Content Traditions Passed Down for Generations Labour Codes Strengthen Modern Safety and Welfare Framework for Pharma Industry Traditions Passed Down for Generations Why is it in News? At the 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF), 2025, New Delhi, the Government showcased India’s tribal artforms under the theme Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. Over 705 tribal communities (8.6% of population) represented through arts, handicrafts, and textile traditions. Supported by Ministry of Tribal Affairs, TRIFED, State Governments, and allied institutions. Focus on tribal livelihoods, market linkages, revival of endangered artforms, and integration with India’s $5 trillion economy vision (2047). Relevance GS1 – Indian Culture Case study for preservation of intangible cultural heritage. Illustrates regional diversity and continuity of oral traditions. Showcases ancient artforms like Warli, Paitker, Bharewa. GS2 – Governance & Social Justice State support to vulnerable tribal communities. Institutional interventions for cultural security and inclusiveness. Policy relevance: TRIFED, Minimum Support Price for MFP, GI tagging, Skill India. GS3 – Economy Creative economy as a tool for rural employment. Handloom & handicraft sector’s contribution to MSME growth, exports, women-led enterprises. Alignment with $5 trillion economy goal and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Who are India’s Tribal Communities? Constitutionally recognised as Scheduled Tribes (STs). Diverse socio-cultural identities—distinct languages, crafts, folklore, livelihoods. Home to unique artistic traditions: Warli, Gond, Paitkar, Saora, Toda embroidery, Dokra metal craft, Bhil paintings, etc. India’s Tribal Arts — Key Features Natural materials: plant dyes, forest produce, bamboo, lac, metal scraps. Oral transmission across generations. Community-based production (families, clans, SHGs). Sustainability: low carbon, eco-friendly crafts. Narrative artforms: storytelling, myths, epics, folk tales. What Was Showcased at IITF 2025? Silk-based Tribal Textiles India: 2nd largest global producer of silk. Only country producing Mulberry, Tasar, Eri, Muga. Over 9.76 million workers in 52,000 villages employed. Example: Sachin Walke, Gond tribe, Nagpur: Tasar silk sarees + Warli/karvat prints. Tribal Women SHGs (Gujarat) 300-member SHG producing: Applique work Mirror work Cotton-silk textiles Benefited through national-level exposure (Aadi Mahotsav, IITF). Endangered Narrative Traditions Paitker (Pyatkar) painting, Jharkhand: One of India’s oldest narrative scroll traditions. Themes: tribal myths, dances, epics. Very few practicing families left. Metal-based Tribal Sculpture (Madhya Pradesh) Bharewa artform, Gond sub-tribe: Scrap metal → idols, jewellery, ornaments. Endangered craftsmanship, sustained through fairs. Institutional Support Mechanisms TRIFED (Ministry of Tribal Affairs) Capacity Building Skill development SHG formation Training in quality control Market Development Domestic + international marketing Aadi Mahotsav, IITF, online platforms Brand Creation “Tribes India” retail Sustainable branding of tribal products State Governments Jharkhand: Jharkhand Kala Mandir, Laghu Evam Kutir Udyam Vikas Board → revival of disappearing arts. Challenges Highlighted Market asymmetry → poor bargaining power. Limited awareness → low demand outside fairs. High production time; low returns. Endangered traditions due to: Modern mass-produced substitutes Migration of youth Lack of formal institutional support Government Interventions Needed Expansion of MSP for craft-based products. Digital marketplaces + direct-to-consumer models. Craft clusters with design institutes (NIFT, NID). Skill mapping + youth apprenticeship + scholarships. GI tagging for rare tribal artforms. Conclusion IITF 2025 acts as a national platform to mainstream tribal arts, ensuring livelihoods, cultural continuity, and economic integration. Government + community + marketplace synergy is essential for preserving fragile, heritage-rich traditions. Tribal arts embody India’s unity in diversity, and their preservation strengthens cultural identity while supporting inclusive development. Labour Codes Strengthen Modern Safety and Welfare Framework for Pharma Industry Why is it in News? The Government highlighted how the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSHWC) Code, 2020 and the Social Security Code, 2020 are strengthening modern safety and welfare standards in India’s pharmaceutical sector. The update comes as pharma shifts to high-potency, biotechnology-driven, sterile, and hazardous-process operations, requiring a unified safety framework. PIB reported implementation focus: risk-based oversight, emergency readiness, worker competency certification, ESI coverage, and a single cohesive safety governance structure replacing fragmented older laws. Relevance GS2 – Governance / Labour Reforms Labour Codes = major governance overhaul replacing 29 central laws. Reduces bureaucratic complexity; promotes cooperative federalism via unified rules. Strengthens worker rights while improving industrial efficiency. GS3 – Economy / Industry Pharma = $50+ billion industry, major export component, vaccine hub. Modernised safety → lower accidents, higher productivity, reliable supply chains. Boosts FDI and compliance with global GMP and safety standards. What Are the Labour Codes? Consolidation of 29 labour laws → 4 Labour Codes: Code on Wages, 2019 Industrial Relations Code, 2020 OSHWC Code, 2020 Social Security Code, 2020 Objectives: Simplify compliance Universalise labour protections Strengthen safety & welfare Boost EoDB (Ease of Doing Business) Pharma as a Hazardous Industry Declared hazardous under Factories Act, 1948. Legacy regime emphasised: chemical hazards, ventilation, safety audits, emergency plans. The sector has now shifted to: High-potency APIs Cytotoxic oncology drugs Recombinant DNA technologies Sterile biologics Vaccine manufacturing Biosafety Level (BSL) facilities Nano-material handling Old framework inadequate for integrated chemical–biological–process–radioactive hazards. What the OSHWC Code Changes for Pharma ? Unified & Modern Governance Merges fragmented safety laws into one consolidated Code. Provides modern definitions, updated hazard lists, and expanded scope covering: Biological agents AI-driven equipment Robotics Nano-materials Sterility-control systems Advanced Risk Management Mandatory scientific protocols: Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) Chemical safety dossiers Biosafety containment plans Exposure monitoring Environmental surveillance Digital health records Comprehensive medical examinations: Pre-employment Annual Periodic Post-incident Emergency & Compliance Architecture Single-window licensing + digitized returns → compliance ease. Risk-based inspections → transparency. Strengthened emergency readiness: On-site emergency plans Spill response units (chemical + biological) Incident command systems Occupational hygiene surveillance Competency-Based Workforce Regulation Certification for handling: Clean-rooms Isolators Fermentation bioreactors Cytotoxic compounds Pressurized reactors Mandatory safety committees Empowered safety officers Transparent accident reporting Women’s Safety & Inclusion Protections against: Mutagenic, teratogenic substance exposure Reproductive hazards Safe deployment in: Sterile zones Analytical labs Formulation units Automated clean-room systems What the Social Security Code Adds Universalised ESI coverage to all eligible pharma workers. Recognition of occupational diseases (chemical poisoning, reproductive disorders, sensitization, hepatotoxicity). Income security measures: Disability compensation Dependents’ benefits Maternity protections Strengthened safety net for temporary & contract workers Key Benefits for the Pharma Industry Higher safety → lower downtime & accidents Improved sterility assurance & GMP compliance Reduced litigation & regulatory burden Enhanced investor confidence Stronger scientific governance Better protection for contract & women workers Challenges States yet to fully notify rules (federal lag). MSME pharma units face adaptation costs. Skill gaps: need large-scale competency training. Inspectors must shift to facilitator-style oversight. Conclusion The Labour Codes—particularly the OSHWC Code and Social Security Code—mark a foundational shift from reactive, compliance-based governance to proactive, science-driven, risk-based industrial regulation in pharma. They align India’s regulatory ecosystem with global standards, safeguard workers in high-risk environments, and support India’s rise as a biotechnology powerhouse and global pharmacy.

Content China’s JUNO vs India’s INO   Fighting the fire China’s JUNO vs India’s INO   Why is it in News? China has completed construction of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) in 2025 and released its first scientific performance papers (Nov 18). Meanwhile, India’s India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) has remained stalled for over a decade, despite being conceptualised earlier than JUNO. JUNO has now begun reporting precision measurements (θ₁₂), while INO is stuck due to environmental, political and procedural hurdles. Relevance GS2 – Governance Centre–State coordination failures. Environmental clearance regime. Public communication in scientific projects. Political economy of large scientific infrastructure. GS3 – Science & Technology Indigenous high-energy physics capability. Impact of delays on global scientific standing. Role of Big Science in technology development (detectors, PMTs, computing). Practice Question Examine the reasons for the prolonged delay of the India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO). Discuss its implications for India’s scientific progress in comparison with China’s JUNO project. Suggest governance reforms necessary to execute Big Science projects in India.(250 Words) What are Neutrinos? Fundamental, charge-less subatomic particles. Three flavours: electron, muon, tau. Extremely weak interaction with matter → need massive detectors. Demonstrate neutrino oscillation, implying neutrinos have mass. Key unsolved puzzle: neutrino mass ordering (normal vs inverted hierarchy). Why big detectors? Probability of neutrino interaction ≈ 10⁻³⁸ cm² → need kiloton-scale materials and natural shielding (mountains, underground labs). INO: Original Vision Proposed: 50-kilotonne magnetised iron calorimeter detector (ICAL) in Theni, Tamil Nadu. Mountain overburden was to provide 1 km rock shielding. Science goal: determine neutrino mass hierarchy using atmospheric neutrinos. Built by a national consortium led by TIFR, IMSc, BARC, etc. Estimated cost ~ ₹1,500–1,800 crore. Why INO Stalled? A. Environmental & Local Opposition Fear of “radioactivity” due to DAE involvement. Concerns: blasting, tunnelling, impact on water aquifers, wildlife. Project misunderstood as a “nuclear waste” facility. B. Procedural lapses (documented in hindsight) Delayed environmental clearances. Inadequate early-stage local consultations. Insufficient risk communication strategy. Underestimation of political sensitivities. C. Governance & Federal Challenges Tamil Nadu govt withdrawal → land transfer issues. Litigation in Madras HC and NGT. Repeated demands for fresh EIA. D. Strategic Timing International collaborations hesitated due to uncertain timelines. Competing projects (like JUNO) moved rapidly. JUNO: China’s Rise in Big Science Key Features Location: Jiangmen, Guangdong. Liquid scintillator detector: 20,000 tonnes. Light sensors: ~18,000 large PMTs, among the world’s most advanced. Depth: ~700 m rock overburden. Budget: ~$300 million. Progress Expected completion: 2020 → delayed to 2025 but eventually built. Released two major preprints in Nov 2025: Initial performance results (detector calibration, resolution). Precision measurement of θ₁₂ (consistent with global data). Internationality Authors from ~20 countries; no Indian scientists present, despite India’s long expertise. Scientific Significance Neutrino Oscillations Measured via mixing angles: θ₁₂, θ₁₃, θ₂₃. θ₁₃ measured earlier by Daya Bay (China), Double Chooz (France), and RENO (Korea). JUNO aims to determine: Neutrino mass ordering Precision tests of 3-flavour oscillation framework Search for new physics beyond Standard Model. INO’s Niche INO’s magnetised detector would uniquely measure: Charge identification of muon neutrinos. Better sensitivity to mass hierarchy via Earth’s matter effects. Comparison INO vs JUNO Scientific Capability JUNO Strength: ultra-high energy resolution. Goal: precise θ₁₂, mass hierarchy, new physics. INO Strength: magnetic field → charge discrimination. Unique capability no other detector globally offers. Funding & Governance JUNO: Strong state backing, integrated planning, political support. INO: Multi-level approvals, state-centre friction, litigation. Stakeholder Management JUNO: Strong early community engagement. Clear communication on safety. INO: Miscommunication → public mistrust. Project framed wrongly as “nuclear”. Timelines JUNO: ~12 years (2013–2025). INO: Proposed 2005; still pending. Why India’s Absence in JUNO’s Author List Matters ? India has a historic record: 1965: India detected atmospheric neutrinos first at Kolar Gold Fields. Strong theoretical groups (IMSc, TIFR). Absence indicates: Funding instability → foreign collaborations hesitate. Administrative delays reducing India’s global credibility. Missed opportunity in two frontier areas: neutrinos & lunar samples. Key Lessons A. Big Science ≠ Only Scientists Need: Political buy-in. Local cooperation. Clearances done correctly. Strong communication strategy. Stable multi-year funding. B. Delays Reduce Strategic Leverage Frontier science moves fast. If India misses one window, the next requires much more advanced capabilities. C. “Resource constraints” often administrative, not material India invests heavily in: LIGO-India (~₹2,600 crore) SKA participation Large telescope collaborations So neutrino science didn’t fail due to money alone. Fighting the fire Why is it in News? COP30 concluded in Belém, Brazil, marking 10 years since the 2015 Paris Agreement. Global temperatures in 2024 crossed the 1.5°C threshold for the first time, raising urgency. Brazil attempted to shift the narrative from pledges → implementation. Strong focus on adaptation, just transition, and multilateral cooperation, amid geopolitical fragmentation. India participated actively but did not update its NDCs. Relevance GS2 – IR Multilateral climate diplomacy Negotiation politics North–South divide GS3 – Environment Climate science basics Paris Agreement NDC framework Adaptation vs mitigation Just transition Loss & damage finance GS1 – Geography Amazon ecosystem, global warming patterns. Practice Question COP30 attempts to shift climate negotiations from ambition to implementation. Critically analyse the opportunities and constraints for such a shift.(250 Words) What is COP? Conference of Parties (COP): Annual meeting of 198 Parties to the UNFCCC to negotiate climate action. Mandates include: Setting global climate goals Developing rules for mitigation, adaptation, finance Negotiating equity and burden-sharing. Paris Agreement (2015) — Foundations Global temperature goal: Limit rise to well below 2°C. Preferably 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Every country submits Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Principles: CBDR–RC (Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities) Progressive ambition: NDCs must be enhanced every 5 years. Climate finance obligation on developed nations. Why 2024–25 Is a Turning Point ? 2024 is the first year global temperatures breached 1.5°C (not yet the “new normal”, but a warning). Emissions trends show → world on track for ~2.5–2.9°C warming by 2100. Extreme events (heat, floods, forest fires, Amazon dieback threat) intensifying. Hardening of global climate blocs: Developed bloc: push for fossil fuel phase-out deadlines. Developing/petro-states: equity, finance, development space. Why Belém (Amazon) Matters ? Symbolic choice: Amazon = world’s largest carbon sink; experiencing severe deforestation, drought, fires. Brazil wants to position itself as leader of the Global South and Amazon protection diplomacy. What COP30 Tried to Change — “Implementation COP” Shift from promises → action After a decade of lofty pledges, real progress on ground remains poor. Brazil pushed: Implementation frameworks Accountability mechanisms Cooperative multilateralism (“mutirão”). Key Themes A. Adaptation Recognises that warming impacts are already unavoidable. Focus areas: Resilient agriculture Climate-proofing infrastructure Coastal protection Heatwave management Adaptation finance post-2025. B. Just Transition Addresses social and economic disruptions from energy shifts. Protecting: Workers Marginalised groups Indigenous communities Ensures sustainability does not worsen inequality. C. Finance Renewed push but no solid commitments. USD 100 bn/year obligation still not fully met. Developing countries asked for: Grant-based finance Loss & damage support Technology access. India’s Role Vocal leader of developing countries (G77 + China positions). Welcomed focus on equity, adaptation, just transition. Did not update its NDCs, citing: Finance uncertainty Development priorities Already overachieving several 2030 targets (renewable capacity, emissions intensity). Continues opposition to: Forced fossil fuel phase-out One-size-fits-all mitigation roadmaps. Outcomes — Gains and Shortfalls Gains Adaptation and just transition elevated. Acknowledged Amazon protection significance. Renewed commitment to multilateralism. Stronger narrative on equity. Shortfalls No consensus on fossil fuel phase-out vs phase-down. Finance gaps remain unaddressed. Absence of the U.S. diluted negotiation power on mitigation. Incremental progress compared to the scale of crisis. Broader Implications Climate denialism, pollution, deforestation rising despite COP efforts. Global stocktake suggests current policies insufficient. COP process remains slow, but still the only multilateral forum capable of collective climate action.

Content Chief Justice of India on NJAC Revival Plea How to Navigate a Complex Global Paradigm SC Panel Suggests Creation of a Goa Tiger Reserve Safran LEAP Engine MRO Facility in Hyderabad Aravalli Hills Despite Forest Survey Warning Chief Justice of India on NJAC Revival Plea Why is it in News? A fresh plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking revival of the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) and abolition of the Collegium system. The petitioner has arraigned the CJI, the Supreme Court Collegium, the Union government, and several parties as respondents. The plea terms the 2015 striking down of NJAC as a “great wrong”, arguing that it replaced the will of Parliament with the opinion of four judges. CJI Surya Kant stated the Court would consider the plea. Parallel political context: Debate over judicial transparency, “judicial primacy”, and allegations of nepotism resurfaces. Relevance GS-II: Polity & Governance Separation of powers. Judicial independence. Constitutional amendments (99th CAA). Role of Parliament vs Judiciary. Appointment procedures. Basic Structure doctrine. GS-II: Parliament & Judiciary Relations Institutional trust deficit. Checks and balances architecture. Judicial Appointments in India Constitutional Scheme Articles 124, 217: Judges of Supreme Court and High Courts appointed by the President after consultation with CJI, judges of SC, and Governor/Chief Justice of the state. Original intent: Executive had a major role; judiciary was “consulted”. Shift to Judicial Primacy (Judges Cases) First Judges Case (1981): Executive primacy. Second Judges Case (1993): Judicial primacy; Collegium created. Third Judges Case (1998): Collegium expanded to 5 (SC) and 3 (HC). Collegium System — Key Features Supreme Court Collegium: CJI + 4 senior-most SC judges. High Court Collegium: Chief Justice + 2 senior-most HC judges. Functions: Recommends appointments, elevations, transfers. Known issues: Opacity (no stated criteria; limited public disclosure). Alleged nepotism, favouritism, regional bias. Frequent executive–judiciary clashes (delays in clearance). HC vacancies persistently high (30–35% over years). 99th Constitutional Amendment (2014) + NJAC Act (2014) Composition: CJI (Chairperson) Two senior-most SC judges Law Minister Two eminent persons (selected by PM, CJI, LoP panel) Objectives Democratise appointments. Introduce checks and balances. Increase transparency. Reduce allegations of judicial monopoly. Why NJAC Was Struck Down (2015, 4:1 bench) Core Reason: Violation of Judicial Independence Presence of Law Minister + eminent persons → possible executive interference. Judicial independence recognised as part of Basic Structure (Kesavananda Bharati). Eminent persons’ veto could block judicial choices. Justice J. Chelameswar dissent Criticised Collegium as opaque and unaccountable. Strongly supported NJAC as balancing mechanism. Current Plea: Key Arguments Judgment should be declared void ab initio. Collegium = “synonym for nepotism and favouritism”. Appointments remain a “riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma” (reference to Churchill). Parliament acted using its constituent power, yet its amendment was struck down. Striking NJAC down “reduced Parliament to an inferior tribunal”. CJI’s Initial Response CJI Surya Kant said the SC “would consider the plea”, indicating judicial openness to examine the argument (though reopening a decided Constitution Bench judgment is rare and requires rigor). Constitutional & Jurisprudential Analysis A. Can a past Constitution Bench judgment be reopened? Within Court’s powers under Article 137 (Review) + Curative jurisdiction, but: Very high threshold. Time-lapse of a decade reduces probability. B. Legislature vs Judiciary: Separation of Powers Debate Legislature: Claims judicial monopoly is anti-democratic. Judiciary: Claims executive’s presence jeopardises independence. C. Basic Structure Doctrine at Core Judicial independence = non-negotiable. The test: Does NJAC dilute independence? Academic debate: scholars like Upendra Baxi, Madhav Khosla argue both sides. Policy Issues Driving Renewed Debate Persistent vacancy crisis: 450+ HC vacancies (varied over years). Case pendency: Over 5 crore cases across courts. Perception battles: From “judicial overreach” to “executive non-cooperation”. Collegium’s opaque resolutions despite partial publication. Critical Evaluation  Strengths of Collegium Shields judiciary from executive capture. Ensures judicial primacy (consistently upheld by SC). Protects constitutional adjudication. Weaknesses of Collegium Opaque and non-accountable. No institutionalised criteria for merit/representation. Alleged kinship networks. Strengths of NJAC Idea Adds democratic legitimacy. Potential for transparency reforms. Balances judiciary–executive roles. Weaknesses of NJAC (as struck down) Eminent persons’ veto could stall judiciary. Politicisation of appointments possible. Ambiguous selection of “eminent persons”. Middle Path Possibilities (Recommended by Experts) Retain judicial primacy but: Increase transparency. Codify objective criteria (merit, diversity). Create an independent secretariat for appointments. Publish reasons for rejection/selection. How to Navigate a Complex Global Paradigm  Why is it in News? Hong Kong hosted the 6th China–U.S. Exchange Foundation (CUSEF) Forum in November 2025, titled “Circles for Peace”. The forum took place amid deepening U.S.–China rivalry, declining people-to-people ties, technology-driven competition, and rising global uncertainty. The discussions highlighted that traditional engagement frameworks (like guardrails, managed competition) are no longer adequate to manage today’s strategic rivalry. Hong Kong was viewed as an “uneasy middle space” — a vantage point to explore new ideas and frameworks. Relevance GS-II: International Relations U.S.–China strategic competition Middle-power diplomacy Strategic autonomy Taiwan question Crisis prevention mechanisms GS-III: Security & Technology AI governance Dual-use technologies Space governance Technology security dilemmas U.S.–China Relations in 2025 Relationship marked by strategic rivalry + deep economic interdependence. Areas of friction: Technology (semiconductors, AI, 5G) Trade and supply chains South China Sea Taiwan Human rights Military deterrence Both powers expect “sudden shocks” due to thin trust and high militarisation. Key Themes from the Hong Kong Forum A. Shrinking Space for Nuance Domestic politics in both states have hardened narratives. Specialist-level strategic anxieties have moved into public politics. Younger generations in both countries have declining familiarity due to reduced student exchanges. B. AI and Technology as the New Global Commons AI viewed as an international public good — too consequential for one country to dominate. Forum emphasised: Equity Transparency Accountability Concern over dual-use technologies (civilian + defence). Need for: Global AI governance regime Future governance for outer space activities C. Taiwan as a Driver of Militarised Tension China warned U.S. is drifting towards a “one China, one Taiwan” posture. Risk of accidental escalation (e.g., 2001 EP-3 incident). Region lacks a durable crisis-prevention mechanism insulated from domestic politics. D. The Diplomatic Climate Strategic fatigue visible among experts. Personality-driven diplomacy insufficient in a complex multipolar world. Need for new vocabulary and mechanisms beyond Cold War models. E. Ng Eng Hen’s “Dialectic Moment” Current global order is in structural flux, driven by competing pressures. U.S., Europe, and China will shape outcomes, but rest of the world must ensure: Global commons are not collateral damage No new hegemon emerges Multiparty stewardship of the future Hong Kong’s Role as a “Middle Space” A. Why Hong Kong Matters Historically a bridge between China and the West. Despite recent political pressures, retains: Connectivity Cultural hybridity Cosmopolitan networks Transparency advantages Acts as a metaphorical vantage point to think beyond binary geopolitics. B. Middle Spaces in Global Politics Enable: Cross-border ideas Dialogue outside official channels Crisis de-escalation conversations Hong Kong demonstrates that even constrained spaces can enable meaningful engagement. Lessons for India  A. India’s Strategic Autonomy Imperative India cannot control U.S.–China rivalry, but can manage its exposure. Avoid copying U.S. rhetoric or accepting China’s narratives. Must maintain: Independent decision-making Issue-based partnerships Non-alignment in new-age geopolitical conflicts B. Build Domestic Power Technological capability Economic resilience Institutional strength Innovation ecosystems High-skill workforce C. Avoid Rigid Binaries Not “with the U.S.” or “with China”. Build flexible, sector-specific cooperation with multiple poles (EU, Japan, ASEAN, Global South). D. Strengthen People-to-People Channels Youth exchanges, academic collaborations, technology partnerships. These ties act as ballast during political shifts. E. Develop Capabilities in Emerging Domains AI governance Space governance Critical mineral security Cyber norms Supply-chain risk management Implications for the Emerging World Order A. U.S.–China rivalry will persist It will not return to pre-2016 engagement. Atmospherics remain turbulent. B. The Alternative to Managed Rivalry is Worse Cascading global risks: Climate shocks Pandemics Fragile supply chains AI weaponisation Political polarisation C. Future Order = Cooperative Stewardship Practical cooperation > ideological competition. Key sectors: Energy Health Finance AI and space governance Climate adaptation D. Strategic Middle Powers Matter More India, ASEAN, South Korea, Gulf states, EU, African states — shape global “weather”. Their choices will influence whether rivalry escalates or remains managed. SC Panel Suggests Creation of a Goa Tiger Reserve Why is it in News? A Supreme Court–appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC) has recommended the creation of a Goa Tiger Reserve in phases. The report arises from the Goa government’s challenge to a Bombay High Court (July 2023) directive ordering the notification of five protected areas as a tiger reserve within 3 months. The SC will now consider the CEC report in the next hearing. The case involves conflicting claims by the Goa government on: Human population inside sanctuaries Whether Goa has “resident” tigers or only “transient” individuals The CEC recommends linking Goa’s sanctuaries with Karnataka’s Kali Tiger Reserve, forming a 1,814 sq. km integrated landscape. Relevance GS-III: Environment & Ecology Tiger conservation Wildlife Protection Act NTCA powers Human–wildlife conflict Western Ghats ecology GS-I: Geography Western Ghats biodiversity Protected area management What is a Tiger Reserve? Legal basis: Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Sec. 38V). Components: Core area: Inviolate, highest protection, minimal human pressure. Buffer area: Lower protection, regulated human use. Declared on recommendation of NTCA (National Tiger Conservation Authority). Objective: Secure tiger populations Protect prey base & habitat Maintain contiguous corridors across states Background of the Case High Court Order (2023) Directed Goa to notify five protected areas as a tiger reserve: Mhadei WLS Bhagwan Mahavir WLS Bhagwan Mahavir NP Netravali WLS Cotigao WLS Goa Government’s Objections Initially claimed 1 lakh people would be affected; later admitted only: 1,274 households 33 villages 5,000–6,000 individuals Claimed Goa has no resident tiger population, only “transient” individuals. Earlier affidavits contradicted this — reported by The Hindu. CEC’s Intervention Asked by SC to examine scientific, ecological and socio-economic implications. Recommended a phased, minimal-displacement approach. CEC Recommendations — Phased Tiger Reserve for Goa A. Phase 1: Core + Buffer from Low-Human Habitation Areas Core Zone (296.7 sq. km) Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary 50 households Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary 41 households Reason: Directly contiguous with Karnataka’s Kali Tiger Reserve core Lowest human presence Critical landscape for tiger movement Buffer Zone (171 sq. km) Areas contiguous with Kali TR’s buffer: Northern part of Bhagwan Mahavir WLS (9 households) Bhagwan Mahavir NP (2 households) Total Phase-1 Area 468.60 sq. km Connectivity Advantage Fully contiguous with Kali Tiger Reserve (1,345 sq. km) Combined protected landscape: ~1,814 sq. km B. Phase 2: Consider Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary Later Mhadei WLS: 208 sq. km 612 households Only a limited boundary touches Kali TR buffer To be included after extensive consultations due to: Higher human habitation Complex socio-economic implications Why Phased Implementation? Minimise displacement and livelihood disruption. Address socio-political resistance in Goa. Secure ecologically critical areas first. Ensure tiger corridor continuity with Karnataka. Build local trust before expanding the reserve. Ecological Significance A. The Goa–Karnataka Western Ghats Tiger Landscape One of India’s most biodiverse tiger corridors. Adjacent Kali Tiger Reserve has: Stable resident tigers Breeding females Rich prey base B. Why Tigers in Goa Matter Presence of tigers proven by: Camera traps Scat analysis Occasional sightings Ensures genetic flow from Karnataka to Goa forests. Protecting Goa’s forests helps: Freshwater security Climate regulation Biodiversity stability Governance and Legal Context Key Institutions Supreme Court NTCA State Forest Department CEC (Supreme Court panel) Legal Precedents SC has repeatedly ruled that: Core tiger habitats must remain inviolate States must prioritise biodiversity over unverified human-impact claims Federal Dynamics Inter-state conservation challenges (Goa–Karnataka). Need for collaborative ecological governance across Western Ghats. Governance Concerns Raised Goa govt submitted contradictory affidavits on presence of resident tigers. Inflated displacement numbers weakened credibility. CEC report implies: Political reluctance Administrative inconsistency Possible resistance due to mining/lobby interests High Court order forced accountability. Implications for Goa Positive Boost to tiger conservation Strengthening eco-tourism Forest protection from mining & encroachment Improved scientific monitoring Challenges Community rehabilitation Human-wildlife conflict management Funding requirements Need for transparent community engagement Safran LEAP Engine MRO Facility in Hyderabad  Why is it in News? Prime Minister inaugurated Safran’s largest global MRO facility (Maintenance–Repair–Overhaul) for LEAP aircraft engines in Hyderabad. It is Safran’s biggest such facility worldwide and a major addition to India’s aviation manufacturing ecosystem. Marks India’s push from ‘Make in India’ → ‘Design in India’ in aerospace. Strategic for civil aviation, defence, FDI inflows, and the domestic engine ecosystem. Relevance GS3 – Economy & Infrastructure Aviation growth, foreign investment, PLI, MSMEs. GS3 – Science & Technology LEAP engine tech, 3D printing in aerospace, CMC materials. GS2 – International Relations India–France strategic partnership in defence & high tech. What is an MRO Facility? MRO = Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul of aircraft engines and components. Essential for: Flight safety and regulatory compliance. Reducing turnaround time for grounded aircraft. Lowering operating costs for airlines. India currently sends majority of engines to Singapore, UAE, France, causing higher costs. The LEAP Engine  What is the LEAP engine? LEAP = Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion. Manufactured by CFM International (joint venture of Safran, France + GE Aerospace, US). Powers modern narrow-body aircraft (single-aisle) like: Airbus A320neo family Boeing 737 MAX COMAC C919 Key Technical Features Fuel efficiency: ~15% better than previous generation (CFM56). Materials: Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) 3D-printed fuel nozzles Carbon-fibre fan blades Lower emissions: CO₂ ↓ by 15% NOx emissions ↓ 50% compared to regulatory limits Noise reduction: 15–20% lower Why LEAP matters for India? India is among the fastest-growing aviation markets globally. 70% of India’s narrow-body fleet uses LEAP engines.   Massive domestic demand ensures stable MRO business and future engine localisation. Why India wants engine design capability ? Only a few countries have full aero-engine manufacturing capability (US, UK, France, Russia, China). Engines are the highest-value component of an aircraft (25–30% of aircraft cost). Defence dependency: Indigenous fighter jets need indigenous engines (e.g., AMCA, Tejas Mk2). GE–HAL F414 manufacturing is a step, but complete design capability remains absent. Policy Framework Supporting Aerospace Manufacturing FDI liberalisation 100% FDI permitted under automatic route in most sectors. 74% FDI automatic in defence manufacturing. PLI schemes Encouraging domestic component manufacturing in: Electronics Drones Semiconductors Aerospace components Space and Aviation Reforms Private participation allowed in: Space launch services Satellite services Boosts high-tech ecosystem → spillover to aviation engines. Why This Facility is Strategically Important for India ? Economic Gains Saves India’s airlines hundreds of millions annually in overseas MRO expenses. Captures Asia’s growing MRO market (projected at $40+ billion by 2030). Geopolitical & Strategic Gains Deepening ties with France (Rafale, submarines, engines). Reduces reliance on Singapore/Middle East. Strengthens India as an aviation hub in South Asia. Technology Transfer Potential Safran’s presence could: Enable joint R&D labs. Improve supply chain localisation. Create opportunities for Indian MSMEs in engine components. Challenges & Caveats India still lacks: Core turbine design capabilities. High-temperature material manufacturing (e.g., single-crystal blades). MRO requires large certified workforce → skill gap. Regulatory harmonisation needed with FAA/EASA. Aravalli Hills Despite Forest Survey Warning Why is it in News?   Supreme Court (20 Nov 2024) accepted a Union Environment Ministry panel’s recommendation to define Aravalli Hills as only those landforms with 100 m or more elevation + local relief. This new definition excludes over 90% of Aravalli landforms, allowing potential mining and construction. A Forest Survey of India (FSI) internal analysis had warned the government that such a definition would be ecologically disastrous — this “red flag” was ignored. New data show only 1,048 of 12,081 Aravalli hills in Rajasthan (8.7%) are ≥100 m, meaning 91.3% lose protection.  Relevance GS1 – Geography Geomorphology of ancient fold mountains. Desertification & land degradation. GS2 – Governance Environmental decision-making. Regulatory bodies (MoEFCC, SC committees). GS3 – Environment & Conservation Air pollution (PM2.5, PM10). Wildlife corridors. Forest governance & definitions (critical). Mining regulation and ecological risk. Aravali Range One of the oldest fold mountains (Precambrian). Length: ~700 km (Gujarat–Rajasthan–Haryana–Delhi). Natural barrier to dust storms from Thar Desert into NCR. Key wildlife corridors (Sariska–Ranthambore, Kumbhalgarh, etc.) Major groundwater recharge zone for semi-arid regions of Haryana & Rajasthan. The “100m cut-off” Hills counted as Aravalli only if: Height ≥100 metres, AND Local relief ≥100 metres, AND Considered with slopes + adjacent land Implication: Anything <100 m elevation = not Aravalli, even if geomorphologically part of the range. FSI’s red flag   FSI analysis (reviewed by Indian Express): Only 1,048 of 12,081 hills in 15 Rajasthan districts exceed 100 m. Thus >90% Aravalli hills lose protection under the new definition. FSI emphasized importance of lower hills: Block coarse dust and slow down easterly dust flow into NCR. Act as buffers against desertification. Maintain ecological connectivity. The ministry ignored these warnings in submissions to SC. Why this matters for NCR Pollution ? Upper Aravallis obstruct fine pollutants (PM2.5). Lower Aravallis obstruct heavier dust particles. Together they create a barrier protecting Delhi from dust inflow. Removing protection accelerates: Dust-laden winds into NCR Temperature rise and heat-island effects Loss of wildlife corridors Groundwater depletion What was the earlier yardstick(FSI – 2010 onwards) FSI used a 3-degree slope method to identify Aravallis. A 2024 technical committee revised this: Slope ≥4.57° Height ≥30 m This older method covered ~40% of Aravallis, far more than the new definition. Govt’s Submission The ministry submitted: Only hills ≥100 m count as Aravalli. Confused height with slope, creating a subjective & improper definition. Ignored FSI’s scientific warnings. SC nevertheless accepted the panel’s recommendations. Environmental Impacts Mining intensification (legal + illegal). Real estate expansion, especially in Gurgaon–Faridabad–Aravali belt. Accelerated desertification of NCR and Haryana. Decline in groundwater aquifers (Aravallis as recharge zones). Collapse of wildlife corridors (leopards, hyenas, ungulates). Increased PM10/PM2.5 loads in NCR.