Content India: A Global Bioeconomy Powerhouse GST Reforms 2025: Relief for Common Man, Boost for Businesses India: A Global Bioeconomy Powerhouse Growth Trajectory Expanded from USD 10 bn (2014) → USD 165.7 bn (2024). CAGR: ~35% over the decade, contributing 4.25% of GDP. Target: USD 300 bn by 2030, USD 1.4–2.7 tn by 2050 (6.5–12% of GDP). Global context: Bioeconomy expected to hit USD 30 tn by 2050 (12% of world GDP). Relevance : GS III (Economy, S&T, Environment) – Biomanufacturing, energy independence, innovation ecosystems. GS II (Governance) – Policy initiatives like BioE³, regulatory frameworks. GS I (Geography & Society) – Regional contribution, rural bio-agri impact. Essay & Ethics – Sustainability, bio-innovation, and climate justice.   Subsectoral Distribution (2024) BioIndustrial (47% | USD 78.2 bn) Biofuels, bioplastics, enzymes, green chemicals. Key driver of circular and green economy. BioPharma & BioMedical (35.2% | USD 58.4 bn) Affordable generics, vaccines, biologics, diagnostics, MedTech. Global reputation for cost-effective biopharma. BioAgri (8.1% | USD 13.5 bn) GM crops, Bt cotton success, precision farming, biofertilizers, biopesticides. BioResearch & BioIT (9.4% | USD 15.6 bn) Contract research, clinical trials, bioinformatics, biotech software. Strengthens India’s role as a global R&D hub.   State & Regional Contribution (2024) Top States: Maharashtra (USD 35.45 bn | 21.4%), Karnataka (USD 32.4 bn | 19.5%), Telangana (USD 19.9 bn | 12%). Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh follow. Regional Share: South (45.4%), West (30.3%), North (18.5%), East (5.8%). South dominates due to biotech clusters (Bengaluru, Hyderabad). Major Policy Interventions BioE³ Policy (2024): Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, Employment. Biomanufacturing & Biofoundry Initiative: Move from consumptive → regenerative production. 21 BioEnabler facilities: Shared infra for startups & R&D (focus on microbial biotech, smart proteins, marine biotech, gene therapy). BioE³ Youth Challenge (2025): Monthly innovation contest, prizes (₹1L to ₹25L), incubation & mentoring for grassroots biotech talent. Breakthrough Achievements Ethanol Blending: 20% blending (2025) → achieved 5 years ahead of target. Benefits: ₹1.21 lakh crore to farmers, elimination of sugarcane arrears, forex savings ₹1.44 lakh crore, crude substitution 245 LMT. Vaccine Leadership: Serum Institute: global share rose from 19% (2021) → 24% (2024). 3 Indian firms (Serum, Bharat Biotech, Biological E) among world’s top 10. Supplied 40% of WHO vaccines; 20% exports went to Africa. Precision Medicine & AMR: Launch of Nafithromycin (anti-AMR antibiotic). CAR-T therapies, AI-driven diagnostics, oncology gene sequencing.   Climate Change & Sustainability Role Bioeconomy enables: Emission reduction via biofuels, recycling, bioplastics. Carbon capture in agriculture, afforestation, food waste reduction. Greener manufacturing processes → reduced fossil dependence. Central to India’s net-zero roadmap by 2070. Startup & Investment Ecosystem Startups: 13,000 in 2025 (from 5,365 in 2021; +142%). Products: 800+ launched; $600 mn follow-on funding. FDI: MedTech FDI grew from $370 mn (2022) → $618 mn (2024). Ecosystem backed by BIRAC, DBT, venture funding, incubation infra. Global Positioning India is: Vaccine hub (low-cost, mass production). Ethanol leader (fastest adoption curve globally). Emerging precision medicine hub in the Global South. R&D outsourcing base for pharma & bioinformatics. By 2050, India may rival US, EU, and China as a bioeconomy power centre. Challenges & Way Forward Challenges: Regulatory harmonisation across subsectors. Biosafety, bioethics, and AMR management. Funding volatility & global competition in biotech patents. Need to scale from pilot → industrial-level biomanufacturing. Way Forward: Strengthen IP regime, clinical trial capacity, and global partnerships. Incentivise R&D tax breaks, green financing, and rural biotech adoption. Enhance regional biotech clusters in East & North India. Foster public trust via awareness on biotech safety and benefits. GST Reforms 2025: Relief for Common Man, Boost for Businesses Historical Context Pre-GST Era (Before 2017) Fragmented indirect tax system (VAT, excise, service tax, octroi, entry tax). Multiple levies created cascading effect (“tax on tax”). Different state laws caused compliance burden & litigation. Weak input tax credit provisions → high cost of goods & services. GST Introduction (2017) Rolled out on 1st July 2017 via 101st Constitutional Amendment. Subsumed 17 taxes & 13 cesses into a single national tax. Created “One Nation, One Tax, One Market” framework. Brought IT-based filing, improved transparency, and widened the tax base. Relevance : GS III (Economy) – Tax simplification, inflation relief, MSME competitiveness, boost to agriculture & manufacturing. GS II (Governance) – GST Council (Art. 279A), cooperative federalism, welfare-linked exemptions. GST Performance till 2025 Taxpayer base: Grew from 66.5 lakh (2017) → 1.51 crore (2025). Revenue Growth: FY 2017–18: ₹82,000 crore avg. monthly collection. FY 2024–25: ₹2.04 lakh crore avg. monthly collection. CAGR ~18%, gross collections doubled to ₹22.08 lakh crore in 4 years. Formalization: Stronger compliance + technology adoption increased revenues. 2025 GST Reform Highlights Simplification of Tax Structure Shift from 4 slabs (5%, 12%, 18%, 28%) → two slabs: 5% & 18%. 40% slab retained for luxury & sin goods (tobacco, aerated drinks, luxury cars, yachts, private aircraft). Focus: Relief to common man, lower input costs for MSMEs, boost to agriculture & manufacturing, and correction of inverted duty structures. Sector-Wise Impact A. Household & Food Daily essentials: soaps, toothpaste, shampoos, bicycles → down to 5%. Indian breads, paneer, UHT milk → NIL GST. Packaged foods (sauces, pasta, chocolates, coffee, preserved meat) → 18/12% → 5%. TVs (>32”), ACs, dishwashers → 28% → 18%. Impact: Boost in affordability + demand for FMCG & consumer durables. B. Housing & Construction Cement: 28% → 18%. Marble, granite, bricks, bamboo products → 12% → 5%. Impact: Lower construction costs, cheaper housing, push to infra sector, job creation. C. Automobiles Two-wheelers ≤350cc & small cars: 28% → 18%. Buses, trucks, three-wheelers, auto parts: 28% → 18%. Impact: Relief for middle-class + push for auto manufacturing & exports. D. Agriculture Tractors: 12% → 5%. Tires & tractor parts: 18% → 5%. Irrigation equipment, harvesters, sprinklers: 12% → 5%. Bio-pesticides, natural menthol: 12% → 5%. Impact: Lower input costs, farmer relief, boost to sustainable farming. E. Services Hotels (<₹7,500/day): 12% → 5%. Gyms, salons, yoga: 18% → 5%. Impact: Boost to hospitality, wellness, and tourism sectors. F. Textiles, Toys & Handicrafts Manmade fibre: 18% → 5%; yarn: 12% → 5%. Handicrafts, statues, paintings, toys: 12% → 5%. Impact: Boost exports, support artisans, rural jobs, cultural preservation. G. Education Exercise books, pencils, erasers, crayons, sharpeners → 0% GST. Geometry boxes, trays: 12% → 5%. Impact: Reduced education costs, student-friendly. H. Healthcare Life-saving drugs & diagnostic kits: 12% → 0%. Other medicines (Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy): 12% → 5%. Medical oxygen, surgical instruments: 12–18% → 5%. Spectacles: 28% → 5%. Impact: Affordable healthcare, support for domestic pharma & MedTech. I. Insurance Life & health insurance premiums → GST exempt. Impact: Promotes financial security, supports Insurance for All by 2047. Broader Economic Impact Consumers: Lower costs → higher disposable income → demand growth. MSMEs: Lower input costs, corrected inverted duty structure → competitiveness. Manufacturing: Boost to domestic value addition, exports. State Revenues: Simplified rates + wider base → higher compliance → stable revenues. Employment: Growth in construction, auto, textiles, handicrafts. Inflation: Expected moderation due to lower GST on essentials. Formalization: Simple two-slab system reduces disputes, encourages compliance. Challenges Ahead Revenue Neutrality: Risk of revenue loss from sharp rate cuts; must be offset by better compliance. State Compensation: Concerns of revenue shortfall for some states (esp. after cess phase-out). Transition Issues: Businesses must quickly adapt to new slabs, possible IT challenges. Luxury/Sin Goods Taxation: High 40% rate may sustain black market activity. Long-Term Significance Reinforces GST as citizen-centric & business-friendly. Aligns with India’s goal of Ease of Living + Ease of Doing Business. Supports Viksit Bharat @2047 vision by: Affordable healthcare & education. Strong MSME & manufacturing base. Sustainable agriculture. Formalized, transparent tax system. Conclusion: GST Reforms 2025 mark the biggest overhaul since 2017 rollout—from a complex multi-slab system to a simpler, fairer, two-rate structure. By lowering tax burdens across essentials, housing, health, and education, while supporting businesses and states, these reforms aim to create a virtuous cycle of lower costs → higher demand → wider tax base → stronger growth.

Content: Trump’s tariff war as opportunity for the Global South GST 2.0 is a landmark in India’s tax journey Trump’s tariff war as opportunity for the Global South Basics Global Context: Rising economic nationalism and protectionism led by the U.S. under Trump. Challenges to liberal international order: free trade, multilateralism, global institutions. U.S. tariffs and sanctions reshaping global trade dynamics. India caught in cross-currents: balancing ties with the U.S., China, Russia, and Global South. Key Issue: U.S. tariffs, sanctions, and unilateralism disrupt India’s economy (textiles, gems, metals, auto parts). Erosion of 25 years of India-U.S. strategic convergence. Need for India to recalibrate strategy amid polycrisis (economic, geopolitical, technological). Relevance : GS II (IR, Governance) – India–US relations, impact of protectionism on multilateralism, strategic autonomy, Global South leadership. GS III (Economy, Trade) – Effects of tariffs on exports, FDI flows, supply chains, energy security. GS I (Society & Diaspora) – Indian diaspora in U.S. facing racism and visa uncertainties. Practice Question :  How can India leverage the ongoing global protectionist wave to strengthen its leadership role in the Global South? (250 Words) Trump’s Motivations Domestic Politics Pandering to “silent majority” resentful of globalisation’s inequities. Instead of structural reforms, resort to xenophobia, racism, and economic populism. Sanctions (30+ nations), tariffs (70+), attacks on immigration, trade blocs reshaped. Economic Strategy Tariffs = disguised tax on American consumers (70% burden). Goal: maintain U.S. economic dominance, curb China’s rise (26% vs 17% of global GDP). Protectionism, subsidies, and coercive trade tactics with hypocrisy (criticises India’s farm protections while imposing huge tariffs on tobacco, dairy, fruits). Geopolitics & Security Bipartisan consensus in U.S. on reversing deindustrialisation and checking China. Tariffs weaponised for leverage on Russia–Ukraine war. China seen as ultimate challenge → tariffs aligned with U.S. security and strategic interests. Impacts on India Economic Impact Tariffs hurt textiles, jewellery, auto parts, metals. Farmers face pressure as U.S. demands India cut protections while it maintains high tariffs. India conceded on oil imports from Iran/Venezuela and cotton duties, weakening bargaining power. Geopolitical Impact U.S. re-hyphenating India–Pakistan; renewing ties with Islamabad. Quad commitments uncertain; U.S. firms hesitant in India. India–China tensions exploited; two-front security problem intensifies. Societal Impact Indian diaspora facing racism amid U.S. political climate. What New Delhi Must Do Re-examine Assumptions Don’t overestimate “democratic counterweight to China” narrative. Recognise limits of U.S. convergence; protect national interests. Adopt Firm Negotiating Posture U.S. respects strength, not compliance. Avoid unnecessary concessions (Iran oil, cotton duties). Balance ties with multiple powers (multi-alignment > symbolic alliances). Correct Foreign Policy Adventurism Limit over-personalised diplomacy, diaspora theatrics. Prioritise strategic interests over symbolic gestures. Leverage Polycrisis Champion multipolarity as an alternative to U.S. unipolarity or China–U.S. bipolarity. Push for a New Economic Deal – fairer rules for Global South, reform of multilateral institutions. Address Domestic Structural Weaknesses Revive manufacturing (lowest in 40 years). Tackle unemployment, private investment stagnation, poor R&D. Use PSUs strategically like China’s SOEs. Build bipartisan consensus at home, coordinate with Global South abroad. Larger Significance for India Short-Term: Protect economy from tariffs, secure energy supplies, manage U.S. unpredictability. Medium-Term: Avoid two-front security trap; balance U.S. and China ties. Long-Term: Lead Global South by advocating equitable globalisation, inclusive multilateralism, and multipolar world order. GST 2.0 is a landmark in India’s tax journey Basics GST (Goods and Services Tax): A destination-based indirect tax introduced in 2017, subsuming multiple central & state taxes (excise, VAT, service tax). GST Council (Art. 279A): Apex decision-making body chaired by Union Finance Minister with state FMs as members. Earlier Structure: Multiple slabs (0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, 28%), causing complexity, inverted duty structures, and compliance burden. Relevance : GS III (Economy) – Tax simplification, inverted duty correction, MSME relief, green growth incentives. GS II (Governance & Federalism) – GST Council (Art. 279A), cooperative federalism, dispute resolution via GSTAT. GS I (Society) – Relief on essentials, healthcare, insurance, rural/agri impact, job creation in labour-intensive sectors. Practice Question : Critically analyse the role of GST reforms in advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. (250 Words) Structural Simplification Shift from 4 major slabs → 2 slabs: 18% Standard Rate 5% Merit Rate 40% De-merit Rate for luxury/sin goods (e.g., tobacco, high-end SUVs). Impact: Reduces complexity, boosts predictability, and aligns with global “simple tax” practices. Relief for Households & Consumers Exempted: UHT milk, paneer, chapati, paratha (essentials). 5% bracket: Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, bicycles, kitchenware. Reduced: Packaged foods, noodles, chocolates, beverages. Outcome: More disposable income, higher consumption, improved equity. Health & Insurance Boost Zero GST on life and health insurance – improves penetration, supports senior citizens and low-income families. Exemptions/reductions on drugs & devices for cancer, rare diseases, chronic conditions → affordable healthcare, lower out-of-pocket expenditure. Agriculture & Farmers Tractors, farm machinery @ 5%. Fertilizers & key inputs (sulphuric acid, ammonia) @ 5% (down from 18%). Outcome: Lower cultivation costs, higher productivity, better farm incomes. Labour-Intensive & Traditional Sectors Rate cuts for handicrafts, marble, granite, leather goods. Impact: Demand revival, job protection, export competitiveness, preservation of traditional industries. Key Sectoral Corrections Textiles: MMF & yarn @ 5% → removes inverted duty anomaly, boosts exports & jobs. Cement: From 28% → 18% → reduces construction cost, boosts housing & infra growth. Renewables & auto parts: Lower rates → accelerates green growth & EV ecosystem. Hospitality & wellness: Rationalized → tourism revival & service sector growth. Institutional & Process Reforms GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT): Operational by end-2025 → faster dispute resolution, legal consistency. Provisional refunds for inverted duty cases → liquidity support to businesses. Risk-based compliance checks & harmonized valuation rules → lower compliance burden, less litigation. Fiscal & Economic Balance Phased implementation from Sept 22, 2025 → protects revenue while ensuring immediate consumer benefits. Demand push + investment revival → short-term growth stimulus, long-term revenue buoyancy. Stakeholder Alignment Many CII recommendations accepted → simplification, healthcare relief, farm support, textile competitiveness. Reflects consultative federalism & partnership with industry. Big Picture – GST 2.0 A citizen-centric reform rather than just a technical tax change. Promotes inclusive growth: benefits households, farmers, workers, MSMEs, and traditional industries. Aligns with Viksit Bharat 2047 by simplifying taxation, boosting competitiveness, and strengthening institutions.

Content Auto, Pharma Sectors Cheer GST Slabs; Airlines Say Wings Clipped Should Commercial Speech on Digital Platforms Be Regulated? India–China: The Making of a Border India’s Birth Rate Down: First Dip in TFR in 2 Years How the Antibiotic Culture in India Imperils Mental Health Logs in Himachal Floodwaters: Supreme Court Response New Foreigners Act, 2025 PVTGs and Enumeration Issues Auto, pharma sectors cheer GST slabs; airlines say wings clipped Basics GST (Goods and Services Tax): Indirect tax introduced in 2017, subsuming multiple central & state taxes. GST Council: Apex decision-making body under Article 279A, chaired by Union Finance Minister. Inverted Duty Structure: Situation where tax on inputs > tax on final product, discouraging domestic value addition. Recent Decision (Sept 2025): GST Council revised rates across multiple sectors → auto, insurance, appliances, pharma, renewable energy, but also imposed higher rates in textiles, airlines, and services. Relevance: GS III (Economy – Taxation, GST reforms, federal fiscal relations, sectoral impacts on industry and labour). Key Changes Positive for Industry: Auto sector: Rate rationalisation + removal of GST Compensation Cess on certain vehicles. Pharma & Fertilisers: Corrected inverted duty structure → reduces input cost burden. Renewable energy: Adjustments encouraging investment in green projects. Consumer appliances: Lower duties on select items → boost demand. Negative for Some Sectors: Textiles & Garments: GST on labour charges raised 12% → 18% → affects small units, handlooms, embroidery, wedding wear. Cloth Manufacturers Association of India: Warned higher costs will hurt migrant workers and common consumers (woollens, handlooms, traditional clothing). Airlines: Criticised higher GST on non-economy class tickets. Service providers/SMEs: Fear higher compliance costs. Stock Market Reaction: Initial optimism but ended flat, Sensex barely up → reflects mixed industry sentiment. Implications Economic Impact Rationalisation reduces litigation & compliance disputes. Correction of inverted duty structure supports Make in India and boosts domestic value chains. But labour-intensive textile sector hit → job losses possible for migrant/daily-wage workers. Social Impact Higher tax on garments affects low-income consumers → affordability issue. Migrant workers in textile hubs (Surat, Tiruppur, Panipat) likely to face wage squeeze. Political Angle Rate hikes on essential clothing → politically sensitive before elections, esp. in states with large textile workforce. Industries lobbying for rollback may pressure govt. Governance Angle Shows federal cooperation in GST Council but also trade-offs → boosting revenue vs protecting vulnerable industries. Addresses long-pending duty inversion, improving tax efficiency. Sectoral Winners & Losers Winners: Auto, pharma, renewable energy, fertilizers. Losers: Textiles, airlines, MSME service providers. Should commercial speech on digital platforms be regulated? Basics Commercial Speech: Expression with an economic motive (advertisements, influencer content, monetized performances). Recognised under Article 19(1)(a) (Tata Press Ltd. v. MTNL, 1995). Regulatory Context: IT Act, 2000 & BNS, 2023 provide mechanisms for prosecution and content removal. SC’s 25 Aug 2024 Order: Urged govt. to draft guidelines for social media content, triggered by derogatory remarks by comedians against persons with disabilities. Constitutional Framework: Free speech subject to reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) (security, public order, decency, morality, etc.). Individual dignity is not an explicit ground under Art. 19(2), but SC upheld criminal defamation (2016) recognising dignity as linked to reputation. Relevance: GS II (Polity – Fundamental Rights: Free Speech & Reasonable Restrictions; IT laws; Judiciary–Executive balance). Arguments Against New Regulation Existing Laws Already Cover It: FIRs filed under BNS & IT Act show enforceability. Section 69A already provides takedown powers. Risk of Overreach: Using “dignity” as an independent ground risks expansive censorship. Chilling Effect: Comedians, satirists, journalists may self-censor, harming democratic debate. Judicial Precedent: SC has protected unpalatable speech (e.g., quashing FIR against Imran Pratapgadhi’s poem, 2024). Commercial Nature ≠ Justification for Regulation: Profit-driven speech still falls under free expression (Sakal Papers v. Union, 1962). Arguments for Some Regulation Protection of Vulnerable Groups: Content mocking disabilities or minorities affects dignity and participation in public life. Social Responsibility: Commercialisation of free speech (influencer marketing, stand-up comedy, monetised social media) increases its reach and impact. Judicial Role of “Complete Justice”: SC has inherent jurisdiction to balance free expression with social harm. Safeguards Against Hate Speech: Commercial platforms amplify hate speech faster; some oversight is needed to prevent real harm. Key Constitutional & Legal Precedents Sakal Papers v. Union (1962): Struck down govt. attempt to regulate newspaper page limit; reinforced commercial speech as part of free expression. Tata Press Ltd. v. MTNL (1995): Affirmed advertisements as part of free speech under Art. 19(1)(a). Subramanian Swamy v. Union of India (2016): Upheld criminal defamation, linking dignity with reputation. Recent SC orders: Protected “disturbing or offensive” speech (2024). Questioned excessive executive censorship via IT Act Sec. 69A. Risks of Over-Regulation Censorship Creep: Govts may regulate under “social value” standards, suppressing dissent. Opaque Mechanisms: Existing takedown regime already lacks transparency and notice to content creators. Institutional Overreach: SC asking executive to draft regulations may reinforce state censorship with judicial backing. Way Forward – Safeguards Needed Strong Review Mechanisms: Independent tribunals or oversight bodies for content removal. Clear Definitions: Avoid vague terms like “dignity” or “offensive content”. Stakeholder Consultation: Must include creators, civil society, and vulnerable groups—not just state or industry bodies. Transparency: Public disclosure of takedown/blocking orders; notice to affected parties. Balance Approach: Protect vulnerable groups from targeted ridicule while preserving space for satire, dissent, and artistic freedom. India-China: the making of a border Basics of the Border Issue Colonial Legacy: Border derived from British (India) and Manchu (China) empires, drawn imprecisely in Himalayan, uninhabited terrain. Post-Independence Indian Position: India assumed British-era maps were final; avoided negotiations. China viewed border as undefined. Key Disputed Areas: Western Sector: Aksai Chin (strategically important for China’s Xinjiang–Tibet highway). Eastern Sector: Arunachal Pradesh (esp. Tawang), based on McMahon Line (1914 Simla Agreement with Tibet). Relevance: GS I (History – Colonial Legacies) + GS II (IR – India-China Relations, Border Disputes) + GS III (Security – Border Management).   Beginning of Conflict China built Aksai Chin highway (1950s) → India discovered only later. 1959 Proposal: China suggested Line of Actual Control (LAC) + mutual pullback (20 km). 1960 Zhou Enlai Proposal: Swap deal (Aksai Chin to China, Arunachal to India). India rejected. 1962 War: Triggered by Indian forward moves in Aksai Chin; China retained Aksai Chin but withdrew in east north of McMahon Line.   Post-War Developments (1962–1979) 1967: Nathu La & Cho La clashes in Sikkim → Indian Army showed stronger resolve. 1975: Sikkim merged with India → Chinese protests. 1975: Formation of China Study Group (CSG) → institutionalized patrolling, mapping with satellite imagery. 1979: FM Vajpayee visited Beijing → first high-level political contact post-war; partial normalisation attempt. 1980s Escalation & Diplomacy 1980 Deng Proposal: China willing to accept McMahon Line if India recognised Aksai Chin status quo. India refused. 1981–85 Talks: Resumed but deadlocked; India wanted sector-by-sector talks, China insisted on package deal. 1983–86 Crisis: China demanded Tawang, shifting stance (linked to Tibet policy). 1986: Wangdung standoff → India launched Operation Falcon, strong forward deployment. Showed India’s improved military preparedness. 1988 Rajiv Gandhi Visit: Turning point in ties. Both sides agreed on “mutual understanding & mutual accommodation” (MUMA). Normalisation of ties + creation of Joint Working Group (JWG) on border issue. Implications Strategic Factors: China needed Aksai Chin for Tibet–Xinjiang connectivity. India viewed Arunachal (esp. Tawang) as non-negotiable due to cultural, historical, and security reasons. Diplomatic Approaches: China repeatedly offered “package deals”; India preferred incremental, sectoral talks. India’s stance shaped by 1962 trauma → reluctance to accept territorial concessions. Military Evolution: 1962: Indian Army unprepared → humiliation. Post-1967 & 1986: India demonstrated stronger capability & resolve. Geopolitical Context: 1960s–70s: China wary of Soviet Union, sought neutralising India. 1980s: China recalibrated post-Afghanistan war, wary of Indo-US proximity, opened to India. Outcome by late 1980s: Border dispute unresolved. Shift from confrontation to “peaceful coexistence + negotiation”. Framework for future CBMs (Confidence Building Measures) laid. ‘India’s birth rate down, first dip in TFR in 2 years’ Basics Crude Birth Rate (CBR): No. of live births per 1,000 population/year. Declined from 19.1 (2022) → 18.4 (2023). Total Fertility Rate (TFR): Avg. no. of children a woman is expected to bear during her reproductive span. Declined from 2.0 (2021 & 2022) → 1.9 (2023). First dip in 2 years. Replacement-level fertility: 2.1 (needed for population stabilization). Highest CBR (2023): Bihar (25.8). Lowest CBR (2023): Tamil Nadu (12). Highest TFR: Bihar (2.8). Lowest TFR: Delhi (1.2). States with TFR above replacement level: Northern India – Bihar (2.8), UP (2.6), MP (2.4), Rajasthan (2.3), Chhattisgarh (2.2). States/UTs with lowest TFRs: Delhi (1.2), West Bengal (1.3), Tamil Nadu (1.3), Maharashtra (1.4). Elderly proportion (2023): 9.7% of population (↑ 0.7% in one year). Highest elderly share: Kerala (15%). Lowest: Assam, Jharkhand (7.6%), Delhi (7.7%). Relevance: GS I (Society – Demographic Trends, Population Issues) + GS II (Governance – Health, Education, Social Policy). Demographic Trends India’s fertility is steadily declining → convergence towards below-replacement fertility in majority of states (18 States/UTs). North-South divide: North/Central India still above replacement (Bihar, UP, MP, Rajasthan). South & urbanised states far below replacement (TN, WB, Delhi, Maharashtra). Indicates demographic heterogeneity – “two Indias” in population dynamics. Implications of Falling TFR Population Stabilisation: India nearing replacement level fertility; long-term population expected to peak around mid-2060s. Ageing Society: Elderly share rising (9.7% in 2023; Kerala already at 15%). Labour Force Impact: Declining fertility may affect working-age population growth after 2040, impacting economic growth potential. Gender Dimension: Falling fertility often linked with female education, urbanisation, workforce participation, and healthcare access. Policy & Governance Aspects Civil Registration System (CRS) & SRS: Key demographic data sources; delays (4-year lag in CRS, MCCD) weaken timely policymaking. Healthcare Planning: Rising elderly population requires stronger geriatric care, social security, and pensions. Regional Planning: High fertility states (Bihar, UP, MP) will continue to add to India’s population momentum → implications for resource allocation, jobs, and migration. Population Policies: Need state-specific approaches rather than “one-size-fits-all.” Socio-Economic Drivers of Fertility Decline Education & Awareness: Female literacy rise → lower fertility. Urbanisation: Higher in low-TFR states (Delhi, TN, WB). Access to Family Planning: More widespread in southern/western states. Economic Aspiration: Shift from “quantity to quality” of children (health, education). Delayed Marriage & Fertility Choices: Seen in urban India. Challenges & Opportunities Opportunities: Fertility decline supports sustainable development. Lower dependency ratio in short term (demographic dividend). Challenges: Demographic imbalance between north (population boom) and south (population stagnation/decline). Ageing burden → healthcare, pensions, social support. Skewed sex ratio and declining fertility may exacerbate social issues. How the antibiotic culture in India imperils mental health Basics Context: Rising mental health awareness in India, but antibiotic misuse poses hidden risks via gut-brain axis disruption. Gut-brain axis: Bidirectional communication between gastrointestinal tract and brain, influencing mood, cognition, and stress. Antibiotics’ role: Overuse disturbs gut microbiota → contributes to anxiety, depression, cognitive decline. India’s antibiotic crisis: 2,67,000 deaths due to AMR (2021); projected 1.2 million by 2030 (IHME). ~50% antibiotics consumed in India are unapproved formulations (Lancet 2022). Institutions involved: NIMHANS, AIIMS exploring gut dysbiosis–psychiatric disorder links. Relevance: GS II (Health – Public Health & Policy) + GS III (Science & Tech – Antibiotic Resistance, Gut-Brain Axis Research). Health & Science Dimensions Gut microbiota produces serotonin, dopamine, and SCFAs (short-chain fatty acids) → regulate mood, sleep, stress. Antibiotic misuse → gut dysbiosis → inflammation (IL-6, TNF-α), neurochemical imbalance, cognitive decline. Psychobiotics (probiotics + prebiotics) emerging as adjunct therapy for depression and anxiety. Probiotic-rich Indian foods (curd, idli, dosa, pickles) naturally support microbial diversity. Mental Health Impact Gut disruption linked to anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative disorders. Dysbiosis-induced inflammation alters neurotransmitter metabolism and neuroplasticity. Psychiatric care must integrate gastrointestinal and nutritional assessments. Drivers of Antibiotic Misuse in India Cultural: Preference for “quick fixes” over lifestyle changes. Systemic: Over-the-counter sales, weak enforcement of prescription laws. Economic: Doctors over-prescribe to satisfy patients; pharmacies act as dispensaries. Rural-urban gap: Easy availability in rural/semi-urban areas without medical oversight. Governance & Policy Challenges Weak enforcement of CDSCO prescription rules. Inadequate awareness campaigns on antibiotic misuse. Need for stronger AMR surveillance networks (INSAR expansion with mental health metrics). Public health campaigns (NHM, Ayushman Bharat) yet to integrate gut-brain literacy. Solutions & Way Forward Regulatory: Strict prescription-only antibiotic sales, penalties for violations. Public Health: Awareness drives on gut health, microbiome, and mental well-being. Medical Education: Antibiotic stewardship integrated into medical curriculum. Research & Data: Invest in Indian microbiome research; link AMR + mental health surveillance. Integrated Care: Combine psychiatry, gastroenterology, nutrition, and public health. Traditional Knowledge: Promote fermented foods as natural probiotics. Logs in Himachal floodwaters, SC response Basics Context: Supreme Court (SC) took suo motu note of videos showing timber logs washed away in Himachal floods. Prima facie concern: Possible case of illegal felling of trees in Himalayan states. Bench: Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice BR Gavai. Parties involved: Centre, NDMA, MoEFCC, Jal Shakti Ministry, NHAI, States (HP, Uttarakhand, Punjab, J&K). Deadline: 2 weeks to respond. Relevance: GS I (Geography – Himalayan Ecology) + GS II (Polity – Judicial Intervention, Environmental Governance) + GS III (Disaster Management).   Key Issues Highlighted Flood-linked destruction: Logs floating downstream → linked to landslides, deforestation. Ecological damage: Loss of forest cover → destabilises slopes, worsens floods. Illegal logging nexus: Timber mafia suspected behind large-scale tree felling. Infrastructure vulnerability: Example: 14 tunnels between Chandigarh–Manali face landslide risks. “Near-death trap” situation during blockages; 300 people stranded on one occasion. Development vs Ecology: CJI observed – “Development has to be there, but must balance with ecology.” Petitioner’s Concerns Call for national-level plan: Mechanism for disaster prevention & eco-protection in Himalayan states. Eco-fragility: Frequent cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides intensifying due to unchecked deforestation, road cutting, dam projects. Pristine ecology threat: Himalayan biodiversity and rivers at stake. SC Observations Unprecedented landslides and floods in HP, Uttarakhand, Punjab. Videos show timber logs in floodwaters → indicates systemic illegal felling. Urged immediate response from officials to prevent future ecological collapse. Overview Environmental Angle: Deforestation weakens slope stability → landslides and flash floods. Floating logs = dual disaster (physical obstruction + ecological loss). Fragile Himalayan ecosystem cannot sustain large-scale construction + deforestation. Governance & Policy Issues: Weak enforcement of Forest Conservation Act, 1980 & Indian Forest Act, 1927. Poor coordination between state forest departments and NHAI during road expansion. Need for stricter timber tracking, community monitoring, and green clearances. Disaster Management Angle: NDMA and states lack real-time flood and landslide monitoring. Rescue challenges in tunnels/remote highways highlight poor contingency planning. Ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) largely missing. Socio-economic Angle: Local livelihoods disrupted (farmers, transporters, small traders). Increased vulnerability of downstream communities (Punjab flood plains). Hidden costs of “development-at-all-costs” approach. Way Forward: Independent probe into illegal logging in Himalayas. Strict forest clearance norms for infrastructure. Eco-sensitive zone expansion + carrying capacity studies. Investment in early warning systems, slope stabilisation, tunnel safety. Promotion of community-led forest monitoring & afforestation. New Foreigners Act, 2025 Basics Law: Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025 (in force from Sept 1, 2025). Objective: Overhaul India’s framework on entry, stay, movement, and exit of foreigners. Consolidation: Merges 4 earlier Acts – Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920 Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939 Foreigners Act, 1946 Immigration (Carrier’s Liability) Act, 2000 Need for change: Old laws = fragmented, colonial, ambiguous, poor enforcement. Relevance: GS II (Polity – Migration, National Security, Citizenship & Foreigners Laws, Centre–State Powers). Key Provisions & Analysis Documentation Rules: All foreigners must carry valid passport/visa; penalties for non-compliance. Defined immigration posts for legal entry/exit. Defined Registration & Monitoring: Mandatory registration with Foreigners Regional Registration Officers (FRROs). Hotels, transport, religious institutions, employers → must report foreign clients/workers. Special Permits: Required for restricted/prohibited areas (esp. border/tribal zones). Enforcement & Penalties: Powers of entry, search, arrest with due procedure. Fines from ₹10,000 to ₹5 lakh. Offences: overstaying, fake documents, illegal entry, visa misuse. Delegation & Centralisation: Central government retains core powers; can delegate to states. Emergency provisions for quick directions. Exemptions & Categories: Special rules for Tibetans, Sri Lankan Tamils, Bhutanese/Nepalese citizens, minorities from Pakistan–Afghanistan–Bangladesh. Limited protection for bona fide mistakes. Different fine slabs (e.g., Tibetan/Bhutanese migrants, Rohingya, Buddhist monks). New in the statute: Digital records: compulsory reporting by hotels, universities, hospitals. Diplomatic clauses: rules for warships, foreign military, diplomats. Exemption categories: tighter listing for humanitarian cases, minorities, Tibetans, Sri Lankans. Likely Impact Positive: Single law → clarity & consistency. Stronger enforcement & digital monitoring. Better national security management. Concerns: Risk of over-centralisation. Compliance burden on institutions (hotels, universities). Possible misuse against vulnerable groups (e.g., refugees). PVTGs (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups) and Enumeration Issues Basics PVTGs: Sub-category within Scheduled Tribes (STs), identified as the most vulnerable. Origin of Concept: Based on the Dhebar Commission (1960–61) which noted disparities among tribal groups → recommended identification of “Primitive Tribal Groups” (renamed as PVTGs in 2006). Criteria for Identification: Declining/stagnant population Low literacy Pre-agricultural level of technology (hunting, gathering, shifting cultivation) Economic backwardness Geographical and social isolation Relevance: GS II (Polity – Migration, National Security, Citizenship & Foreigners Laws, Centre–State Powers).   Overview Historical Context 1975: Govt identified 52 tribal groups as PVTGs. 1993: 23 more added → total 75 PVTGs. Spread across 18 States + 1 UT (A&N Islands). Enumeration Issues So far, PVTGs never separately enumerated in Census (treated under STs). Govt now wants separate data on PVTGs for targeted schemes like Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN). Challenge: Lists of STs (and PVTGs) are state-specific, not uniform nationally. Past Efforts Census 2011: Some PVTGs (Baigas in MP, Abujh Marias in Chhattisgarh, Kamars) enumerated separately, but not uniform. 2013: Abujh Marias + Hill Korbas in Chhattisgarh included in ST list by Parliament law. 2016 Lok Sabha Reply: 75 PVTGs officially recognized (40 listed as “single-entry” groups under Article 342). Current Situation As per 2011 Census, 13 PVTGs were listed under single-entry STs. Examples: Great Andamanese, Onges, Jarawas, Sentinelese (Andaman), Kutia Kondh, Birhor, Korwa, Sahariya etc. Population estimates (2011–13 survey): Total: 27.45 lakh PVTGs across India. Highest population: Madhya Pradesh (6.57 lakh). Lowest: Andaman & Nicobar tribes (few hundred) – e.g., Sentinelese (population ~50). Policy Significance PM-JANMAN Scheme (2023): Rolled out to improve housing, health, education, livelihood support, and basic amenities in 200+ districts. Enumeration critical for: Addressing health gaps (maternal/child mortality, malnutrition, endemic diseases). Education & livelihoods (preserve skills, provide access). Infrastructure planning (housing, roads, connectivity). Monitoring inclusion in welfare schemes. Challenges Identification Criteria outdated (still uses Dhebar Commission benchmarks). Social exclusion & isolation → remote forests, islands. Data Gaps → many still not fully counted, esp. uncontacted tribes like Sentinelese. State-specific lists complicate uniform national policy.  Larger Significance Ensuring inclusive development without eroding tribal autonomy & culture. Supports SDGs: poverty reduction, health, education, inequality. Strengthens tribal justice framework under Constitution (Art. 46, 275, 342).