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Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 10 June 2025

Content : Govt Notifies SEZ Reforms to Boost Semiconductor and Electronics Component Manufacturing NHAI releases first-ever Asset Monetisation Strategy Document to drive growth in Road Sector Govt Notifies SEZ Reforms to Boost Semiconductor and Electronics Component Manufacturing Context :The Government of India has notified targeted SEZ rule reforms to accelerate investment and high-tech manufacturing in the semiconductor and electronics component sectors. Relevance : GS 3(Minerals ,Mining ,Manufacturing ) Key Reforms Introduced Minimum Land Requirement Reduced: For SEZs exclusive to semiconductors/electronics, the minimum land requirement is now 10 hectares, down from 50 hectares. Encumbrance Norms Eased: SEZ land no longer needs to be encumbrance-free if mortgaged/leased to Central/State Government or authorised agencies. Net Foreign Exchange (NFE) Reform: Free-of-cost goods (received/supplied) now count toward NFE calculation, per Rule 53 amendment. Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) Access: SEZ units in these sectors can now sell domestically after paying duties—encourages market integration. Strategic Importance Encourages High-Tech Manufacturing: Recognises long gestation and capital-intensive nature of semiconductor industry. Strengthens Semiconductor Ecosystem: Aligns with India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and Aatmanirbhar Bharat goals. Generates High-Skilled Jobs: Expected to create specialized employment in electronics design, fabrication, packaging, etc. Major Investments Approved Micron Semiconductor Technology India Pvt Ltd: Location: Sanand, Gujarat Investment: ₹13,000 crore Area: 37.64 hectares Hubballi Durable Goods Cluster Pvt Ltd (Aequs Group): Location: Dharwad, Karnataka Investment: ₹100 crore Area: 11.55 hectares Implications for Economy and Policy Boosts FDI and domestic investment in cutting-edge tech sectors. Reduces dependence on foreign chip imports, enhancing strategic tech sovereignty. Sets a precedent for targeted SEZ reforms tailored to sector-specific needs. Encourages integration of SEZ production with domestic value chains. NHAI releases first-ever Asset Monetisation Strategy Document to drive growth in Road Sector Context : NHAI has released its first Asset Monetisation Strategy to enhance private investment, unlock road asset value, and ensure sustainable infrastructure financing. Relevance : GS 3(Economy & Infrastructure) Asset Monetisation – Key Points Definition: Process of unlocking value from existing public infrastructure assets by leasing or transferring revenue rights to private players for a fixed period, while retaining ownership. Objective: Generate non-debt capital for new infrastructure creation and reduce fiscal pressure on the government. Key Models: Toll-Operate-Transfer (ToT) Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Securitisation of revenue streams Key Highlights of the Strategy Structured Framework for Monetisation: Utilizes Toll-Operate-Transfer (ToT), Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), and securitisation models. Impressive Financial Mobilisation: Raised over ₹1.4 lakh crore through monetisation of 6,100 km of highways under the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP). Document Accessibility: Strategy document made publicly available on NHAI’s website for transparency and stakeholder engagement. Three Core Pillars Value Maximisation of government-owned road assets. Process Transparency and better information dissemination for investors. Market Development by expanding investor base and engaging stakeholders. Strategic Importance Reduces reliance on traditional government funding like budgetary support and debt. Promotes private sector efficiency in road operations and maintenance. Aligns with Asset Monetisation Plan 2025–30, boosting infrastructure-led economic growth. Benefits and Impacts Ensures financial sustainability of NHAI. Encourages private investment and long-term partnerships. Improves road quality and durability through advanced tech and private sector practices. Demonstrates a shift to market-based infrastructure financing in India.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 10 June 2025

Content : The Census and the remaking of a people Empowering women in agriculture for food security Tighten the process The Census and the remaking of a people Core Argument Census is not just a demographic exercise but a political act — it shapes how a “population” becomes a “people” in the constitutional sense. Census 2027 will be a transformational event akin to the impact of COVID-19, due to its scope, digital processing, and political ramifications. Relevance : GS 1 (Indian Society) , GS 2 ( Polity & Governance) Practice Question :“The Census is not just a tool of enumeration, but a powerful instrument of political transformation.” Examine this statement in the context of Census 2027 and its potential implications for federalism and social justice in India.(250 Words) Key Issues and Implications Delimitation and Representation Article 81 mandates redrawing of parliamentary constituencies after 2026 Census. The delay of 2021 Census fast-tracks this process — 2029 general election may occur on a new political map. Population as sole criterion could shift power from southern/western (low-birth, high-income) states to northern/central (high-birth, low-income) ones — sparking regional imbalance concerns. Census as a Political Tool Captures migration, language shifts, urbanization, etc., which influence policy and identity. Data gathering shapes realities — recording caste, gender, migration may change electoral and social dynamics. Caste census revival after 1931 will intensify demand to revisit the 50% reservation cap. Federal and Fiscal Dimensions The 16th Finance Commission’s report (2025) will coincide with the new Census data — critical for Centre-State revenue sharing. States like Tamil Nadu, Kerala may feel penalized for past success in population control and economic development. Gender, Caste, and Identity Politics One-third reservation for women in Parliament and Assemblies will take shape post-Census. Gender and caste being counted as national categories may be used to neutralize regional imbalances in political representation. Broader Themes National Unity and Identity Shift from colonial-era static identities to fluid, negotiated identities. National unity is being reimagined across religion, caste, and region — Census 2027 is central to this renegotiation. Political Strategy Parties may use population-based delimitation to consolidate strongholds and redefine national identity. Congress and Left face challenge of balancing regional vs national interests in response to the caste and demographic debate. Conclusion Census 2027 is not a technical event — it is a political reset. It will redefine who we are as a people, how power is shared, and which groups are empowered — triggering long-term consequences across politics, federalism, and identity. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for educational and discussion purposes. Empowering women in agriculture for food security Core Theme Declaring 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer is a global recognition of women’s pivotal role in agriculture, and a call to address persistent gender-based inequalities in the sector. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues) , GS 3(Agriculture) Practice Question : “Empowering women in agriculture is not just a gender issue, but a strategy for food security and sustainable development.”Discuss the status of women in Indian agriculture and suggest measures to enhance their role in ensuring food security. (250 words) Status of Women in Agriculture Women contribute 60–80% of food production in developing countries and 39% of agricultural labour in South Asia. In India, 80% of economically active women work in agriculture, yet only 8.3–14% own land. Lack of land ownership limits women’s access to credit, markets, and formal institutions — hampering productivity and empowerment. Structural Challenges Limited access to technology (like mobile phones) reduces their ability to receive agri-advisories and information. Credit access through SHGs/microfinance exists but remains inadequate for high-value investments. Government Support Schemes Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana: Skill-building and resource access. Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation: 50–80% subsidy for machinery for women. National Food Security Mission: 30% of funds reserved for women in certain regions. Climate Change & Resilience Women farmers are disproportionately affected by climate change due to caregiving roles and exposure to agri-risks. ENACT project in Assam empowers women with: Weekly digital advisories on climate-resilient agriculture. Access to flood-resistant rice varieties, smart seed production, and livelihood diversification. Support from multiple government and technical partners. Action Points Policy must be gender-responsive and based on granular data. Farming tools, credit systems, and value chains should be designed with women’s needs in mind. Strengthen collective action (e.g., SHGs), market access, and leadership roles for women. Conclusion 2026 is a milestone opportunity to realign global and national efforts toward: Gender equality in agriculture. Strengthening women’s role in food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development. Tighten the process Core Theme : Concerns around electoral transparency demand a proactive, credible response from the Election Commission of India (ECI) to safeguard democratic legitimacy. Relevance : GS 2(Elections , Electoral Reforms) Practice Question : “Electoral legitimacy rests not just on outcomes but on the transparency and integrity of the process.” In this context, critically examine the recent concerns raised over voter roll management, access to election data, and appointment mechanisms of Election Commissioners in India. Suggest measures to enhance trust in electoral processes.(250 Words) Key Issues Raised Voter Roll Anomalies: Rahul Gandhi alleges an abnormal surge in voter numbers in Maharashtra between the general and Assembly elections. Over 39 lakh new voters added in just six months — mirrors similar trends in 2014, but lacks transparency. Suspicious Turnout After 5 PM: Claims of unusually high voter turnout after 5 p.m. do not hold on scrutiny. Provisional figures (app-based) differ from Form 17C official counts, which are more accurate but delayed. Access to CCTV Footage: Recent amendment to the Conduct of Election Rules (1961) restricts access to polling station CCTV footage. Transparency concerns arise when parties are denied footage needed to assess irregularities. Appointment of Election Commissioners: Alleged executive overreach: Government ignored the Supreme Court’s 2023 directive recommending inclusion of CJI in the selection panel. Arguments that Lack Merit Alleged spike in turnout post-5 p.m. is unsubstantiated and based on flawed provisional data. Legitimate Concerns Transparency in voter roll updates is lacking — parties must be involved in pre-verification processes. Restricted CCTV access hinders scrutiny and weakens electoral accountability. Lack of real-time machine-readable roll data limits independent verification. Responsibility & Recommendations ECI must: Ensure machine-readable, disaggregated roll data is published. Retain and allow controlled access to CCTV footage. Implement transparent, participatory processes during voter roll revisions. Political Parties must: Engage proactively in the voter registration and verification phases. Avoid raising post-result objections without prior scrutiny. Conclusion While some allegations may be politically motivated, there is a clear need for greater transparency, accountability, and institutional neutrality to uphold the credibility of Indian elections. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for educational and discussion purposes.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 10 June 2025

Content : Delimiting by electors rather than population offers a fairer approach How drones are the new face of warfare How extracting and producing nickel can be made more sustainable Weather plays spoilsport with Shukla’s mission; NASA moves launch to tomorrow Foreign investors shift money out of Delhi to ‘promising’ Maharashtra Govt. eases SEZ norms for chip, electronic units Delimiting by electors rather than population offers a fairer approach Core Argument Electors, not population, should be the primary basis for delimiting parliamentary constituencies (PCs). This ensures true adherence to the principle of “One person, one vote, one value.” Relevance : GS 2(Delimitation , Governance) Why Electors, Not Population? Census counts all residents, including: Under-18s (non-voters) Migrants who may not be registered voters Elector rolls capture actual voters, not merely residents. Using elector data is timely, doesn’t depend on delayed Census. Better reflects real democratic participation. Elector Disparity & Vote Value Vote value ∝ 1 / number of electors in a PC. Disparities observed: Idukki (Kerala) vote = 4.5× that of Malkajgiri (Telangana). Southern States dominate both the largest and smallest elector-PCs. Indicates the need for rationalisation within the South itself, not just North-South debate. Historical Trends in Vote Value Southern States had higher vote value in: 1951, 2009, 2019, 2024 Lower vote value in: 1961, 1971, 1980, 1991, 1999 Suggests cyclical shifts, not a consistent bias against the South. Parliamentary Representation Imbalance Southern States (22.45% of electors): Hold 23.8% of Lok Sabha seats 24.4% of Rajya Sabha seats Rest of India (71.2% electors): Hold only 67.4% Lok Sabha and 64.4% Rajya Sabha seats Tamil Nadu (TN) anomaly: 39 Lok Sabha seats (less than Bihar/West Bengal) 18 Rajya Sabha seats, higher than both. Proposed Reform Model Raise Lok Sabha strength to 800 (with 810 total to accommodate smaller States/UTs). States that gain most: Rajasthan (+76%) Karnataka (+60.7%) Telangana (+58.8%) Ensures equity without penalising population control success. Debunking Misconceptions Population-only basis – historically not true; geographical & minimum representation always mattered. Southern States penalised for family planning – oversimplified narrative; even within South disparities exist. Dangerous precedent – linking representation to fertility rates could lead to demands based on religion or caste. Migration & outdated methods – original population criteria didn’t account for current demographic fluidity. Conclusion Elector-based delimitation is: More democratically valid More data-available and real-time Less prone to political manipulation via fertility narratives A necessary modern reform to ensure fair representation in line with India’s changing demographics. How drones are the new face of warfare The Rise of Drones in Modern Warfare Drones (UAVs) have become the weapon of choice due to their versatility, affordability, and ability to achieve strategic objectives. They blur lines between military-grade and commercial technologies, with civilian drones now easily repurposed for combat. Relevance : GS 3(Technology , Defence) India’s Tactical Shift Operation Sindoor (post-Pahalgam attack) shows India’s shift towards integrated drone use in live combat. Reflects a broader doctrinal evolution aligning with global trends like Ukraine’s Operation Spider Web. Global Precedents Nagorno-Karabakh War (2020): Loitering munitions (Harop drones) destroyed enemy air defences, reshaping aerial combat. Ukraine War: Real-time testing ground for mass-produced, improvised drones with rapid innovation-counterinnovation cycles. Myanmar: Rebel groups use 3D-printed drones to level the battlefield. Drone Effectiveness Hinges on Resilience Drones are vulnerable to electronic warfare, jamming, and air defences. Countermeasures (soft & hard kill) require innovation to evade detection, e.g.: AI-based navigation Terrain mapping & machine vision Frequency hopping Fibre-optic tethers (Ukraine example) Counter-Drone Strategies India uses Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) with S-400, MR-SAM, Akash systems. Indigenous counter-UAV tech successfully used against Pakistan’s drone incursions. Swarm drone attacks (e.g. Russia’s Shahed drones) can overwhelm air defences — need for magazine depth and redundancy.  Asymmetric Edge & Mass Production Drones provide asymmetric capability against stronger adversaries (e.g., China). India must build volume and modularity into drone fleets to sustain prolonged conflicts. China’s drone fleet (Wing Loong, Soaring Dragon, CH-901, etc.) gives it an edge, especially in swarm tactics at LAC. Civil-Military Crossover Commercial drones + open-source software = new war potential. Dual-use drones lower cost but may compromise on performance. Innovations like 3D printing allow: Decentralised, rapid manufacturing Bypass of complex supply chains Scalability for high attrition warfare (e.g. Titan Falcon in Ukraine) Internal Security Implications Weaponised commercial drones pose emerging threats from terrorists and non-state actors. Counter-drone measures must extend beyond military — involve home ministry, local police, airport security, etc. Defence Industrial Base – The Key Lesson Ukraine war shows the need for a responsive, scalable defence industry. India’s low procurement rate disincentivises domestic production. Uncertain demand, lack of surge capacity, and limited R&D deter innovation. Way Forward for India Strengthen the defence manufacturing ecosystem through: Stable procurement commitments Surge-capacity infrastructure Public-private partnerships Invest in AI, drone swarm tech, and counter-UAV systems. Frame civil-military integration policy for drone deployment and threat mitigation. How extracting and producing nickel can be made more sustainable Background: Why Nickel Matters Key component in clean energy tech, especially lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs). Global nickel demand expected to exceed 6 million tonnes/year by 2040. Ironically, nickel extraction is highly polluting — 1 tonne of nickel = 20+ tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Relevance : GS 3(Minerals) Conventional Process: High Carbon Footprint Involves multiple steps: calcination → smelting → reduction → refining. Uses carbon as a reducing agent to extract nickel from nickel oxide. Results in high energy usage and large amounts of CO₂ emissions. New Methodology: Hydrogen Plasma-Based Extraction Developed by Max Planck Institute researchers (published in Nature, April 2025). Single-step metallurgical process in one electric arc furnace. Replaces carbon with hydrogen plasma as the reducing agent. Uses electricity (preferably renewable) to generate high-energy hydrogen ions (plasma). Advantages of Hydrogen Plasma Method Carbon-free: Byproduct is water, not CO₂. Energy efficient: ~18% less energy consumption. Emissions cut: Up to 84% reduction in direct CO₂ emissions. Faster & cleaner reaction kinetics due to reactive plasma. Produces high-purity ferronickel, reducing need for further refining. Strategic Focus on Laterite Ores Laterites: Abundant in tropical regions (e.g., India’s Odisha-Sukinda belt), but hard to process. Traditional methods favor high-grade sulphide ores (depleting fast). New process makes low-grade ores economically viable, reducing dependency on imports. Relevance for India Can leverage domestic laterite reserves, especially overburden in chromite mines. Supports India’s goals of: Net-zero emissions by 2070 Industrialisation & green infrastructure Reducing reliance on imported ores Challenges & Caveats Scalability: Industrial deployment requires high initial capital and robust renewable energy supply. Infrastructure demand: Setting up electric arc furnaces and hydrogen systems. Technical hurdles: Need for continuous oxygen supply at the melt interface. Further studies on thermodynamic and kinetic behavior essential. Ore applicability: May not suit all types of nickel ores. Conclusion Hydrogen plasma-based nickel extraction presents a transformative step toward sustainable metallurgy. Reduces the hidden carbon cost of clean energy technologies. With appropriate policy, funding, and R&D, it can help align industrial development with climate goals, especially for developing economies like India. Weather plays spoilsport with Shukla’s mission; NASA moves launch to tomorrow Mission Overview Mission: Axiom-4 (Ax-4), a private spaceflight mission to the ISS. Astronaut: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut on a commercial space mission. Launch Vehicle: SpaceX Falcon 9 with Dragon spacecraft. Launch Site: Launch Complex 39A, Kennedy Space Center, Florida. Mission Duration: Approx. 14 days on the ISS. Relevance : GS 3(Space) Launch Schedule History Originally planned for June 8, 2025. Postponed to June 10, and now further delayed to June 11, 2025. New launch time: 5:30 p.m. IST / 8 a.m. ET, June 11, 2025. Reason for Delay Adverse weather conditions, specifically high winds in the ascent corridor. Safety-first approach by NASA and SpaceX to ensure mission success and crew safety. Planned Activities on ISS Microgravity research. Technology demonstrations. Public outreach events. Scientific objectives are part of expanding commercial space activities and research. Crew Status Ax-4 crew, including Group Captain Shukla, is currently under quarantine as part of standard pre-launch protocol. Expected to dock at ISS on June 12 (originally June 11), depending on actual launch timing. Significance for India Marks a milestone in India’s space diplomacy and private sector participation. Enhances India’s collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. Builds momentum for India’s own Gaganyaan mission, which will be entirely indigenous. Challenges & Implications Multiple delays (3 times now) reflect the complexity and unpredictability of space launches. Underscores the importance of weather monitoring and risk assessment in modern space missions. Highlights SpaceX’s and NASA’s strict safety standards for human spaceflight. Foreign investors shift money out of Delhi to ‘promising’ Maharashtra FDI Trend Overview (2015–2025) FDI concentration remains high in India — top 5 States account for 75–90% of all FDI inflows. Significant reallocation of investor preference among these states over the last decade. Relevance : GS 3(FDI) Declining Share of Delhi 2015–16: Delhi had the highest FDI share at 32% (~$12.7 billion). 2024–25: Fell drastically to 12% (~$6 billion). Indicates relative loss of investor confidence, possibly due to slower infrastructure growth or policy uncertainties. Maharashtra’s Rise as FDI Magnet 2015–16: Accounted for 24% (~$9.5 billion) of FDI. 2024–25: Rose to 39% (~$19.6 billion), becoming the top FDI destination. Driven by: Mumbai’s financial ecosystem. Strong industrial base and logistics infrastructure. Policy stability and “predictable returns.” Karnataka’s Consistent Performance In top 5 for 9 of 10 years. Share increased from 10% (2015–16) to 13% (2024–25). Anchored by Bengaluru’s tech and innovation ecosystem. Gujarat’s Steady Improvement Share grew from 6% to 11% over the decade. Benefited from: Industrial corridor development. Investor-friendly policies. Strategic focus on manufacturing and exports. Tamil Nadu’s Decline FDI share dropped from 11% to 7% (2015–25). Yet, remained in the top 5 for 7 out of 10 years. Suggests relative stagnation compared to faster-growing states. Expert Insight: “Flight to Quality” Investors are more risk-averse amid global uncertainty. Shift toward mature, low-risk ecosystems with: World-class infrastructure. Proven policy frameworks. Stable regulatory environments. Maharashtra and Karnataka exemplify these “safe havens” for capital. Implications for India Widening regional disparity in FDI inflows. Need for Delhi and other lagging states to: Improve ease of doing business. Enhance infrastructure and governance. Create sector-specific investment policies. Govt. eases SEZ norms for chip, electronic units Policy Reforms Announced Relaxation of SEZ norms specifically for semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing. Objective: Boost high-tech manufacturing, attract capital-intensive industries, and reduce import dependence. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) ,GS 3(Minerals , Manufacturing) Key Amendments to SEZ Rules Minimum Land Requirement Reduced: Rule 5 amended: Minimum contiguous land area reduced from 50 hectares to 10 hectares. Aims to lower entry barriers and attract more investors. Permission to Sell Domestically: Rule 18 amended: SEZ units can now sell to the domestic market (DTA) after paying applicable duties. Shifts SEZs from being purely export-oriented to hybrid export-domestic supply hubs. Flexibility in Land Encumbrance: Rule 7 amended: SEZ land can be mortgaged or leased to government agencies; no need for encumbrance-free land. Helps firms access financing without regulatory bottlenecks. Major Investment Approvals Post-Reform Micron Semiconductor Technology India: To set up a ₹13,000 crore unit in Sanand, Gujarat. Hubballi Durable Goods Cluster Pvt. Ltd. (Aequs): To invest ₹100 crore in Dharwad, Karnataka. Total approved investment: ₹13,100 crore. Strategic and Economic Significance Semiconductors and electronics are: Capital-intensive, import-dependent, and have long gestation periods. India aims to: Build a resilient semiconductor ecosystem. Reduce reliance on foreign chip imports. Position itself as a global electronics manufacturing hub. Expected Benefits Encourages pioneering investments in high-tech sectors. Boosts Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat goals. Facilitates the creation of high-skilled jobs in manufacturing and R&D. Strengthens supply chain resilience in strategic sectors like semiconductors. Potential Challenges Ahead Timely infrastructure support and clearances. Ensuring availability of skilled manpower. Competitive policy support compared to China, Taiwan, or Vietnam.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 09 June 2025

Content : Central Consumer Protection Authority issues advisory to E-Commerce Platforms for self-audit within 3 months to detect Dark Patterns and ensure its resolution India has taken a proactive and forward-thinking approach to extreme heat risk management Central Consumer Protection Authority issues advisory to E-Commerce Platforms for self-audit within 3 months to detect Dark Patterns and ensure its resolution Overview of the Advisory Issued by: Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), under Department of Consumer Affairs. Date: 7 June 2025. Target: All e-commerce platforms operating in India. Purpose: Eliminate deceptive practices (Dark Patterns) to ensure consumer welfare and transparency. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) , GS 3(Cyberspace , E-commerce) Key Directives to E-Commerce Platforms Self-Audit Requirement: Platforms to conduct internal audits within 3 months. Goal: Identify and eliminate any Dark Patterns present on their interface. Self-Declaration Encouraged: Platforms should declare themselves compliant, based on audit outcomes. Aim: Foster consumer trust and a fair digital marketplace. Strict Advisory Against Deceptive Designs: Platforms must refrain from deploying misleading interfaces that affect consumer choices. Enforcement and Monitoring Notices Issued: CCPA has already served notices to platforms found in violation. Active Monitoring: CCPA is vigilantly tracking potential violations of the 2023 Guidelines. Identified instances of Dark Patterns already found on several platforms. Joint Working Group (JWG) Formation Purpose: Systematic identification and redressal of Dark Patterns. Composition: Representatives from: relevant Ministries, regulators, consumer organizations, and National Law Universities (NLUs). Mandate: Detect violations regularly. Share findings with the Department of Consumer Affairs. Suggest awareness and educational initiatives for consumers. Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023 Issued by: Department of Consumer Affairs. Objective: Protect consumer autonomy and ensure informed consent in digital environments. List of 13 Recognized Dark Patterns: False urgency – Fake time pressure Basket sneaking – Hidden extra items Confirm shaming – Guilt-based prompts Forced action – Mandatory tasks Subscription trap – Difficult  cancellation Interface interference – Misleading design Bait and switch – Offer then change Drip pricing – Hidden final costs Disguised advertisements – Ads as content Nagging – Repetitive prompts Trick wording – Confusing language SaaS billing – Unclear software charges Rogue malwares – Hidden harmful software Significance and Impact Reinforces digital consumer rights and fair trade practices. Encourages accountability and transparency among e-commerce entities. Reflects Government’s proactive approach to regulate the growing digital economy. India has taken a proactive and forward-thinking approach to extreme heat risk management Context: Dr. P. K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, highlighted India’s integrated and globally aligned approach to extreme heat risk governance at a UN session in Geneva, calling heatwaves a transboundary and systemic threat requiring collective global action. Relevance : GS 3(Disaster Management) Heatwaves as a Global and Systemic Crisis Declared as a transboundary and systemic risk—affecting public health, economy, and ecology. Particularly dangerous for densely populated urban areas. Aligns with the UN’s recognition of extreme heat as a global challenge.   India’s Leadership and Global Role Dr. Mishra welcomed the UNDRR’s Common Framework for Extreme Heat Risk Governance. Called for international cooperation in: Technological innovation, Data sharing, Joint research, Financing mechanisms. India committed to sharing expertise, tools, and institutional capacity with global partners. India’s Proactive National Strategy Under PM Modi’s leadership, India moved from reactive disaster response to proactive risk governance. National Guidelines for heatwave management developed by NDMA (2016, revised 2019). Decentralized implementation via Heat Action Plans (HAPs). Current National Coverage 250+ cities/districts across 23 heat-prone states have operational HAPs. These plans are supported through NDMA’s: Technical support, Advisory mechanisms, Institutional frameworks. Multi-Sectoral Whole-of-Society Approach Involves ministries of: Health, Urban Affairs, Agriculture, Labor, Power, Water, Education, Infrastructure. Collaboration with: Public health institutions, Civil society organizations, Research institutes and universities. Key Interventions and Best Practices Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan cited as a model for: Early warnings, Agency coordination, Community outreach. Initiatives include: Surveillance systems, Hospital preparedness, Mass awareness campaigns. Significant decline in heatwave-related mortality observed. Long-Term Mitigation Measures Focus on urban heat resilience and infrastructure adaptation: Cool roof technologies, Passive cooling centers, Urban greening, Revival of traditional water bodies. Integration of Urban Heat Island (UHI) assessments in city planning. Major Policy Shift in Funding National and State Disaster Mitigation Funds (SDMF) can now be used for heatwave mitigation. Encourages co-financing from: Local governments, Private sector, NGOs, Individuals. Promotes shared responsibility and sustainable solutions. Future Needs and Global Call to Action Urged development of: A localized heat-humidity index using real-time data. Culturally appropriate, affordable cooling technologies. Stressed equity concerns—women, children, elderly, and outdoor workers are most vulnerable. Emphasized role of schools in shaping climate-resilient behavior. Conclusion India is ready to be a global leader in extreme heat governance. Supports the creation of a Common Framework for knowledge, policy, and financing. Calls for a coordinated, inclusive, and forward-looking global effort.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 09 June 2025

Content : Judicial sensitivity to sentiments is a sign of regression Consultative regulation-making that should go further Judicial sensitivity to sentiments is a sign of regression Core Argument Indian judiciary is perceived to be shifting focus from protecting free speech to managing it. Courts increasingly prioritize societal sentiments and decorum alongside constitutional rights. Article 19(1)(a) rights are being interpreted with consideration of emotional and cultural contexts. Relevance: GS 2 (Judiciary, Liberty) Practice Question: “Judicial sensitivity to sentiments is leading to a quiet erosion of free speech in India.” Critically examine the role of the judiciary in upholding the constitutional guarantee of free speech in the context of recent trends and case laws. (250 words, 15 marks) Cases Highlighted Criticism of PM post-Operation Sindoor: FIR upheld citing “emotions of the nation.” Kamal Haasan’s language remark: Advised to apologize for hurting sentiments; focus on social impact over legal thresholds. Podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia case: Court questioned use of “vulgar” language based on societal norms. Professor Ali Khan’s critique of military deployment: Examined for possible provocative intent in academic speech. Rahul Gandhi Army remark case: Relief rejected; emphasis on protecting institutional reputation. Judicial Trends Observed Offence often equated with legal harm, broadening interpretation of restrictions. Courts at times act as arbiters of cultural and social norms. Apologies encouraged as a means of managing public sentiment. Limited intervention in quashing FIRs contributes to deterrent effects on speech. Chilling Effect The “chilling effect” doctrine is infrequently applied. Ambiguity in laws like sedition and public order provisions remains. Creates an environment favoring cautious and non-controversial speech. Principled Approach Suggested Speech restrictions should rely on clear legal criteria, not subjective sentiments. Apologies should be voluntary, not judicially mandated. Judiciary should focus on protecting free expression while balancing social interests. Broader Implications Validation of outrage may empower repeated legal actions. Judicial approach influences public confidence in constitutional freedoms. Free speech remains a vital pillar for democratic discourse. Conclusion Courts should uphold their constitutional role as protectors of free speech. Democracy thrives on robust dissent and debate, not only on harmony. Judicial sensitivity to sentiments requires careful balancing to avoid unintended constraints on liberty. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for educational and discussion purposes. Consultative regulation-making that should go further Context: RBI and SEBI recently issued frameworks to make regulation-making more transparent and consultative by publishing procedures, impact analyses, objectives, inviting public comments, and periodic reviews. Positive shift: These frameworks mark a welcome move toward openness, public engagement, and self-review in regulatory processes. Relevance : GS 2 (Governance and Constitution) and GS 3 (Economy and Financial Regulation). Practice Mains Question:“Recent reforms by financial regulators like RBI and SEBI towards consultative regulation-making mark a positive step for transparency and accountability. However, these reforms need to be strengthened to ensure effective rule of law. Discuss the significance of consultative regulation-making, challenges faced, and suggest measures to improve regulatory processes in India.” (250 words, 15 marks) Need for economic rationale: Current RBI and SEBI frameworks require impact analysis and stated objectives but do not explicitly mandate identification of market failures or economic justification. Effective regulation should clearly explain the economic problem addressed, expected benefits, alternatives considered, and monitoring mechanisms. International examples (US, EU, IFSCA) mandate detailed cost-benefit and problem identification to guide sound policy. Accountability gaps: Historically, RBI and SEBI have limited public consultations (e.g., RBI at 2.4% of circulars, SEBI less than 50% of regulations). Transparency in how public feedback is considered remains weak; often summaries of comments are confidential. Annual reporting on consultations, responses, accepted/rejected suggestions, and their rationale would enhance accountability. Periodic review importance: RBI and SEBI should define clear, frequent timelines for regulation reviews to ensure relevance and effectiveness. IFSCA mandates a three-year review cycle, setting a useful benchmark. Challenges: Limited state capacity may hinder comprehensive implementation of impact assessments and consultative procedures. Piecemeal reforms may lack consistency and efficacy without a broader, uniform legal framework. Recommendation: Consider a central legislation akin to the US Administrative Procedure Act for India to standardize regulatory processes across agencies, ensuring uniform transparency, consultation, impact analysis, and reviews. Such a framework exists in countries like UK and Canada as agency guidelines. Conclusion: RBI and SEBI’s reforms are a good start but must be strengthened with clearer economic rationales, stronger accountability, regular reviews, and ideally, an institutionalized legal framework to uphold rule of law in regulation-making. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for educational and discussion purposes.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 09 June 2025

Content : India and Mongolia hold joint military exercise to enhance interoperability Diet is both cause and cure for MASLD, a liver condition: experts at The Hindu-Naruvi event New study makes controversial weather-tweaking idea more realistic Defence production in India receives a fillip What is the significance of the Census? How is India planning to localise EV manufacturing? Bridging health cover, mental healthcare in India India and Mongolia hold joint military exercise to enhance interoperability Key Highlights Exercise Name: Nomadic Elephant – 17th Edition Dates: May 31 – June 13, 2025 Location: Special Forces Training Centre, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia Participants: Indian Army and Mongolian Armed Forces Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Objectives & Focus Areas Enhancing Interoperability: Improve coordination and cooperation between Indian and Mongolian forces. Operational Focus: Counter-terrorism operations Precision sniping Non-conventional warfare in semi-urban and mountainous terrain Under UN Mandate: Simulated peacekeeping operations modeled on real-world multinational missions. Strategic Significance Bilateral Defence Ties: Strengthens growing India-Mongolia defence cooperation. Geopolitical Relevance: Mongolia is strategically located between China and Russia. India’s engagement signals deepening security presence in East and Central Asia under its “Act East” and “Extended Neighbourhood” policy. Alternating Venue Format: Conducted annually, alternating between India and Mongolia. Last held in Umroi, Meghalaya (July 2024). Operational and Tactical Gains Terrain Familiarization: Training in complex terrain enhances high-altitude warfare capabilities. Best Practices Exchange: Mutual learning on counter-insurgency tactics and sniping techniques. UN Peacekeeping Readiness: Enhances the ability to operate in multinational settings and high-stakes environments. People-to-People & Cultural Exchange Camaraderie Building: Emphasis on cultural understanding and military bonding between troops. Confidence Building Measure (CBM): Strengthens trust and long-term collaboration beyond military. Diet is both cause and cure for MASLD, a liver condition: experts at The Hindu-Naruvi event What is MASLD? Full form: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (formerly NAFLD). Nature: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease linked to metabolic issues and lifestyle. Silent condition: Often asymptomatic until liver damage becomes severe. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues,Health ) Prevalence & Risk Global incidence: ~30% India: ~40% population affected; 53% remain undiagnosed. High-risk groups: People with obesity, Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance Those with hypertension, high cholesterol, elevated liver enzymes Family history of heart/liver disease Symptoms & Progression Early symptoms: Fatigue, mild abdominal pain (often ignored). Disease timeline (if untreated): 15% may develop steatohepatitis (inflammation) in ~7 years. 5% may progress to cirrhosis in ~25 years. Small % may develop liver cancer. Diagnosis & Screening Recommended tools: Blood tests, liver enzymes Ultrasound every 6 months FibroScan every 1–3 years (non-invasive liver stiffness test) Why screening matters: Early detection helps prevent complications and reduce long-term health burden. Diet: Cause and Cure Contributing factors: Overeating, poor-quality diet, inactivity. Reversal strategies: Calorie deficit and portion control Protein-rich, low-carb diet Avoid sugary, ultra-processed foods Adequate hydration and sleep Lifestyle Modifications Exercise: Brisk walking, cycling, jogging, swimming Minimum 12 weeks of consistency needed for visible benefits Avoid: Smoking, alcohol Fasting: Intermittent fasting can help but should be doctor-supervised, especially with co-morbidities Expert Advice Weight management is key. Lifestyle is the best medicine. Customisation is critical – No one-size-fits-all approach. New study makes controversial weather-tweaking idea more realistic Context Climate crisis deepens: Global greenhouse gas emissions are rising; mitigation efforts are inconsistent. Technological fix: Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI) proposed as a geoengineering method to cool the planet. Controversial nature: Global side-effects, ethical concerns, and governance challenges make SAI a divisive topic. Relevance : GS 3(Technology, Disaster Management ) What is Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI)? Method: Injecting tiny reflective aerosols (e.g., sulphur dioxide) into the stratosphere (~20 km altitude) to reflect sunlight and cool Earth. Inspired by volcanoes: Mimics natural aerosol emissions from volcanic eruptions like Mount Pinatubo (1991) which cooled Earth temporarily. Objective: Directly reduce solar radiation reaching Earth’s surface to offset global warming. Key Innovation in the New Study New approach: Use of existing aircraft (like modified Boeing 777F) to inject aerosols at lower altitudes (~13 km) in polar and extratropical regions. Advantage: Lower technical barriers Cheaper and faster to implement Avoids the need for specially designed high-altitude aircraft Modeling Results Climate simulation tool used: UK Earth System Model 1 (UKESM1) Findings: Injecting 12 million tonnes of SO₂/year at 13 km in spring/summer of both hemispheres may cool Earth by 0.6°C. To cool by 1°C, need 21 million tonnes annually at 13 km. More efficient: Only 7.6 million tonnes needed if injected higher in subtropics. Risks and Challenges Scientific risks: Ozone depletion, acid rain Delayed recovery of ozone hole Uneven cooling (polar > tropical regions) Social and geopolitical concerns: Potential misuse or unilateral deployment Could divert attention from emissions reductions Global impact: One country’s action affects all Governance dilemma: No global framework exists to regulate such interventions 2022: Scholars called for moratorium on solar geoengineering R&D citing fairness and control issues Is It a Solution? Temporary measure only – Cannot reverse root causes of climate change Could create “moral hazard” – Mask warming and reduce urgency to cut emissions Needs more transparent global dialogue, public accountability, and regulation Defence production in India receives a fillip Background India has long depended on defence imports, but recent years have seen growth in indigenous production and exports. Operation Sindoor (India’s cross-border military action) triggered renewed interest and confidence in India’s domestic defence capabilities. Relevance : GS 3(Defence) Key Trends & Developments  Stock Market Performance Defence stocks rose 21% in the week of Operation Sindoor (May 2024), compared to 3.1% gain in Nifty50 index. Following week: Defence stocks up 5.4%, while Nifty50 declined 0.5%. This signals a market perception shift in favour of homegrown defence capacity. Record Defence Production FY24 (2023-24): ₹1.3 lakh crore — a 17% growth YoY. Double-digit growth since FY22; only contraction was in FY20 (-2.5%). FY25 (till Dec 2024): ₹90,000 crore, with full-year target at ₹1.6 lakh crore. Soaring Defence Exports FY23 & FY24: Exports exceeded ₹20,000 crore — 2x of pre-FY20 figures. Export items: small arms, protective gear, artillery. FY25 target: ₹30,000 crore.Private Sector & MSME Involvement Private Sector Growth Private players (e.g., Paras Defence, Bharat Forge) had ~20% share in production (FY17–FY24). FY25 share rises to ~24%. Private firms lead in defence exports, due to higher export authorisations. MSMEs’ Role MSMEs supply crucial components to larger manufacturers. FY25 procurement from MSMEs: ₹13,000 crore, over 2x the target. FY18–FY20: only ₹3,000 crore worth orders. Government mandates ensure MSME inclusion in procurement. Defence Budgetary Trends Despite production and export growth, defence spending’s share in total govt. expenditure is declining. However, India’s defence-to-GDP ratio is still higher than many emerging markets, indicating strategic priority. What is the significance of the Census? Historical Context The Census is a decennial exercise — conducted every 10 years since 1881 (first synchronous census under W.C. Plowden). It is governed by The Census Act, 1948 and is a Union List subject (Centre’s responsibility). Post-Independence, it has been held without a break from 1951 to 2011; 2021 Census was postponed due to COVID-19. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues) How the Census is Conducted Two Phases since 1971: House-listing Phase (5–6 months): Captures household amenities, structure, fuel, appliances. Population Enumeration Phase (Feb): Captures individual details like age, gender, caste (SC/ST), occupation, education, etc. Staff: Central coordination with local-level implementation via teachers & local officials. Significance of the Upcoming Census (2027 Reference Date) Inclusion of Caste Enumeration: First time since 1931 (for Hindus). Will enumerate caste data for all Hindu groups — long-standing demand from civil society and Opposition parties. Aims to inform affirmative action and welfare targeting. Foundation for Delimitation Exercise (Post-2026 Freeze Ends): Delimitation of Lok Sabha and Assembly seats based on updated population data. Could change the political representation balance across states. Enabler for Women’s Reservation (33% quota): The Women’s Reservation Act (2023) mandates reservation in legislatures after the Census and delimitation. 2027 Census is critical for its implementation by 2029. Concerns of Southern and Smaller States Fear of Political Marginalisation: States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and northeastern states have controlled population growth. Delimitation based purely on population could reduce their Lok Sabha seat share. Demand: Freeze on seat allocation or compensatory mechanisms to protect political voice. Way Forward Caste enumeration must be systematic, credible, and transparent. Wide inter-state consensus needed before delimitation to avoid federal friction. Women’s reservation must be operationalised through this Census and used for 2029 elections. Avoid hasty implementation — consider legal, political, and demographic implications. How is India planning to localise EV manufacturing? Policy Highlights – Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India Customs duty reduced from 70–100% to 15% on completely built electric 4-wheelers priced ≥ $35,000. Valid for 5 years, with annual cap of 8,000 units at concessional duty. Eligibility tied to: Minimum ₹4,150 crore investment within 3 years. Localisation mandates: 25% domestic manufacturing in 3 years, 50% in 5 years. Total duty foregone capped at ₹6,484 crore. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Technology) Concerns Over Ecosystem Impact Critics fear policy favours foreign capital without guaranteed technology transfer. Experts like Shouvik Chakraborty (UMass) argue: India must avoid becoming a mere component assembly hub. EV ecosystem building needs R&D, innovation, and skilling, like China and South Korea. Dinesh Abrol (JNU) notes no foreign firm has ever built another country’s ecosystem voluntarily. Success in China/S. Korea came from state-led innovation ecosystems and strategic industrial policy. Market Structure and Policy Mismatch EV sales breakdown in FY25 (FADA data): 7.8% of total vehicle sales were EVs. Electric 3-wheelers: 57% of their segment. Electric 2-wheelers: 6.1% of segment. Passenger 4-wheelers: Only 2.6%. Commercial EVs: 0.9%. India is the largest market for electric 3-wheelers globally (IEA 2024). Critics warn that policy emphasis on high-end 4-wheelers may overlook mass transport and low-cost EV segments. Domestic Industry Concerns Tata Motors opposed Tesla’s duty cut proposal: Said it would “vitiate” the local investment environment. Asked for more policy support for early-stage Indian EV companies. 2024 production data (IEA EV Outlook): Tata & Mahindra made over 80% of India’s EV cars. <15% of EVs imported (mainly Chinese) due to high duties and competitive local models. Key Takeaways The scheme aims to attract foreign EV majors, but must balance domestic industry protection, technology transfer, and ecosystem building. Focus should expand beyond premium 4-wheelers to cover two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and public EV infrastructure. Local capacity-building, innovation, and mass-market EV adoption must remain central to India’s EV future. Bridging health cover, mental healthcare in India Mental Health: A Rising Concern 1 in 5 adults globally suffer from mental health issues. WHO estimates >$1 trillion productivity loss annually due to untreated mental illness. Post-pandemic awareness has boosted global and Indian attention to mental well-being. Relevance : GS 2(Health ,Mental Health) Policy and Legal Framework in India Mental Healthcare Act, 2017: Recognised mental illness at par with physical illness. IRDAI directive: Mandated mental health coverage in all health insurance plans. Result: Inclusion of mental health in India’s mainstream health protection framework. New Trends in Insurance OPD benefits in health plans now include therapy, counselling, psychiatric consultations — key for mental health, rarely requiring hospitalisation. Mental health-related claims up by 30–50% in past 2–3 years. Indicates a positive behavioural shift: More people seeking help earlier and using insurance to pay for it. Demographic Patterns Young adults (25–35) are: Leading in mental health-related searches, policy uptake, and claims. Comfortable with app-based therapy, online consultations. Top conditions claimed: Anxiety (30–35%), Depression (25–30%), Workplace stress, Insomnia. Mostly early to moderate cases, suggesting rising comfort with early intervention. Women & Mental Health Insurance Women more likely to buy policies with mental health benefits. Driven by life-stage transitions like: Pregnancy Menopause Caregiving roles Reflects a cultural shift toward self-care and emotional well-being. Geographical Spread Tier 1 cities dominate with over 50% of mental health policy uptake. Due to better access, digital literacy, corporate wellness policies. Tier 2 cities now showing growing interest, indicating broader national awareness. Workplace Evolution Companies now offer: Wellness programs Access to therapists Stress management workshops Mental health becoming part of employee benefits and corporate culture. Challenges & Way Forward Despite inclusion, awareness and utilisation remain low. Many unaware their policies include OPD therapy or cashless mental health services. Next priorities: Education: Improve awareness on mental health coverage. Accessibility: Ensure services reach beyond urban elites. Empathy: Normalise mental healthcare as everyday healthcare. Goal: Make mental healthcare inclusive, accessible, and normalised.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 06 June 2025

Content: India Leads Global Fight on World Environment Day 2025 with the theme: ‘One Nation, One Mission: End Plastic Pollution’ Campaign intensifies for the Fight to End Plastic Pollution on World Environment Day India Leads Global Fight on World Environment Day 2025 with the theme: ‘One Nation, One Mission: End Plastic Pollution’ Theme & Vision 2025 Theme: “One Nation, One Mission: End Plastic Pollution” PM Modi emphasized India’s cultural ethos of environmental balance and early action on plastic pollution. Aimed at a “Whole of Government & Whole of Society” approach. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Key Announcements & Initiatives National Plastic Waste Reporting Portal launched: Enables online tracking of plastic waste from collection to disposal. Covers all ULBs and Panchayats—ensuring transparency and accountability. National Plastic Pollution Reduction Campaign launched: Targets Tiger Reserves, urban & rural areas under Swachhta Hi Sewa. Special emphasis on curbing single-use plastic in Govt offices. Includes Hackathon, youth engagement activities (poems, skits, slogans). National Expo on Eco-Alternatives: 150+ startups, recyclers, local bodies showcased innovations. Dedicated pavilion for Mission LiFE. Student art competition exhibits highlighted. Publications Released Government Initiatives on Ending Plastic Pollution – showcases multi-stakeholder efforts. Compendium on Eco-Alternatives to Banned SUPs – a directory of eco-friendly options. Awards & Participation 21 winners awarded under Ideas4LiFE across 7 themes. 69,000 events, 21 lakh people participated nationwide in pre-campaign month. Technical Sessions Highlights Local Bodies’ Role: Shared best practices from urban & rural waste management. Focus on Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen Phase II). Startups & Innovation: Showcased eco-packaging, milk delivery without plastic, and deinking tech. EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility): Discussed reuse of rigid plastics, chemical recycling, and Deposit Refund Systems. Takeaways India positioning itself as a global leader in plastic pollution reduction. Push towards circular economy via innovation, regulations, and behavioural change. Blend of policy, tech, public participation, and inter-governmental cooperation. Campaign intensifies for the Fight to End Plastic Pollution on World Environment Day Context & Theme World Environment Day (June 5) 2025 theme: Ending Plastic Pollution Globally Builds on Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0 (SBM-U 2.0) focusing on sustainable urban plastic waste management. Campaign duration: June 1–5, 2025, aimed at public awareness, action, and behavioural change. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Plastic Pollution Challenge Plastic constitutes 46% of dry waste in urban India. Single-use plastics (SUP) and thin plastic bags banned progressively since 1999 and July 2022 respectively. Urbanization exacerbates plastic waste challenges. SBM-U 2.0 emphasizes reduction, segregation, and eco-friendly alternatives. Key Campaign Initiatives Plastic Out, Fabric In: Nearly 2,400 kiosks set up in cities distributing over 3 lakh cloth bags via vending machines in high-traffic areas. Plastic collection drives conducted at Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (RRR) Centres. Launch of Swachh Bharat Harit Bharat green pledge encouraging sustainable lifestyle commitments. City-Level Impactful Actions Mira Bhayandar: “Thaila Bank” converts old clothes into reusable cloth bags by SHG women. Pimpri Chinchwad: Citywide cycle rallies promoting SUP-free future and green pledges. Chhattisgarh: Didi Jhola Bank launched by Gurur Shiv Shakti SHG offering eco-friendly bags at bus stand markets. Lucknow: Over 10,000 volunteers participated in Gomti river cleanup. Indore: ‘RRR Slum Haat’ distributed essentials from RRR centers and encouraged plastic alternatives among shopkeepers. NDMC (Delhi): Hosted Recycle Mela, launched e-carts and wet-cleaning trolleys, promoted plastic-free shops. Jamshedpur: Plog Run and cleanup collected 300+ kg plastic waste for processing. Raipur: Deputy CM launched Plastic-Free Campaign supporting Swachh Bharat Harit Bharat. Anantnag: Ongoing ‘Plastic Bhiksha’ drive with door-to-door SUP collection by sanitation workers. Overall Takeaways Multi-city, multi-stakeholder engagement showcasing collective civic action. Strong focus on sustainable alternatives (cloth bags) replacing plastic. Emphasis on women’s SHGs empowering eco-friendly solutions. Integration of awareness, technology (vending machines), and grassroots activism. Reinforcement of Swachh Bharat Mission’s role in driving urban sustainability. Wide citizen participation fostering long-term behavioural change.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 06 June 2025

Content: Injustice in the delay The university versus constitutionally protected speech A Eurocentric reset, a gateway for India Injustice in the delay The Delay and Its Impact Initial Delay: The decadal Census originally scheduled for 2021 was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Further Delay: Now expected to conclude by March 2027, the extended postponement appears politically motivated. Governance Impact: The absence of up-to-date demographic data has weakened policy planning and social welfare delivery, especially for vulnerable groups. Social Justice Concerns: Delay undermines rights–based entitlements tied to population data (e.g., food security, pensions, housing). Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Social Issues) Practice Question : “The prolonged delay in conducting the Census in India raises concerns of both administrative inefficiency and democratic deficit.” Critically examine the implications of the delayed Census on governance, social justice, and federalism.(250 Words) Digital Administration of Census First-ever Digital Census: Will enable faster data collection and improved access to population-level data. Pros: Can make data more dynamic, real-time, and useful for rapid decision-making. Risks: Heightened concerns over data privacy, digital exclusion, and cybersecurity threats. Trust Building: Transparency in methodology, data protection protocols, and citizen awareness are crucial. Demographic Crossroads Dual Pressure: India faces challenges of both youth bulge and ageing population. Regional Imbalance: Stark variations in fertility rates, literacy, and health metrics across States necessitate updated data. Policy Need: Fresh census data is essential for targeted interventions, infrastructure planning, and workforce management. Caste Enumeration Historical Shift: First time since 1931 that caste will be explicitly enumerated. Positive: Can lead to better data-driven affirmative action and resource allocation. Negative: Risk of further social fragmentation or politicization of caste identities. Delimitation Linkage Crucial Constitutional Link: The next inter-State delimitation exercise is mandated to follow the first Census after 2026. Current Scenario: Parliamentary seat allocation still based on the 1971 Census. Concern of Southern States: States with lower population growth (e.g., Kerala, Tamil Nadu) may lose representation if population is the sole criterion. Centre’s Silence: No clarity yet from the government on how it will address these federal concerns. Political Ramifications Perception of Bias: Delay in Census is increasingly speculated as a strategic move by the Ruling Party to maintain or increase representation for high-growth Hindi-speaking states. Call for Consensus: Centre must build bipartisan trust on delimitation and reassure States about fair representation. Democratic Integrity: Prolonged delay without transparent intent can erode public faith in democratic and federal processes. Conclusion The announcement of the Census is necessary and overdue, but the delay raises issues of justice, transparency, and equity. Both technical and political dimensions of the Census must be handled with care to uphold constitutional principles and social harmony. The university versus constitutionally protected speech Historical and Philosophical Foundations of Free Speech John Milton’s Areopagitica (1644): Argued against government licensing of publications, emphasizing liberty of thought and expression. Speech as Human Dignity: Free expression is central to individual autonomy, dignity, and fulfillment. Truth as Public Good: Censorship assumes the state’s infallibility; real truth emerges through open debate. Relevance : GS 2(Education , Governance) Practice Question : “Universities must be the foremost protectors of free thought and expression in a democracy.” Discuss in light of increasing restrictions on academic freedom and constitutionally protected speech in India.(250 Words) Concerns Over Institutional Censorship in Academia Academic Voices Silenced: Professors are increasingly required to seek prior permission to express views, undermining intellectual freedom. Expression ≠ Activism: Mere dissent or opinion expression should not be labelled as political activism by university authorities. Historic Precedent: Even political involvement was once acceptable in academia. Role of Courts and Constitutional Safeguards Protected Speech: Courts must uphold constitutionally guaranteed freedom of expression, as per past pro-free speech judgments. Case References: Texas v. Johnson (1989): US Supreme Court protected flag burning as free speech. Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India (2020): Reaffirmed Internet access as a component of free speech and emphasized proportionality in restrictions. Dr. Janet Jeyapaul v. SRM University (2015): Private universities performing public functions are ‘state’ and subject to Article 14. Universities as Sites of Free Thought Ancient Indian Tradition: Thinkers like Aryabhata, Chanakya, and Charaka thrived in state-independent gurukuls. Modern Crisis: Today’s universities are over-regulated and underfunded, inhibiting free intellectual inquiry. Suffocation Hampers Scholarship: Controlled environments discourage creativity and prevent meaningful academic contribution. Democracy and Speech Speech Enables Choice: Without access to all views, democratic choice is compromised. Marketplace of Ideas: Truth competes and prevails in an open forum (Holmes doctrine). Fake News Era: More voices are needed, not fewer, to allow the public to discern truth from falsehood. Limits of Free Speech — Constitutional Clarity Not Absolute: Article 19(2) allows reasonable restrictions only on defined grounds: Sovereignty & integrity, security of state, public order, decency/morality, foreign relations, defamation, incitement to offence. Legislation Required: Restrictions must be imposed only through law, not via executive or institutional diktats. Proportionality Doctrine: Any restriction must be necessary, least intrusive, and proportionate — with burden of proof on the state. Implications for Private Institutions No Parallel Censorship: Private institutions can’t impose restrictions outside Article 19(2); regulatory constraints don’t justify silencing faculty. Education ≠ Business: SC reiterates that education is a noble occupation — not profit-making, thus must respect constitutional norms. Conclusion and Way Forward Freedom is Foundational: Free speech is the soul of democracy and the university. Support, Not Suppression: Institutions should support faculty within constitutional bounds to promote a culture of robust debate. Celebrate Diversity of Opinions: Universities must live up to their name — a universe of ideas — and not enforce intellectual conformity. A Eurocentric reset, a gateway for India Overview of the U.K.-EU Reset The new U.K.-EU agreement under PM Keir Starmer signals a reset in cooperation on: Food standards, fishing rights Defence, border coordination Though appearing Eurocentric, this reset holds strategic significance for India in trade, diplomacy, migration, and soft power. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : “The U.K.-EU realignment presents India with both opportunities and strategic dilemmas.” Analyse the impact of the renewed U.K.-EU cooperation on India’s trade, diplomacy, and migration policies.(250 Words) Implications for Indian Exporters FY24 Export Data: India-EU: $86 billion India-U.K.: $12 billion Post-Brexit Challenge: Dual regulatory regimes in the U.K. and EU raised compliance costs and complexity. Reset Advantage: A harmonised regulatory framework could simplify procedures in pharma, textiles, seafood, and agro-exports. India supplies 25% of the U.K.’s generic drugs; unified approval can cut costs and delays. Seafood Exports: Worth ₹60,524 crore (~$7.38B), may benefit if standards align — though SMEs may struggle with tighter regulations. Policy Response Needed: Strengthen support schemes: RoDTEP, PLI Build capacity among MSMEs to comply with emerging standards. Strategic and Geopolitical Opportunities Foreign Policy Convergence: Renewed U.K.-EU coordination on defence and Indo-Pacific aligns with India’s strategic interests. Existing Frameworks: EU-India Strategic Partnership (2025 Roadmap) U.K.-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2022) India’s Defence Ties: France (trade: $15.1B in 2024-25), Germany, and U.K. are critical for naval and tech collaboration. Multilateral Impact: Potential cohesive Western support for India at UN, G20, WTO Opportunity to engage with the West as a bloc in tackling climate change, digital reforms, and global governance. Talent Mobility and Indian Diaspora Indian Diaspora: Largest globally; strong presence in both U.K. and EU. Over 1.1 lakh Indian student visas issued by U.K. in 2024. Mobility Benefits: Post-Brexit restrictions hurt access to EU markets. U.K.-EU alignment may lead to partial reintegration, enabling smoother mobility for professionals. Could enhance India’s bilateral migration pacts with Germany, France, Portugal under a broader regional framework. Strategic Takeaways for India Rare Window of Opportunity: Economic: Liberalised trade and reduced barriers Diplomatic: Coordinated partnerships with Europe Migration: Integrated talent corridor Call to Action for India: Fast-track export ecosystem reforms Upgrade logistics, infrastructure, and compliance capacity Assertively engage in global governance platforms Use soft power and G20 leadership to amplify role in Global South diplomacy Conclusion The U.K.-EU reset, while centred in Europe, presents India with: A chance to streamline exports Deepen defence ties Boost skilled migration Strengthen global presence India must respond strategically, swiftly, and confidently to capitalise on this geopolitical recalibration.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 06 June 2025

Content : Trump revives controversial travel ban against 12 nations UMEED portal set to go live, Telangana Waqf Board ‘waiting for clarity’ on managing properties Is IBC an effective resolution tool? AI’s unchecked ascent: How big tech is outpacing the regulatory rulebook Dassault Aviation ties up with Tata for Rafale fighter fuselage production in India Digital Census to speed up enumeration, aid policies with timely and accurate data: Centre Trump revives controversial travel ban against 12 nations Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Stated Justification Triggered by a flamethrower attack at a Jewish protest in Colorado. Suspect alleged to be an illegal immigrant, prompting concerns over security loopholes. Exemptions: Athletes from these countries participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are exempt. Geopolitical and Diplomatic Implications 7 out of 12 fully banned countries are in Africa: African Union strongly criticized the move, citing damage to: Educational exchange Commercial relations Diplomatic engagement People-to-people connectivity May cause further alienation of African and Muslim-majority nations. Domestic and Legal Ramifications Echoes Trump’s 2017 travel ban, which faced strong legal opposition and multiple lawsuits. Civil rights groups likely to challenge the order in court again. Raises questions about immigration policy continuity and targeted discrimination. Economic & Social Impact Potentially affects: Students, scholars, and researchers from banned countries Migrant workers and families seeking reunification Tech and healthcare sectors relying on skilled migrants from these regions Could lead to a decline in U.S. soft power and educational appeal globally. Political Strategy Aligns with Trump’s “America First” narrative and hardline immigration stance. Likely aimed at consolidating support among his conservative voter base ahead of electoral milestones. May serve as a distraction tactic from domestic controversies (e.g., Harvard crackdown). Potential Repercussions May escalate anti-U.S. sentiment in affected regions. Could strain bilateral ties and cooperation in areas like: Counterterrorism Climate diplomacy Global health initiatives May backfire by fueling extremist propaganda. UMEED portal set to go live, Telangana Waqf Board ‘waiting for clarity’ on managing properties About the UMEED Portal UMEED stands for Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development. Initiative by the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs. Aims to collate documents related to waqf properties for better management and transparency. Scheduled to go live imminently with a six-month window for uploading documents. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) Concerns from Telangana State Waqf Board (TGSWB) TGSWB is still awaiting clear guidelines on: What documents are required. Which formats or types will be accepted. Uncertainty over historical properties: Many Qutb Shahi-era mosques lack formal documentation. Board unsure how to handle such legacy cases on the portal. Technical and Operational Concerns Portal to follow a three-tier approval system: Mutawalli uploads property documents (e.g., gazette notifications). TGSWB officer verifies submissions. CEO of TGSWB grants final approval. Previous online management system to be discontinued. No data migration from old portal to new one. Raises concerns over loss of existing digital records. Legal and Procedural Issues TGSWB suggests Centre should have waited for the Supreme Court judgment related to Waqf property management before rollout. The premature launch could lead to confusion or legal inconsistencies in handling waqf property rights. Steps Taken by TGSWB Actively collecting and updating documentation. CEO has reached out to government agencies for official property papers. Field staff deployed to obtain and verify waqf records. Broader Implications Highlights the gap between central policy rollout and state-level preparedness. Risks of alienating religious institutions due to lack of consultation or clarity. Raises issues of digital transition in governance without adequate groundwork or coordination. Is IBC an effective resolution tool? Why was IBC introduced? Enacted in 2016 as India’s first comprehensive bankruptcy law. Aimed to: Shift control from debtors to creditors. Ensure time-bound resolutions (within 330 days). Improve creditor recovery and reduce judicial delays. Replace fragmented, inefficient earlier mechanisms. Relevance : GS 3(Banking ) ,GS 2(Governance) Impact on Borrower Behaviour & Credit Discipline Led to a cultural shift in how borrowers respond to financial distress. Borrowers now show proactive distress resolution due to credible threat of insolvency. Supreme Court remark: “The defaulter’s paradise is lost.” Over 30,000 cases settled before admission, covering defaults worth₹13.78 lakh crore. Study by IIM-Bangalore found: Reduction in cost of debt for distressed firms. Improved corporate governance (more independent directors). Credit discipline significantly improved. IBC as a Recovery Tool Dominant route for bank recoveries in FY 2023–24 (48% of total recoveries). Recovery rate of 32.8% on admitted claims. Resolutions fetched over 170.1% of liquidation value. Resolution plans achieved 93.4% of fair value on average. Out of total cases, 2,758 went into liquidation, but 10 companies were resolved for every 5 liquidated. Challenges Facing IBC Judicial delays at NCLT/NCLAT slow down the resolution process. Cases often get caught in extended litigation, risking asset value erosion. Lack of clarity in non-traditional enterprise defaults (IP valuation, tech assets, employee dues). No data migration from earlier digital systems into UMEED-like platforms. Post-Resolution Uncertainty Bhushan Steel verdict reignited fear of judicial reversals after resolution implementation. Such reversals threaten commercial finality, reducing investor confidence. Risk: Applicants may hesitate to invest in distressed assets due to lack of certainty. Way Forward Strengthen tribunal infrastructure (faster benches, trained staff). Institutionalize pre-packaged insolvency for faster resolution. Ensure judicial restraint in re-evaluating commercial decisions post-resolution. Build a more future-ready IBC that accommodates: Startups Digital and IP-heavy firms Service-based economies Conclusion The IBC has been a game-changer for India’s insolvency landscape. While it has improved credit discipline and recovery outcomes, its success depends on balancing judicial oversight with commercial pragmatism. As India moves toward a $5 trillion economy, a robust, predictable, and evolving insolvency framework is essential. AI’s unchecked ascent: How big tech is outpacing the regulatory rulebook Rapid Growth of AI by Tech Giants Major players like OpenAI, Meta, Google, Microsoft, and Anthropic are advancing AI at an unprecedented pace. Frequent model upgrades and wider public deployments signal a competitive AI arms race. Their AI innovations are powered by massive datasets — often scraped from the internet or collected from users. Relevance : GS 3(Technology) Data Practices Under Scrutiny Tech giants have been repeatedly accused of violating user privacy: Google’s Incognito Mode case resulted in a $7.8 billion-valued settlement. Google also paid $1.4 billion for illegal location and biometric tracking. Meta faced similar charges over misuse of biometric data. OpenAI faces lawsuits from authors, publishers, and media houses (e.g., NYT, Ziff Davis) over copyright violations in training its LLMs. The Problem with Settlements Out-of-court settlements allow companies to avoid admitting guilt or setting legal precedent. This emboldens Big Tech, as they sidestep meaningful regulatory consequences while continuing business as usual. Unchecked Innovation vs. Sluggish Regulation Despite mounting lawsuits, AI deployment continues largely unhindered. Regulatory systems are struggling to catch up or lack clarity on foundational AI issues. Conventional legal constraints appear ineffective in curbing the rapid AI expansion. Global Regulatory Landscape European Union: GDPR enforces strong data rights and steep penalties. Meta was fined under the Digital Markets Act. The AI Act, targeting AI governance, will be implemented by August 2025. EU also acting against Chinese firms (e.g., TikTok, SHEIN) over unlawful data transfers. India: Enacted the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. Aims to balance data protection and innovation, seeking global AI leadership while building regulatory capacity. China: Enforces strict data localization and privacy laws. Simultaneously promotes AI development by local tech giants, backed by the state. Key Concerns Foundational tension: AI models need vast data, while legal and ethical systems demand limits. Risk of user privacy and public interest being treated as afterthoughts, rather than guiding principles. Courts and regulators are reactive, not proactive — playing catch-up. Core Insight AI development is outpacing regulation across jurisdictions. While Big Tech pushes the frontiers of AI, legal guardrails remain underdeveloped or weakly enforced. This gap risks undermining user rights, IP protections, and societal safeguards. Conclusion The AI innovation cycle led by Big Tech is moving too fast for the regulatory apparatus. Without strong, enforceable, and anticipatory regulation, AI’s ascent may compromise fundamental rights and public trust. There is an urgent need for globally coordinated, future-ready AI governance frameworks. Dassault Aviation ties up with Tata for Rafale fighter fuselage production in India Overview of the Agreement Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. (TASL) have signed four Production Transfer Agreements. The partnership aims to manufacture Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage sections in Hyderabad, India. This is meant not only for Indian requirements but also for global markets. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security ,Economy , Defence) Significance of the Move Marks the first time Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. Positions India as a critical node in the global aerospace supply chain. Signals deepening industrial trust between France and India, especially in the defense and strategic sector. Production and Capacity Tata’s Hyderabad facility will manufacture: Lateral rear fuselage shells Complete rear section Central fuselage Front section First fuselages expected by 2028. Facility capacity: Up to two complete fuselages per month. Implications for Indian Aerospace Industry Boosts domestic defense manufacturing, aligned with ‘Make in India’ and Atmanirbhar Bharat goals. Enhances TASL’s role as a key aerospace and defense manufacturing partner. Likely to generate high-skilled jobs and promote technology transfer in precision aerospace engineering. Strategic and Geopolitical Relevance Strengthens the India-France strategic defense partnership. Enhances India’s self-reliance in fighter jet components and reduces dependence on foreign imports. Could serve as a template for future high-end defense collaborations with other nations. Statements from Leadership Dassault CEO Eric Trappier: This is a decisive step to build an Indian supply chain that aligns with global quality and competitiveness standards. TASL CEO Sukaran Singh: Partnership demonstrates trust in Tata’s capabilities and marks a milestone in India’s aerospace journey. Conclusion The Dassault-Tata agreement is a landmark development in India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem. It not only furthers the vision of indigenisation but also enhances India’s role in the global defense supply chain. Success of this project could pave the way for future indigenous aircraft production and full-spectrum aerospace capability development. Digital Census to speed up enumeration, aid policies with timely and accurate data: Centre Overview of the Digital Census 2027 The 2027 Census will be India’s first major digital Census, enabling real-time data collection using smartphone-based mobile applications. Aim: Faster publication and greater accuracy in data to help improve policy formulation and scheme implementation. Relevance : GS 2(Digital Governance, Social Justice) Key Digital Tools Two mobile apps: Census 2021-Household PE-Census 2021 (Population Enumeration) A web-based portal: Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS) ➤ To manage appointments, monitor field progress, and auto-generate records. Features & Capabilities Real-time monitoring of each enumerator’s fieldwork via CMMS. Digital entry reduces manual data digitisation delays seen in earlier censuses. Provisions remain for paper schedules in case of connectivity issues in remote areas. Scale and Logistics Estimated to cover 33 crore households and 136 crore individuals. About 30 lakh enumerators will be deployed across 24 lakh enumeration blocks, each block covering ~800 people. Comprehensive Caste Data Collection For the first time in Independent India, the Census will include comprehensive caste data. Existing mobile applications will be updated to accommodate caste-related questions. Challenges Highlighted App-related user issues already reported: Login difficulties Data deletion due to lack of edit options Ensuring digital literacy and technical training for lakhs of enumerators will be critical. Importance and Policy Implications Reduces time lag — earlier Census outputs took up to a decade to be fully released. Enables data-driven governance, improving targeting and effectiveness of welfare schemes. Supports evidence-based decisions in health, education, urban planning, and employment. Broader Significance Reflects India’s push towards digital governance and public data systems. Sets the stage for integrating digital tools in large-scale public data projects. Ensures accountability, transparency, and efficiency in Census operations.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 05 June 2025

Content : Population Census-2027 to be conducted in two phases along with enumeration of castes CAQM Mandates Cleaner Mobility for Aggregators and E-Commerce Entities Across NCR Population Census-2027 to be conducted in two phases along with enumeration of castes Population Census-2027: Key Highlights Will be conducted in two phases, similar to earlier census models. Caste enumeration to be carried out alongside the population census – a notable inclusion, given long-standing debates on caste data. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues) Reference Dates For most of India: 00:00 hours, 1st March 2027 For snow-bound/non-synchronous areas: 00:00 hours, 1st October 2026 Includes Ladakh, J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand Legal Framework Census conducted under: Census Act, 1948 Census Rules, 1990 Notification for intent to conduct census (with reference dates) to be published in Official Gazette on 16 June 2025 (tentative). Legal provision used: Section 3 of the Census Act, 1948 Historical Context Last completed Census: 2011 Phase I: House Listing (Apr–Sep 2010) Phase II: Population Enumeration (Feb 9–28, 2011) Reference Date: 1st March 2011, with exceptions for snow-bound areas (1st Oct 2010). Census 2021 was planned similarly, but: Postponed due to COVID-19 Fieldwork was scheduled to begin from April 1, 2020 Significance of Caste Enumeration Marks a major policy shift – caste enumeration was previously limited to SECC (Socio-Economic and Caste Census), last done in 2011. Will provide updated caste data for social welfare and affirmative action policies. Could influence: Reservation policy reforms Targeted development programs Data-backed policy planning Administrative & Policy Implications Requires massive logistical preparation – digital tools and trained manpower may be deployed. Can help in better socio-economic planning post-pandemic. Could reopen debates on caste-based reservation and resource allocation. CAQM Mandates Cleaner Mobility for Aggregators and E-Commerce Entities Across NCR Context: Air Pollution from Transport Sector Transport sector is a major year-round contributor to air pollution in Delhi-NCR, with a worsening impact in winters. Commercial vehicles are particularly polluting due to: High mileage Overloading Poor maintenance Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Push for E-Mobility in Commercial Services Delhi has already notified the Delhi Motor Vehicle Aggregator and Delivery Service Provider Scheme, 2023 for: Licensing of aggregators in passenger and goods transport, including e-commerce deliveries. Promoting e-mobility among commercial fleets in the capital. Expansion to Wider NCR Other NCR States – Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan – directed to frame similar policies for: Motor Vehicle Aggregators Delivery Services E-Commerce Platforms Focus cities: Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad (all High Vehicle Density areas with high pollution load). CAQM Mandates (Effective 1st Jan 2026) Only CNG/Electric 3-Wheelers to be newly inducted in aggregator/delivery fleets. No new petrol/diesel: 2-Wheelers 4-Wheeler Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) 4-Wheeler Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) under N1 category (up to 3.5 tonnes) to be added. Existing ICE vehicles can continue operations. Compliance & Monitoring NCR states must: Ensure strict compliance among all Aggregators/Delivery/E-Commerce entities. Create dedicated web portals for monitoring (similar to the one already developed by Delhi). Ensure wide publicity and awareness campaigns. Significance Aims to reduce vehicular emissions, particularly in high-traffic urban corridors. Supports broader goals of National Electric Mobility Mission and air quality improvement under CAQM mandate. Could set a national precedent for clean commercial mobility in urban India.