (Broader Context): Factors include female literacy, workforce participation, women’s empowerment, changing attitudes towards marriage/motherhood, increasing infertility, and availability of abortion.

Parliamentary Push for Bharat Ratna for Dalai Lama: Over 80 MPs from various parties, led by BJP MP Sujeet Kumar, are petitioning the Union government to award the Bharat Ratna to the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday.

Why it’s News: This is significant as it represents cross-party support for honoring a globally recognized spiritual leader with India’s highest civilian award. The Dalai Lama’s recent 90th birthday provides a timely context.

Dalai Lama’s Successor and India’s Stance: The effort is linked to the Dalai Lama’s right to recognize his successor, a matter on which the Indian government, through the MEA, maintains a neutral stance, stating it does not comment on religious practices.

Ministerial Clarification: Minister Kiren Rijiju’s statement affirming the Dalai Lama’s right to appoint a successor is seen as consistent with the MEA’s position, emphasizing India’s non-interference in religious matters.

Critique of China’s Position: The move also includes criticism of the Chinese government’s claim to regulate the Dalai Lama’s successor, highlighting the irony of an atheist nation dictating religious succession.

Bharat Ratna Basics: The Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award, granted for outstanding service, and can be awarded to non-Indians. Recommendations are made by the Prime Minister to the President.

Recent Floods & Impact: Heavy rainfall (>71 mm in hours) caused cloudbursts in Mandi, Kullu, Chamba districts, leading to landslides, road closures, and loss of life. Economic loss exceeds Rs 700 crore, with significant environmental damage including soil erosion and loss of agricultural land. This highlights the impact of climate change on the Himalayas.

Causes of Increased Flooding:

• Global Climate Change: Alters regional weather, causing more intense storms, unpredictable rainfall, rapid glacier melting, and increased flooding.
• Global Warming: Increases atmospheric moisture (7% per 1°C rise), leading to heavier rainfall.
• Glacier Melt: Himalayan glaciers are melting rapidly (up to 30m thickness loss annually), increasing river flow and flood risk during monsoons.
• Water Volume Increase: Melting glaciers and intense rainfall swell rivers (Beas, Yamuna, Ganges), leading to bank erosion and floods.
• Topography: Mountain slopes funnel rainwater, and unstable slopes cause landslides, exacerbating flood threats.

Impacts of Floods:

• Connectivity Disruption: Key roads blocked, disrupting essential services.
• Displacement & Hardship: Thousands displaced, facing food shortages and livelihood loss.
• Vulnerability: Affected communities are more susceptible to future disasters.
• Economic Losses: Massive agricultural losses worsen poverty in fragile hill economies.
• Strain on Resources: Frequent displacement strains government and disaster response systems.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Remote villages lack adequate infrastructure and early warning systems.

Way Forward (Adaptive & Mitigation Strategies):

• Infrastructure: Build durable, all-weather roads, bridges, and flood barriers, considering local geological/hydrological conditions.
• Environmental Protection: Expand afforestation, stabilize slopes, protect wetlands/forests as natural flood buffers.
• Water Management: Develop reservoirs, promote rainwater harvesting to regulate river flows.
• Technology & Early Warning: Deploy advanced forecasting and timely alert systems.
• Community Engagement: Launch awareness campaigns and build local emergency response capacity.
• Sustainable Livelihoods: Support flood-tolerant crops and soil conservation for farmers.
• Climate Action: Incentivize renewables, reduce fossil fuel dependence.
• Coordination: Foster collaboration across government, agencies, and communities for long-term resilience.

• Why in News: Marks a significant step in indigenous naval shipbuilding, bolstering underwater operational capabilities.

• Why in News: Enhances the Navy’s ability to conduct critical deep-sea and submarine-related operations.

• Why in News: These features enable precise operations, seabed mapping, and deep-sea recovery.

• Why in News: Directly strengthens India’s submarine rescue capabilities.

• Why in News: Enhances the operational reach and effectiveness of a key naval command.

• Why in News: Reinforces India’s self-reliance in strategic defense and its role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Why in News: Union Minister highlighted initiatives driving Indian agricultural growth at the 16th Agriculture Leadership Conclave, focusing on soil health, credit, digital innovation, and global trade.

MSP Enhancements: Significant increases in Minimum Support Prices, especially for pulses and oilseeds (up to 98%), ensure remunerative prices for farmers and reduce market vulnerability.

Soil Health Cards: Distribution of over 25 crore Soil Health Cards guides farmers on soil nutrition, improving yields and reducing chemical use.

Kisan Credit Card (KCC): Facilitates wider access to crop loans, with 7.75 crore active accounts and significant credit outstanding, including for fisheries and animal husbandry.

PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi: A major DBT scheme providing ₹6,000 annually to landholding farmers; 11.8 crore farmers have received financial assistance.

e-NAM Integration: Linking 1,400 mandis to the e-NAM platform enhances market transparency and price realization.

Fertiliser Subsidies: A substantial budget allocation (over ₹1.67 lakh crore for FY25-26) supports fertilizer availability for farmers.

Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): FTAs with Australia, UAE, EFTA, and the UK are opening new international markets for Indian agri-products.

Digital Agriculture: Focus on AI, geospatial tech, weather forecasting, and vertical farming. The Digital Agriculture Mission and AgriStack aim to create a farmer-centric digital ecosystem.

Support to FPOs: The “Formation and Promotion of 10,000 FPOs” scheme empowers small farmers by collectivizing them for better market access and income.

Agri-Exports and Value Addition: Aiming to scale up agri-exports from ₹4.5 lakh crore to ₹20 lakh crore through value addition.

Infrastructure and Irrigation: Investments in warehousing, cold chains, and drip irrigation are increasing. The Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF) expansion supports broader projects, and the PDMC scheme covers nearly 1 crore ha under micro-irrigation.

• Microalgae: Studying the potential of microalgae for food, oxygen, and biofuels in deep space missions.
• Voyager Displays: Examining how spaceflight affects eye movement and coordination.
• ENPERCHAR: Understanding how astronauts perceive and interact with their orbital environment for designing better habitats.
• Cerebral Blood Flow: Investigating microgravity and CO₂ effects on cardiovascular function, with potential terrestrial benefits.
• Radiation Exposure: Monitoring astronaut safety using the Rad Nano Dosimeter.
• Acquired Equivalence Test: Measuring learning and adaptability in space.
• PhotonGrav Study: Collecting brain activity data for neuroadaptive technologies.

• Why in News: Demonstrates the ICG’s capability in maritime search and rescue operations in challenging conditions. The rescue occurred southeast of Indira Point, a significant geographical location in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

• Why in News: Highlights the ICG’s critical role as India’s primary agency for safeguarding maritime interests and ensuring the safety of vessels and seafarers in its vast Exclusive Economic Zone.

• Why in News: Underscores the ICG’s operational reach and preparedness in the strategically important and geographically diverse Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, which also houses India’s first joint operational command (ANC).

• Bt Cotton: The only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation, covering over 90% of India’s cotton area, leading to increased production and reduced pesticide use. However, yields have declined recently due to pest resurgence and outdated traits.
• Bt Brinjal: Approved but under a moratorium due to public and political concerns.
• HT-Bt Cotton: Illegally cultivated in several states despite not being approved.
• GM Mustard (DMH-11): Environmental clearance granted, but commercial release is pending.

• Pest/Disease Resistance: Reduces pesticide use and environmental harm.
• Climate Resilience: Enhances tolerance to drought and salinity.
• Nutritional Enhancement: Biofortification addresses malnutrition (e.g., Golden Rice).
• Reduced Post-Harvest Losses: Improves shelf life.
• Environmental Cleanup: Potential for phytoremediation.

• Environmental/Health Concerns: Gene flow, harm to non-target insects, potential allergens.
• Regulatory/Policy Hurdles: Slow approvals, political hesitancy, restrictive policies hindering R&D.
• Socio-Economic/Ethical Issues: Market concentration, seed dependence, “playing God” concerns.
• Coexistence/Contamination: Risk of cross-pollination and market access issues for non-GM crops, alongside illegal cultivation.
• Resistance Development & Competitiveness: Pest resistance and declining global competitiveness due to delayed innovation.

• Why in News: This signifies the ICC’s action against systematic gender and political persecution in Afghanistan.

• Why in News: It’s the world’s first permanent international court dedicated to individual accountability for grave global offenses.

• Why in News: Afghanistan’s membership allows the ICC to act within its territory, and the non-membership of major powers like India, US, and China highlights ongoing debates about international justice and national sovereignty.

• Why in News: This highlights the dependency of international justice mechanisms on state cooperation, which can be a challenge.

World Population Day 2025 Theme: “Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world.”

• Why in News: Focuses on empowering youth regarding sexual and reproductive health choices.

India’s Youth Demographic:

• World’s largest youth population (371 million, 15-29 age group).
• Projected to decline from 27.2% (2021) to 22.7% (2036) of the population.
• Significance: Large youth population contributes to workforce participation and a demographic dividend.

Evolution of Youth Policy:

• NYP 2014: Defines youth as 15-29 years, aims for full potential realization.
• Draft NYP 2024: 10-year vision aligned with SDGs, focuses on skills, leadership, mental/reproductive health, safety, and justice for marginalized youth.

Opportunities Presented by India’s Youth:

• Demographic Dividend: Boosts GDP growth and per capita income (potential $1 trillion by 2030).
• Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Flourishing startup ecosystem driven by youth.
• Global Workforce: Addresses global talent shortages (e.g., Germany, Japan).
• Social & Cultural Influence: Driving social change, advancing gender equality, and boosting India’s soft power.
• Strengthening Democracy: Fostering civic awareness and leadership.

Key Challenges Faced by Youth:

• Sexual & Reproductive Health: High rates of unintended pregnancies and unmet reproductive goals.
• Gender Inequality: Patriarchal norms limit women’s autonomy.
• Mental Health Crisis: Increasing stress, anxiety, depression, and stigma.
• Employment Crisis: Skill mismatch leading to educated youth unemployment.
• Substance Abuse: Increasing vulnerability to drug addiction.

Steps to Empower Youth:

• Education Revolution: Promote critical thinking, digital literacy, and vocational training.
• Job-Linked Skill Development: Encourage apprenticeships, upskilling, and entrepreneurship.
• Healthcare Access: Improve mental health support, nutrition, and reproductive health services.
• Sports & Arts Infrastructure: Expand facilities and financial support for young talent.
• Digital Empowerment: Bridge the digital divide and enhance digital skills.

Kashmir’s Ancient Climate: A palaeobotanical study reveals Kashmir Valley, now temperate, was a warm, humid subtropical region ~4 million years ago.

• Why it’s news: Challenges current understanding of the region’s climate history and its ecological evolution.

Study Methodology: Researchers used leaf morphology analysis (CLAMP) and compared fossil species to modern relatives (Coexistence Approach) to reconstruct past climate.

• Why it’s news: Highlights advanced scientific techniques used to understand geological climate shifts.

Subtropical Forest Evidence: Fossilized leaves from Karewa sediments show evidence of lush subtropical forests, unlike today’s alpine vegetation.

• Why it’s news: Provides tangible proof of a dramatic past climatic transformation.

Tectonic Uplift as Cause: The study attributes this climate shift to the tectonic uplift of the Pir Panjal Range.

• Why it’s news: Directly links geological processes to significant climate and ecosystem changes.

Monsoon Barrier: The Pir Panjal uplift created a barrier that blocked the Indian summer monsoon, leading to reduced rainfall and a drier climate.

• Why it’s news: Explains the mechanism behind the climate change, demonstrating the sensitivity of regional weather patterns to topography.

Significance for Climate Modeling & Conservation: The findings improve climate models by linking tectonics and ecosystems, show Himalayan ecosystem sensitivity, and offer insights for biodiversity conservation and disaster preparedness in mountain regions.

• Why it’s news: Emphasizes the practical applications of palaeoclimate research for current environmental challenges.

US Funding Halt Threatens Progress: A sudden withdrawal of the US’s USD 4 billion pledge to PEPFAR could reverse decades of gains in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

• Why: PEPFAR is a cornerstone of global HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment efforts. Its funding is critical for widespread access to life-saving interventions.

Potential for Increased Deaths and Infections: The funding cut could lead to an estimated 4 million more AIDS-related deaths and 6 million new HIV infections by 2029.

• Why: Reduced funding means fewer people will have access to prevention methods, testing, and treatment, directly contributing to increased mortality and transmission.

New Drug Out of Reach: The promising injectable drug Yeztugo, with 100% prevention efficacy, is currently too expensive for most low- and middle-income countries.

• Why: High-cost innovations, while scientifically significant, fail to benefit those who need them most if affordability and accessibility are not addressed, exacerbating existing disparities.

PEPFAR’s Crucial Role: Launched in 2003, PEPFAR has been instrumental in preventing HIV infections and saving lives globally.

• Why: PEPFAR has a proven track record of delivering tangible results in combating the epidemic.

UNAIDS Goal at Risk: The global aim to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 is jeopardized by funding instability.

• Why: Achieving ambitious public health goals requires sustained and predictable investment, which is undermined by sudden funding withdrawals.

Lotus Blooms Return to Wular Lake: After a 30-year absence following the 1992 flood, lotus flowers are blooming again in Wular Lake.

• Why it’s news: This signifies a major success in conservation efforts and the ecological recovery of a vital ecosystem.

Conservation Efforts Paid Off: Focused conservation work by the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA) is credited with the lotus revival.

• Why it’s news: It highlights the positive impact of dedicated environmental management.

Silt Removal Uncovered Surviving Rhizomes: The flood had buried lotus seeds under heavy silt, preventing growth. However, surviving rhizomes deep below have now sprouted after silt removal.

• Why it’s news: It explains the scientific reason behind the long dormancy and the key to the current revival.

Wular Lake’s Ecological Significance: Wular Lake is India’s largest freshwater lake and a Ramsar Convention-designated Wetland of International Importance, supporting diverse avian and aquatic life.

• Why it’s news: The revival of the lotus adds to the ecological richness and beauty of this crucial wetland.

Lotus Symbolism: The lotus is India’s national flower and holds religious significance in Hinduism and Buddhism.

• Why it’s news: The return of the lotus carries cultural and symbolic weight beyond its ecological importance.

• Why: To better manage conservation efforts, based on a Central Empowered Committee (CEC) report assessing human impact and land use.

• Why: This adjustment aims to optimize the core protected area for tigers while reallocating buffer zones, considering factors like low tiger density areas for landscape connectivity.

• Why: The SC’s involvement highlights past issues with mining and boundary management, emphasizing the need for stricter control and clearer demarcation.

• Why: To address conservation challenges like poaching and human-wildlife conflict, ensuring effective protection and ecological balance.

• Why: Its easy accessibility from Delhi and Jaipur makes it a prominent eco-tourism destination, underscoring the balance needed between conservation and development.

Lotus Blooms in Wular Lake After 30 Years: The iconic lotus flowers have reappeared in Wular Lake, a significant ecological and cultural event not witnessed since a 1992 flood devastated their growth.

Restoration Efforts Credited: The revival is directly linked to extensive dredging and conservation work undertaken by the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA) since 2020, removing over 79 lakh cubic meters of silt.

Ecological Rejuvenation: The removal of dense silt and weeds, which had previously choked the lakebed, has allowed the lotus stems and flowers to resurface, signaling a healthier ecosystem.

Economic and Cultural Revival: This bloom brings hope for the revival of local livelihoods, particularly for stem farmers who recall harvesting lotuses in their youth. The lotus holds deep cultural and culinary significance in Kashmir, used in dishes like Nadur and Yakhni.

WUCMA’s Goals: WUCMA aims to restore the lake’s ecology, improve fish habitats, clear silt from the lake and its feeder streams, and prevent future silt inflow.

Community Impact: The revival is expected to boost livelihoods and have a positive emotional impact on villagers, serving as a symbol of environmental restoration.

Wular Lake’s Significance: Located in Bandipora, Jammu & Kashmir, Wular Lake is one of South Asia’s largest freshwater lakes, vital as a natural flood basin for the Jhelum River and a Ramsar Wetland Site supporting diverse biodiversity. However, it has faced challenges from siltation, pollution, and weed infestation in recent decades.

Supreme Court’s Ruling: The Supreme Court allowed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to proceed with a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, but advised caution regarding document demands like Aadhaar or voter ID for those enrolled after 2003.

Intensive Revision Explained: This involves a complete house-to-house enumeration of eligible voters, distinct from routine summary revisions.

Special Aspect of Bihar SIR: A new requirement mandates documentary proof of date/place of birth for voters enrolled after 2003, raising concerns about potential disenfranchisement, though the ECI states it’s for roll cleanliness and standardization.

Timing and Location (Bihar, June 24, 2025): Bihar was chosen due to local opposition and political sensitivities. This is the first SIR of its scale in two decades, coinciding with political tensions over citizenship verification and voter list inclusions.

ECI’s Role: The ECI, a constitutional body under Article 324, is responsible for conducting elections, preparing and revising electoral rolls (including intensive revisions), enforcing the Model Code of Conduct, recognizing political parties, and monitoring election expenditure to ensure free and fair elections.

Historical Context: India has conducted intensive revisions periodically, with a shift in focus over the decades from expansion to preventing duplication and ensuring eligibility. Past revisions faced challenges like inaccurate rolls, lack of field verification, and citizenship concerns.

• Why: These audits help identify causes of death, systemic gaps in care, and improve response mechanisms, crucial for meeting TB elimination targets.

• Why: Prevalence surveys reveal many TB patients are missed during screening, and death rates remain concerningly high (5-10%), particularly in younger adults and those with drug-resistant TB.

• Tamil Nadu: Found 83% of deceased TB patients had co-morbidities or malnutrition, and 50% were not on treatment at death.
• Jharkhand: The Bhargava Project showed that providing nutritional and financial support to undernourished TB patients reduced mortality from 50% to 25%.
• Why: These examples highlight the critical role of addressing malnutrition, co-morbidities, and ensuring treatment adherence in preventing TB deaths.

• Involve District Collectors and community health workers in audits.
• Integrate nutrition, co-morbidity screening, and social support into TB care.
• Expand Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) and food kits to vulnerable patients.
• Why: A multi-sectoral approach focusing on patient-centric care, early detection (including AI tools), and social support is essential for effective TB elimination.

• Why: Despite being preventable and curable, TB remains a major public health issue due to underreporting, drug resistance, stigma, and co-morbidities.

High Incidence of Custodial Deaths: In 2021-22, 2,152 deaths in judicial custody and 155 in police custody were recorded, with disciplinary action taken in only 21 cases in the last five years. Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh reported the highest numbers.

• Why News: This highlights a systemic failure in accountability and indicates the prevalence of custodial violence despite existing safeguards.

Causes of Custodial Violence:

• Hierarchical Police Structure: Fosters a culture where aggression is rewarded; officers are promoted instead of facing action.
• Perception of Ineffectiveness: Police view violence as a shortcut for justice due to a slow formal legal process.
• Colonial Mindset: Police treat marginalized communities as subjects to control rather than citizens to protect.
• Inadequate Training: Current police curricula lack ethics, trauma-informed practices, and human rights emphasis.
• Funding Misallocation: Resources prioritize surveillance and hardware over training and personnel welfare.
• Lack of Support: No counselling available for officers facing emotional trauma from high-stress duties.
• Why News: These points explain the root causes of the problem, providing context for the high death rates and lack of accountability.

Needed Reforms:

• Modern Training: Focus on scientific interrogation and forensic methods, moving away from third-degree tactics.
• Bias Sensitisation: Training to reduce prejudice against petty offenders.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Involve forensic experts and psychologists.
• Trauma-Informed Policing: Train officers to handle trauma cases with empathy.
• Community Awareness: Media, educational institutions, and civil society to educate citizens on their rights.
• Why News: These offer concrete solutions and actionable steps to address the systemic issues contributing to custodial violence.

Non-Compliance with Supreme Court Directives:

• CCTV Mandate (Paramvir Singh Saini case): Poor implementation; cameras often non-functional during incidents, and torture occurs outside recorded areas.
• Police Complaints Authorities (Prakash Singh case): Most states haven’t set up independent PCAs; existing ones are often compromised.
• Why News: This shows a significant disconnect between judicial pronouncements and ground reality, indicating a failure of governance and the rule of law.

Law Commission Recommendation: Proposal for a rebuttable presumption in custodial violence cases to enhance accountability, though access to justice for vulnerable victims remains a challenge.

• Why News: This highlights ongoing efforts by statutory bodies to improve accountability, but also points to the persistent challenges faced by victims within the legal framework.

Diminished Role of Magistrates: Statutory safeguards (24-hour production, physical examination) are becoming perfunctory, and medico-legal examinations are often mere formalities.

• Why News: This reveals how a crucial check-and-balance mechanism within the criminal justice system is failing to prevent custodial violence.

Why in News: India is rapidly urbanizing, with its urban population set to surge, shaping its economic and social future. However, urban challenges are hindering its full potential.

Cities as Economic Engines:

• Contribute ~60% of India’s GDP on only 3% of land, highlighting productivity and innovation.
• Just 15 cities account for 30% of GDP and are projected to add 1.5% more by 2047.
• Agglomeration benefits (density) boost economic output and job creation.
• Enhance global competitiveness and ease of doing business, crucial for economic growth ambitions.

Urban Challenges:

• Congestion: 1.5-2 hours daily lost in traffic, costing billions annually due to poor public transport and infrastructure.
• Pollution: India has many of the world’s most polluted cities, impacting health.
• Water Scarcity: Polluted rivers and poor infrastructure lead to significant water loss.
• Waste Management: Low processing rates and poor segregation create pollution and health hazards.
• Sanitation: Inadequate facilities in many urban areas, especially informal settlements.
• Affordable Housing: A significant shortage leading to slums and potential social issues.
• Urban Flooding: Caused by inadequate drainage and encroachment, exacerbated by extreme weather.
• Weak Municipal Finances: Low revenue generation limits investment in urban development.
• Digital Deficits: Slower internet speeds hinder digital economy growth.
• Urban Heat Island: Increases energy demand, emissions, and health risks.

Needed Reforms:

• Treat Urban Infrastructure as Core: Elevate urban infrastructure to national priority status.
• Synchronize Urban Expansion: Integrate housing, commerce, and transport for efficient growth.
• Unified Governance: Streamline urban planning with tech-enabled, accountable bodies.
• Sanitation/Waste as Economic Priorities: Adopt industry-led models for sustainable management.
• Recapitalize PPPs: Redefine Public-Private Partnerships to attract long-term capital.
• Co-Develop Digital Backbone: Collaborate with industry for smart city infrastructure.
• Climate Resilience: Integrate adaptive infrastructure and green spaces into planning.
• Societal Engagement: Co-create reforms with citizens and industry for legitimacy.

Why in News: Indian Prime Minister’s state visit to Brazil reaffirmed commitment to the Strategic Partnership, focusing on five priority pillars. PM Modi received Brazil’s highest state honor.

Five Priority Pillars:

• Defense and Security: Deepened cooperation via classified information exchange, combating terrorism and organized crime, and cybersecurity dialogue.
• Food & Agricultural Security: Focus on sustainable agriculture, food access, joint R&D, and opposing trade barriers. Support for Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.
• Energy Transition & Climate Action: Emphasis on sustainable biofuels, flex-fuel vehicles, strengthening the Global Biofuels Alliance, and supporting Brazil’s COP30 Presidency.
• Digital Transformation & Emerging Technologies: Collaboration on digital public infrastructure, AI, quantum technologies, renewable energy, and outer space via Joint Commission.
• Industrial Partnerships: Collaboration in pharmaceuticals, mining/critical minerals, and oil & gas, addressing non-tariff barriers and promoting investment. Launch of Brazil-India Business Council.

Government’s Claim vs. Reality: India’s claim of being “one of the most equal societies” (Gini 25.5) based on consumption data is contested by academic studies showing rising income inequality (Gini 62).

Gini Coefficient Explained: Measures income/wealth inequality from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (perfect inequality).

Data Discrepancy: India’s consumption Gini improved (28.8 to 25.5), while income inequality (World Inequality Database) rose (52 to 62). Wage disparity remains high (top 10% earn 13x bottom 10%).

Consumption vs. Income Gini: Consumption Gini underestimates inequality as rich people save more, making income more volatile and indicative of disparity.

Survey Limitations: Differential non-response from the rich and under-sampling of top earners lead to an underestimation of inequality.

Alternative Data Sources: World Inequality Lab uses income tax data, showing rising inequality, and recommends combining survey data with tax data for accuracy.

Gini Index Limitations: Insensitive to extremes, overly sensitive to the middle. The Palma Ratio (top 10% vs. bottom 50% income share) is suggested as a clearer measure.

Way Forward: Combine survey and income tax data, use multiple inequality measures, and focus on inclusive growth.

News Significance: Inaccurate inequality measurement can lead to ineffective or counterproductive policies. Relying solely on limited Gini data obscures the true economic disparity.

Two-Year Nationwide Commemoration Launched: The Ministry of Culture has initiated a two-year (July 6, 2025 – July 6, 2027) nationwide celebration of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s 125th birth anniversary. This event honors his significant role in India’s political, educational, and industrial development.

Inaugural Events and Releases: The commemoration began in New Delhi with an event attended by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. A special postage stamp and a ₹125 commemorative coin were released, symbolizing his contributions to national unity and self-reliance.

Emphasis on National Unity: A central theme is Dr. Mookerjee’s advocacy for “one nation, one flag, one Constitution” and his strong opposition to Article 370, highlighting his efforts for Jammu and Kashmir’s integration. This is reflected in remarks about fearless “Tiranga Yatras” in Kashmir and the implementation of all Indian laws there.

Educational and Industrial Contributions: The commemoration also focuses on his achievements as the youngest Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and India’s first Minister for Industry and Supply, recognizing his impact on educational reform and industrial development.

Nationwide Outreach and Activities: Numerous exhibitions, outreach programs, workshops, and screenings are being organized across India, including in states like Sikkim and Assam, to showcase his life, philosophy, and ideals to future generations.

Legacy and Inspiration: The events aim to inspire citizens by reflecting on Dr. Mookerjee’s vision for a self-reliant and united India. His principled stands, even leading to resignation from government, and his early opposition to partition are highlighted as defining aspects of his character.

• Why News: Highlights the urgent need for innovative financial solutions beyond traditional insurance.

• Why News: Offers a new mechanism for governments to access large, immediate funds for post-disaster relief and reconstruction.

• Why News: Explains the operational aspects and the role of various financial actors in disaster risk transfer.

• Why News: Clarifies the risk-reward profile for investors, crucial for market participation.

• Why News: Underscores the practical benefits for governments and disaster preparedness.

• Why News: Points out critical design flaws and the perception challenges of paying for protection that isn’t triggered.

• Why News: Assesses the specific relevance and benefits for India in managing its disaster risk.

• Why News: Proposes a strategic, collaborative approach for enhanced disaster financing and resilience in the region.

Lok Sabha Speaker’s Call for Enhanced Productivity: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized the need for greater legislative productivity and improved quality of discourse, drawing parallels with the functioning of urban local bodies (ULBs).

Reduced Disruptions in Parliament: The Speaker highlighted a significant reduction in disruptions within Parliament, attributing this to increased maturity and responsibility, which has led to enhanced productivity and more meaningful debates. This marks a positive shift from previous practices of frequent adjournments.

Lessons for Urban Local Bodies: Birla urged ULBs to adopt parliamentary practices like Question Hour and Zero Hour to enhance accountability and incorporate structured procedures such as regular sittings and robust committee systems. He stressed the importance of shunning disruptive behavior and focusing on constructive, inclusive discussions.

Historical Decline in Sitting Days: The provided context notes a steep decline in Parliament’s sitting days, from around 135 days annually in the first Lok Sabha to approximately 55 days in the 17th Lok Sabha, impacting thorough deliberation.

Impact of Disruptions and Low Scrutiny: Disruptions, low attendance in debates, and a reduced referral of bills to committees (10% in the 17th Lok Sabha compared to 60-71% in earlier ones) have hampered the quality of lawmaking and executive oversight.

Consequences of Low Productivity: Key implications include weakened executive oversight, potential for poor-quality legislation, marginalization of the opposition, erosion of public trust, and executive overreach through ordinances.

Measures and Future Steps: Existing measures include a Code of Conduct for MPs, technology adoption (e-Vidhan), strengthening committee systems, and capacity building. Proposed steps involve institutional discipline, mandatory committee scrutiny, enhanced transparency, fostering dialogue, and citizen engagement.

ULBs as Foundations of Democracy: The Speaker underscored the crucial role of ULBs as the closest tier of governance to citizens and as vital institutions for strengthening constitutional democracy and nation-building. Empowering local bodies is seen as strengthening national governance.

World Bioproduct Day 2025 & BioE3 Policy: DST, BIRAC, and iBRIC+ organized the event focusing on Equity, Environment, and Economy, highlighting public participation in biotechnology and reinforcing the USD 300 billion bioeconomy goal by 2030 under the BioE3 framework.

Bioeconomy Target & Public Participation: Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that every Indian is a stakeholder in the $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030 and urged for wider public understanding and inclusive participation.

‘Voices Across the Cities’ Initiative: A nationwide hourly dialogue series showcased India’s biotech diversity through theme-based discussions across different cities, reflecting regional capabilities.

BioE3 Policy Aims: The policy promotes high-performance biomanufacturing, integrates advanced biotechnological processes, strengthens India’s bioeconomy through sustainable practices, innovation, and employment, and aligns with ‘Net Zero’ goals and circular bioeconomy principles.

Bioproduct Significance: Bioproducts derived from renewable biomass reduce reliance on fossil fuels, addressing pollution and biodiversity loss while promoting climate-resilient development through biotechnological innovation.

Growth of Biotech Ecosystem: India’s biotechnology startup ecosystem has significantly grown from around 50 a decade ago to nearly 11,000 today, driven by policy support and institutional partnerships.

Policy Focus: The BioE3 Policy supports biomanufacturing infrastructure (hubs, biofoundries), regenerative bioeconomy models, ethical biosafety, and workforce expansion, especially in Tier-II/III cities.

Biotechnology for Livelihoods: Bioproducts are seen as contributing to livelihoods through biodegradable packaging, eco-friendly products, and rural/green job creation, moving beyond laboratory applications.

Leveraging Traditional Knowledge: The importance of valuing India’s natural resources and traditional knowledge systems was highlighted, contrasting with past policy priorities informed by Western models.

Operationalizing the Policy: Steps to operationalize the BioE3 Policy include support for pilot manufacturing, region-specific innovation, and strengthening the research-to-market pipeline, fostering academia-industry collaborations.

First Test Images Released: The Vera C. Rubin Observatory has issued its inaugural test images, showcasing the capabilities of its Simonyi Survey Telescope. This marks a significant milestone in its journey towards full operational status.

Comprehensive Southern Sky Survey: Its primary purpose is to conduct the most thorough survey of the southern hemisphere’s night sky through continuous scanning, providing unprecedented data.

Honoring Vera C. Rubin: The observatory is named after astronomer Vera C. Rubin, who provided early evidence for dark matter.

Unparalleled Field of View: The Simonyi Survey Telescope boasts an exceptionally wide field of view, capturing an area equivalent to 40 full Moons at once, vastly exceeding the capabilities of Hubble and JWST. This is achieved through its innovative three-mirror design.

World’s Largest Digital Camera: It houses the world’s largest digital camera, a 3,200-megapixel instrument that can detect objects 100 million times dimmer than the naked eye. Its sensors are designed to capture light across various parts of the electromagnetic spectrum using six filters.

Fastest-Slewing Telescope: The telescope is the fastest in the world, capable of repositioning itself in just five seconds, allowing for rapid sky coverage and the capture of up to 1,000 images per night.

Exploring Dark Matter and Dark Energy: A key objective is to deepen our understanding of dark energy (68% of the universe) and dark matter (27%), which constitute 95% of the cosmos.

Addressing Key Astronomical Questions: It aims to answer fundamental questions about the Milky Way’s formation, the potential existence of a ninth planet in our solar system, and asteroid threats to Earth.

Revolutionary Data Generation: Over 10 years, it will generate 20 terabytes of data nightly, leading to an estimated 10 million alerts per night for celestial changes.

Asteroid Discovery Powerhouse: In just 10 hours of engineering data, its software identified over 2,100 new asteroids, including seven near-Earth objects. It is expected to triple the current inventory of catalogued asteroids and near-Earth objects.

New Fish Species Discovered: Researchers from ICAR-CIFRI have identified a new cyprinid fish species, Pethia dibrugarhensis.

• Why it’s news: This adds to the known biodiversity of freshwater fish in India and highlights ongoing scientific exploration.

Named After Dibrugarh District: The species is named Pethia dibrugarhensis after the district in Assam where it was first found.

• Why it’s news: This localizes the discovery and connects it to a specific geographical region.

Belongs to the Barb Family: It is classified under the Cyprinidae family, commonly known as barbs.

• Why it’s news: Despite lacking typical barbels, its morphological features place it within this well-known group, providing context for its characteristics.

Found in Brahmaputra River: The new species inhabits moderately fast-flowing waters with a muddy-sandy-stony substrate in the Brahmaputra River.

• Why it’s news: The Brahmaputra is a significant river system, and discovering a new species within it indicates the river’s ecological importance and the potential for further discoveries.

Key Features: It is characterized by an incomplete lateral line, a black blotch near the caudal peduncle, and the absence of humeral marks and barbels.

• Why it’s news: These distinct features are crucial for scientific identification and differentiation from other species.

ICAR-CIFRI’s Role: The discovery was made by scientists from ICAR-CIFRI, a premier research institute focused on inland fisheries.

• Why it’s news: This underscores the vital research contributions of Indian institutions in understanding and conserving aquatic biodiversity.

Cooperative Stack Development: India is building a digital framework, the “Cooperative Stack,” to improve rural welfare scheme delivery.

• Why in News: This initiative signifies a major push towards digital governance and efficient service delivery in rural areas, leveraging existing grassroots institutions.

PACS as Central Hub: The Cooperative Stack is centered around Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS).

• Why in News: PACS are the established backbone of rural credit and have a direct reach to farmers, making them ideal for integrating government schemes.

Technology Integration: The framework will use digital platforms and AI-driven technologies (e.g., weather advisories).

• Why in News: This highlights the government’s commitment to modernization and utilizing technology to enhance farmer support and scheme effectiveness.

Scheme Delivery and Financial Inclusion: The goal is to provide services like credit, subsidies, and financial inclusion directly through PACS.

• Why in News: This directly addresses issues of rural access to finance and ensures welfare benefits reach the intended beneficiaries more efficiently, bypassing intermediaries.

Computerization Drive: The government aims to fully digitize 80,000 out of 1.08 lakh PACS.

• Why in News: This is a concrete step towards operationalizing the Cooperative Stack, demonstrating the practical implementation and scalability of the digital integration.

Why in News: A study presented at the 2025 Goldschmidt Conference suggests a link between melting glaciers and increased volcanic activity, especially in West Antarctica.

Subglaciated Volcanoes: Volcanoes under ice sheets (subglaciated) are sensitive to glacier retreat. West Antarctica has around 100 such volcanoes, facing increased activity as ice melts. Other at-risk regions include North America, New Zealand, and Russia.

Mechanism (Glacial Unloading): Melting ice reduces pressure on magma chambers, allowing underground gases and magma to expand, increasing eruption likelihood. This was first proposed in the 1970s.

Precipitation’s Role: Climate-change-influenced precipitation can seep underground and interact with magma systems, potentially triggering eruptions.

Historical Example: Iceland saw 30-50 times higher volcanic activity during its last major deglaciation.

Volcanic Eruption Impacts:

• Short-Term Cooling: Ash and sulfur dioxide from eruptions can temporarily cool the Earth by blocking sunlight.
• Long-Term Warming: Greenhouse gases from repeated eruptions contribute to global warming, creating a feedback loop where melting ice triggers eruptions, which in turn accelerate warming and further ice melt.

• Majority-based decision-making when consensus fails.
• Independent review of NDC implementation for transparency and accountability.
• Tying climate finance access to transparency and measurable results.
• Reframing negotiations around human needs for better developing country engagement.
• Streamlining agendas and limiting participation to enhance efficiency.

Fuel Ban on End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs) Timeline Extended: The ban, initially slated for phased implementation from November 2024, will now start on November 1, 2025, in Delhi and five NCR districts (Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, Sonipat) and April 1, 2026, for the rest of the NCR.

Reason for Extension – Technological & Operational Challenges: The extension is due to glitches and poor coverage in the Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system, incomplete data integration across NCR states, and the need to avoid policy loopholes where vehicle owners might refuel in neighboring areas.

New Enforcement Dates: Fuel supply to ELVs will continue until October 31, 2025. The ban applies from November 1, 2025, in Delhi and specified NCR districts, and from April 1, 2026, in the remaining NCR.

CAQM’s Decision: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), a statutory body addressing air pollution in NCR, amended its earlier direction based on concerns raised by the Delhi government.

Delhi Government’s Concerns: The GNCTD highlighted ANPR system weaknesses, HSRP issues affecting vehicle identification, and the risk of a cross-border illegal fuel market if the ban was implemented in stages. They also questioned the legal certainty and equitable treatment of time-based ELV thresholds compared to national vehicle standards.

Action Against Identified ELVs: Despite the extension, strict enforcement action, including impounding, will be taken against identified ELVs by fuel stations or other means.

Coordination and Preparation: Transport departments in Delhi and NCR states are directed to ensure proper ANPR installation, operation, trials, and manpower training, with monthly reports on ELV liquidation efforts to CAQM.

• Why it’s news: This significantly improves crop efficiency and dramatically reduces reliance on external fertilizer inputs.

• Why it’s news: Demonstrates the application of advanced gene-editing technology for agricultural solutions.

• Why it’s news: Highlights the precision and scientific understanding behind the gene-editing approach.

• Why it’s news: Addresses critical national issues of food security, economic reliance, and environmental impact of fertilizer use.

• Why it’s news: This technology offers a potential solution to overcome widespread nutrient deficiencies in Indian agricultural land.

• Why it’s news: Moves beyond traditional methods to a more sophisticated approach.

• Why it’s news: Enables precise spraying and fogging, replacing less effective “blind” spraying.

• Why it’s news: Demonstrates innovative and practical use of drone technology in public health.

• Why it’s news: Enhances operational efficiency and coordination.

• Why it’s news: Introduces transparency and accountability in public health operations.

• Why it’s news: Underscores the critical need for effective mosquito control measures like SMoSS, especially given India’s significant dengue burden.

Great Hornbill Sighted in Ezhimala, Kannur (Kerala)

• This sighting is noteworthy as Ezhimala is outside the typical range of the Great Hornbill.
• It suggests the presence of intact or connected forest areas in the region.

Ecological Significance of the Great Hornbill

• It’s a crucial seed disperser, vital for forest regeneration.
• It serves as an indicator species for mature, healthy forests.

Conservation Concerns

• The Great Hornbill is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN.
• Its populations are declining due to habitat loss and hunting.

Implications of the Ezhimala Sighting

• Highlights Ezhimala’s biodiversity potential and need for ecological restoration.
• Underscores the importance of protecting forest fragments and corridors.

Conservation Imperatives

• Protect existing forest patches and ecological corridors in Ezhimala.
• Promote community-based conservation efforts, including habitat monitoring.
• Strengthen wildlife laws and consider expanding protected areas.
• Utilize the Great Hornbill as a flagship species for conservation awareness.

Broader Takeaways

• Emphasizes the need to halt deforestation and habitat fragmentation.
• Reinforces the value of integrating scientific research with traditional knowledge and local participation.
• Demonstrates that wildlife recovery is achievable with dedicated conservation efforts.

PM’s Historic Visit: Indian PM’s visit to Argentina, first in 57 years, marked 75 years of diplomatic ties and 5 years of Strategic Partnership, symbolizing India’s growing global standing.

• Why in News: This visit signifies a significant deepening of relations and mutual recognition of importance.

Economic & Trade Boost: Agreement to expand India-MERCOSUR PTA to increase bilateral trade, focusing on diversification and investment in new sectors.

• Key Highlight: India-Argentina trade is growing, with India being Argentina’s 4th largest trading partner.

Energy & Critical Minerals Cooperation: Collaboration on shale energy and expansion of oil & gas cooperation. India secured lithium concessions in Argentina, vital for its energy transition.

• Key Highlight: Argentina’s critical mineral resources align with India’s energy security needs.

Defence & Digital Partnerships: Plans to boost defense manufacturing through co-development and tech transfer, and promote India’s digital public infrastructure in Argentina.

• Key Highlight: Technological synergy in defense and digital solutions strengthens strategic ties.

Shared Democratic Values: Reaffirmation of commitment to democracy, South-South cooperation, and multilateralism, underscored by a symbolic visit to a national hero’s statue.

• Key Highlight: Cultural and values-based relations are a strong foundation for the partnership.

Death at 94: Norman Tebbit, a significant figure in British politics and a loyal ally of Margaret Thatcher, has passed away at the age of 94.

Thatcher’s Enforcer: Known for his toughness and unwavering support for Thatcher’s policies, he served in key cabinet roles during the 1980s, including Employment Secretary and Conservative Party Chairman.

Trade Union Reform: Tebbit spearheaded significant reforms that reduced the power of trade unions and strengthened employer rights, a cornerstone of Thatcherism.

“Get on your bike”: His famous, though often misquoted, phrase symbolized a message of self-reliance and individual effort during a time of high unemployment.

Brighton Bombing Survivor: Tebbit and his wife were seriously injured in the 1984 IRA bombing of the Grand Hotel in Brighton, an attempt to assassinate Thatcher. He stepped back from frontline politics in 1987 to care for his wife, who was paralyzed.

Euroscepticism: He was a vocal opponent of deeper European integration, leading the Bruges Group in his later career.

Legacy: Tebbit is remembered for his combative style, intellect, and sense of duty. His contributions are seen as central to the transformation of Britain under Thatcher, but his controversial views on immigration also marked his public image.

• Why in News: This highlights one of West Africa’s most severe cases of climate-induced displacement, showcasing the direct impact of global warming on vulnerable coastal communities and ecosystems.

• Why in News: This vulnerability is directly linked to the submergence threat, emphasizing the ecological and potential economic consequences for areas like the Banana and Turtle Islands, which are important for tourism and culture.

• Why in News: This serves as a tangible example of how climate change is causing displacement and impacting nations, particularly in regions like West Africa.

• Why in News: While not directly related to the submergence, this shows Sierra Leone’s participation in international efforts to address climate change through renewable energy, highlighting a potential pathway for mitigation and adaptation.

• Why: The loss of ice reduces pressure on underground magma chambers, allowing gases and magma to expand and potentially lead to explosive eruptions.

• Example: A study of Chile’s Mocho Choshuenco volcano showed ice suppression of eruptions during the last ice age, with pressure release from melting triggering explosive events.

• Short-term cooling: Ash, dust, and sulfur dioxide block sunlight and form aerosols that reflect solar radiation.
• Long-term warming: Eruptions release greenhouse gases like CO₂, creating a cycle where warming leads to more melting, potentially causing more eruptions and further warming.

• Strengthen climate change mitigation to reduce global warming and glacier melt.
• Enhance glacial monitoring for eruption early warnings.
• Foster international cooperation for research and disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.

NATO’s New Spending Target: NATO nations pledged to increase military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, a significant jump from the previous 2% target.

• Why in News: This decision signals a major shift in collective defence priorities for the alliance, driven by escalating global security concerns.

Historical Context: Global military expenditure, after declining post-Cold War, is now on the rise, reaching $2.718 trillion in 2024, a 9.4% increase.

• Why in News: This surge reflects ongoing conflicts (Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Gaza) and anticipates future ones, leading to a global remilitarisation trend.

Impact on Global Peace and Development: Increased military spending threatens to reverse post-Cold War peace gains, with militarisation rising in 108 countries.

• Why in News: The focus on military expenditure diverts funds from crucial areas like health, education, and poverty alleviation, impacting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Economic Crowding-Out Effect: Higher defence spending can negatively affect domestic government spending on public services like health, especially in middle- and low-income countries.

• Why in News: This highlights a trade-off where resources allocated to military capabilities are taken away from social welfare and development programs.

UN Funding Crisis: The UN’s budget is facing reductions due to nations prioritizing domestic needs and foreign aid cuts, exacerbated by increased military conflicts.

• Why in News: This impacts the UN’s ability to fund development, humanitarian aid, and peacekeeping, hindering global stability efforts.

Environmental Concerns: Increased defence spending contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, undermining climate goals.

• Why in News: A rise in military expenditure signifies a greater environmental footprint, potentially worsening global warming and reducing funds for climate action.

India’s Scenario: India spends more on military (2.3% of GDP) than health (1.84% of GDP), risking further reductions in public services with increased militarisation.

• Why in News: This illustrates a potential national trend where security spending is prioritized over essential public welfare, impacting citizens’ well-being.

National Biobank Inaugurated: Located at CSIR-IGIB, this is a significant step for India’s healthcare infrastructure.

• Why News: Marks the establishment of a crucial resource for research.

Creation of India’s Longitudinal Health Database: The biobank is a key component of this initiative.

• Why News: Enables tracking individuals over time to understand disease trends, treatment outcomes, and inform health policies specific to India.

Objective: Personalized Medicine and Research: Aims to build a repository reflecting India’s diversity for personalized medicine and research on Indian-relevant diseases.

• Why News: Supports tailored treatments based on genetic and lifestyle profiles, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and more effective therapies for conditions like diabetes, cancer, and rare genetic disorders.

Scope: Diverse Data Collection: Will collect genomic, lifestyle, and clinical data from 10,000 diverse Indian participants.

• Why News: Ensures representation across regions, ages, and socio-economic backgrounds, making findings applicable to the wider Indian population.

Inspired by UK Biobank: Tailored for India’s unique population.

• Why News: Leverages successful models while adapting them to Indian specificities for targeted healthcare.

Part of Phenome India Project: Launched by CSIR to track health over time, uncover disease patterns, and develop India-specific risk models.

• Why News: Integrates the biobank into a broader, long-term scientific endeavor focused on understanding and improving Indian health.

NIPGR Develops Phosphate-Efficient Rice: Researchers at the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR) in Delhi have used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing on Japonica rice.

Enhanced Phosphate Uptake: The editing targeted the OsPHT1;2 phosphate transporter gene and removed a suppressor gene (OsWRKY6) to boost its expression.

Significant Yield Increase: The modified rice demonstrated a 40% higher yield using only 10% of the recommended phosphate fertilizer, with more panicles, seeds, and biomass.

Improved Nutrient Translocation: The gene editing facilitated better movement of phosphate from the roots to the shoots.

No Foreign DNA Inserted (Non-GMO): The process strictly adhered to non-GMO principles, as no foreign DNA (like bacterial vectors) was introduced. India ensures this through Mendelian segregation.

Potential to Reduce Fertilizer Dependency: This development could significantly lower reliance on phosphate fertilizers, especially beneficial for phosphorus-deficient soils.

Sustainable Food Security Solution: Gene editing offers a sustainable way to improve crop yields and address food security without sacrificing grain quality.

Regulatory Landscape: Negotiations are underway to relax regulations on such precision-bred crops, recognizing CRISPR editing without foreign DNA insertion as non-GMO.

Award Conferred: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross from Brazil.

• Why in News: This is Brazil’s highest national honour for foreign dignitaries, signifying a significant recognition from another country.

Award Details: The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross was established in 1822 and is awarded for exceptional service to Brazil. The Grand Collar is the highest rank.

• Why in News: Understanding the history and prestige of the award highlights the importance of the recognition.

Recognition of Contributions: The award acknowledges Prime Minister Modi’s efforts in strengthening India–Brazil relations and enhancing cooperation on global platforms.

• Why in News: It points to the positive diplomatic and cooperative ties between India and Brazil.

Dedication to India: Prime Minister Modi dedicated the honour to the 1.4 billion people of India, emphasizing the deep friendship between the two nations.

• Why in News: This highlights the people-to-people connection and the broader significance of the award for India.

President Lula’s Role: Prime Minister Modi acknowledged President Lula as the architect of the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership, suggesting a strong personal rapport and leadership in bilateral ties.

• Why in News: It underscores the leadership of both countries in fostering this relationship.

EIA Downplays Earthquake Risk: The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the Great Nicobar Project (GNIP) is criticized for downplaying the significant earthquake and tsunami risks in the region.

IIT-Kanpur Report Contrasts EIA: A report by IIT-Kanpur highlights the high seismic vulnerability of Great Nicobar, estimating frequent mega-earthquakes (M9+) and large-magnitude quakes (M>7.5). This contradicts the EIA’s assessment of low mega-earthquake likelihood.

Geological Evidence Supports Risk: Sediment analysis shows at least seven major tsunami events in the past 8,000 years in the Andamans, indicating a history of significant seismic activity, a point seemingly overlooked by the EIA.

Lack of Site-Specific Studies: The IIT-Kanpur report emphasizes the need for site-specific seismic and tsunami studies, particularly in key areas like Car Nicobar and Campbell Bay, which are currently lacking such crucial assessments.

Strategic Importance vs. Safety: The Rs 72,000-crore GNIP is strategically vital for India’s maritime security and economic growth, aiming to monitor sea routes and reduce reliance on foreign ports. However, its location in a highly seismic zone raises major safety concerns, exacerbated by the EIA’s perceived downplaying of these risks.

• Why News: This technological marvel allows for unprecedented sky coverage, revolutionizing how astronomers observe the universe.

• Why News: The sheer volume and quality of data will significantly advance our understanding of cosmic phenomena.

• Why News: Rubin’s findings will tackle fundamental questions about the universe’s structure, composition, and evolution, including its unknown domain structure.

• Why News: This dynamic approach moves beyond pre-selected targets, offering a real-time, comprehensive view of celestial events.

• Why News: This unparalleled cataloguing will provide astronomers with a vast resource for research and discovery.

• Why News: Demonstrates its immediate impact and immense discovery potential even in preliminary testing.

• Why News: Connects current advancements to foundational discoveries in astrophysics.

• Why: To detect and neutralize ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missiles from space.

• Why: The 1967 Outer Space Treaty bans nuclear weapons in orbit but is ambiguous about conventional arms, a line the Golden Dome’s interceptors may cross.

• Why: The deployment of dual-use technologies and the treaty’s silence on conventional weapons create legal ambiguities and suspicion.

• Why: Estimated costs of $175-500 billion, the complexity of managing thousands of satellites (risking debris), and the difficulty of integrating it with existing defense systems.

• Why: Its principles on peaceful use and freedom of exploration are central to the debate surrounding the Golden Dome.

Discovery of Miniature Coronal Loops: Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have identified previously undetectable, tiny plasma loops in the Sun’s lower atmosphere.

• Why in news: These loops are crucial for understanding how the Sun stores and releases magnetic energy.

Size and Lifespan: These miniature loops are only 3,000–4,000 km long and less than 100 km wide, existing for just a few minutes.

• Why in news: Their small size and brief lifespan made them invisible to earlier telescopes, hindering study.

Link to Magnetic Reconnection and Jets: The loops are linked to magnetic reconnection, the process behind energy bursts, and exhibit plasma jets erupting from their tips, mirroring larger solar events like flares.

• Why in news: They offer direct insights into the fundamental mechanisms driving explosive solar activity.

Puzzling High Temperatures: Differential Emission Measure analysis reveals plasma temperatures in these loops reaching several million degrees, unexpectedly high for the chromosphere.

• Why in news: This challenges existing solar heating models, which cannot adequately explain such extreme temperatures in the Sun’s denser lower atmosphere.

Advanced Observation Techniques: The discovery utilized high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy across multiple wavelengths, combining data from ground-based telescopes and NASA satellites.

• Why in news: This multi-instrument approach enabled a deeper understanding of the loops’ behavior in different solar atmospheric layers.

Future Research Potential: India’s proposed National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) is expected to provide further opportunities to study these features.

• Why in news: NLST’s advanced capabilities are designed to address key questions about solar magnetic field dynamics.

AERB grants operation license: India’s Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has officially issued an operational license for the two indigenously developed 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), KAPS-3 and KAPS-4, at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat.

Significance of indigenous technology: This license marks a crucial milestone for India’s nuclear program, as these are the country’s first 700 MWe indigenous PHWRs, demonstrating advancement in local nuclear technology.

Rigorous safety review: The AERB’s decision follows 15 years of intensive, multi-tiered safety reviews, covering the entire lifecycle from design and construction to commissioning at full power, involving multiple experts.

Boost for future expansion: The 5-year operation license for KAPS-3 and KAPS-4 is a significant boost to the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited’s (NPCIL) plans to build 10 more 700 MWe PHWRs in a fleet mode.

Operational status: KAPS-3 achieved full power operation in August 2023, and KAPS-4 followed in August 2024, with the license now formalizing their commercial operation.

India’s PHWR fleet: India currently operates 15 PHWRs of 220 MWe, two of 540 MWe, and a 700 MWe reactor at Rawatbhata, Rajasthan, with this license adding to the growing capacity.

Nuclear power targets: This development supports India’s ambitious nuclear power capacity targets, aiming for 22.48 GW by 2031-32 and 100 GW by 2047.

China’s Export Controls on Rare Earths: China has imposed strict licensing, lengthy approval processes, and monthly quotas on exports of seven key rare earth elements essential for magnets, batteries, and high-tech industries.

Why it’s News (Benefits Beijing):

• Geopolitical Leverage: China, dominating global rare earth mining and refining, uses these controls as a strategic tool in trade negotiations, particularly with the U.S.
• National Security: Restricting exports weakens the defense and technology sectors of rival nations.
• Diplomatic Pressure: The move compels urgent engagement from major economies (U.S., EU, Japan, India).
• Supply Chain Influence: The new licensing regime incentivizes cooperation with China, reinforcing its global dominance.

Why it’s News (Hurts Chinese Business/Global Impact):

• Plunging Revenues: Chinese exporters have faced significant losses, with magnet exports dropping 75% and U.S. shipments down over 90%.
• Global Disruptions: Industries in the U.S., EU, and India have experienced production halts in auto and electronics.
• Domestic Strain: Weak EV demand and inventory issues have forced Chinese producers to cut output.
• Strategic Risk: Other countries are accelerating efforts to diversify rare earth sources, challenging China’s long-term monopoly.
• Regulatory Burden: Exporters and importers face red tape, uncertainty, and commercial disclosure risks.

Learning Corner (Rare Earth Elements):

• Categories: Light Rare Earth Elements (LREEs) (e.g., Lanthanum, Cerium) and Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs) (e.g., Terbium, Dysprosium).
• Associated Elements: Scandium and Yttrium are often grouped due to similar ore deposits and chemical properties.
• Key Uses: Magnets, batteries, catalysts, lasers, optics, nuclear reactors, and green technology.

• Why: This ranking is based on the World Bank’s Gini Index, which measures income inequality. A lower Gini coefficient signifies greater equality.

• Why: This signifies consistent progress in social equity.

• Why: This classification indicates a relatively equitable distribution of income.

• Why: This challenges the perception of India as a highly unequal society and suggests broad-based income growth.

• Poverty Reduction: 171 million Indians lifted out of extreme poverty since 2011.
  • Why: Poverty reduction directly contributes to reduced income disparities.
• Welfare Schemes:
  • PM Jan Dhan Yojana: Promotes financial inclusion.
  • Aadhaar and DBT: Ensure efficient delivery of benefits to the right individuals.
  • Ayushman Bharat: Provides health coverage, improving access to essential services.
  • Stand-Up India: Empowers disadvantaged communities economically.
  • PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY): Ensures food security for millions.
  • PM Vishwakarma Yojana: Supports traditional artisans and craftspeople.
• Why: These schemes directly address financial inclusion, access to services, and economic empowerment, narrowing the gap between different segments of society.

• High Poverty Despite Low Inequality: Over 300 million people still live in poverty under a higher threshold.
• Wage and Income Disparity: Significant earnings gap between top and bottom income groups, with the richest 1% holding substantial wealth.
• Outdated Poverty Line: Current poverty lines may not accurately reflect living costs.
• Unequal Access to Opportunities: Gaps persist in education, healthcare, and digital access, particularly for vulnerable groups.
• Why: These factors highlight that while consumption inequality might be low, deeper issues of poverty and unequal opportunity still exist.

India’s First Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC) Established: India has set up its inaugural EDFC at the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre & College in Meerut Cantonment, Uttar Pradesh.

Officially Recognized by WOAH: The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has officially recognized this EDFC, signifying international acceptance of its disease-free status.

Enables Global Trade and Competitions: This scientifically managed zone guarantees horses are free from specific equine diseases, facilitating their participation in international trade and sporting events.

Certified Disease-Free Status: The EDFC is certified free from major equine diseases such as Equine Infectious Anemia, Equine Influenza, Equine Piroplasmosis, Glanders, and Surra.

Part of National Strategy: It is a crucial component of India’s wider strategy to establish disease-free compartments, mirroring efforts like creating Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)-Free Zones for poultry exports.

Reinforces India’s Animal Health Position: This development, coupled with India’s sustained disease-free status for African Horse Sickness since 2014, strengthens its standing in the global equine health community.

India’s First National Cooperative University Inaugurated: Tribhuvan Sahkari University (TSU) in Anand, Gujarat, is India’s first national cooperative university, launched by the Union Home and Cooperation Minister.

• Why it’s news: This marks a significant step in formalizing and strengthening cooperative education at a national level.

Vision of ‘Sahkar se Samriddhi’: The university aligns with the government’s goal of achieving prosperity through cooperation by enhancing the cooperative sector via education.

• Why it’s news: It shows a focused government strategy to leverage education for the growth of the cooperative movement.

Named After Tribhuvandas Patel: TSU is named after the founder of Amul, recognizing his pivotal role in India’s cooperative history alongside Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

• Why it’s news: Honoring a key figure like Tribhuvandas Patel adds historical significance and inspiration to the initiative.

Objective: Skill Development: The university will offer courses in cooperative management, accounting, finance, marketing, law, and rural development to create a skilled workforce for the sector.

• Why it’s news: Addresses the need for trained professionals to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of cooperatives.

Target: 20 Lakh Professionals: The aim is to train over 20 lakh professionals in key cooperative areas like dairy, fisheries, and agricultural credit within five years.

• Why it’s news: Highlights the ambitious scale of the skill development program and its broad reach.

R&D Council for Innovation: A dedicated Research and Development Council will be established to foster innovation, transparency, and best practices in rural cooperative institutions.

• Why it’s news: Focuses on improving the quality and governance of cooperatives through research and modern practices.

Cooperative Sector Importance: Cooperatives are member-owned organizations crucial for rural development, financial inclusion, and meeting common socio-economic needs.

• Why it’s news: Reinforces the foundational role of the cooperative sector in India’s economy and society.

Legal Framework: The cooperative sector’s right to form societies is a Fundamental Right (Article 19(1)(c)), governed by acts like the Cooperative Societies Act, 1912, and the MSCS Act, 2002.

• Why it’s news: Provides context on the established legal basis and ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperative governance.

• Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 (Section 5(2)): Allows interception for public emergency or public safety. Restrictions must align with Article 19(2) grounds (sovereignty, security, public order, etc.).
• IT Act, 2000: Governs digital communication interception.
• Indian Post Office Act, 1898: Permits postal correspondence interception.

• Delhi HC (June 2024): Upheld MHA tapping in a ₹2,149 crore corruption case, deeming large-scale economic offences a threat to public safety.
• Madras HC (July 2024): Quashed MHA tapping in a ₹50 lakh bribery case, stating tax evasion/bribery isn’t “public emergency” and flagging procedural flaws, referencing a PIB notification and PUCL safeguards.

• Home Secretary approval.
• Review by a three-member committee.
• 2-month validity, renewable.
• Last resort principle.
• Incorporated into Rule 419A of Telegraph Rules.

• Right to Privacy (Article 21): Surveillance must be legal, necessary, and proportionate (Puttaswamy judgment).
• Freedom of Speech (Article 19(1)(a)): Tapping can chill expression; restrictions under Article 19(2) apply.
• Due Process/Rule of Law: Violations of PUCL safeguards render tapping unconstitutional and evidence inadmissible.

• Why it’s news: Shows progress in maternal healthcare quality at a national level.

• Why it’s news: Highlights that national progress isn’t uniform, and certain regions require more targeted interventions.

• Postpartum Haemorrhage (PPH): Excessive bleeding after delivery.
• Obstructed Labour: Due to factors like malnutrition.
• Hypertensive Disorders: Conditions like preeclampsia.
• Sepsis: Infections from unhygienic deliveries.
• Anaemia: An underlying condition exacerbating complications.
• Associated Illnesses (EAG States): Malaria, TB, UTIs worsen pregnancy risks.
• Why it’s news: Identifies the specific medical issues that need to be addressed for effective prevention.

• Delay 1 (Seeking Help): Inertia, financial constraints, lack of awareness.
• Delay 2 (Reaching Facility): Geographical remoteness, poor transport.
• Delay 3 (Receiving Care): Staff shortages (especially specialists), inadequate infrastructure (blood banks, OTs).
• Why it’s news: Provides a framework to understand the systemic barriers at different stages of accessing care.

• Why it’s news: Showcases government’s efforts and policy focus on addressing maternal mortality.

• Why it’s news: Offers a successful case study demonstrating effective strategies that can be replicated.

• Why it’s news: Outlines critical steps required to bridge the gap and reduce preventable deaths.

• Why: Escalated fighting, particularly after a June 5 shootout where CNDF reportedly captured CDF camps, triggered mass civilian displacement.

• Why: Local resources and relief mechanisms are strained by the increased numbers, though civil society and the Mizoram government are providing aid and local families are offering shelter.

• Why: The Chin people share cultural and ethnic ties with the Mizo people, influencing the state’s response.

• Why: The internal rivalries within Myanmar’s ethnic armed groups and the broader civil war situation mean the root cause of displacement persists.

• Why: The porous border and internal conflicts in neighboring Myanmar directly impact India’s border states.

RBI to conduct 7-day VRRR auction: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will hold a Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction for Rs 1 lakh crore.

• Why in News: This action is to absorb surplus liquidity from the banking system.

VRRR as a monetary policy tool: VRRR allows the RBI to absorb excess liquidity through auctions.

• Mechanism: Banks bid at variable interest rates to place short-term deposits with the RBI.
• Flexibility: It’s more flexible and market-driven than the fixed-rate Reverse Repo Rate.

Objective: To bring overnight rates on the Tri Party Repo Dealing System (TREPS) closer to the lower bound of the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) corridor (5.25%-5.75%).

Liquidity Surplus Reasons: Previous RBI actions like open market operations, term VRR auctions, and dollar/rupee buy-sell swaps have increased liquidity in the economy.

Legal Framework for Phone Tapping:

• Governed by the Indian Post Office Act, 1898 (postal); Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 (voice calls); and IT Act, 2000 (electronic communication).
• Telegraph Act Section 5(2) allows interception for public emergency and public safety.

Conflicting High Court Rulings:

• Delhi HC: Upheld tapping in a bribery case, citing corruption’s threat to public safety due to its economic scale (₹2,149.93 crore) and impact on public trust and national security.
• Madras HC: Quashed an interception order, stating tax evasion in that instance did not constitute a “public emergency” and criticized outdated standards and lack of oversight.

Supreme Court Precedent (PUCL v. Union of India, 1997):

• Upheld Section 5(2) but mandated safeguards: orders by Home Secretary, “reasonable satisfaction” and “last resort” criteria, and review by a committee within 2 months.
• Rule 419-A formalizes these safeguards.

Violation of Fundamental Rights:

• Right to Privacy (Art. 21): Phone tapping without legal sanction violates this, as established in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (2017).
• Freedom of Speech (Art. 19(1)(a)): Surveillance can create a chilling effect, discouraging critical views.
• Protection Against Arbitrary Action (Art. 14): Discriminatory or selective surveillance violates equality.

Judicial View on Surveillance:

• Must be authorized, proportionate, necessary, and time-bound to be constitutional; otherwise, it infringes Article 21.

Why in News: Contrasting rulings from the Madras and Delhi High Courts on the legality of phone tapping for crime prevention, particularly economic offences.

What is Phone Tapping: Monitoring or recording phone conversations by a third party, often government agencies, without consent.

Governing Laws:

• Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 (Section 5(2)) for public emergency/safety.
• Information Technology Act, 2000 for digital communications.
• Indian Post Office Act, 1898 for postal communications.

Safeguards:

• Rule 419A of Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951 (requires Review Committee).
• Must comply with constitutional rights (Article 19(1)(a) – speech, Article 21 – privacy, as per Puttaswamy judgment).

Delhi High Court Ruling (2020): Legally permissible to tap phones to prevent incitement to an offense; justified for corruption in public projects as it impacts economic security and public safety.

Madras High Court Ruling (2018): Quashed an interception order for suspected economic offense, stating no public emergency or clear threat to public safety. Ruled it unlawful due to failure to meet procedural standards.

Supreme Court Ruling (1997):

• Only Home Secretary can authorize; delegation below Joint Secretary is prohibited.
• Review committee required (Cabinet Secretary, Law Secretary, Telecom Secretary at Centre; Chief Secretary, Law Secretary, one other at State).

Evidence Admissibility: Unlawfully obtained phone-tap information is inadmissible in court.

Fresh Nipah Virus Cases in Kerala: Kerala has confirmed new cases of Nipah virus, leading to heightened vigilance in Malappuram and Palakkad, with an alert in Kozhikode due to the risk of further spread.

• Why it’s news: Nipah is a highly lethal virus with epidemic potential, and new cases indicate an ongoing public health threat.

Extensive Surveillance and Contact Tracing: Over 400 individuals are under observation, with dedicated teams conducting tracing, symptom monitoring, and quarantines.

• Why it’s news: This demonstrates a robust response to contain the virus and prevent further transmission.

Activated Medical Infrastructure: Isolation wards and ICU facilities have been prepared, with several patients already under treatment and in intensive care.

• Why it’s news: Highlights the critical medical resources being deployed to manage the outbreak and care for the infected.

Containment Measures Implemented: Affected areas are declared containment zones, with mask mandates, movement restrictions, and door-to-door awareness campaigns in place.

• Why it’s news: Shows active steps being taken to limit the virus’s spread and inform the public.

High-Level Oversight: The Health Minister is actively involved, conducting review meetings to ensure a swift and coordinated response.

• Why it’s news: Indicates the seriousness with which the government is treating the outbreak and the importance of coordinated efforts.

Nipah Virus Overview: It’s a zoonotic virus (animal to human transmission) with high fatality (40-75%) and can spread through contaminated food and human-to-human contact. Symptoms range from fever and headache to severe encephalitis and death.

• Why it’s news: Provides essential context on the nature of the virus, its severity, and transmission routes, which is crucial for public understanding and prevention.

Prevention and Treatment Status: No specific antiviral treatment or vaccine exists; management is supportive. Prevention focuses on avoiding bats, pigs, contaminated fruits/sap, and strict infection control.

• Why it’s news: Underscores the challenges in combating the virus and emphasizes the importance of preventive measures.

• Downplaying Seismic Risk: EIA relies on a limited 2019 study, overlooking broader earthquake hazards in a highly seismic region.
• Neglect of Independent Research: Independent studies show the region is highly seismically active, prone to ground shaking, liquefaction, and subsidence.
• Lack of Transparency: Critics allege the clearance process prioritized technical/financial factors over environmental/safety concerns.
• National Green Tribunal (NGT) Involvement: NGT had imposed a stay, calling for re-evaluation of environmental and coastal regulation clearances.

Formal Recognition vs. Data Gap: The Union Budget 2025-26 recognized gig/platform workers and extended social protection. However, the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) still lacks a dedicated classification for them, creating a policy-data disconnect.

Classification Deficiency: PLFS categorizes gig workers under broad terms like ‘self-employed’ or ‘casual labour,’ failing to capture their unique characteristics (algorithmic control, no formal contracts, irregular hours, multi-platform engagement).

Consequences of Invisibility: This lack of distinct classification leads to exclusion from welfare schemes (as PLFS guides beneficiary targeting), misrepresentation of job insecurity and income volatility, policy blind spots, and legal ambiguity for enforcing the Code on Social Security, 2020.

Gig Economy’s Significance: It facilitates a transition from informal to formal sectors, enhances financial autonomy for marginalized groups, fosters entrepreneurship, drives digital adoption, and contributes to tax revenue.

Key Challenges: Gig workers face a lack of comprehensive social security (fragmented support from existing schemes), income instability (below minimum wage, platform commissions), exploitative conditions (long hours, algorithmic pressure), arbitrary deactivation, and customer harassment.

Proposed Solutions: Update PLFS to distinctly capture gig work features, integrate tech-enabled surveys with e-Shram for targeted welfare, strengthen legal frameworks for portable social security (insurance, paid leave, pensions), and mandate transparent grievance redressal systems.

Need for Statistical Representation: True recognition of gig workers requires both legal inclusion and accurate statistical representation through evolved PLFS classification or new survey modules for inclusive policymaking.

Shift in India’s Export Composition: India’s foreign exchange earnings from invisible exports (services and remittances) have surpassed visible goods exports for the first time.

• Why in News: This signifies a structural shift in India’s economic engagement with the world, highlighting its growing strength in the services sector.

Dominance of Invisible Exports: Invisible exports reached $576.54 billion in 2024-25, exceeding goods exports of $441.79 billion.

• Why in News: This metric is crucial for understanding the health of India’s current account and its ability to finance imports.

Key Drivers of Invisible Growth: Services exports, particularly IT, financial, and professional services ($387.54 billion), and NRI remittances ($135.43 billion) are the main contributors.

• Why in News: Demonstrates India’s global competitiveness in skilled labor and the significant role of its diaspora.

Resilience of Invisible Trade: Services and transfers are less susceptible to geopolitical tensions, tariffs, and supply chain disruptions compared to goods.

• Why in News: This resilience provides a buffer against global economic volatility, contributing to India’s macroeconomic stability.

Balancing the Current Account: India’s substantial surplus in invisibles helps offset its persistent goods trade deficit.

• Why in News: Explains how India manages its Balance of Payments despite being a net importer of physical goods.

Comparative Advantage in Skills: India’s economic strength lies in exporting its human capital and services, not just material goods.

• Why in News: Positions India strategically in the global economy, leveraging its intangible assets for growth.

Prime Ministerial Visit & Highest Honour: PM Modi’s visit was the first by an Indian PM since 1999, during which he received ‘The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’ for global leadership, diaspora engagement, and COVID-19 humanitarian efforts.

Disaster Resilience & Biofuels: Trinidad and Tobago joined India’s CDRI and Global Biofuel Alliance initiatives.

Grant Assistance for Community Projects: India will fund up to five small grassroots development projects annually.

Pharma & Medical Cooperation: An MoU enhances collaboration for affordable medicines and medical treatment in India.

Diplomatic Training: Trinidad and Tobago diplomats will receive training from Indian institutes and experts.

Diaspora & Education Support: OCI card facility extended to the 6th generation of Indian diaspora; cultural centers to be re-established.

Digital Collaboration: Agreement to collaborate on India Stack solutions like DigiLocker; Trinidad and Tobago to adopt UPI.

Agricultural & Healthcare Support: India gifted agro-machinery and supports millet cultivation; CARICOM relations strengthened.

Historical Ties & Diaspora: Deep historical ties since 1845, with Indian diaspora forming a significant part of the population.

Economic Relations: Bilateral trade shows growth, with India exporting pharmaceuticals and vehicles.

• Why: Supercapacitors are vital for rapid energy storage in electronics and EVs, but often lack storage capacity. This material addresses that gap.

• Why: This aligns with the global push for sustainable energy solutions.

• Lanthanum doping reduced nanoparticle size, increasing surface area for better energy storage.
• It improved electrical conductivity for faster charge-discharge cycles.
• Achieved remarkable energy retention (118%) and perfect coulombic efficiency (100% energy retention during use).
• Why: These improvements directly translate to more efficient and capable supercapacitors.

• Why: This validates the material’s ability to be used in actual devices.

• Why: This indicates the path towards widespread adoption of this advanced energy storage technology.

Why in News: India is celebrating the International Day of Cooperatives (July 5, 2025) and four years of the Ministry of Cooperation, focusing on empowering MSMEs, especially artisans, through initiatives like the PM Vishwakarma scheme.

Financial Empowerment & Resource Pooling:

• Allows MSMEs to pool funds, reducing reliance on high-interest loans (e.g., PM Vishwakarma offers 5-7% credit).
• Enables sharing of resources like machinery and raw materials, lowering costs and boosting efficiency.

Enhanced Market Access:

• Facilitates collective marketing, branding, and quality certifications, increasing MSME visibility and competitiveness.
• Helps tap into national and global markets.

Technology Adoption:

• Supports cluster-level training centers for skill upgrades and adoption of modern techniques (digital tools, automation).

Synergy with Government Schemes:

• Acts as an effective delivery mechanism for schemes like PM Vishwakarma, ensuring MSMEs receive financial, technical, and market support.

Sustainable & Inclusive Growth:

• Empowers women entrepreneurs and promotes rural development (e.g., SEWA, Lijjat Papad).
• Supports circular economy through waste initiatives.

Key Contributions of Cooperatives in India:

• Provide 13.3% of direct employment, engaging 29 crore members.
• Significant role in agricultural credit, sugar production, and fertilizer distribution.
• Promote financial inclusion through cooperative banking.
• Crucial for food security and women empowerment.

Challenges:

• Misconceptions about cooperatives being government-controlled.
• Weak financial support and liquidity issues for cooperative banks.
• Regulatory complexity and bureaucracy.
• Low digital adoption and isolated operations.
• Governance deficits like poor transparency and accountability.

Measures Needed:

• Policy reforms: Tax benefits, prioritizing in public procurement, simplified compliance.
• Financial support: Linking cooperatives to MUDRA, CGTMSE, NABARD; promoting digital banking training.
• Infrastructure: Adopting digital tools, building Common Facility Centers.
• Market linkages: Promoting collective branding (“CoopMade”), linking to e-commerce platforms.
• Awareness campaigns and grassroots mobilization.

• Why: This signifies a major achievement in India’s pursuit of nuclear self-reliance and demonstrates its capability in designing and operating large-scale reactors.

• Why: This 700 MW model represents a technological upgrade from existing PHWRs, enhancing clean energy production.

• Why: This technology is known for its safety, cost-efficiency, and suitability for India’s resource availability.

• Why: This expansion is crucial for meeting India’s clean energy goals and bolstering energy security through domestically developed technology.

• Why: This underscores the commitment to safe operation and adherence to international safety standards.

• Why: It showcases progress in India’s three-stage nuclear power program, moving towards greater energy independence.

Why in News: The 62nd Bonn Climate Change Conference, a mid-year meeting, took place in Bonn, Germany. It prepares for the 30th UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP30) in Brazil.

What it is: The Bonn Climate Change Conference, formally Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SBs), is a regular UNFCCC summit. It involves SB members, Indigenous groups, international organizations, scientists, and civil society to review implementation and set the COP agenda.

Key Players:

• Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI): Reviews implementation and facilitates financial/technical support for developing nations.
• Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA): Provides scientific input from the IPCC to policymakers.

Key Takeaways:

• Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA): Progress on indicators, but finance/Means of Implementation disagreements delayed consensus. A draft list of 100 indicators is expected at COP30.
• Just Transition Work Programme (JTWP): Agreement to establish a Belém Action Mechanism for sharing fair transition strategies.
• National Climate Plans (NDCs): Most countries missed the deadline for updated NDCs, potentially hindering the 1.5°C target. Brazil urged submissions by September 2025.
• Climate Finance: Developing nations pushed for fulfillment of pledges (USD 1.3 trillion annually by 2030). Wealthier countries proposed private finance, but public grants were deemed essential.
• Loss and Damage: The fund remains underfunded (USD 768 million pledged vs. USD 1 trillion needed). Pledged amounts significantly exceed actual contributions.

Scheme Approval & Objectives:

• Union Cabinet approved the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme with a ₹99,446 crore outlay.
• Aims to create employment, especially in manufacturing, and formalize the workforce.
• Targets enhancing private sector employment, promoting youth and job retention, encouraging skill advancement, and reducing economic disparity.
• Expects to create over 3.5 crore jobs and benefit 1.92 crore newly employed individuals.

Implementation Details:

• To be implemented by the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2027.
• Newly recruited employees (salary up to ₹1 lakh) will receive a one-month EPF wage (up to ₹15,000) in two installments via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
• Establishments registered with EPFO will receive up to ₹3,000 per month for two years for each additional employee sustained for six months; manufacturing sector gets incentives for third and fourth years.

Context: Employment Status in India:

• Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) shows slight improvements in urban LFPR and WPR.
• All-India LFPR and WPR remained relatively steady.
• Rural unemployment declined slightly; urban male unemployment increased, while urban female unemployment dropped.

Concerns and Expert Opinions:

• Trade unions (except BMS) question the scheme, fearing worker’s money incentivizes employers, citing PLI scheme misuse.
• Experts doubt EPFO’s implementation role as it’s a custodian of savings, not a job-creating agency.
• Concerns exist about reimbursement mechanisms and the lack of government funds in EPFO’s books.
• Suggestions include shifting the scheme to the Ministry of MSMEs and ensuring simpler, transparent processes.

PM’s “Jai Anusandhan” Vision vs. GM Crop Stagnation:

• Prime Minister’s call for innovation backed by ₹1 lakh crore RDI fund is hindered by the stalled commercial adoption of GM crops due to regulatory hurdles.

What are GM Crops?

• Plants whose DNA is modified using genetic engineering for traits like pest/disease resistance, herbicide tolerance, improved nutrition, etc.
• Also known as GE plants, transgenic crops, LMOs, or biotech crops.

Benefits of GM Crops:

• Higher yields, addressing food security.
• Reduced need for synthetic pesticides (e.g., Bt cotton).
• Longer shelf life, reducing food waste.

GM Crop Status in India:

• Only Bt cotton officially approved and widely adopted since 2002, covering over 90% of cotton area.
• Bt Brinjal approved in 2009, but under moratorium.
• GM Mustard (DMH-11) received conditional environmental clearance in 2022, but commercialisation is stalled.

Impact of Bt Cotton:

• Led to a surge in cotton production and productivity, boosting farmers’ incomes and agri GDP.
• India became a major cotton producer and exporter.

Challenges in Cotton Sector Post-2015:

• Yield decline due to pest outbreaks, tangled regulations, and prohibition of next-gen seeds (e.g., HT-Bt cotton).
• Illegal cultivation of HT-Bt cotton indicates demand.
• Cotton Seed Price Control Order (2015) reduced royalty fees, discouraging innovation and leading to reduced participation by global biotech firms.
• India turned into a net importer of raw cotton.

Way Forward for GM Crops:

• Transparent, science-based regulatory framework.
• Encourage public-private R&D.
• Support pilot programs for GEAC-cleared GM crops.
• Review the Cotton Seed Price Control Order to balance affordability and innovation.
• Spread awareness to counter misinformation.
• Integrate GM tech with climate-smart agriculture.

Conclusion: Embracing gene technology and GM crops is crucial for India’s productivity, food security, reduced import dependency, and farmer empowerment.

Low-Cost Sensor Developed: Scientists at CeNS, Bengaluru, have created a sensor that is affordable and effective. This is news because it offers a more accessible way to monitor a dangerous pollutant.

Detects Toxic Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂): The sensor specifically targets SO₂, a harmful gas released by vehicles and industry that causes respiratory problems. This is important for public health.

Highly Sensitive: It can detect SO₂ at very low concentrations (down to 320 ppb), exceeding the capabilities of many existing commercial sensors. This means it can identify threats earlier.

Combines NiO and NdNiO₃: The sensor uses a combination of nickel oxide (NiO) as the gas receptor and neodymium nickelate (NdNiO₃) as the signal transducer. This innovative material science approach is key to its performance.

Real-time Monitoring with Alerts: The sensor provides instant SO₂ detection and features a user-friendly alert system (green for safe, yellow for warning, red for danger). This makes it practical for immediate public safety actions.

Portable Prototype: A pocket-sized, lightweight prototype has been developed, making it ideal for use in various locations like industrial areas and urban spaces. Its portability is a significant advantage.

Addresses Limitations of Existing Tech: It overcomes the issues of high cost, energy intensity, and low sensitivity found in current SO₂ monitoring technologies. This offers a practical solution to a pressing environmental and health problem.

SEBI Bans Jane Street: India’s securities regulator banned US-based proprietary trading firm Jane Street from the market.

• Why: For manipulative trading practices that earned them ₹4,843 crore unlawfully and disrupted market integrity.

Manipulative Trading Tactics: Jane Street used a “marking the close” strategy on the Bank Nifty index.

• Why: They aggressively bought stocks and futures to inflate the index, then sold them aggressively to push prices down. This created artificial volatility and misled small investors. They also profited from index options by buying cheap puts and selling expensive calls.

Bypassing Regulations: Jane Street used its Indian arm, JSI Investments Pvt Ltd, to circumvent rules.

• Why: Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) have restrictions on certain cash market activities like intraday trading, which using a domestic entity allowed them to bypass.

SEBI’s Actions: Imposed a ₹4,843 crore penalty and barred Jane Street from the Indian securities market.

• Why: To penalize the manipulative behavior and protect market integrity. SEBI ordered the firm to transfer unlawfully earned money to an escrow account.

Market Impact & Future Reforms: The case highlights the need for stronger market safeguards in derivatives trading.

• Why: Experts suggest SEBI may introduce stricter position limits, real-time monitoring, tighter margin requirements, enhanced disclosures, and refined circuit breakers to prevent similar manipulations.

Why in News: India’s Finance Minister at the FFD4 conference advocated for reforms in global sovereign credit rating systems and MDBs to promote equity and sustainable development.

What is Sovereign Credit Rating: An independent evaluation of a country’s creditworthiness, influencing investor risk assessment and FDI. The “Big Three” US-based agencies (S&P, Moody’s, Fitch) are dominant.

India’s Concern: India, despite strong economic fundamentals and being the 5th largest economy, is rated BBB-/Baa3 (lowest investment grade), similar to countries with weaker growth and higher debt ratios (e.g., Italy).

Reasons for India’s Push for Reforms:

• Bias Against Developing Economies: Developing nations with strong fundamentals receive lower ratings than some developed countries with weaker metrics.
• Flawed Debt Assessment: Ratings often treat largely domestic debt as foreign currency debt and underweigh high GDP growth, making debt more sustainable.
• Overemphasis on Perception: Subjective and potentially biased factors (like political stability surveys) are overweighted, while tangible reforms and growth are underweighted.
• Pro-Cyclical Downgrades: Agencies tend to downgrade during economic stress, increasing borrowing costs when funds are most needed.
• Conflict of Interest & Lack of Alternatives: Agencies are paid by rated entities, raising credibility concerns. Dominance of Western agencies and lack of Global South alternatives limits balanced perspectives.
• Failure to Predict Crises & Lack of Transparency: Past failures (e.g., 2008 crisis) and opaque methodologies undermine credibility and fairness.

Proposed Reforms for Sovereign Credit Rating System:

• Greater Transparency: Disclose metric weightages, undergo independent audits, incorporate country-specific factors.
• Increased Objectivity: Use hard data and real-time indicators (AI/Big Data) instead of perception-based metrics.
• Alternative Agencies: Foster CRAs from the Global South (India, BRICS, G20) to counter Western dominance.
• Regulatory Oversight: Establish a global supervisory body (IMF/G20) to audit and regulate rating practices.
• Incorporate Non-Economic Indicators: Include climate resilience, digital capacity, and policy reforms for a broader sustainability assessment.
• Peer Comparability: Implement real-time updates and peer comparison dashboards.

Conclusion: India seeks reforms to ensure transparent, data-driven, and equitable credit assessments that reflect the true economic potential of developing nations, countering Western dominance in the current system.

Aluminium and Copper Vision Documents Released: India has launched long-term plans for its aluminium and copper sectors to boost domestic capacity, ensure resource security, and promote green manufacturing. This aligns with the goal of “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

Ambitious Aluminium Targets: The vision aims for a sixfold increase in aluminium production to 37 MTPA by 2047.

Securing Aluminium Raw Materials: Bauxite production is targeted to reach 150 MTPA.

Sustainable Aluminium Growth: Plans include doubling the aluminium recycling rate and adopting low-carbon technologies for production.

Copper Demand and Capacity Expansion: India anticipates a sixfold increase in domestic copper demand by 2047 and plans to add 5 MTPA refining capacity by 2030.

Reducing Copper Import Dependence: A key strategy is to boost secondary refining and secure overseas mineral assets, including setting up foreign refining facilities.

Strategic Importance for Clean Energy: Both metals are crucial for renewable energy infrastructure (solar panels) and electric vehicles, supporting the clean energy transition.

Economic Growth Drivers: These sectors are vital for construction, transport, and machinery industries, contributing to overall economic expansion.

Emphasis on Responsible Practices: The vision incorporates principles of responsible mining and the “6 R’s” of mine closure for environmental sustainability.

Geographic Distribution: Odisha leads in bauxite reserves and aluminium production (NALCO, Vedanta). Rajasthan is the largest copper ore producer (Khetri-Singhana, HCL).

Renewed Scrutiny of IWT: The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960, is being re-evaluated due to evolving geopolitical tensions and climate change impacts, despite its historical success in surviving wars.

Treaty Structure & Asymmetry: The IWT allocates western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) primarily to Pakistan and eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India. India has limited usage rights on western rivers, creating an asymmetry of obligations favoring Pakistan.

India’s Concerns:

• Asymmetric Obligations: India, as the upper riparian, has restricted usage rights on major rivers compared to Pakistan.
• Diplomatic Misuse by Pakistan: Pakistan has escalated technical water disputes to political and legal forums, undermining the treaty’s spirit.
• Climate Change Ignorance: The treaty does not account for climate variability, altered precipitation, or glacial retreat, impacting water availability.
• “Keeping Treaty in Abeyance”: India’s current stance signals a strategic shift, suggesting potential withdrawal or renegotiation due to these unresolved issues.

Strategic & Environmental Imperatives: India requires enhanced water security for agriculture and energy, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The treaty needs modernization to incorporate climate resilience and technological advancements.

Broader Regional Context: China’s upstream activities on rivers like the Brahmaputra necessitate a pan-Himalayan water policy. India must also manage hydro-diplomacy with Bangladesh and Nepal.

Way Forward: India advocates for renegotiating or restructuring the IWT to align with mutual benefit, equitable use, and modern scientific principles, moving beyond its historical rigidity.

India’s New Role: India aims to transition from a passive treaty signatory to an active participant in regional water governance, aligning water diplomacy with national interests and sustainable development.

India hosted CWC Regional Meeting: India recently hosted the 23rd Regional Meeting of National Authorities of States Parties in Asia under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). This highlights India’s active role in promoting the CWC’s objectives in the Asian region.

CWC Bans Chemical Weapons: The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) is a treaty that prohibits the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons, and mandates their destruction.

OPCW Oversees Implementation: The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), with 193 member states, oversees the implementation of the CWC. The OPCW’s efforts in eliminating chemical weapons were recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013.

India’s Commitment to CWC: India is an original signatory and implements the CWC through its National Authority Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC), established under the Chemical Weapons Convention Act, 2000.

Indian Chemical Council Honored: The Indian Chemical Council (ICC), India’s oldest chemical industry association, received the OPCW-The Hague Award 2024, marking the first time an industry body globally has received this award. This recognizes India’s industry’s contribution to CWC compliance.

Definition of Chemical Weapons: The CWC defines chemical weapons as any toxic chemical or device intended to cause harm or death, including delivery systems. It also requires the destruction of old and abandoned chemical weapons and declaration of riot-control agents.

Supreme Court Declines Plea on Bodh Gaya Temple Act, 1949: The Supreme Court refused to hear a petition challenging the Act, which aims for better management of the Mahabodhi Temple.

• Why in News: This decision upholds the existing legal framework governing the management of one of Buddhism’s holiest sites.

Mahabodhi Temple’s Significance: It’s the site where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.

• Why in News: Reinforces the global importance of the temple as a pilgrimage destination and a symbol of Buddhist heritage.

Historical and Architectural Importance: The temple has origins in Emperor Ashoka’s era (3rd century BC) with the current structure dating to the 5th-6th centuries. It showcases early brick temple architecture from the Gupta period.

• Why in News: Highlights the deep historical roots and architectural value of the site, contributing to its UNESCO World Heritage status.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its cultural and historical importance.

• Why in News: Underscores its international recognition and the need for its preservation.

What is RECLAIM Framework?

• An India-specific policy tool for just and sustainable mine closures.
• Developed by the Coal Controller Organisation (Ministry of Coal) with the Heartfulness Institute.
• Aims for inclusive community participation, ecological restoration, and long-term socio-economic recovery.
• Focuses on gender inclusivity, vulnerable groups, and convergence with Panchayati Raj Institutions.

Why in News?

• Launched by the Ministry of Coal to ensure just and sustainable mine closures.

Key Features:

• Promotes community-centric planning with emphasis on gender equity and livelihood diversification.
• Ensures institutional convergence with local governance structures.
• Provides actionable, field-tested tools for Indian mining regions.
• Includes phases for pre-closure, closure, and post-closure activities.

Significance:

• Mitigates socio-economic and environmental impacts of mine closures.
• Supports SDGs and promotes transparency and accountability.
• Serves as a replicable model for other sectors.

Key Challenges RECLAIM Aims to Address:

• Gap Between Policy and Practice: Only a few mines formally closed despite guidelines, leading to abandoned mines, ecological degradation, and risks.
• Lack of Proper Rehabilitation: Unsustainable mining practices reduce community capacity for participation in closure.
• Lack of Land Return Framework: Unclear policies delay land return and just transition efforts.
• Technological & Economic Challenges: Existing plans are technical, neglecting socio-economic justice; high escrow requirements deter closure activities.

• Why in News: This is a significant policy shift by the US impacting global money flows, particularly affecting countries reliant on remittances.

• Why in News: The exemptions mean a potentially smaller impact than initially feared, as formal channels are often preferred.

• Why in News: This reassures that India’s substantial remittance inflows, crucial for its economy, are unlikely to be severely disrupted.

• Why in News: Highlights the immense economic importance of remittances to India, serving as a stable source of foreign exchange and supporting consumption.

• Why in News: Shows the evolving global landscape of Indian migration and its financial impact, with a shift towards developed countries.

Three out of four NMC autonomous boards lack presidents.

• Why in news: This critical leadership vacuum cripples the functioning of the NMC, India’s apex medical education regulator.

Significant vacancies across board posts (11 of 18 full-time, 6 part-time).

• Why in news: Exacerbates the leadership void and hinders specialized regulatory functions.

Ad hoc functioning, stalling inspections, decisions, and curriculum updates.

• Why in news: Directly impacts the quality and progress of medical education and regulation.

Non-technical staff conducting college inspections.

• Why in news: Raises serious concerns about the quality assurance and validity of college assessments.

Delays in new medical college inspections and seat renewals.

• Why in news: Affects the growth and accessibility of medical education seats.

Academic changes stalled, including curriculum updates on sensitive issues.

• Why in news: Prevents essential modernization and addressing contemporary healthcare needs.

No full Commission meeting in nearly a year.

• Why in news: Indicates a severe breakdown in the apex decision-making body’s operations.

Students and colleges affected by regulatory inaction.

• Why in news: Highlights the tangible negative consequences of the NMC’s current paralysis.

Leadership Crisis: Three of the NMC’s four autonomous boards lack presidents, with numerous other vacancies, hindering critical decision-making and operations.

• Why in News: This vacuum has led to ad hoc functioning, delaying essential tasks like medical college inspections and academic governance, impacting regulatory credibility.

Operational Paralysis: The NMC is functioning in an ad hoc manner, with regular activities like college inspections and seat approvals delayed or suspended. General body meetings have ceased since late 2023.

• Why in News: This policy paralysis prevents crucial reforms, curriculum updates, and disciplinary actions, leaving standards and ethics on paper.

Flawed Inspection System: Virtual inspections relying on CCTV and self-declared data lack rigor and are often conducted by non-technical personnel, making them prone to manipulation.

• Why in News: This undermines the goal of transparent, merit-based regulation and creates opportunities for corruption, potentially compromising the quality of medical education.

Impact on Medical Education & Public Health: Delays in approving new colleges/seats affect admissions, while stalled reforms hinder progress on issues like gender sensitivity and medico-legal ethics. This dysfunction threatens India’s goal of increasing doctor density and meeting global health standards.

• Why in News: The NMC’s ineffectiveness directly impacts the supply and quality of doctors, crucial for public health outcomes, especially in underserved areas.

PM Modi Highlights Ramleela’s Transnational Reach: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Trinidad, emphasized Lord Ram as a “divine link beyond oceans,” acknowledging the significant cultural presence of Ramleela among the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago.

Ramleela: A Symbol of Indian Heritage in Trinidad: The tradition was brought to Trinidad by Indian indentured laborers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar between 1838 and 1917. They preserved and performed Ramleela, a dramatic retelling of Tulsidas’s Ramcharitmanas, as a vital link to their cultural identity in a new land.

Cultural Continuity and Identity: Despite having few possessions, migrants carried or memorized the Ramcharitmanas, making Ramleela a powerful symbol of cultural continuity and identity for Indo-Trinidadians, reinforcing their “Indianness” within a Caribbean context.

Ramleela: A Traditional Folk Theatre: Ramleela is a traditional dramatic re-enactment of Lord Ram’s life, primarily based on the Ramcharitmanas. It’s a vibrant folk theatre form popular in northern India, often performed during Navratri and culminating in Dussehra with the burning of Ravana’s effigy.

Roots in Bhakti Movement: Originating from the Bhakti movement, Ramleela gained prominence in the 16th century, blending drama, music, and moral education, reinforcing values like dharma, sacrifice, and loyalty.

Folk Theatre’s Role in India: Indian folk theatre, characterized by oral traditions, community participation, religious themes, and local dialects, serves as a vital medium for education, entertainment, and social commentary, preserving local culture and promoting community bonding.