Content PRADHAN MANTRI FORMALISATION OF MICRO FOOD PROCESSING ENTERPRISES (PMFME) SCHEME THE HEALTH SECURITY SE NATIONAL SECURITY CESS BILL, 2025 PRADHAN MANTRI FORMALISATION OF MICRO FOOD PROCESSING ENTERPRISES (PMFME) SCHEME WHAT IS PMFME? Centrally Sponsored Scheme under MoFPI. Launch year: 2020 (part of Atmanirbhar Bharat). Objective: Formalisation + Competitiveness + Modernisation of India’s unorganised micro food processing sector (~25 lakh units, 74% unregistered). Implementation model: One District One Product (ODOP) approach. Target beneficiaries: Individual micro-enterprises, FPOs, SHGs, Cooperatives. Relevance GS-III | Economy – MSMEs & Food Processing: Formalises unorganised micro units, strengthens value addition, ODOP clusters, supply chains, and rural non-farm growth. GS-III | Inclusive Growth: Empowers women-led SHGs, expands credit access, reduces rural vulnerability, supports micro-entrepreneurship. GS-II | Governance & Implementation: Demonstrates convergence (PMKSY, PLISFPI, NRLM), highlights gaps in capacity building, digital literacy, market linkages.   WHY IS THIS IN NEWS?   MoFPI reported the latest progress up to 31 October 2025 on PMFME scheme performance. Multiple PIB releases (food processing, renewable technologies, MSME support, PLISFPI linkages) highlight policy push for micro-enterprise formalisation + green technologies + rural employment. Parliamentary replies confirm high uptake, massive SHG participation, and integration with PMKSY + PLISFPI.   KEY PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS A. Loans & Subsidies 1,62,744 loans sanctioned under credit-linked subsidy. Total loan amount sanctioned: ₹13,234.90 crore. B. SHG Empowerment 3,65,935 SHG members approved for seed capital. C. Infrastructure Creation 101 Common Infrastructure Facilities (CIFs) sanctioned. 76 Incubation centres approved. D. Market Access 27 Branding & Marketing proposals approved. E. Central Share Released to States/UTs Steady fund release over last 5 years (exact annual figures not disclosed in PIB). SCHEME COMPONENTS Support to Individual / Group Micro Enterprises 35% credit-linked capital subsidy, max ₹10 lakh. Covers new units + upgradation. Support to SHGs ₹40,000 per SHG member as seed capital for tools and working capital. Max ₹4 lakh per SHG federation. Common Infrastructure Support 35% subsidy, cap ₹3 crore. For FPOs/SHGs/Cooperatives/Govt agencies. Facilities open for public use on hiring basis → reduces cost barriers. Branding & Marketing Support Up to 50% grant to FPOs/SHGs/Cooperatives/SPVs. Essential for ODOP value chain integration. Capacity Building Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP+) Product-specific skilling Training of trainers, DRPs, incubation support. PROGRESS & PERFORMANCE NATIONWIDE Formalisation Momentum SHG seed capital uptake (3.66 lakh members) shows deep penetration in rural areas. High loan sanction numbers reflect strong credit linkage via banks/NBFCs. ODOP Integration improving clusters Establishment of CIFs + incubation centres strengthens local value chains. Reduces entry barriers for first-time entrepreneurs. Employment & Income Growth Micro food processing units generate off-farm rural employment → stabilises incomes, reduces distress migration. Women-led Enterprise Growth SHG-driven participation is a major success → aligns with Lakhpati Didi, NRLM, Aatmanirbhar Bharat goals. Convergence with PMKSY & PLISFPI PMFME upgrading micro-units, while PLISFPI scales large/medium units → integrated value chain development. CAPACITY BUILDING & ECOSYSTEM SUPPORT MoFPI Interventions National & State campaigns: newspapers, radio, expos, fairs, buyer-seller meets. Awareness drives targeting women collectives & SHGs. NIFTEM-K & NIFTEM-T Support Handholding, mentoring. Pilot plants, incubation services, NABL labs. Access to R&D, market linkages, packaging technology. Green Technology Push (related PIB note) Incentives for solar, biomass, wind energy → up to ₹35 lakh per project (PMKSY). Mandatory CTO (Water & Air) for grant release. Promotion of Non-ODS, low-GWP refrigerants for cold chain. Sustainable Packaging Innovation Biopolymers: PLA, starch, nanofibers. Low-waste packaging systems → crucial for export competitiveness. FINANCIAL SUPPORT STRUCTURE Component Support Target Group Capital Subsidy 35% (max ₹10 lakh) Individual/Group MFPEs SHG Seed Capital ₹40,000 per member (max 4 lakh per federation) SHGs Common Infrastructure 35% (max ₹3 crore) FPOs/SHGs/Coops/Govt agencies Branding & Marketing Up to 50% FPOs/SHGs/Coops/SPVs Capacity Building EDP+, Skilling, ToT, DRPs Entrepreneurs, SHGs, FPOs STRENGTHS OF PMFME Modernises the unorganised food processing sector (~74% unregistered units). Reduces credit constraints through capital subsidies. Empowers women SHGs → major socio-economic impact. ODOP creates specialisation, branding and export potential. Facilitates common facilities, reducing costs for small entrepreneurs. Strong convergence with NRLM, PMKSY, PLISFPI. CHALLENGES & GAPS Slow pace of on-ground utilisation of CIFs relative to sanction numbers. Need for stronger market linkages beyond local markets. Limited digital literacy among micro-entrepreneurs → affects compliance & formalisation. Fragmented value chains in certain ODOP regions. Credit access still depends heavily on bank willingness. THE HEALTH SECURITY SE NATIONAL SECURITY CESS BILL, 2025 WHAT IS THIS BILL? A new capacity-based excise cess introduced via a dedicated legislation. Purpose: Create a predictable, rule-based revenue stream for National Security, and Public Health expenditure. The cess is levied on machinery or processes used for manufacturing specified goods. Initially applies to pan masala, but Government may extend it to other notified goods. Relevance GS-III | Economy – Taxation & Fiscal Policy: Introduces rule-based, capacity-based excise system to ensure predictable revenue for national priorities. GS-II & GS-III | Public Health: Uses corrective taxation on harmful products; channels revenue to strengthen health security systems. GS-II | Governance: Establishes structured compliance, audit, enforcement, and multi-tier appeals—enhances transparency and accountability. WHY IS THIS IN NEWS? Government introduced a new statutory framework for a special excise cess to strengthen funding for two critical national priorities—health security and national security. Bill formalises a capacity-based taxation system for high-risk/ high-revenue products. Seeks to improve compliance, monitoring, enforcement and stable revenue mobilisation. OBJECTIVES OF THE BILL A. Fiscal Stability Create predictable and reliable revenues for national security & public health. B. Administrative Clarity Provide a structured, transparent, rule-based framework for levy, assessment, monitoring, enforcement, and appeal. C. Corrective Taxation Ensure certain products (starting with pan masala) contribute fairly to socio-economic needs. D. Plug Revenue Leakages Prevent evasion common in high-margin goods produced on semi-automatic/hybrid machines. WHAT GOODS ARE COVERED? Pan Masala (initial coverage). Government empowered to add any other goods to Schedule I. WHO IS LIABLE TO PAY THE CESS? Any person who owns / operates / controls machines or processes used for manufacturing the notified goods. Liability independent of income tax/GST status. NATURE OF LEVY Capacity-based monthly excise cess. Levied in addition to existing taxes/duties. Applied on: Machines installed, or Manual processes undertaken. BASIS OF CALCULATION A. Machine-Based Production Computed using: Maximum rated speed (pouches/tins/containers per minute). Weight per pack. Example rate: ₹101 lakh per month for machines up to 500 packs/min (up to 2.5 g pack weight). B. Manual Process ₹11 lakh per month flat cess. ABATEMENT RULE If operations remain shut for 15+ continuous days, prorated abatement applies. Ensures fairness and prevents liability during genuine downtime. FLOW OF FUNDS Cess proceeds credited to Consolidated Fund of India (CFI). To be used specifically for: National Security, Public Health Systems. REGISTRATION, RETURNS & COMPLIANCE ROADMAP Step 1: Registration Mandatory for any person possessing machines/processes for notified goods. Step 2: Self-Declaration of Machinery Maximum speed, weight per pouch, number of machines, type of process. Step 3: Verification Officers may verify/calibrate parameters. Opportunity of being heard before final determination. Step 4: Cess Computation Based on declared/verified capacity. Step 5: Monthly Payment Pay cess by 7th of each month (pre-payment model). Step 6: Monthly Return Filing Mandatory return with details of machines, operations, cess paid. Step 7: Audit & Scrutiny Audit of returns, records, declarations. ENFORCEMENT ARCHITECTURE A. Monitoring Tools Scrutiny of returns Inspection Search Seizure Real-time monitoring of machinery/process B. Offences Non-declaration of machines Undeclared operations Falsification of records Evasion or short payment Obstruction of officers Fraudulent refund claims C. Penalties Monetary fines Confiscation of goods/machinery Graded imprisonment depending on severity Arrest for serious contraventions D. Inter-Agency Coordination Collaboration with police, customs, railways, revenue departments. APPEALS MECHANISM Multi-tier appeal structure: Appellate Authority Appellate Tribunal High Court Supreme Court Ensures due process, fairness, and judicial review. GOVERNMENT POWERS UNDER THE BILL Increase cess up to 2× in public interest. Exempt specific persons/units under prescribed conditions. Notify additional goods for inclusion under the cess system. Set rules and procedures for all aspects of levy & administration. POLICY SIGNIFICANCE A. Strengthening Health Security & National Security Financing Dedicated revenue channel ensures non-disruptive funding for critical sectors. B. Capacity-Based Taxation = Anti-Evasion Tool Pan masala, gutkha, tobacco products often evade tax via under-reporting. Machine-capacity levy bypasses quantity reporting manipulation. C. Rule-Based, Transparent Framework Reduces discretionary power and increases administrative predictability. D. Aligns with Public Health Priorities Sin-goods/product categories that impose public health costs help fund health systems. E. Fiscal Federalism Neutrality Cess → goes to CFI, not divisible pool → strengthens Union fiscal space. CHALLENGES & RISKS Industry may shift to undeclared/illegal production to avoid cess. Monitoring capacity at ground level (especially for semi-automatic units) is crucial. Risk of litigation due to capacity assessment disputes. Potential for regressive impact if extended to essential goods (unlikely but permitted by law).

Content Digital Constitutionalism Chile’s lesson for India’s coal conundrum Digital Constitutionalism WHAT WAS THE ORDER? Govt announced (2025) that all mobile manufacturers must pre-install Sanchar Saathi on phones sold from 2026 onwards. App’s functions include CEIR, stolen-phone tracking, SIM misuse detection, user safety, and police assistance. The rule required mandatory installation at manufacturing level, not optional download by users. Relevance GS-II | Polity: Fundamental Rights, privacy, state surveillance, constitutional governance. GS-II | Governance: Algorithmic decision-making, administrative fairness, accountability, opaque technologies. GS-III | Cyber Security: Rising digital crimes, digital policing, metadata risks. GS-III | Economy & Technology: Regulatory tensions between state control and global tech industry. Practice Questions The Sanchar Saathi rollback highlights the tension between citizen privacy and state surveillance. Discuss how this episode strengthens the case for Digital Constitutionalism in India. (10 marks)   WHY IS THIS IN NEWS? (The 48-hour rollback) In 48 hours, the government revoked the mandatory installation order after: Opposition from foreign smartphone companies, especially Apple, which refused compliance. Concerns raised by civil society, privacy researchers, and industry bodies. Fears of ambiguous data collection, lack of user consent, unlimited storage, and surveillance risks. Reuters broke the story → triggered global scrutiny. Government clarified that the intention was consumer safety, citing rising cybercrimes (15.9 lakh → 20.4 lakh between 2023–2024), but concerns of digital overreach took precedence. WHAT THIS CONTROVERSY SIGNALS ? Escalating tension between state surveillance authority and digital privacy rights. Increasing dependence of government on platforms, metadata, AI tools → blurred lines between governance and surveillance. Exposes weaknesses in India’s evolving data protection, algorithmic accountability, and digital rights frameworks. DEEPER ISSUE: THE EMERGENCE OF DIGITAL CONSTITUTIONALISM Meaning Application of constitutional values—liberty, privacy, dignity, equality, non-arbitrariness, natural justice—to the digital domain. Why needed Governance increasingly relies on invisible systems: biometrics predictive algorithms behavioural modelling facial recognition metadata analysis Without constitutional safeguards, these technologies expand state and private power beyond citizen control. KEY ARGUMENTS FROM THE ARTICLE A. Threats from Algorithmic Governance Automated decisions regulate: KYC welfare delivery job eligibility credit scoring moderation of speech These systems operate as “black boxes” → no explanation, no appeal, high risk of unfair exclusion. B. Rise of Invisible Surveillance Surveillance today is not Orwellian in a visible sense; it is ambient and silent: location tracing metadata facial recognition device identifiers Creates self-censorship and a chilling effect on dissent. C. Inadequacy of existing legal protections Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (2017) recognised privacy as fundamental right. DPDP Act 2023 offers protections but has: broad government exemptions weak oversight limited remedies prioritisation of state interests over liberty D. Global examples of caution Facial recognition restrictions across U.S. cities due to discrimination & misidentification. DigiYatra storing biometric data with private entities → ownership ambiguities. E. Structural democratic dangers Concentration of digital power with: governments law enforcement tech platforms Citizens reduced to data subjects, not constitutional right-holders. WHAT DIGITAL CONSTITUTIONALISM SHOULD INCLUDE ? Independent Digital Rights Commission. Strict necessity and proportionality for surveillance. Mandatory judicial warrants for sensitive data access. Public transparency reports. Regular bias/audit tests for high-risk AI. Right to explanation in algorithmic decisions. Right to appeal automated decisions. Strong purpose limitation and harsh penalties for misuse. Digital literacy as a constitutional right-enabler. BROADER IMPLICATIONS FOR INDIA A. India’s digital state is expanding rapidly Aadhaar DigiLocker FASTag DigiYatra AI-powered policing Predictive governance → All operate with limited constitutional guardrails. B. Economic considerations constrain regulatory choices Apple, global tech companies have leverage → government cannot risk “manufacturing exit”. C. India lacks a comprehensive surveillance law Surveillance currently governed by colonial-era or patchwork IT rules. No statute requiring judicial authorization for digital surveillance. CONCLUSION The Sanchar Saathi rollback underscores an emerging constitutional challenge: state-led digital expansion without adequate rights-based safeguards. As governance becomes increasingly algorithmic, surveillance-driven, and data-centric, India must embed constitutional protections—privacy, transparency, due process, proportionality—into its digital architecture. Digital constitutionalism is not merely a theoretical construct but a democratic necessity to ensure that technology serves citizens and not the other way around. Chile’s lesson for India’s coal conundrum WHAT IS THE ISSUE? India has achieved dramatic renewable energy gains, doubling clean energy capacity during 2021–25. Yet, India remains heavily dependent on coal, especially for electricity generation (≈75% in 2024). Coal provides jobs + cheap power in several States, but also results in air pollution, health loss, climate risk, and global warming. Relevance GS-III | Environment & Climate Change Coal phaseout, decarbonisation pathways, CCPI rankings, global comparisons (Chile). Air pollution, climate vulnerability, energy transition strategies. GS-III | Economy – Infrastructure & Energy Power sector reforms, energy security, renewable integration, market design, carbon pricing. GS-I & GS-II | Social Justice & Governance Just Transition for coal-dependent regions. Worker protection, reskilling, community rehabilitation. GS-II | International Relations Climate leadership, global expectations from India, COP negotiations. Practice Question India’s fall in the CCPI ranking despite renewable gains exposes contradictions in its energy transition pathway. Examine the factors behind this decline. (10 marks) WHY IS THIS IN NEWS? (COP30, Brazil, Nov 2025) India fell 13 places to 23rd in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025. Reason: Lack of progress in coal phaseout, despite strong renewable expansion. Highlights the coal conundrum: socio-economic dependence vs. ecological and public health costs. Chile’s successful coal transition is highlighted as a comparative model relevant to India. INDIA’S ENERGY STATUS (2024–25) Coal Dependence Coal accounts for over half of India’s total energy use. 75% of electricity was coal-generated in 2024. Domestic coal production is increasing, not declining. Renewables Renewables (wind, solar, hydro, nuclear) = ~50% of installed capacity, but only 20% of actual generation. Growth strong but inadequate to replace coal in dispatch. CHILE’S EXPERIENCE: WHAT DID IT DO DIFFERENTLY? Key Actions (2014–24) Carbon tax: USD 5 per tonne of CO₂ in 2014. Strict emission norms: raised coal plant compliance costs by 30%. Competitive solar/wind auctions lowered renewable tariffs. Large-scale energy storage rollout for grid stability. Commitment to phase out all coal by 2040. Outcomes Coal generation dropped from 43.6% → 17.5% (2016–24). Renewables > 60% of energy mix. Worker transition aided by: diversified economy strong renewable industry supportive political environment WHY INDIA’S TRANSITION IS MORE COMPLEX ? Coal’s share far higher than Chile → more plants to retire. Millions depend on coal economy in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal → risk of social disruption. Fewer alternative industries in coal districts. Grid integration challenges → renewables intermittent; storage insufficient. Political economy resistance due to tariffs, subsidies, and state-owned coal interests. WHY COAL PHASEOUT IS A “NO REGRETS” POLICY ? A. Economic Loss Climate change could cause 3–10% GDP loss by 2100 due to heat stress & productivity decline. B. Health Impact A 1 GW increase in coal capacity → 14% rise in infant mortality in nearby districts. Also contributes to PM2.5, respiratory diseases, and chronic illness. C. Climate Leadership Without a coal exit plan, India’s renewable achievements lack credibility in global negotiations. Three Key Thrust Areas 1. Physical Transition Remove oldest & most polluting units on priority. Cancel new coal approvals. Replace coal output with firm renewable power + storage. Scale up electrification of transport, industry, households. 2. Market & Regulatory Reform Introduce carbon pricing. Remove coal subsidies & cross-subsidies. Implement clean dispatch rules (renewables-first). Reform procurement contracts to incentivise RE+storage. 3. Social Protection & Just Transition Reskilling, alternative livelihoods, and robust worker support. Set up a dedicated transition fund – e.g., Green Energy Transition India Fund. Use District Mineral Foundation (DMF) for industry diversification in coal regions. FINANCE FOR COAL PHASEOUT Needs blended finance: Public funds → social welfare, worker protection. Private capital → renewable infrastructure, battery storage, green hydrogen. International climate finance flows crucial. DMF + CSR + sovereign green bonds can support district-level transition. CONCLUSION India’s fall in the CCPI rankings highlights a structural contradiction: rapid renewable expansion without a parallel coal exit strategy. The Chile experience demonstrates that coal-dependent economies can transition if supported by decisive policy, market reform, carbon pricing, and worker protection. For India, the challenge is larger but the imperative is unavoidable — climate losses, health impacts, and economic risks make coal phaseout a no-regrets pathway. A credible transition roadmap, with timelines, financing mechanisms, regulatory reforms, and Just Transition policies, is essential to align India’s growth trajectory with its net-zero ambitions and global climate responsibility.

Content Govt. to Streamline Its Public Communications Framework Judges Are Conscious, Won’t Let AI Overpower Judicial Process: Supreme Court Health Security → National Security Cess Bill, 2025 Passed Right to Disconnect Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha India–Russia Reiterate $100-Billion Trade Target by 2030 DRDO Successfully Conducts Indigenous Dynamic Ejection Test Govt. to streamline its public communications framework  Why is this in News? Centre has initiated a system-wide overhaul of India’s public communication architecture. Reforms span human resources restructuring, technology upgrades, and real-time media response mechanisms. A major proposal in advanced stages: Cadre restructuring of the Indian Information Service (IIS) to increase intake and reorganise roles. Rising number of ministries, digital platforms, and citizen-facing schemes require a unified, data-driven communication system. Last restructuring of IIS occurred in 2016; expansion of government communication needs has outpaced current cadre strength. Relevance GS-II: Governance, Polity Government communication reforms. Accountability, transparency, citizen–state interface. Rights: privacy, information, media freedom. Ethical public communication. GS-III: Internal Security Combatting misinformation/disinformation. Crisis communication readiness. What is the Indian Information Service (IIS)? A Central Group ‘A’ service under Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. Functions: Government communication & public information dissemination. Media management across print, TV, digital. Press Information Bureau (PIB), Bureau of Outreach and Communication (BOC), DD News, AIR News roles. Crisis communication, fact-checking, public campaigns. Recruitment: UPSC CSE. What is Cadre Restructuring? Change in sanctioned strength, hierarchy, and distribution of posts. Objectives: Modernise workforce. Improve promotion avenues. Add new roles, abolish outdated ones. Align cadre with contemporary needs (digital, analytics, multilingual outreach). What Exactly Is Being Revamped? 1. Human Resource Overhaul Increase intake of IIS officers to cover growing ministries and communication responsibilities. Reorganising functions: Creation of posts in digital media, strategic communication, data analytics, behavioural insights. Phasing out traditional press-centric roles. Improving career progression to attract and retain talent. 2. Technological Infrastructure Upgradation Real-time media monitoring systems. Rapid misinformation tracking and counter-response architecture. AI and analytics for campaign design, sentiment mapping, impact evaluation. 3. Unified Public Communication System Integration of all departmental communication wings under a single coordinated framework. Standardisation of messaging, tone, factual accuracy, and crisis protocols. Why the Revamp Now? Information ecosystem transformation: 800+ million internet users; explosive growth of social media. Decline of print-first communication model. Government expansion: New ministries, schemes, and regulatory bodies → each requires specialised communication specialists. Misinformation and national security concerns. Global trend: UK Government Communication Service (GCS), US Public Affairs Model rely heavily on data-led messaging. Key Objectives Real-time public communication. Data-driven policy messaging. Crisis communication readiness. Unified narrative building across ministries. Higher professionalisation of government communication. Expected Implications Faster misinformation response, aiding national security and public order. Improved scheme awareness and behavioural change outcomes. Professional, evidence-based policy communication. Enhanced transparency if executed with accountability. Better citizen engagement through multilingual, digital-first outreach. Challenges / Criticisms Risk of state propaganda if transparency safeguards are weak. Centralisation may reduce autonomy of departmental communication teams. Increased intake requires high-quality training in digital analytics, communication ethics, behavioural science. Need to balance proactive messaging with citizens’ Right to Information (RTI) and privacy. Constitutional & Governance Lens Article 19(1)(a): Citizens’ right to information. Supreme Court: “Right to know is essential for democracy.” Public communication reforms must balance freedom of press, privacy, and state accountability. Aligns with SMART Governance, Good Governance Indicators, and Participatory Democracy. Comparison with Global Models UK GCS: Highly centralised, analytics-heavy communication; rapid response unit. US Federal Public Affairs Officers: Decentralised but coordinated; emphasis on transparency laws. India’s model is moving closer to UK’s centralised GCS. Judges are conscious, won’t let AI overpower judicial process: SC  Why is this in News? Supreme Court observed that judges are “very conscious, even overconscious” about risks of generative AI (GenAI) in judicial work. SC emphasised that AI will not be allowed to overpower judicial administration. Comments were made while hearing a petition seeking guidelines or a policy regulating GenAI use in courts, tribunals, and quasi-judicial bodies. Petitioner highlighted dangers such as: AI hallucinations (inventing fictitious case law) Bias propagation Opaque data systems Fake rulings generated by AI tools Court allowed the plea to be withdrawn but permitted the petitioner to take the matter to the administrative side of the SC. Issue arises amidst global debate over AI use in justice delivery systems. Relevance GS-II: Judiciary Judicial independence & oversight Regulation of AI in judicial administration Natural justice and due process GS-II: Polity Article 14 (equality), Article 21 (fair procedure), Article 19(1)(a) (legal clarity) Administrative vs. judicial domain governance GS-III: Science & Technology Ethical AI, algorithmic bias AI hallucinations and explainability concerns What is Generative AI in the judicial context? AI tools capable of producing text, summaries, legal research, and even draft judgments. Uses: Case summarisation Research referencing Transcription (already used via SUVAAS, Vidhik Anuvaad) Predictive analytics (risk of misuse) What is AI Hallucination? AI generating non-existent judgments, false precedents, or invented statutes—a major legal risk. 3. Judicial Administration Includes research, drafting, decision-making, case management, court records, and adjudication. Core Concerns Raised (As per petition) 1. Fake Judgments & Fictitious Case Law GenAI can create fabricated citations, leading to wrong legal conclusions. 2. Bias Amplification AI trained on biased data may perpetuate caste, gender, religious or socio-economic biases. 3. Lack of Transparency Proprietary AI systems lack explainability → violates principles of natural justice and reasoned decision-making. 4. Data Ownership & Accountability Judicial data must be: free of bias stored transparently accountable to stakeholders. 5. Risk to Fundamental Rights Arbitrary use of opaque AI tools may compromise: Article 14 (equality) Article 21 (due process, privacy) Article 19(1)(a) (access to information, legal clarity) What the Supreme Court said ? Judges are “overconscious” of risks. AI cannot replace judicial reasoning or adjudication. Judges and judicial officers must verify all AI outputs, especially research. Training camps are being conducted to familiarise judicial officers with risks and proper use of AI tools. Instances of subordinate courts citing non-existent SC judgments were flagged as cautionary lessons. Judicial Philosophy behind the Position 1. Human oversight is non-negotiable Judicial discretion, empathy, context, and reasoning cannot be automated. 2. Rule of law requires interpretative judgment, not algorithmic output AI cannot exercise conscience, proportionality analysis, or balancing of rights. 3. Protecting constitutional morality Courts must prevent technological systems from undermining constitutional values. Present State of AI in Judiciary Already deployed: SUVAS: Judicial translation system SUPACE (SC): AI-assisted research (suspended over ethical concerns earlier) National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG): Data analytics for pendency Not deployed: AI-driven decision-making systems (explicitly rejected by SC) Governance and Policy 1. Need for Uniform National Guidelines No statutory framework exists for AI use in: subordinate courts tribunals quasi-judicial authorities. 2. Administrative vs Judicial Domain SC suggested this issue is better handled on the administrative side than through litigation. 3. Regulatory Vacuum India lacks: Standards on AI explainability Accountability frameworks Data protection enforcement (DPDP Act partially applicable). 4. Comparative Global Context EU AI Act: classifies justice-related AI as “high-risk”. US Federal Courts: require disclosure if AI-assisted. Canada: strict transparency mandates. India has no comparable regulatory architecture yet. Risks of Unregulated AI 1. Miscarriage of Justice Fake case law may lead to wrongful convictions, incorrect civil rulings. 2. Data Bias Sentencing or bail recommendations generated from biased data harm marginalised groups. 3. Accountability Failure If a judgment uses AI reasoning, who is responsible for error? 4. Erosion of Public Trust Justice system credibility depends on human deliberation, not probabilistic output. 5. Confidentiality Breach AI tools may process sensitive case data without adequate safeguards. Why the debate matters? Article 21 – Fair Procedure Automated, opaque decision-making violates due process. Article 14 – Right to Equality Algorithmic discrimination breaches equal protection guarantees. Natural Justice Right to reasoned decision → algorithms cannot provide judicial justification. Benefits of regulated AI Faster case summarisation. Reducing pendency in procedural stages. Improved access to legal information. Assistance for judges, not replacement. Real Policy Question How to use AI as a tool without compromising judicial independence, fairness, and constitutional rights? What should be the guidelines? 1. Mandatory human oversight AI cannot draft judgments; must only assist research. 2. Verification requirement Every AI output must be independently checked. 3. Transparency norms Mandatory disclosure when AI tools are used in submissions or drafting. 4. Data governance Only vetted, bias-audited datasets allowed. 5. Ethical and legal accountability A responsibility matrix for errors arising from AI-assisted work. 6. Clear prohibition zones No AI use in: bail decisions sentencing adjudication of rights constitutional interpretation 7. Regular training for judges Handling AI tools safely, understanding limitations. Implications for the Indian Justice System Positive (with safeguards) Efficiency gains in drafting/non-adjudicatory tasks. Reduction in backlog. Better multilingual access. Negative (if unsupervised) Threat to judicial independence. Risk of fabricated precedents. Erosion of citizens’ trust in the justice delivery system. Health Security → National Security Cess Bill, 2025 Why is this in News? Lok Sabha passed the Health Security se National Security Cess Bill, 2025 by voice vote. The Bill levies a new cess on manufacturing units of paan masala and gutkha, with revenue earmarked for: Strengthening national security, and Improving public health. Finance Minister clarified that defence modernisation is capital-intensive, and India must find additional internal resources. Debate triggered due to: Rising defence costs (precision weapons, autonomous systems, space assets, cyber warfare). Public health hazards from paan masala/gutkha. Ethical questions on funding defence via “sin goods.” Relevance GS-III: Economy Taxation structure (cess), fiscal federalism Resource mobilisation for defence expenditure Pigouvian taxes and sin goods GS-III: Security Defence modernisation & capital-intensive warfare National security financing models GS-II: Governance Public health policy (tobacco regulation) Parliament’s role in budgetary decisions BASICS 1. What is a Cess? A cess is a tax levied for a specific purpose, over and above existing taxes. Not part of divisible pool → not shared with states (goes to Consolidated Fund but is earmarked). Used earlier for: Swachh Bharat Cess, Krishi Kalyan Cess, Health & Education Cess. 2. What is “Health Security se National Security” Cess? Conceptually links public health risk mitigation with resource mobilisation for defence. Levy on “harmful, addictive products” → paan masala & gutkha manufacturing. KEY FEATURES   1. Target of the Cess Manufacturing units of paan masala & gutkha. 2. Intended Use of Funds National security preparedness, including: Modern weapons Surveillance systems Cyber defence Space assets Upgradation & modernisation of armed forces Public health improvement, addressing hazards of tobacco-based products. 3. Fiscal Rationale Defence is capital-heavy → “precision weapons are not cheap.” Defence allocation needs predictable, insulated revenue sources to avoid budget shocks. WHY GOVERNMENT SAYS THIS IS NECESSARY ? 1. Modern Warfare = High Cost Precision missiles, drones, autonomous systems, AI-driven warfare, space-based ISR are extremely capital-intensive. India’s military modernisation is lagging relative to technological shifts. 2. National Security is Public Good Cannot be compromised by cyclical budget pressures. FM cited Operation Shakti, Kargil experience and the 1990s budget crisis, when only “70–80% of authorised weapons/equipment” could be procured. 3. Defence Sovereignty Long-term self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta in Defence) requires sustained funding. 4. Public Health Justification Paan masala & gutkha are linked to oral cancers, addiction, and large public health costs. Higher taxation reduces consumption and funds treatment/prevention. PUBLIC HEALTH DIMENSION India has one of the highest global burdens of oral cancer, heavily linked to smokeless tobacco & gutkha. A targeted cess aligns with WHO-recommended strategy: tax harmful goods + invest revenue in healthcare. Addresses dual problems: Reduce harmful consumption Generate revenue for public goods (health + security) NATIONAL SECURITY DIMENSION 1. Precision Warfare Era Conflicts today require: Hypersonics Long-range precision strikes Electronic warfare Cyber resilience Space-based surveillance These drastically increase defence costs. 2. Need for Predictable Funding Capital acquisitions must be multi-year; cess creates a dedicated non-shareable revenue pool. ECONOMIC & GOVERNANCE ANALYSIS Advantages Pigouvian taxation: Taxing socially harmful goods to fund national goods. Reduces public health burden. Earmarks revenue for sectors often under fiscal strain (health + defence). Politically more acceptable than broad-based tax increases. Concerns Regressivity: Cess may disproportionately affect lower-income consumers. Narrow tax base: Revenue potential is limited; cannot substitute mainstream defence budgeting. Centre–State tension: Cess is not shareable → States may lose potential revenue streams. Moral argument: Linking defence funding to addictive substances may attract ethical criticisms. Industry impact: Paan masala/gutkha units (many in MSME sector) may face higher compliance costs. POLITICAL CONTEXT Some MPs urged withdrawal of national awards from celebrities endorsing gutkha. Widening debate on: Tobacco advertising ethics Public health priorities “Sin tax” governance Bill passed despite objections, signalling strong government push for defence-capex financing. STRATEGIC SIGNIFICANCE FOR INDIA 1. Defence Modernisation Push Aligns with India’s shift from manpower-heavy forces to technology-centric forces. 2. Health–Security Linkage Recognises that national security is not only defence, but includes public health resilience (post-COVID learning). 3. Fiscal Innovation Part of a global trend: countries using targeted levies for security preparedness. POTENTIAL IMPACT ON HEALTH Higher prices → reduced consumption → lower disease burden. More resources for cancer screening, awareness, PHC strengthening. ON DEFENCE Dedicated revenue stream for: procurement research ammunition stocks modernisation pipeline ON INDUSTRY Market contraction for paan masala & gutkha; may encourage diversification. CRITICISMS & CHALLENGES Cess proliferation creates non-shareable pools, weakening federal fiscal balance. Should defence be funded via a stable tax base rather than “sin goods revenue”? Risk of creating dependency on consumption of harmful products to fund essential sectors. Implementing cess effectively requires tight monitoring to prevent tax evasion and illicit manufacturing. Right to Disconnect Bill WHY IS THIS IN NEWS? NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule introduced a Private Member’s Bill in Lok Sabha proposing an employees’ Right to Disconnect — i.e., the legal right to ignore work-related calls, emails, and messages outside official working hours. Bill seeks to address the modern crisis of overwork, blurred boundaries between home and workplace, and mental-health deterioration in an always-connected digital economy. India currently has no statutory right to disconnect, despite rising cases of burnout, information overload, and 24×7 digital surveillance tools used by employers. The Bill aligns with global moves (France, Portugal, Ireland) recognising disconnecting as a fundamental labour right necessary for work-life balance. Relevance GS-II: Social Justice Labour rights, workplace dignity Mental health and well-being as part of Article 21 GS-II: Governance Regulation of digital-era work culture Rights of gig workers and remote workers GS-III: Economy & Technology Digital tools, algorithmic management Productivity vs. overwork dynamics BASICS 1. What is the Right to Disconnect? A labour right allowing employees to refuse work communications after official hours without penalty. Protects personal time, rest, leisure, health, and family life. Based on the principle: “Work must end when working hours end.” 2. Why is this needed today? Remote work, hybrid models, smartphones, and collaboration tools (WhatsApp, Teams, Slack) make employees perpetually reachable. Overwork → Sleep deprivation Burnout Anxiety & depression Reduced productivity Health disorders (cardiac risk, obesity, cognitive overload) Especially severe in IT, finance, e-commerce, gig work, and start-up ecosystems. 3. Why a legal right? Voluntary corporate guidelines lack enforceability; without law, employees cannot refuse after-hours work pressures. KEY FEATURES OF SULE’S RIGHT TO DISCONNECT BILL, 2025 1. Right to ignore after-hour work communications Employees cannot be penalised for not responding to: Calls Emails Messages Official digital monitoring tools Outside notified working hours. 2. Employer obligations Cannot force employee availability beyond hours unless mutually agreed. Failure → penalties up to 1% of the company’s total remuneration bill. 3. Employees’ Welfare Authority (new regulatory body) To frame rules for: Work-hour boundaries Digital communication limits Monitoring compliance To mediate disputes between employer and employee on work-after-hours issues. 4. Mandatory counselling services Large workplaces must offer mental-health support for overworked employees. 5. Data collection & audit Authority to set baseline metrics for continuous assessment of work-related stress and time-use patterns. 6. Negotiation committees When Parliament is in session, employers must discuss and finalise disconnection norms with workers’ unions or representatives. THE PROBLEM: WHY SUCH A BILL IS EMERGING NOW 1. Digital capitalism has erased boundaries Employees remain “on-call” 24×7. Increased notifications → cognitive overload (“info-obesity”). 2. Gig and remote work expansion India has ~8–10 million gig workers; they face unregulated, unpredictable hours. 3. Mental health crisis Burnout is classified as an occupational phenomenon (WHO). Work-from-home during COVID accelerated the trend. 4. Feminisation of stress Women face “double burden”: paid work + domestic labour. 5. India’s labour codes silent on digital after-hours work Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSH) Code doesn’t address digital-era work overload. GLOBAL CONTEXT   France (2017) First country to legally recognise the right to disconnect. Companies with >50 employees must negotiate digital boundaries. Portugal (2021) Employers banned from contacting workers after hours except in emergencies. Ireland, Italy, Spain, Belgium National guidelines + statutory protections for workers’ digital disengagement. Learning for India: Legal frameworks help institutionalise mental-health protections and enforce predictable working hours. GOVERNANCE & POLICY ANALYSIS 1. Labour Rights Perspective Reinforces constitutional values under Article 21 (right to live with dignity, mental well-being). Supports ILO principles on decent work. 2. Public Health Governance Sleep deprivation & burnout are public health concerns → increase NCD risks and reduce national productivity. 3. Economic Impact Balanced work regimes → higher productivity, innovation, employee retention. Helps companies reduce burnout-driven attrition, especially in IT-BPM sector. 4. Technology Governance Addresses ethical use of digital monitoring tools and employee surveillance. Encourages transparency in algorithmically scheduled work. CRITICISMS & CHALLENGES 1. Compliance cost for employers SME/MSME sector may struggle to formalise strict digital boundaries. 2. Sectoral differences Emergency services, healthcare, logistics, and 24×7 operations may require flexible norms. 3. Enforcement gap Private Member’s Bills rarely become law (only ~14 passed since Independence). Implementation may be difficult without strong trade unions. 4. Global competitiveness concerns Some argue it may reduce responsiveness in highly competitive export sectors. 5. Cultural barrier India’s corporate culture often normalises long hours → legal right alone may not fix mindset. IMPLICATIONS IF THE BILL IS ADOPTED Positive Improved mental and physical health outcomes. Clearer work-life boundaries. Reduced information overload & burnout. Better employee satisfaction and retention. Progressive labour policy signalling globally. Negative Possibility of informal pressure continuing outside legal frameworks. New compliance burden may deter startups. India–Russia Trade Target of $100 Billion by 2030 WHY IS THIS IN NEWS? India and Russia, during high-level meetings involving PM Modi and President Putin (BRICS & Annual Summit frame), reaffirmed their commitment to achieve USD 100 billion bilateral trade by 2030. Russia emphasised it is a reliable supplier of fuel and will continue uninterrupted shipments to India. Comes amid US-imposed tariffs and increasing Western scrutiny of India–Russia economic ties, especially following the Ukraine conflict. India also pushed for rapid conclusion of the FTA with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers. Trade gap has sharply widened due to surging Russian oil imports and falling Indian exports. Relevance GS-II: International Relations India–Russia strategic partnership Energy security, defence cooperation Multilateral linkages (EAEU, BRICS) Navigating sanctions environment GS-III: Economy Bilateral trade imbalance Currency settlement (rupee–rouble) Oil imports and global supply chains GS-III: Security Defence logistics and spare parts dependency Strategic autonomy BASICS 1. What is the India–Russia trade relationship? Traditionally driven by defence, energy, nuclear cooperation, fertilizers, and diamonds. Post-2022, Russia became India’s largest crude oil supplier, radically altering the trade composition. 2. What is the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU)? A regional economic bloc led by Russia including Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan. Negotiating an FTA with India since 2017. 3. Why are US tariffs mentioned? The US introduced tariffs and sanctions related to geopolitical tensions, indirectly affecting global supply chains and trade flows with Russia. India’s continued high-volume trade with Russia is closely watched by Western partners. DATA: THE WIDENING TRADE GAP (Commerce Ministry) Imports from Russia (largely crude oil): 2021–22: $6.9 bn 2022–23: $46.2 bn 2023–24: $61.15 bn 2024–25 (Apr–Aug): $63.81 bn (annualised trend) Exports to Russia: Remain under $4 billion, flat for years. Result: Massive trade imbalance, driven by discounted Russian crude flows. CURRENT DRIVERS OF INDIA–RUSSIA TRADE 1. Crude Oil as the Dominant Component India imported heavily discounted Russian oil after 2022. Russia now accounts for 35–40% of Indian crude imports at times. 2. Use of National Currencies About 96% of trade settlements in rupees and roubles, reducing dollar dependency. Helps bypass sanctions-related transaction bottlenecks. 3. Russia’s role as a stable fuel supplier Putin reassured India of continuous & uninterrupted shipments. 4. Defence & High-tech cooperation Components, spares, joint ventures, and nuclear energy (Kudankulam) remain core areas. WHY BOTH SIDES WANT THE $100-BILLION TARGET ? India’s perspective Secure long-term energy supplies. Diversify away from Gulf dependence. Gain favourable pricing in oil & gas. Expand exports: pharma, agricultural products, machinery, engineering goods. Promote India’s presence in Russia’s Far East through connectivity initiatives (INSTC, Chennai–Vladivostok route). Russia’s perspective Pivot to Asian markets after Western sanctions. Stable buyer for oil, coal, fertilizers. Attract Indian investments in infrastructure, mining, and energy in the Far East. Strengthen geopolitical partnership amid global realignment. STRUCTURAL CHALLENGES 1. Huge Trade Imbalance India imports far more from Russia → unsustainable gap. Indian exporters face logistical, payment & certification hurdles. 2. Payment & Currency Issues Rupee accumulation in Russian banks is large; Russia wants to use rupees to buy Indian goods, but supply is limited. Exchange rate volatility & currency convertibility constraints. 3. Logistics Bottlenecks INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor) still not fully optimised. Limited maritime connectivity. 4. Sanctions Environment Western sanctions complicate shipping insurance, banking channels, and trade finance. Indian entities must navigate compliance risks. 5. Limited Indian Market Penetration Lack of market awareness, limited brand presence in Russia, certification & regulatory hurdles. FTA WITH THE EURASIAN ECONOMIC UNION (EAEU) India wants a swift conclusion because: Benefits Reduced tariffs → boost Indian exports. Address non-tariff barriers (phytosanitary, certification). Improve predictability in bilateral trade. Help in rupee-rouble settlement mechanisms. Strategic foothold in the Eurasian region. Hurdles Complex negotiation environment due to sanctions. Sensitive sectors (metals, fertilizers) require careful balancing. Logistics & standards harmonisation needed. GEOPOLITICAL SIGNIFICANCE FOR INDIA 1. Balancing Act Between West and Russia India seeks strategic autonomy: Buys Russian oil Cooperates with Russia in defence Deepens Quad partnership with US Maintaining diversified partnerships mitigates geopolitical risks. 2. Energy Security Russian crude provides price stability, reducing India’s import bill. 3. Defence Readiness Russia remains major supplier of critical defence spares & technologies. 4. Strategic Presence in Eurasia Connectivity corridors with Russia strengthen India’s Eurasian footprint vis-à-vis China. ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS FOR INDIA Positive Lower energy costs due to discounted Russian oil. Opportunity to expand export base in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, textiles, auto components. Investment openings in the Far East → minerals, hydrocarbons, infrastructure. Risks Overdependence on Russian energy. Exposure to secondary sanctions. Trade imbalance if exports don’t rise substantially. POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Build strong export support mechanisms Market intelligence cells for Russia Certification/standards harmonisation Export credit, logistics subsidies 2. Accelerate INSTC operationalisation Reduce transit time and cost via Iran & Caspian Sea. 3. Diversify beyond crude Promote IT services, engineering goods, medical devices. 4. Currency mechanism innovation Expand rupee-rouble convertibility windows Explore digital currency settlement channels DRDO Successfully Conducts Indigenous Dynamic Ejection Test WHY IS THIS IN NEWS? DRDO announced the successful dynamic ejection test of a new indigenous fighter aircraft crew escape module (ejection system). The test took place at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility at Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh. This marks a technological milestone in India’s defence aviation ecosystem, enhancing safety for pilots during emergencies such as high-speed crashes, mid-air failures, or loss of control. The development strengthens India’s move toward self-reliance in advanced aerospace safety technologies, previously dominated by foreign suppliers. Relevance GS-III: Security / Defence Defence R&D, aerospace indigenisation Pilot safety and combat readiness Support for indigenous fighter programmes (Tejas, AMCA, etc.) GS-III: Science & Technology High-speed aerodynamics Rocket sled testing, flight safety systems Indigenous engineering capabilities GS-II: Governance Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing Reducing reliance on foreign suppliers BASICS 1. What is an Ejection System? A system designed to save a pilot’s life when the aircraft experiences catastrophic failure. Includes: Ejection seat Explosive charges/rockets to propel the pilot out Parachute deployment system Survival kit 2. Dynamic Ejection Test A high-speed test that simulates real-life aircraft escape conditions, including: Aerodynamic loads High-speed airflow Changing acceleration forces Seat–pilot interaction Conducted on a “rocket sled track” to mimic aircraft speed. 3. Why dynamic tests matter? Static tests cannot reproduce real conditions like: High wind blast Instability G-forces Canopy fragmentation Pressure variations Dynamic tests help validate crew survivability under extreme operational conditions. THE TEST: KEY DETAILS Conducted by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) and TBRL. Rocket sled propelled the ejection seat & dummy at simulated aircraft speeds. System was tested for ensuring: Pilot safe separation Stable trajectory Correct sequencing of explosive & rocket elements Proper parachute deployment envelope Involved: Canopy fragmentation or breaking Safe clearance from aircraft body Avoiding seat tumbling Ensuring steady descent TECHNOLOGICAL CHALLENGES 1. Simulating High-Speed Ejection Faster aircraft (modern fighters reach >1.6 Mach) → greater aerodynamic forces. 2. Complex escape sequence Canopy must shatter/jet away → seat rockets fire → seat stabilizes → parachute deploys. Each step must occur within milliseconds. 3. Dummy behaviour Human-like crash dummies mimic: Body movements Neck/torso response Pressure effects Ensures realistic data on spinal loads and shock absorption. 4. All-weather complexity Ejections may occur: At low altitude High altitude Low speed Very high speed System must handle flight-envelope extremes. 5. Safety margins Preventing neck injuries, fractures, and uncontrolled spinning. WHY THIS MATTERS: STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE ? 1. Critical for Indigenous Fighter Programmes The ejection system is essential for: LCA Tejas variants AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) LCA Mk-2 Twin-engine deck-based fighter (TEDBF) Future trainer and combat aircraft 2. Reduces Dependence on Foreign Suppliers India historically relied on: Martin-Baker (UK) Russian K-36 systems Indigenous system → cost reduction + strategic autonomy. 3. Enhances Pilot Safety Pilot survivability affects: National morale Training costs Military readiness Losing pilots to avoidable ejection failures is unacceptable in modern Air Forces. 4. Boosts Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defence High-tech R&D ecosystem strengthened. Spinoff benefits for space, missile, and aerospace sectors. 5. Supports High-Speed Future Platforms AMCA, unmanned–manned teaming, and future air combat platforms will need advanced escape systems. ADDITIONAL CONTEXT FROM THE ARTICLE 1. First-of-its-kind achievement Rare capability globally; dynamic ejection tests require sophisticated rail-track rocket facilities. 2. Avoiding 1990s setbacks Earlier generations of Indian aviation depended on foreign imports for survival equipment. This test helps India avoid bottlenecks in supply chains due to geopolitical pressures. 3. Data gathered Test generated critical data: Oscillation dynamics Parachute stability Dummy kinematic response Used to adjust seat design. 4. Actual dummy test Test used a human-like dummy fitted with sensors that tracked: Pressure Acceleration Impact loads Flight dynamics IMPLICATIONS FOR INDIA’S DEFENCE CAPABILITY 1. Improves Aircraft Certification Safe escape systems are mandatory for aircraft clearance. 2. Enhances Export Potential Indigenous fighters with indigenous safety systems become more attractive for foreign buyers. 3. Strengthens R&D Infrastructure RTRS facility’s success encourages more flight-safety and airframe-testing experiments. 4. Boosts confidence of IAF & Navy pilots Reliable ejection systems improve operational confidence during risky missions.