Content Janjatiya Gaurav Divas Government notifies DPDP Rules to empower citizens and protect privacy Janjatiya Gaurav Divas Why in News? November 15 is observed as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas annually to honour Birsa Munda, whose 150th birth anniversary is being commemorated in 2024–25 as Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh. Ministry of Tribal Affairs is conducting nationwide programmes (1–15 Nov) and establishing 11 Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museums. Recently inaugurated: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial & Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum (Raipur) by PM on 1 Nov. Relevance : GS1 – Modern Indian History Tribal revolts: Ulgulan, Bhumkal, Halba, Santhal, Bhil, Koya. Corrective historiography and underrepresented tribal narratives. GS1 – Indian Society Tribal identity, culture, customs, language preservation. Role of museums in cultural mainstreaming. GS2 – Governance Tribal policy ecosystem: PM-JANMAN, EMRS, Digital Tribal Mission. Constitutional safeguards (Articles 46, 244, 275, 339, 342). Institutional capacity-building through Tribal Research Institutes. Basics Announced in 2021 to recognise India’s tribal contribution to freedom struggle and cultural heritage. Aligns with Constitutional commitments under Articles 46, 244, 275, 339, 342. Celebrated on Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary (15 Nov 1874). Birsa Munda – Quick Facts Led Ulgulan (1899–1900) for Munda self-rule and protection of Khuntkatti land rights. Revered as Dharti Aaba (Father of Earth). Died at age 25 in Ranchi Jail. Central figure in anti-colonial tribal assertion. Significance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas Corrective historiography: tribal resistance movements were historically underrepresented. Cultural mainstreaming: connects tribal identity, language, arts to national consciousness. Institutional recognition: 11 museums create permanent archives of tribal movements. Policy relevance: aligns with PM-JANMAN, EMRS expansion, Digital Tribal Mission. Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museum Initiative Goal: Document and exhibit tribal uprisings, culture, leaders, knowledge systems. Funding mechanism: Support to Tribal Research Institutes scheme. 11 Museums – Key Data Total approved cost: ~₹600+ crore Largest project: Rajpipla, Gujarat (₹257.94 crore) Four museums inaugurated: Raipur, Ranchi, Chhindwara, Jabalpur Key Museums & Freedom Fighters A. Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial, Raipur Inaugurated: 1 Nov 2025. Cost: ₹53.13 crore (₹42.47 crore central share). Features: 650 sculptures, 16 galleries, AI-based displays, RFID screens. Covers major tribal uprisings: Halba, Sarguja, Bhopalpattanam, Paralkot, Tarapur, Meria, Koi, Lingagiri, Muria, Bhumkal (1910). Narayan Singh: Broke British grain stores (1856 famine), executed 10 Dec 1857. B. Birsa Munda Museum, Ranchi Inaugurated: Nov 15, 2021. Focus: Ulgulan, Khuntkatti rights, anti-missionary movements. Highlights Munda socio-political systems and Birsa’s vision. C. Badal Bhoi Museum, Chhindwara Inaugurated: Nov 15, 2024. Led 1923 protests; arrested repeatedly; died in custody (suspected poisoning, 1940). D. Raja Shankar Shah & Kunwar Raghunath Shah Museum, Jabalpur Inaugurated: Nov 2024. Gond royals who resisted British during 1857. Used poetry as political resistance; executed 18 Sept 1858. Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh (Fortnight 1–15 Nov) Activities J&K: PM JANMAN workshops, digital literacy for ashram schools. Meghalaya: Cultural festival, floral tributes at Shillong. Rajasthan: EMRS-wide painting/essay competitions. AP: Cultural festival marking Birsa Munda’s 150th anniversary. Sikkim: Tribal language teachers’ workshop; youth sports events. Manipur: Cleanliness drives, tributes at Rani Gaidinliu market. Odisha: Birsa pavilion, photo exhibitions (80 photographs). Gujarat: National symposium at Ekta Nagar (600+ scholars). Other Government Initiatives for Tribal Heritage Digital & Linguistic Preservation Adi Sanskriti: 100 courses; 5,000+ documents on tribal arts. Adi Vaani: Real-time text/speech translation; Mundari, Gondi, Bhili, Santhali, Kui, Garo. Digital Document Repository: Central archive for tribal research. Language & Oral Tradition Varnamala initiative: local rhymes, stories in tribal languages. Documentation of oral traditions: folklore, folktales, songs. Knowledge Systems & Research Studies on: Indigenous healing, medicinal plants, Adivasi agriculture, painting, dance. Support for literary festivals & tribal authors. Cultural Promotion Aadi Mahotsav: flagship national tribal festival. Craft Melas & Cultural Events: dance festivals, painting workshops. Critical Analysis A. Governance Perspective Strengthens cultural federalism. Reinforces Article 51A(f) (value and preserve rich heritage). Museum network = long-term institutional memory. B. Tribal Empowerment Elevates social identity, combats invisibilisation. Encourages youth connect via digital tools & museums. Supports NEP 2020 linguistic goals. C. Historical Justice Recognises revolts like: Santhal (1855), Khond resistance, Koya, Bhil, Munda movements. Corrects colonial-centric narratives. D. Challenges Need for accurate anthropological documentation. Museum upkeep, community participation. Digital divide in tribal areas. Conclusion Janjatiya Gaurav Divas institutionalises the legacy of India’s tribal freedom fighters and embeds their narratives within national history. Through 11 museums, digital projects like Adi Sanskriti & Adi Vaani, and nationwide cultural mobilisation during Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh, India advances an inclusive vision of heritage aligned with Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. Government notifies DPDP Rules to empower citizens and protect privacy Why in News? Government has notified the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025, completing operationalisation of the DPDP Act, 2023. Establishes India’s first comprehensive digital personal data protection regime, combining citizen rights with innovation-friendly compliance. Relevance : GS2 – Governance, Transparency & Accountability Digital rights, privacy protection, citizen-centric governance. Regulatory frameworks, grievance redressal through Digital Data Protection Board. Stakeholder consultations as part of cooperative governance. GS2 – Polity Operationalising fundamental right to privacy (Puttaswamy 2017). Legislative–executive interplay in rule-making. GS2 – Social Justice Special safeguards for children and persons with disabilities. Digital inclusion and accessible consent frameworks. DPDP Act, 2023 – Core Features Passed on 11 August 2023; applies to digital personal data processed in India. Based on SARAL design (Simple, Accessible, Rational, Actionable). Defines: Data Principal – individual Data Fiduciary – entity determining how data is processed Consent Manager – entity enabling permission management Seven Core Principles Consent and transparency Purpose limitation Data minimisation Accuracy Storage limitation Security safeguards Accountability Inclusive and Consultative Rule-Making Draft Rules issued for public comments. Consultations across Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai. Inputs taken from startups, MSMEs, industry bodies, civil society, and government departments. Ensures legitimacy, stakeholder buy-in and smoother implementation. Phased and Practical Implementation 18-month compliance timeline for organisations. Prevents regulatory shock and supports legacy transitions. Consent notices: Must be standalone, purpose-specific, simple, and plain language. Consent Managers must be Indian-incorporated companies → ensures jurisdictional control. Personal Data Breach Protocols Mandatory, prompt notification to affected individuals. Notification must: Be in plain language Explain nature & consequences Detail remedial steps Provide assistance contact points Ensures early risk mitigation and trust. Safeguards for Children & Persons with Disabilities Verifiable consent required for children’s data. Limited exemptions: education, healthcare, real-time safety. For persons with disabilities lacking legal capacity, consent via lawful guardian. Aligns with UNCRC and rights-based frameworks. Transparency & Accountability Requirements Data Fiduciaries must display clear contact information: Designated officer / Data Protection Officer. Significant Data Fiduciaries (SDFs): Independent audits Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIA) Technology due diligence Adherence to government restrictions (including selective localisation) Ensures risk-proportionate regulation. Strengthening Rights of Data Principals Rights include: Access Correction Updating Erasure Nomination for rights after death/incapacity Mandatory response window: within 90 days. Establishes robust digital civil rights framework. Digital-First Data Protection Board Fully digital operations: Online filing Tracking through portal + mobile app Decisions appealable before TDSAT. Aims to reduce friction and ensure low-cost grievance redressal. Balancing Privacy with Innovation Technology-neutral framework → future-proofing. Compliance reliefs for startups and MSMEs. Promotes secure digital economy growth. Prioritises innovation while maintaining essential safeguards. Critical Analysis A. Governance Perspective Establishes a rights-based digital governance model. Strengthens rule of law in data processing. Boosts India’s global digital credibility (e.g., G20 Data Governance Principles). B. Economic & Innovation Impact Predictable regulatory environment attracts: Cloud services Health-tech FinTech AI/ML companies Clarity on breach protocols reduces long-term systemic risks. C. Privacy & Fundamental Rights Operationalises Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (2017) judgment recognising privacy as a fundamental right. Provides enforceable citizen rights. D. Challenges Capacity constraints among small enterprises. Technological readiness for audits and DPIAs. Large-scale citizen awareness required. Need for clarity on cross-border data flows. Conclusion The DPDP Rules, 2025 operationalise India’s first full-fledged digital personal data protection regime, creating a balanced, citizen-centric framework. With phased implementation, strong transparency obligations, special safeguards for vulnerable groups, and a digital-first Data Protection Board, the model aims to embed privacy protection into India’s rapidly expanding digital economy while supporting innovation and global competitiveness.

Content Janjatiya Gaurav Divas and Tribal Empowerment: Legacy of Birsa Munda Flexible inflation targeting, a good balance Janjatiya Gaurav Divas and Tribal Empowerment: Legacy of Birsa Munda Why in News ? Janjatiya Gaurav Divas is observed annually on 15 November to honour Birsa Munda. 2024–25 marks 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh. PM visited Ulihatu (birthplace of Birsa Munda), reviewed tribal welfare initiatives, and highlighted decade-long reforms for tribal empowerment. Article reflects on tribal contributions to India’s freedom struggle and government measures for tribal development. Relevance   GS1 – History & Society Tribal revolts, Munda Rebellion, Santhal Rebellion, Kol uprising. Role of tribal communities in freedom struggle. Tribe–state interactions and socio-cultural identity. GS2 – Governance Welfare schemes for Scheduled Tribes. Ministry of Tribal Affairs programmes. PVTG empowerment model. Rights-based approach: FRA, PESA, PM-JANMAN. GS3 – Economy & Environment Forest governance, land rights, livelihoods. Resource-based tribal economy. Skill development & entrepreneurship in tribal belts. Inclusion in digital, financial, and agricultural systems. Practice Question “Tribal uprisings were not merely anti-colonial revolts, but assertions of identity, autonomy and resource rights.” Discuss with reference to movements led by Birsa Munda.(250 Words) Basics Bharat’s tribal communities have historically resisted colonial exploitation, unjust land policies, and British administration. Tribal revolts like Ulgulan (Birsa Munda), Santhal revolt, Tantia Bhil’s struggle, Rampa rebellion etc. shaped nationalist consciousness. Tribal struggles were not just anti-British—they defended autonomy, land rights, forest livelihoods, dignity, and culture. Birsa Munda’s Ulgulan was against British land laws, missionaries, and local oppressive landlords (dikus). Government recognises their role through Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (2021 decision). Key Highlights in the Article Historical Role of Tribal Leaders Consistent uprisings since 18th century contributed to anti-colonial mobilisation. Tribal revolts united communities beyond geographical lines. Movements demonstrated moral strength and collective resistance. Government Recognition Steps Creation of a dedicated Ministry of Tribal Affairs (1999). Janjatiya Gaurav Divas declared in 2021.PM-PVTG Mission launched for focused development of 75 PVTG groups. PM-AJAY (Adhikar, Jharkhand, Adivasi, Yuva) scheme strengthening tribal socio-economic capacity. PM-JANMAN scheme improving access to housing, education, drinking water, electricity, connectivity, and health. PM’s Visit to Ulihatu (2025) First Prime Minister to visit the birthplace of Birsa Munda. Announcement of enhanced Janjatiya-centric programmes. Emphasis on protecting, empowering, uplifting vulnerable tribal communities (especially PVTGs). Development Focus for Tribal Communities (Last Decade) Safeguarding land rights, forest rights, and livelihood ecosystems. Expanding modern education—Eklavya Model Schools; 740+ EMRS, special hostels. Boosting digital access, health infrastructure, welfare schemes. Improved agricultural, technological, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Strengthening Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas. Tribal Freedom Struggle Narrative Birsa Munda’s Ulgulan was one of the most powerful mass movements against unjust land tenure systems. Sparked consciousness on land ownership, self-rule, and identity. Though he lived only 25 years, Birsa ignited a pan-tribal resistance movement. Overview Historical Importance Tribal uprisings formed the earliest anti-colonial resistance (pre-1857). Revolts were against exploitative land laws, forest restrictions, and missionary interventions. Tribal resistance strengthened national consciousness even before mainstream nationalism took shape. Cultural and Identity Assertion Movements like Ulgulan reaffirmed tribal pride, religion (Birsait faith), and community unity. They safeguarded egalitarian traditions and local governance models. Post-Independence Challenges Marginalisation, displacement, PVTG vulnerabilities, lack of basic services. Slow inclusion in mainstream economic growth. Issues: malnutrition, remoteness, infrastructure deficits, education gaps. Government Responses (Past Decade Highlight) PM-PVTG Mission: focused development of 75 groups. PM-JANMAN: special strategy for vulnerable tribal communities. EMRS expansion: tribal children’s education transformation. Forest rights implementation strengthening autonomy. Economic inclusion: forest produce MSP, livelihood diversification, women-led SHGs. Governance reforms: strengthening local self-governance in Schedule V areas. Emerging Concerns Balancing development with cultural preservation. Preventing displacement due to mining, dams, or conservation projects. Ensuring tribal agency in decision-making. Digital and health access gaps still significant. Overall Assessment Recognition of tribal history is improving. Welfare outcomes improving in education, health, connectivity. Need for sustained, community-led, culturally sensitive development. Flexible inflation targeting, a good balance  Why is this in News? India’s Flexible Inflation Targeting (FIT) mandate — 4% inflation target with a ±2% band — expires in March 2026. The RBI has released a detailed discussion paper raising fundamental questions on: Whether to target headline or core inflation What should be the acceptable inflation rate Whether the inflation band should be changed Relevance GS3 – Economy Monetary policy framework and institutional design (MPC, RBI Act amendments). Inflation–growth trade-offs, Phillips Curve debates. Headline vs core inflation: empirical Indian evidence, food–wage spillovers. Role of fiscal discipline (FRBM) in maintaining price stability. Link between inflation expectations, savings, investment and welfare. External shocks & macroeconomic stability. GS2 – Governance & Policy Statutory mandate of MPC, autonomy of RBI. Cooperative fiscal–monetary policy coordination. Impact of inflation on welfare, consumption and inequality. Practice Questions Why is headline CPI considered a more suitable target than core inflation in the Indian context? Support your argument with empirical and structural factors.(250 Words) Inflation Targeting in India Adopted in 2016 via amendments to the RBI Act. Target: 4% CPI inflation, tolerance band 2–6%. Mandate given to Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). Core rationale: Control of inflation protects poor households Reduces uncertainty Improves savings and investment outcomes Anchors expectations Core Arguments of the Article Why Inflation Control Is Essential ? High inflation functions as a regressive consumption tax. Disproportionately hurts: Poor households Fixed-income households Unhedged savers High and volatile inflation: Deters savings Diverts investment Damages long-term growth Should India Target Headline or Core Inflation? Arguments for Headline Inflation Targeting Headline reflects the actual inflation experience of households, especially the poor. Food inflation is not purely supply-driven; it is influenced by: Liquidity conditions Monetary expansion Wage spillovers Empirical Indian evidence: Food inflation has second-round effects on core inflation (wages, services, non-food items). Thus, controlling food inflation becomes part of general price stability. Key Theoretical data As per Milton Friedman (1963 Mumbai lecture): Prices cannot rise without money supply expanding. Price rises in selected items (e.g., food) lead to general inflation only when total liquidity expands. Conclusion For India’s structure, headline inflation remains the correct target — not core. What Should Be the Acceptable Level of Inflation for India? Historical Reference Chakravarty Committee (1985): Acceptable inflation = 4%. Provided limited theoretical justification. Contemporary Evidence Phillips Curve trade-off has collapsed globally and in India. Long-run: no trade-off between growth and inflation (Friedman’s expectations-augmented framework). Short-run: Mild inflation may support growth, but excessive inflation hurts growth. New Data-Based Finding Using data from 1991–2024 (excluding COVID shock): Quadratic growth–inflation curve shows inflection at 3.98%. Implies: Optimal inflation ≈ 4%, Inflation above 6% sharply reduces growth. Forward-Looking Consideration (2026–2031) Preliminary RBI simulations suggest: Optimal inflation below 4% for coming decade. Limited justification to increase the target. Should India Change the Current Inflation Band? Current Band: 2% to 6% Has provided the right flexibility for shocks. No reason to widen the band. Critical Missing Element Framework does not specify: How long RBI can stay close to the upper limit (6%) Staying persistently near 6% undermines credibility and violates the spirit of FIT. Growth and Inflation Data Growth declines rapidly once inflation exceeds 6%. Dependence on Fiscal Policy History: 1970s–80s inflation mainly due to monetisation of fiscal deficit. Post-reforms: End of adhoc treasury bills (1994) FRBM Act (2003) FIT (2016) Internal Consistency FRBM discipline and FIT must operate together. Fiscal slippage → inflation slippage → FIT failure. Overview Why Headline CPI Must Stay as India’s Target ? Indian consumption basket heavily food-weighted. Food–wage–core transmission is strong. Excluding food inflation would provide wrong policy signals. Headline inflation better reflects: Cost-of-living pressures Distributional impacts Monetary–fiscal interaction effects Acceptable Inflation = 4% Historical committee recommendation + new empirical validation. India’s growth–inflation relationship is non-linear, with: Growth-maximising inflation ≈ 4% Rapid decline beyond 6% Raising target would: Unanchor expectations Increase cost of government borrowing Hurt real incomes Weaken RBI credibility Why FIT Band Should Not Be Changed ? Current ±2% gives: Room for supply shocks Room for cyclical flexibility Tightening the band → unnecessary volatility in interest rates Widening the band → reduces accountability Needed: Explicit guidance on duration near upper tolerance limit. Final Consolidated Takeaways Target variable: Headline CPI (not core). Optimal target: 4% inflation, reaffirmed by post-1991 data. Tolerance band: ±2% should continue. Policy coordination: FIT must operate alongside FRBM discipline. Macro-risk: Staying at 6% inflation for long is growth-negative and credibility-damaging. Forward view: For 2026–2031, optimal inflation may be under 4%, but certainly not above.

Content Central government notifies key parts of Digital Personal Data Protection Act Gujarat’s Ambaji marble gets GI tag for its quality Iran seizes tanker in Strait of Hormuz, tensions remain high Govt removes 21 quality control orders on textiles, metals, polymers Draft IT Rules Amendments on Synthetically Generated Information (SGI) Central government notifies key parts of Digital Personal Data Protection Act  What is the DPDP Act, 2023? First dedicated Indian law regulating digital personal data of citizens. Passed in August 2023; large parts notified in November 2025. Inspired by global models (GDPR), but with India-specific provisions (state exemptions, no data localisation). Enforces core privacy principles: consent, purpose limitation, data minimisation, storage limitation, accountability. Why was it needed? Supreme Court’s Puttaswamy Judgment (2017) declared privacy a fundamental right, requiring a statutory data protection framework. India has 815+ million internet users, high data generation, increasing cyber threats. Fragmented legal regime earlier (IT Act, SPDI Rules). Rising digital public infrastructure (Aadhaar, UPI, ABHA, ONDC) demanded structured protections. Relevance GS2 – Polity & Governance: Fundamental Right to Privacy (Puttaswamy), statutory data protection, government exemptions, RTI implications. GS3 – Cybersecurity: Data breaches, digital public infrastructure, cybersecurity frameworks. GS2 – Transparency & Accountability: Impact on RTI Act, institutional independence. Key Concepts Personal Data Any data about an identifiable individual in digital form. No special category/sensitive data distinction (unlike GDPR). Data Principal The individual to whom the personal data belongs. Data Fiduciary Entity collecting data (companies, platforms, govt bodies). Significant Data Fiduciary (SDF) Large or high-risk entities; extra compliance: Data Protection Officer (DPO) Independent audits Risk assessments Consent Manager Government-approved intermediaries enabling data principals to: View data use Withdraw consent Request erasure or correction What was Notified Now? Major Provisions Enforced from November 2025 Most operative sections of the DPDP Act. DPDP Rules, 2025 operational. Amendment weakening RTI Act (removal of “personal information” disclosure requirement) enforced. Provisions Delayed to November 2026 Mandatory publishing of Data Protection Officer details. Full operationalisation of Consent Manager ecosystem. Core Obligations of Data Fiduciaries Obtain free, informed, specific consent. Provide notice detailing purpose of data collection. Maintain reasonable security safeguards. Allow individuals to: Access their data Correct inaccuracies Seek erasure Nominate representatives Report data breaches to the Data Protection Board and users. Rights of Data Principals (Users) Right to Consent and withdrawal. Right to Access information on how data is used. Right to Correction and Erasure. Right to Grievance Redressal. Right to Nominate a representative in case of death or incapacity. Exemptions and Concerns A. State Exemptions Government may process personal data “in the interest of national security, public order, or prevention/detection of offences.” Raises concerns of over-broad surveillance. B. RTI Act Amendment Removes requirement to disclose “personal information” of public officials unless public interest outweighs privacy. Transparency activists argue: Weakens RTI Reduces accountability Expands privacy shield for bureaucrats and public servants C. No Data Localisation Firms can store data globally except in restricted jurisdictions. Criticised by some for national security risks. Penalties (High-Yield UPSC Points) DPDP Board can impose: Up to ₹250 crore per incident for data breaches. Lower penalties for failing to disclose breaches or failing to comply with user rights. No criminal penalties. Institutional Architecture Data Protection Board of India (DPB) Handles breaches, complaints. Functions like a civil tribunal. Consent Managers Implement data portability-like access. Adjudication + Appeals Appeals lie to High Courts. Comparison with GDPR (Exam-Favourite) Similarities Consent-focused. Rights to erasure, correction. Fiduciary accountability. Differences India has no sensitive data classification, unlike GDPR. India has state exemptions broader than EU. India’s penalties lower. No dedicated Data Protection Authority like EU. Benefits Strengthens digital trust in India’s data economy. Supports startups, DPI, health-tech, fintech. Improves cybersecurity resilience. Enables user control through consent managers. Boosts India’s chances of data adequacy agreements globally. Concerns & Criticisms Broad government exemptions could compromise privacy. Weakens RTI, reduces transparency. Board’s independence debated (appointed by government). No mandatory data localisation (security concerns). No explicit protection for non-digital personal data. Way Forward  Narrower “State” exemptions with judicial oversight. Strengthening independence of Data Protection Board. Privacy-by-design adoption by all major data fiduciaries. Periodic audits for high-risk sectors (health, fintech). Harmonisation with global privacy norms (GDPR). Better grievance redressal filters to avoid backlog. Gujarat’s Ambaji marble gets GI tag for its quality  What Happened? Ambaji White Marble from Banaskantha district, Gujarat, has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. GI tag registered in the name of Ambaji Marbles Quarry and Factory Association. Announced during the Tribal Business Conclave in New Delhi. Marble originates from Ambaji, a major Shaktipeeth and pilgrimage site. Relevance GS1 – Culture & Heritage: Traditional craftsmanship, historical mining, temple architecture. GS3 – Economy: GI tags, rural livelihoods, export competitiveness, ODOP, “Vocal for Local”. What is a GI Tag? A GI tag protects products with unique qualities linked to geographical origin. Enforced under Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Ensures exclusive rights, prevents unauthorised use, boosts rural and artisanal economies. Why Ambaji Marble? Key Features Highly valued pure white stone. Known for: High calcium content High strength Superior shine and durability Strong historic lineage: mines active for 1,200–1,500 years. Used in iconic heritage architecture (e.g., Dilwara Jain temples of Mount Abu). Exported/used in temples in U.S., New Zealand, England. Significance of the GI Tag Economic Protects authentic Ambaji marble from counterfeits. Enhances branding, increases export potential. Boosts marble industry in Banaskantha. Cultural Reinforces Ambaji’s identity as both spiritual and craft heritage centre. Connects temple architecture legacy with contemporary markets. Administrative Recognition by Ministry of Commerce & Industry elevates global positioning. Allows formal certification and GI labelling for industry stakeholders. Link to Tribal Regions and PM’s Visit  PM visiting Dediapada (Narmada district) for Birsa Munda birth anniversary celebrations. Focus on tribal welfare + infrastructure = ₹9,700 crore projects announced. Ambaji marble GI announcement coincides with Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh activities and tribal economic upliftment events. Broader Implications Enhances heritage tourism around Ambaji Shaktipeeth. Strengthens global competitiveness of Indian natural stone sector. Encourages preservation of traditional mining communities. Aligns with ‘Vocal for Local’ and One District One Product (ODOP) frameworks. Iran seizes tanker in Strait of Hormuz, tensions remain high What is the Strait of Hormuz? A narrow maritime chokepoint between Iran and Oman. Connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Width: ~39 km at narrowest point; heavily militarised. One of the world’s most critical energy corridors. Relevance GS2 – International Relations: Iran–US tensions, JCPOA, West Asian geopolitics, India’s balancing diplomacy. GS3 – Economy: Impact on oil prices, India’s energy security, supply chain vulnerabilities. GS3 – Security: Maritime security, chokepoints, UNCLOS, Indian Navy’s role. Why Is It Globally Important? Handles one-sixth of global oil trade (≈18–20 million barrels/day). Nearly one-third of global LNG exports pass through it (mostly from Qatar). Essential for Gulf exporters: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Iraq, Qatar. Closure can spike oil prices globally → impacts inflation, supply chains, India’s energy security. Why Is It Constantly in News? Regular flashpoint due to Iran–US tensions. Iran often threatens to block the Strait in response to sanctions. US Fifth Fleet (in Bahrain) maintains security patrols. Frequent incidents: tanker seizures, limpet mine attacks, drone strikes. Details of Current Incident Iran seized a Marshall Islands–flagged oil tanker, the Talara. Seized in Iranian territorial waters of the Strait of Hormuz. A US Navy MQ-4C Triton drone had been circling overhead for hours, tracking the situation. Private security analysis: small Iranian boats approached and intercepted the tanker. First such seizure in three years. Part of a broader pattern of tanker-related coercive actions. Historical Pattern of Iranian Actions Iran seized two Greek tankers (2022). Linked to retaliation against Greek compliance with US sanctions. Limpet mine attacks on tankers (2019). Drone attack on an Israel-linked vessel (2021). Tension escalated after US withdrew from the Iran Nuclear Deal (JCPOA) in 2018. Strategic Importance for Iran Strait gives Iran strategic leverage against Western powers. Acts as a pressure tool during sanctions, nuclear negotiations. Iran’s coastal geography makes it easy to deploy boats, mines, drones. Strategic Importance for the US Protects freedom of navigation under UNCLOS. Ensures energy stability for global markets. Uses Fifth Fleet to patrol, deter Iran, safeguard allied shipping. Incident reporting often used to build international pressure on Iran. Implications for India Energy Security India imports ~60% of crude from the Gulf region. Any disruption increases freight rates, premium insurance costs, and global crude prices. Diaspora Security Gulf hosts ~9 million Indian workers. Regional conflict may trigger evacuation/instability scenarios. Maritime Strategy Strengthens India’s focus on: Sagarmala & Maritime Domain Awareness Indian Ocean Naval deployments Chabahar Port as a counterbalance to Iranian leverage Diplomacy India balances ties with both Iran and US–Arab partners. Sensitive to JCPOA developments and sanctions regimes. Legal Context Shipping route lies in international waters, but flanked by territorial waters of Iran and Oman. Right of Innocent Passage under UNCLOS. Iran imposes restrictive interpretations of passage rights, especially during tensions. Risk Assessment  New seizure marks escalation after relative calm (2022–2025). Comes amid: Iran–Israel clashes US sanctions pressure Red Sea instability due to Yemen conflict Risk of spillover into broader Gulf confrontation. If Strait Were Blocked (Hypothetical Analysis) Oil prices could jump above $150–$200/barrel. LNG shortage hits Asia (Japan, South Korea, India). Strategic petroleum reserves become critical. Immediate naval mobilisation by US, UK, France. Could trigger a limited maritime conflict. Why the Strait is a “Chokepoint” ? Narrow width. No alternative shipping route for Gulf exports. Heavy concentration of global energy trade. High susceptibility to asymmetric warfare (mines, drones, small boats). Govt removes 21 quality control orders on textiles, metals, polymers Why in News? The government withdrew 21 Quality Control Orders (QCOs) in the past week. Most withdrawals relate to key raw materials: textile intermediates, polymers, metals (aluminium, copper, nickel, tin, lead, zinc). Aim: improve raw material availability, reduce production costs, and ease MSME compliance burden. Triggered by recommendations of a Government Panel led by NITI Aayog Member Rajiv Gauba. Relevance GS3 – Economy: Manufacturing competitiveness, MSME burden, Ease of Doing Business, non-tariff barriers. GS3 – Infrastructure/Industry: Supply-chain flexibility, raw material security, BIS standards. GS2 – Governance: Regulatory reforms, role of NITI Aayog. What is a QCO? A Quality Control Order mandates that certain products must conform to BIS standards. QCOs make BIS certification compulsory for domestic production and imports. Objective: improve product quality, consumer safety, curb low-quality imports. Tool for non-tariff regulation under the BIS Act. Why Were QCOs Introduced in the First Place? To raise domestic manufacturing standards. Protect consumers from substandard goods. Curb dumping of cheap, low-grade imports (especially from China). Support “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat”.  Why Withdraw Certain QCOs Now? Panel review found mandatory BIS certification on critical raw materials was: Creating supply constraints. Limiting import options. Raising input costs, particularly for MSMEs. Creating dependence on a small number of BIS-certified suppliers. Withdrawal expected to restore supply-chain stability. Supports manufacturing competitiveness and export flexibility. Specific Items for Which QCOs Were Removed Chemicals & Petrochemicals (Textile + Plastic Sector) PTA (Purified Terephthalic Acid) MEG (Mono Ethylene Glycol) Polyester fibre Polyester yarn Polypropylene Polyethylene PVC resin ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Polycarbonate Metals (Ministry of Mines) Aluminium Lead Nickel Tin ingot Copper & refined copper Zinc Why These Items Matter? Textile sector depends on PTA, MEG, polyester inputs — any disruption raises costs for spinners, weavers, processors. Plastics & polymers are foundational raw materials for packaging, consumer goods, automotive parts. Metals like aluminium, copper, nickel are crucial for engineering goods, electricals, infrastructure, electronics. Benefits of Withdrawal A. For MSMEs Lower compliance burden. Access to cheaper global inputs. Reduced reliance on few domestic BIS-certified suppliers. Improved cash flow due to lower raw material costs. B. For Exporters Greater flexibility to use globally certified materials instead of BIS-only inputs. Enhanced competitiveness in global markets. C. For Supply Chains Stabilises input supply. Avoids production disruptions in critical sectors. Mitigates risk of price spikes due to certification bottlenecks. D. For Textiles Sector (Industry Reaction) SIMA says relaxations ensure uninterrupted imports of polyester inputs. Helps stabilise domestic yarn and fabric prices. Lowers cost pressure on spinners, weavers, processors. Encourages competitive pricing for exports. Government’s Defence of QCO Policy DPIIT notes QCOs have significantly improved quality of Indian products. 188 QCOs issued so far, covering 773 products. Effective in sectors like: Screws, hinges Electrical appliances Water bottles Hardware Where industry faced genuine constraints, government offered: Extensions of implementation timelines Exemptions for certain raw materials Periodic reviews Why This Move Matters Economically ? India’s manufacturing cost structure depends heavily on imported raw materials. Mandatory BIS certification on raw materials undermines: Ease of Doing Business Manufacturing competitiveness Export growth Withdrawal aligns with broader strategy to: Reduce non-tariff barriers Improve logistics and input-market efficiency Support MSME-led economic growth Draft IT Rules Amendments on Synthetically Generated Information (SGI) Basics Draft SGI Rules introduce obligations on proactive labelling, filtering, and identification of synthetically generated content. Aim: tackle deepfakes, mis/disinformation, and AI-generated content risks. Legal basis invoked: IT Act, 2000 and IT Rules, 2021. Key concern: whether the government can impose obligations beyond what the parent Act authorises. Relevance GS2 – Polity/Fundamental Rights: Free speech, privacy, legality of delegated legislation, proportionality tests. GS3 – Cybersecurity/Tech: Deepfakes, misinformation regulation, AI governance. GS2 – Governance: Safe harbour doctrine, intermediary liability, policy overreach. Key Provisions in the Draft SGI Rules Mandatory proactive labelling (“SGI”) for AI-generated content. Platforms/intermediaries must filter, detect, and flag synthetic content. Obtain user declarations about whether uploaded content is AI-generated. Severe penalties for failure to verify, label, or act upon synthetic content. Extends obligations to “significant intermediaries” and potentially to AI model providers. Concerns on Legality and Constitutional Validity Ultra vires the IT Act: IT Act’s Section 79 gives conditional safe harbour but explicitly prohibits imposing a “monitoring obligation.” Draft SGI Rules require exactly that: active monitoring, detection, and verification. This exceeds the Act’s mandate and may fail the legality test. Ambiguity in “Intermediary” definition: Act defines intermediaries as entities that store/host/transmit content on behalf of others. Generative AI platforms (ChatGPT, Perplexity, DeepSeek) are content originators. Therefore, they do not fit the definition and imposing intermediary obligations may be legally untenable. Rule-making overreach: Government cannot expand the scope of the IT Act through subordinate legislation. Courts consistently invalidate rules that go beyond delegated powers (precedents: Shreya Singhal, Puttaswamy proportionality tests). Operational and Technical Criticisms High risk of over-blocking: Platforms may label uncertain content as SGI by default, leading to mass censorship. Genuine media (e.g., political videos) could be incorrectly blocked, especially during elections. False positives and false negatives: AI detection tools have high error rates. Even slightly edited genuine images may be wrongly labelled or blocked. Surveillance risks: Draft rules incentivise platforms to hash user images, scan content, and compare fingerprints with known datasets. Such scanning infringes user privacy and contradicts Section 79(2)(b) spirit (no proactive monitoring). Impact on Freedom of Expression Chilling effect: Users may self-censor due to fear of wrongful labelling or take-downs. Risks to political speech: Election-time deepfake concerns must be managed, but overbroad rules risk suppressing opposition or dissent. Violation of proportionality: Restrictions must be necessary and narrow; blanket proactive monitoring fails this test. Industry and Civil Society Responses SFLC.in: Rules unclear on whether generative AI models are intermediaries; makes compliance impossible. IAMAI: Burdensome obligations threaten safe-harbour provisions. Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF): Rules incentivise mass surveillance, content scanning, and jeopardise privacy rights. Platforms’ likely response: Over-blocking, delayed uploads, refusal to process content flagged as potentially synthetic. Broader Governance Context India lacks a specialised AI regulation statute; SGI rules attempt to fill this vacuum. DPDP Act, 2023 and Rules, 2025 already impose data governance duties; SGI rules add separate burdens. Global trend: US, EU, and UK focus on transparency and accountability but avoid mandatory proactive monitoring (due to privacy risks). Comprehensive Critical Assessment Draft SGI Rules conflict with: Statutory limits: exceed rule-making powers under IT Act. Constitutional safeguards: violate privacy (Puttaswamy) and free speech (Article 19(1)(a)). Technical realism: place impractical burdens on platforms. Democratic safeguards: risk political censorship and election interference. Needed reforms: Clear definitions of intermediaries vs AI model providers. Transparency requirements rather than proactive scanning. Narrowly tailored obligations tied to specific harms (election deepfakes, child safety). Independent regulator for AI governance instead of expanding IT Act powers.