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Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 16 July 2025

Content : The Indian Monsoon: Nature’s Pulse and Nation’s Lifeline Nationwide Financial Inclusion Saturation Campaign sees a Significant Progress The Indian Monsoon: Nature’s Pulse and Nation’s Lifeline What is the Indian Monsoon? Derived from Arabic “Mausim“, meaning season. Seasonal reversal of winds due to differential heating of land and sea. Summer: Low pressure over land → Moist air from sea → Rainfall. Winter: High pressure over land → Dry offshore winds → Retreating monsoon. Relevance : GS 1(Geography ) Types of Monsoon Southwest Monsoon (June–Sept) Brings 75% of India’s total rainfall. Vital for agriculture (esp. rice, cotton, sugarcane). Two branches: Arabian Sea & Bay of Bengal. Orographic rainfall prominent in Western Ghats & NE India. Northeast Monsoon (Oct–Dec) Retreating monsoon; winds from land to sea. Key for Tamil Nadu and SE coast (rain-shadow regions). Moisture gained over Bay of Bengal → Rains in south India. Key Climatic Drivers Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) Shifts northwards in summer → Triggers SW monsoon. Shifts south in winter → Causes NE monsoon. Forms monsoon trough → Responsible for cloud bursts and active spells. El Niño Warming of Pacific waters → Weak monsoon → Drought risk. 7 out of 16 El Niño years post-1950 showed below-normal rainfall. La Niña Cooling of Pacific waters → Stronger monsoon → Flood risks. Helps rain-fed farming but may trigger crop damage in excess.   Distribution & Variability of Rainfall Annual average rainfall: ~125 cm, with wide regional variation. >400 cm/year in Western Ghats & NE Hills (e.g., Mawsynram). <60 cm/year in western Rajasthan, Ladakh, and rain-shadow areas. Monsoon variability: Sub-seasonal: Active-break cycles. Interannual: Linked to ENSO. Decadal/Centennial: Observed long-term shifts. Economic Significance 64% of Indians depend on agriculture. 45% of farmland is rainfed → Highly vulnerable. Good monsoon → GDP growth, rural demand, low inflation. Poor monsoon → Crop failure, inflation, distress migration. Recent Monsoon Trends (2021–2024) IMD’s forecasts were accurate (within ±5% of LPA). 2024 rainfall: 934.8 mm (108% of LPA) – well distributed. 78% districts received normal to excess rainfall. Monthly trend (2024): June: 89% of LPA July: 109% August: 115% September: 112% Climate Change & Monsoon Shift in rainfall geography: ↓ Kerala, NE & East-Central India ↑ Rajasthan, Maharashtra, North Karnataka Extreme Rain Events ↑ by 75% (1950–2015). Dry Spells ↑ by 27% (1981–2011 vs. 1951–1980). July rainfall declining, September gaining. 50% of monsoon rain now occurs in just 20–30 hours. Role of IMD (India Meteorological Department) Established: 1875; under Ministry of Earth Sciences. Key roles: Seasonal forecasts (April & June updates). District-wise rainfall tracking. Cyclone early warning & disaster management. Achievements 100% forecast accuracy (2021–24). Cyclone death toll: ↓ from 10,000 (1999) to zero (2020–24). Radar network ↑ from 15 (2014) → 39 (2023). Technological innovations: HRRR & EWRF models. Mausamgram portal launched in Jan 2024. Mission Mausam (Launched: Sept 2024) Goal: Make India weather-ready & climate-smart. Merged with PRITHVI’s ACROSS scheme. Nine verticals: OBSERVE_All, DEVELOP, IMPACT, FRONTIER, ATCOMP, DECIDE, Weather_MOD, LEAD, NEAT. Focus areas: Extreme weather prediction, AI/ML integration, public-private partnerships. Lightning Strikes: A Rising Concern One strike can carry up to 1 billion volts. Heat > 35,000°F – hotter than the Sun’s surface. ↑ frequency in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab; no longer limited to NE India. IITM & NRSC data confirm trend shift.  Conclusion Monsoon = economic engine + ecological rhythm + cultural soul. Forecasting advances, policy readiness, and scientific missions like Mission Mausam enhance resilience. But climate variability demands constant vigilance, innovation, and adaptation. Nationwide Financial Inclusion Saturation Campaign sees a Significant Progress Campaign Overview Launched by: Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance Duration: 1st July – 30th September 2025 (3 months) Goal: Achieve saturation-level coverage of financial inclusion schemes across 2.7 lakh Gram Panchayats (GPs) & Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) Focus Schemes: PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) Atal Pension Yojana (APY) Relevance : GS 3(Banking ) , GS 2(Governance) Progress So Far (As of 15 July 2025) Camps organized: 43,447 across districts Progress data compiled for: 31,305 camps Objective: Boost enrolment, update KYC/nomination, improve financial literacy Key Achievements Banking Access New PMJDY Accounts opened: 1,39,291 KYC Re-verified: PMJDY Accounts: 96,383 Other Savings Accounts: 1,01,778 Nomination Updates: PMJDY: 66,494 Other Accounts: 63,489 Social Security Enrolments PMJJBY: 1,83,225 new enrolments PMSBY: 2,88,714 Atal Pension Yojana (APY): 67,668 Claims Settled (PMJJBY + PMSBY): 1,665 Financial Literacy Drives Topics Covered: Digital fraud awareness Access to unclaimed deposits Grievance redressal mechanisms Strategic Importance Aims to eliminate financial exclusion at the last mile. Empowers marginalized & rural populations via access to: Savings & insurance products Pension benefits Affordable credit and digital banking Reinforces SDG Goal 1 (No Poverty) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Broader Vision Builds upon India’s Financial Inclusion architecture since 2014. Complements Digital India, Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile (JAM) Trinity, and Social Security for All. Supports inclusive growth by integrating the unbanked, uninsured, and unpensioned into the formal financial system.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 16 July 2025

Content : More than symbolic Contesting the future of forest governance More than symbolic Context & Immediate Developments Health Ministry directive (2025): All govt departments to display oil, sugar & trans-fat content in common Indian snacks (e.g. samosas, jalebis, laddoos). Pilot city: AIIMS Nagpur → Gradual national rollout. CBSE move (May 2025): Schools to install “sugarboards” — show: Daily sugar limits Sugar content in food Related health risks Healthy alternatives Relevance : GS 2(Governance and Policy) Practice Question : “Behavioural nudges are important, but insufficient in addressing India’s growing public health challenges related to food.” Examine in light of recent government initiatives on food labelling and regulation. (250 words) Data Behind the Policy Push Obesity Trends (NFHS Data): Men: ↑ from 15% (2005–06) → 24% (2019–21) Women: ↑ from 12% → 23% Unlabelled Local Foods: Traditional snacks are high in hidden oils, sugar, and fats. Visual cues (like tobacco-style warnings) can serve as behavioural nudges. Symbolism vs. Structural Change Current moves = educational & symbolic. But lacking: Binding regulations on packaged and marketed foods. Gaps in Existing Food Policy – Front-of-Package Labelling (FOPL) Delayed implementation despite FSSAI’s 2020 amendment. Supreme Court direction (July 15, 2025): Enforce FOPL. No definition yet by FSSAI for: Safe upper limits for sugar, salt, and fat. HFSS (High Fat, Salt, Sugar) thresholds. – Marketing to Children No national-level regulation on: Junk food advertising Promotions targeting children Children remain highly vulnerable to HFSS marketing across digital/TV platforms. – Taxation Measures No ‘sin tax’ on HFSS foods, unlike in Mexico, Chile, or Hungary. Global evidence shows fiscal disincentives reduce consumption of unhealthy food. What Global Evidence Shows ICMR-NIN Study (2022): Warning labels and Nutristar ratings helped reduce consumption, even of moderately unhealthy foods. International Meta-Study (2022): Warning labels outperform other labelling styles (GDA, Nutri-Score, etc.) in dissuading HFSS intake. Mexico & Chile: 10–20% tax on sugary drinks & junk food → reduced sales and obesity trends. National Frameworks That Call for Action National Multisectoral Action Plan (NMAP) for NCDs (2017–22): Mandated FSSAI regulation reform → FOPL & nutrient warning labels. FSSAI 2020 Amendments: Remain under-implemented due to: Industry pushback Lack of defined nutrient thresholds Why Symbolism Isn’t Enough Awareness is necessary but insufficient. Without: Regulatory caps on sugar/salt/fat Mandatory FOP labels Advertising restrictions Fiscal disincentives (taxes) → Impact of behavioural nudges will be limited and class-biased. The Way Forward Finalise nutrient cut-offs for HFSS food categories. Enforce mandatory FOP warning labels (not just voluntary/interpretive). Ban or restrict child-targeted junk food ads (especially online). Levy health taxes on HFSS food and beverages. Ensure compliance at the level of street food vendors and informal eateries. Expand school-level interventions (e.g. healthy canteens, regulated menus). Conclusion The Health Ministry’s new initiatives are important awareness milestones. However, without strong legislative teeth, they risk being performative. India needs a robust, rights-based, regulation-driven approach to food policy, aligned with public health imperatives and the growing NCD burden. Contesting the future of forest governance Context: CFRR and Chhattisgarh Incident In July 2025, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department attempted to designate itself as the nodal agency for implementing Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR). This violated the FRA, 2006, which vests management authority in Gram Sabhas, not government departments. The department also: Mandated a centralised model plan (from MoTA) for CFR management — not required by law. Prohibited support from NGOs and other departments to Gram Sabhas. Outcome: Letter was withdrawn following grassroots mobilisation by Adivasi rights groups, local representatives, and Gram Sabhas. Relevance : GS 3(Environmental Governance) Practice Question : The implementation of Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR) under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, remains constrained by institutional inertia and policy contradictions. Critically analyse. (250 words) Forest Rights Act, 2006: Core Vision Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR) under FRA: Recognises the customary rights of communities to manage forest resources. Aims to reverse colonial forest consolidation that excluded locals from governance. Gram Sabha’s role: Central to forest governance. Empowered to formulate, implement, and integrate CFR management plans. Plans must reflect local needs — livelihood, ecosystem conservation, cultural values. Legacy of Forest Working Plans: Colonial Hangover Forest Working Plans (FWPs): Rooted in “scientific forestry” focused on timber maximisation, not ecological sustainability. Often included clearfelling and monoculture plantations. Criticised by ecologists like Madhav Gadgil for promoting degradation, invasive species spread, and undermining biodiversity. Despite ecological and social criticism, FWPs remain central to forest department operations and fund mobilisation. Conflict Between FRA and Forest Bureaucracy Forest Departments continue to: Delay CFRR recognition and reject titles. Block funding and question local competence to manage forests. Push for NWPC (National Working Plan Code) compliance, imposing complex, data-heavy templates unsuited to local realities. This is seen as an attempt to retain bureaucratic control over forest resources under the guise of “scientific management”. Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA): Inconsistencies 2015 MoTA Guidelines: Allowed simple, locally developed formats for CFR plans. 2024 MoTA + MoEF Letter: Reversed course — called for NWPC conformity and forester involvement. This shift undermines FRA’s decentralised governance model and contradicts its legal spirit. Why NWPC is Incompatible with CFRR NWPC structure: Designed to optimise timber yield. Data-intensive and linear; poorly suited to adaptive and participatory management. Emphasises forest crop, not ecosystem or community needs. Gram Sabha plans, by contrast: Based on lived experience and multi-livelihood objectives. More capable of responding to climate variability and local conservation challenges. Don’t require abstraction of local knowledge into bureaucratic jargon. Current Ground Realities CFRR Titles Issued: Over 10,000 Gram Sabhas. Management Plans Developed: Fewer than 1,000 (due to resistance from forest bureaucracy). Implementation Hurdles: No access to financial resources. Constant delegitimisation of local planning efforts. Bureaucratic insistence on outdated, centralised forest science. The Way Forward Reject NWPC compliance for CFR areas — legally unjustified under FRA. Scale up the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan: Offers an indicative, flexible framework for CFR planning. Encourages iterative learning by Gram Sabhas. Role of MoTA: Must stand firm in support of decentralised governance. Avoid compromising to pressure from forest departments or MoEF. Forest Departments must: Provide funding and legal protection to CFR-holding communities. Transition from timber-centric to ecosystem and livelihood-centric science. Broader Significance CFRR is not just about forest management — it is a constitutional decentralisation of power to marginalised, Adivasi communities. The shift from colonial forest science to community-based ecological governance is central to achieving climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and social justice.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 16 July 2025

Content : How is global shipping trying to decarbonise? The need to protect India’s linguistic secularism How vulnerable are Delhi citizens to cybercrime? Govt. data show fall in women at work in rural, urban areas 97% ‘untouchability’ cases pending in courts: govt. report Searching for extraterrestrial life means asking the right questions first How is global shipping trying to decarbonise? Global Context: Decarbonising Shipping IMO Target: Net-zero emissions from global shipping by 2050. Current fuels: VLSFO, diesel, LNG. Transition fuels: LNG (↑ 5% efficiency). Final green fuels: Green methanol, ammonia, biofuels. Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure , Environment and Ecology) Green Fuels: Production & Properties Green Hydrogen: Via electrolysis of water using renewable power. Green Ammonia: From hydrogen + nitrogen; more stable than H₂. Green Methanol: From green hydrogen + captured industrial CO₂. Fuel Preferences & Industry Trends Shipping industry is technology-conservative. First phase: Methanol (10% CO₂ emissions of VLSFO); easier integration. Next phase: Ammonia (zero GHG) but complex onboard processes. Over 360 methanol-ready ships are in operation/order. Leaders: Maersk, CMA CGM, Evergreen. Financial Viability & Price Gap E-methanol cost (Feb 2024): $1,950/tonne vs. VLSFO $560/tonne. Cost drivers: Renewable power (10–11 MWh/tonne) + electrolyser capex. Projected demand by 2028: 14 million tonnes vs. supply of 11 million tonnes → price pressures. India’s Strategic Leverage Solar capacity: 2.82 GW (2014) → 105 GW (2025). Electrolyser PLI scheme + 1.5 GW local capacity by GoI. India has land, sunlight, and industrial CO₂ sources → ideal for green fuel hubs. Tuticorin & Kandla: Green fuel bunkering ports under development. Policy & Institutional Support $10 billion fund to acquire 110 ships — 10–20% to be green-fuel-capable, Indian-flagged, Indian-built. De-risking via sovereign guarantees → ↓ capital costs, ↑ global financing. Production-Linked Incentives (PLIs): For electrolysers to localise green hydrogen value chain. CCUS incentives: To scale green methanol via industrial CO₂ capture. Shipbuilding Revival & Geoeconomic Potential Demand-side incentives for domestic shipbuilding. Tie-ups with South Korea, Japan for tech & retrofitting support. Goal: Restart Indian ship-owning and build green-capable vessels at scale. Export Potential & Global Integration Singapore: Global bunkering hub (¼ of global marine fuel) needs large-scale green fuel imports. India’s goal: Become green fuel supplier to Singapore and global ports. Challenges Dependence on imported solar panels & electrolysers. High initial green fuel costs. Need for scale, global tie-ups, and strong policy alignment. Conclusion India stands at a pivotal moment to lead the global green shipping revolution by leveraging its solar dominance, industrial base, and policy innovation. By converting its maritime aspirations into a clean energy leadership model, India can decarbonise transport, boost shipbuilding, and gain strategic geoeconomic leverage in a low-carbon future. The need to protect India’s linguistic secularism India’s Linguistic Diversity: Facts First 2011 Census: 121 languages, 270 mother tongues. 96.71% of the population speaks one of the 22 scheduled languages. 99 languages not included in the Eighth Schedule. Relevance : GS 1(Indian Society ) , GS 2(Polity and Constitution ) Constitutional Safeguards Article 29: Right to conserve distinct language, script, or culture for any section of Indian citizens, including minorities. Article 343: Hindi (Devanagari script) is the official language of the Union, not the national language. Eighth Schedule: Protects 22 languages; promotes linguistic pluralism under state policy. Unique Model of Indian Secularism Western secularism = state–religion separation. Indian secularism = state neutrality + affirmative protection for religious and linguistic diversity. State is not pro-religion/language, but empowered to act against communalism, including linguistic chauvinism. Emerging Threats to Linguistic Harmony Resistance to Hindi imposition: Historic in Tamil Nadu (Dravidian movement). Seen in many Southern and Northeastern states. Recent incidents in Maharashtra: Violence against non-Marathi speakers = manifestation of linguistic identity politics. Why Linguistic Tolerance Matters Language and religion: Both cultural markers and sources of exclusion. Conservative assertions of language = risk of fragmentation, damaging national unity. India’s unity in diversity relies on liberality and tolerance across linguistic lines. Role of Political Leadership Political parties must prevent linguistic polarisation. Must uphold constitutional morality over regional chauvinism. Language-based discrimination contradicts the spirit of federalism and violates constitutional values. Globalisation vs Identity Assertion In an interconnected world, rigid linguistic nationalism can isolate communities. Need to promote multilingualism, not majoritarian language dominance. Conclusion India’s linguistic secularism is foundational to its democracy. Protecting every language — big or small — equally is not merely a cultural concern but a constitutional necessity. As India moves forward, it must uphold inclusive federalism and safeguard its plural linguistic heritage against rising linguistic nationalism. How vulnerable are  Delhi citizens to  cybercrime? Context and Scale Delhi cybercrime losses (2024): Over ₹700 crore — highest among Indian cities. Despite rising digital adoption (banking, UPI, social media), institutional response lags. IT Act, 2000 provision: Only Inspectors or above can investigate cybercrimes — but most cyber police stations lack such officers. Relevance : GS 3(Cyber Security) Public Awareness: High but Uneven 93% aware of cybercrime reporting possibility. Awareness of common scams: OTP scams, reward frauds, fake banking calls: >90% ‘Digital arrest’ scams: Only 61% aware (emerging threat). Gaps in reporting literacy: Only 42% aware of helpline 1930 Just 25% aware of cyber police stations 30% know about the cybercrime.gov.in portal Government Initiatives: Mixed Perception 72% recalled mass messages & calls as awareness campaigns. Only 19% aware of Cyber Swachhta Kendra. Perception of effectiveness: Only 16% rated govt response as “very effective” 55% said “somewhat effective”, and 24% saw it as inadequate Citizen Practices & Digital Divide Common preventive actions: Avoid suspicious links (87%) Download trusted apps (85%) Use strong passwords (79%) Advanced measures lag: Regular password changes: 50% Antivirus use: 50% Income-wise digital safety gap: Antivirus: High-income 73% vs. Low-income 20% Two-factor authentication: High-income 75% vs. Low-income 31% Confidence in Protection Overall belief in precautions: 80% trust them to a “great or some extent” Confidence levels vary by income: High-income: 89% confident Low-income: 61% confident Reporting Behaviour: Worryingly Low Cybercrime awareness: 96% have heard of online scams. Sources of awareness: Social media (38%), media (37%), friends/family (36%) Banks: Only 8% Only 21% of victims formally reported incidents. Why not? Mistrust, unawareness, or procedural complexity. Reporting channels used: Local police (29%), cyber cells (26%), banks (24%) Website (20%), helpline 1930 (15%) Redressal & Recovery: Institutional Apathy Perception of recovery: 48% believe money once lost is gone Only 33% hopeful of recovery Actual recovery (among victims): 70% recovered nothing 17% full recovery, 6% partial Complaint Process Experience Ease of filing complaints: 35%: “Very easy” 24%: “Somewhat easy” 37% found it difficult Satisfaction with institutional support: Only 27% satisfied 48% fully dissatisfied Satisfaction lower in low-income groups Nature of Cybercrime Impact Financial loss: 27% lost ₹10,001–₹50,000 14% lost over ₹50,000 Mental stress: Reported by 26% Trust in Digital Ecosystem High trust in digital payment apps despite institutional weaknesses. Preferred government action: 40% prioritised awareness campaigns over technical/legal fixes. Policy Way Forward Institutional reforms: Adequate staffing of cyber police stations Decentralised grievance redressal with trained officers Digital equity: Targeted digital literacy for low-income & elderly groups Recovery framework: Mandate banks/platforms to aid fund recovery Awareness scale-up: Focus on helplines, real-time alerts, and multilingual campaigns Behavioral nudges: Gamified learning on scams in schools & apps Govt. data show fall  in women at work in  rural, urban areas Unemployment Rate: Flatlining Overall unemployment rate (15+ age group): 5.6% in both May and June 2025. Male unemployment (15+ years): No change at 5.6%. Female unemployment: Slight improvement from 5.7% → 5.6%. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) ,GS 2(Social Justice) Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): Declining Total LFPR (15+ years): June 2025: 54.2% May 2025: 54.8% Rural LFPR: 56.1% (↓) Urban LFPR: 50.4% (↓) Factors cited: Seasonal agricultural slowdown Extreme summer heat affecting physical work Shift of unpaid helpers, especially rural women, to domestic chores Women’s Workforce Participation: Falling Sharply Rural female LFPR (15+ years): June: 35.2% May: 36.9% April: 38.2% Urban female LFPR (15+ years): June: 25.0% May: 25.3% All-age female LFPR (rural + urban): June: 24.5% May: 25.5% Indicates a consistent and concerning decline in women’s labour participation. Sectoral Insights: Agriculture and Gender Rural women in agriculture: June: 69.8% May: 70.2% Shows slight withdrawal from farm-based work, possibly due to: Reduced inflation-driven household need Seasonal decline in demand for female labour Worker-Population Ratio (WPR): Not Explicitly Released But inferred decline in WPR parallels LFPR drop. Suggests fewer working-age individuals actually engaged in work. Broader Implications Employment recovery plateauing after post-COVID rebound. Female LFPR trend highlights deep structural and patriarchal constraints in India’s labour market. Climate and seasonality-sensitive jobs make informal/rural workers more vulnerable. Unpaid domestic and care work continues to limit formal workforce inclusion, especially for women. Policy Way Forward Enhance gender-responsive public employment: Expand MGNREGA and urban jobs schemes. Invest in care infrastructure: Reduce unpaid domestic burden on women. Skill development: Especially for climate-resilient jobs and digital economy. Improve labour data granularity: Disaggregate by caste, age, and region for targeted policies. Address seasonal distress: Timely agricultural interventions and alternate livelihood generation. Conclusion The static unemployment rate masks deeper vulnerabilities, especially among women and rural populations. Declining LFPR is a bigger concern than open unemployment — it reflects economic distress, social barriers, and invisible work. A shift from job-counting to quality and inclusion-focused employment policies is the need of the hour. 97% ‘untouchability’ cases pending in courts: govt. report Background: Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 Enacted to abolish and penalise practices of untouchability. Covers social and religious discrimination (e.g., denial of access to public places, temples, water sources). Mandates annual implementation reports by the Union govt based on State/UT inputs. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues ,Judiciary) Dismal Trends in Case Registration Only 13 cases registered nationwide under PCR Act in 2022: Down from 24 (2021) and 25 (2020). States: J&K (5), Karnataka (5), Maharashtra (2), Himachal Pradesh (1). Reflects severe under-reporting and poor utilisation of the Act. Alarming Judicial Pendency and Acquittal Rate Total pending trial cases (2022): 1,242 under the PCR Act. Cases disposed (2022): 31 Convictions: 1 Acquittals: 30 From 2019–2021: All 37 cases disposed ended in acquittals. Pendency Rate: Over 97%. Indicates ineffectiveness in prosecution, possible systemic bias, or weak case-building. Policing and Prosecution Gaps 51 cases were under investigation in 2022 (including past years). Chargesheets filed: Only in 12 cases. No State/UT declared any area as “untouchability-prone” — despite ground-level reports of caste-based exclusions in water access, temples, dining, etc. Absence of special courts or dedicated police units in most States despite mandate. Contrast with SC/ST Atrocities Act (1989) Steady rise in cases under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Indicates that while atrocity reporting is increasing under newer legal frameworks, older laws like the PCR Act are being sidelined or underutilised. Structural & Legal Challenges Outdated definitions in the PCR Act may limit relevance. Overlaps with the PoA Act but lacks stronger provisions (e.g., witness protection, relief, special courts). Implementation hurdles: Lack of awareness among officials and citizens. Weak monitoring by District Vigilance Committees. Social stigma discourages reporting. The Way Forward Review and update the PCR Act for present-day contexts. Integrate with digital grievance redressal and monitoring platforms. Capacity-building of police and judiciary to sensitively handle untouchability-related cases. Promote community-based monitoring and Dalit rights literacy. Ensure funding and autonomy for Special Courts and public prosecutors. Searching for extraterrestrial life means asking the right questions first Context & Recent Development Since the 1990s, over 5,000 exoplanets (planets outside the solar system) have been discovered. Despite technological progress, no direct evidence of extraterrestrial life has been found. A new study (2025) by researchers at ETH Zurich, published in The Astronomical Journal, reframes null findings as scientifically valuable. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology) Key Finding: “Absence of Evidence ≠ Evidence of Absence” Bayesian Analysis used to assess how probable life is, even when no signs are detected. Suggests that null results (no detection) still provide statistical insight into the rarity or commonality of life. Simulated Findings from the Study Researchers simulated observation of 100 exoplanets: If life exists on 10–20% of planets, it is plausible to find no evidence in a sample of 40–80. But if life is more common, some positive signs should appear in that sample. Thus, the absence of detection can help define an upper limit on life’s prevalence. The Core Argument: Better Questions, Not Just Better Telescopes Current searches often ask: “Does this planet have life?” → prone to false positives/negatives. Better question: “Does this planet show signs like water vapour, oxygen, methane, at detectable levels?” This shift improves: Scientific precision Observational efficiency Interpretation clarity Technological Outlook: Next-Gen Missions Upcoming missions like: LIFE (Large Interferometer for Exoplanets) HWO (Habitable Worlds Observatory) Aim: Study dozens of Earth-like planets for biosignatures (water, oxygen, methane, etc.). Angerhausen: These may mark the first systematic search for life in human history. Uncertainty in Observation: Acknowledging Limitations Every observation has uncertainty: False negatives (e.g., biosphere too small to alter atmosphere) Detection limits of instruments Implication: Even with large telescopes, ambiguous signals can mislead unless guided by clear hypotheses. Broader Significance for Science and Policy Reinforces need for: Interdisciplinary frameworks — physics, biology, planetary science. Global cooperation on data interpretation and space science missions. Raises ethical and philosophical questions on how humanity prepares for potential discovery of alien life. Conclusion: A Shift in Scientific Mindset The study signals a paradigm shift — from chasing definitive proof to building probabilistic knowledge frameworks. Strategic takeaway: Clarity of questions is more important than the quantity of observations in the search for life. Future efforts must blend technological innovation with theoretical refinement for effective results.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 15 July 2025

Content : India’s Renewable Rise: Non-Fossil Sources Now Power Half the Nation’s Grid Noise brings quantum surprise from Indian Scientists India’s Renewable Rise: Non-Fossil Sources Now Power Half the Nation’s Grid Historic Milestone Achieved India now generates 50.08% of its installed power capacity from non-fossil sources—five years ahead of the 2030 Paris NDC target. This includes renewables (38.08%), large hydro (10.19%), and nuclear (1.81%), totaling 242.78 GW of clean energy out of 484.82 GW installed capacity. Relevance : GS 3(Energy Security , Environment and Ecology) Key Drivers of the Achievement Policy Push: Flagship schemes like PM-KUSUM, PM Surya Ghar, Solar Parks, and the National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy have accelerated clean energy adoption. PM Surya Ghar (2024): Enabled 1 crore households to install rooftop solar, promoting decentralised and citizen-owned energy. PM-KUSUM: Empowered lakhs of farmers with solar pumps, also pushing agrovoltaics and feeder-level solarisation. Bioenergy boom: From marginal role to mainstream contributor in rural livelihood and clean energy matrix. Sectoral Impact and Co-benefits Wind energy continues to support peak demand—especially in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. Solar parks have driven record-low tariffs in utility-scale installations. Co-benefits include: Enhanced rural incomes Reduced air pollution and improved public health Job creation in green sectors Stronger local energy access and equity Global Climate Leadership India remains one of the few G20 nations on track to meet or exceed its NDC commitments. Advocates climate equity and low-carbon development at platforms like G20 and UNFCCC COPs. Low per capita emissions, yet high ambition—demonstrates growth with responsibility. Next Priorities for Energy Transition Universal access: Double per capita clean electricity access, especially in rural areas. Grid modernisation: Invest in a digitally integrated smart grid to handle: High RE variability Two-way power flows (prosumers) Real-time demand management Storage solutions: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Pumped hydro for round-the-clock reliability Circular economy focus: Recycling of solar panels, wind turbine blades, and batteries. Green Hydrogen Push Seen as a future-ready industrial fuel. Critical to sectoral decarbonisation—especially hard-to-abate industries (fertiliser, steel, refining). AI & Digital Transformation in Clean Energy AI’s role: Demand forecasting, predictive maintenance, automated grid control, and real-time market operations. Rise of ‘Prosumers’: Rooftop solar, EVs, and smart meters to integrate into AI-driven energy marketplaces. Cybersecurity: Increasing digital dependence demands robust data protection and infrastructure resilience. Installed Electricity Capacity by Source (as on 30.06.2025) (RE + Large Hydro Combined) Sector Capacity (in GW) Percentage Thermal 242.04 49.92% Nuclear 8.78 1.81% Renewable Energy + Large Hydro 234.00 48.27% Total 484.82 100% Challenges in India’s Clean Energy Transition (Crisp Version) Grid Bottlenecks RE-rich states face grid congestion; slow Green Energy Corridor expansion limits power evacuation. Storage & Intermittency BESS and pumped hydro remain underdeveloped; 24×7 RE still needs subsidies or hybrids. Access Divide Rooftop solar uneven due to low awareness, poor rooftop ownership, and rural financing gaps. Land & Ecology Issues Utility-scale RE projects face land conflicts; threaten biodiversity in ecologically sensitive zones. Offshore Wind & Green Hydrogen Lag Offshore wind untapped; green hydrogen hampered by high costs and weak demand ecosystem. Job Transition Gaps Fossil sector workers face reskilling issues; most RE jobs are informal and low-paid. Financing Hurdles High capital needs unmet; DISCOM dues delay payments, lowering investor confidence. Policy Instability Frequent changes in net metering/import duties; state-level inconsistency hampers scale-up. Road Ahead: Bold, Inclusive, Resilient Target: 500 GW non-fossil installed capacity by 2030 and Net Zero by 2070. Emphasis on: Equity in clean energy access Resilience in system design Quality and reliability of supply India’s clean energy leadership is now a global benchmark for combining development + decarbonisation. Noise brings quantum surprise from Indian Scientists What’s the Discovery? Scientists found that quantum noise, usually seen as harmful, can sometimes help. It can create or restore a special kind of quantum link called intraparticle entanglement—a big surprise in the quantum world. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology) Key Concepts Made Simple Quantum Entanglement: A mysterious connection between particles, even far apart. Used in quantum computers and secure communication. Intraparticle Entanglement: A link within a single particle (like between its spin and path), not between two particles. Quantum Noise: Disturbance from the environment that usually breaks down entanglement (called decoherence). What Did the Scientists Find? Noise can sometimes create entanglement, not just destroy it. This happens especially in intraparticle entanglement (within one particle), not between two separate particles. Under amplitude damping (a type of energy loss), noise can: Create entanglement in a particle that had none. Revive entanglement that had faded. Who Did the Research? Team from Raman Research Institute (RRI) with IISc, IISER-Kolkata, and University of Calgary. Supported by India’s Department of Science & Technology (DST) under National Quantum Mission. What Tools Did They Use? A mathematical formula to exactly predict how entanglement behaves when noise hits. A visual way (geometry) to understand how entanglement changes. Why This Matters Makes quantum systems more reliable in the real world, where noise is unavoidable. Could lead to better: Quantum computers Quantum communication Sensors and secure systems Works on different platforms: photons, trapped ions, neutrons—not limited to one lab setup. Types of Noise They Studied Type of Noise What It Does Amplitude Damping Models energy loss (like a cooling atom). Phase Damping Scrambles timing/phases of quantum states. Depolarizing Noise Randomly messes up the quantum state. What’s Next? RRI is now testing this with real photons in experiments. Future goal: use this idea in practical quantum machines. Challenges to Keep in Mind Still early stage—mostly theory so far. Only some types of noise help (like amplitude damping). Needs to be tested on large-scale systems for real-world use. Most current quantum tech uses interparticle entanglement, so applying this will take time. Why It’s Important for India Shows India is doing cutting-edge quantum research. Supports India’s push under the National Quantum Mission to lead in future tech. Can help build more robust quantum devices for global use

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 15 July 2025

Content : Women, STEM careers and a more receptive industry Two Unequal Women, STEM careers and a more receptive industry Source : The Hindu Context: Why This Matters World Youth Skills Day (15 July) highlights the role of skilling in employment and economic development. India shows a paradox: high share of women STEM graduates (43%), yet only 27% of the STEM workforce is female. Despite rising Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR), there is a persistent education-to-employment gap, especially in technical sectors. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) ,GS 2(Social Issues) Practice Question : Despite a high share of female STEM graduates, women remain underrepresented in India’s STEM workforce. Discuss the structural barriers and suggest a multi-stakeholder strategy to close the education-to-employment gap for women in STEM. (15 marks) Key Data Points Indicator Value/Insight Women among STEM graduates (India) 43% – highest among major economies Women in STEM workforce (India) 27% – significant drop from education level Female Labour Force Participation (2023–24) 41.7% overall; 47.6% rural, 25.4% urban Global share of women researchers (UNESCO) 31.5% GDP gain from higher FLFP (McKinsey) $700 billion by 2025 if 68 million more women join work GDP boost (World Bank estimate) 1% increase if FLFP reaches 50% Government Efforts on STEM & Skilling 1. Policy Framework NEP 2020: Integrated academics with life skills & technical education. Skill India, Digital India, PM Vishwakarma Yojana: Expanding access to vocational training. Gender Budget (2025–26): Increased from 6.8% to 8.8%; ₹4.49 lakh crore towards gender-focused schemes. 2. Infrastructure Expansion New National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) and revitalised ITIs, especially in rural areas. 3. Budgetary Incentives Term loans for women entrepreneurs. Technology-driven training support for high-tech careers. Challenges & Barriers 1. Education-to-Workforce Disconnect STEM education doesn’t translate to jobs due to workplace culture, societal roles, and lack of structured transitions. 2. Cultural & Social Norms Deep-rooted stereotypes: “Mechanical is masculine”, “Coding is for boys”. Women exit STEM not due to capability, but due to unwelcoming environments and lack of family awareness. 3. Urban-Rural Divide Rural FLFPR is higher, but urban areas face formal sector barriers and low representation in high-paying STEM roles. 4. Life-Cycle Career Transitions Lack of workplace policies for: Maternity & caregiving support. Career breaks and re-entry pathways. Industry as the Missing Link Current scenario: Industry is passive recruiter, not active enabler. Industry must: Provide mentorship, internships, and direct hiring pathways. Ensure workplace safety, flexible policies, and gender-sensitive HR practices. Partner with communities to challenge stereotypes and build aspirational role models. Good Practices: Case Study – WeSTEM UN Women’s WeSTEM, in partnership with Micron Foundation and state govts (MP & Gujarat): Provides STEM training to young women. Engages families, conducts safety sessions, introduces women role models. Aims to shift mindsets along with skill-building. Way Forward: Blueprint for Inclusive STEM Skilling For Government: Launch dedicated STEM transition schemes for women post-graduation. Incentivize private companies hiring women in core technical roles. For Industry: Integrate skilling with employment pipelines. Institutionalise return-to-work programmes. Invest in gender-sensitive design of workplaces (infrastructure, safety, flexibility). For Society: Promote community sensitisation around non-traditional roles for women. Break the stigma of technical/vocational jobs for women. Two Unequal Source : The Indian Express Context The article critiques recent claims that India is both: The most equal country in consumption inequality, and One of the most unequal in income inequality. These claims arise from data by World Bank (via PIP) and World Inequality Database (WID). Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues) Practice Question : India is ranked among the most equal countries in consumption inequality, yet highly unequal in income estimates. Critically examine this paradox, and discuss the implications for welfare and taxation policy. (15 marks) Key Terms and Data Term Meaning India’s Value Consumption Gini Index Measures inequality in consumption expenditure 25.5 (2022–23) – lowest globally Income Gini Index Measures inequality in income distribution No official data available WID Estimate (Income) Synthetic, model-based estimation of income inequality High (among worst globally) PIP Database (World Bank) Survey-based global consumption data Used for Gini of 25.5 Key Insights from the Article 1. India’s Gini of 25.5 is based on consumption, not income It reflects relative equality in expenditure, not earnings. Consumption inequality is generally lower than income inequality in all countries. 2. No official data exists for income Gini in India India hasn’t conducted a national income distribution survey in recent years. All income inequality estimates for India are modelled or inferred from limited sources. 3. WID uses synthetic methods for income estimation Constructs income inequality from tax data, surveys, and assumptions. These methods are not directly comparable with survey-based consumption data. 4. Comparison between income and consumption Gini is flawed Comparing Gini values across different metrics (income vs. consumption) or sources (survey vs. synthetic) leads to misleading conclusions. Gini indices are only meaningful within the same category. Why the Confusion? The same term “Gini Index” is used for both consumption and income, though they capture different dimensions. The public and media often interpret Gini values without distinguishing the source or category. Conceptual Clarification for UPSC Consumption Inequality: Affects access to goods and services; reflects actual standard of living. Income Inequality: Captures earnings and wealth gaps; often higher than consumption inequality. Gini Index (0 to 1 or 0 to 100): Closer to 0 = more equal; closer to 1/100 = more unequal. Limitations of Global Comparisons WID estimates for India are not based on complete income data—rely on assumptions due to lack of official data. Cross-country inequality rankings vary based on whether income or consumption is measured. Implications for India India is indeed low on consumption inequality — based on credible, survey-based data. Income inequality remains unclear — due to absence of official nationwide income surveys. Policy relevance: Need for official income distribution surveys to assess inequality accurately. Better distinction and communication between types of inequality in public discourse. Reliable inequality metrics are crucial for targeting welfare and taxation policy. Additional Dimensions to consider 1. Triangulating Inequality: Income, Wealth, and Consumption Consumption inequality (lowest globally for India) measures day-to-day spending—less volatile, but doesn’t capture savings or asset accumulation. Income inequality measures earnings—subject to fluctuations and underreported in surveys. Wealth inequality (not discussed in the article) is often higher and more persistent. For example, Oxfam 2024 report estimated top 10% Indians own ~77% of wealth. 2. Implications for Welfare Policy Low consumption inequality may reflect effective welfare distribution (PDS, PM-KISAN, Ujjwala, etc.). But without income data, it’s hard to assess: Labour market inequality Effectiveness of direct benefit transfers (DBTs) Policy implication: Targeting may be suboptimal if based on outdated or indirect income estimates. 3. Data Governance Gap India lacks a regular, dedicated income and wealth distribution survey. NSSO collects consumption data, not detailed income data. Suggestion for reform: Conduct a Periodic Income Distribution Survey (PIDS). Integrate with e-Shram, Aadhaar-seeded economic profiles for targeted welfare design. 4. Global Comparability Challenges Different countries use different methodologies—some tax-based, some survey-based. For example: Nordic countries use income-tax records. Developing countries like India depend on household surveys. Implication: Global inequality rankings should be taken with caution. 5. Urban-Rural and Regional Inequality Even if national Gini is low, intra-state disparities (e.g., Bihar vs Kerala) may be high. Similarly, urban India may show rising income inequality due to informal sector stress and gig economy precarity. 6. Inequality and Growth Traditional view: Some inequality spurs growth by incentivising productivity. Modern consensus: High inequality hurts growth by reducing demand and increasing social conflict (OECD, IMF studies). India’s case: Balancing growth with equity remains key for inclusive development. Conclusion : While India’s low consumption inequality is backed by credible data, the lack of official income distribution surveys makes cross-metric comparisons misleading. A clear distinction between income, consumption, and wealth inequality is essential for designing equitable and evidence-based welfare policies. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE INDIAN EXPRESSand do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 15 July 2025

Content : Kaziranga’s First Grassland Bird Survey Reveals High Avian Diversity Dowry Deaths in India: High Incidence, Slow Investigations, Rare Convictions SC Flags Misuse of Free Speech on Social Media, Calls for Regulatory Balance Denmark’s Copyright-Based Approach to Combat Deepfakes Environment Ministry’s New SO₂ Emission Framework for Thermal Plants Defended India Loses ₹7,000 Crore to Cyber Frauds in 5 Months: Cross-Border Scams Under Scanner Famous for its rhinos, Kaziranga records high diversity of grassland birds in survey Context & Significance A first-of-its-kind survey in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) (Assam) has recorded 43 species of grassland-dependent birds. Conducted between March 18 and May 25, 2025, it marks a milestone in the documentation of avifaunal diversity in the Brahmaputra floodplains. This is important for grassland ecosystem conservation, which remains under-researched in India compared to forests and wetlands. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) About Kaziranga National Park Feature Detail Location Assam, Brahmaputra floodplains Total Area 1,174 sq. km UNESCO World Heritage Site Yes, since 1985 Habitat Type Mix of wet grasslands, forests, and wetlands Known for One-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and now, grassland birds Key Findings from the Survey Species Category Example(s) Critically Endangered Bengal florican Endangered Finn’s weaver (locally: Tukura Chorai), confirmed breeding Vulnerable (6 species) Marsh babbler, Swamp francolin, Jerdon’s babbler, Bristled grassbird, etc. Others Total of 43 species documented across 3 divisions of Kaziranga Innovative Methodology Used Passive Acoustic Monitoring Use of passive acoustic recorders for: Non-invasive, continuous monitoring Detecting shy, cryptic, or nocturnal birds Coverage of inaccessible or high-risk areas Significantly improved the depth and accuracy of avifaunal detection. Why Grasslands Matter Wet grasslands, like those in Kaziranga, are ecologically rich but poorly studied. These ecosystems support unique, endemic, and endangered species. Serve as breeding grounds, foraging zones, and indicator habitats of environmental health. Comparative Significance Kaziranga’s grassland bird diversity is now comparable to dry grasslands of Gujarat and Rajasthan, known for species like: Great Indian Bustard (critically endangered) Lesser florican Highlights importance of wet grasslands in conservation discourse, which often emphasizes forests and dry grasslands. Policy & Conservation Implications 1. Need for Ecosystem-Specific Surveys Wet grasslands are under-surveyed across India. Targeted studies like this can guide species-specific conservation plans. 2. Grassland Management Presence of Finn’s weaver breeding suggests healthy grassland ecology. Conservation of such indicator species is critical to ecosystem stability. 3. Integration with Tiger Reserves Emphasizes multi-species management in Protected Areas (PA)—not just megafauna like rhinos or tigers. Enhances landscape-level conservation under CAMPA, Project Tiger, and Biodiversity Action Plans. Challenges & Way Forward Issue Suggestion Grasslands misclassified as ‘wastelands’ Reclassify and protect under eco-sensitive zones Limited research outside flagship fauna Expand surveys to birds, insects, amphibians Human pressure & encroachment Balance tourism, local livelihoods, and habitat protection Climate vulnerability Long-term monitoring using tools like acoustic sensors + AI Dowry deaths in India: Long investigations, rare convictions Context Despite being legally banned, dowry practices and related violence persist across India. A spate of recent cases — involving torture, suicides, and murders — underlines the systemic failures in prevention, investigation, and prosecution. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues) Key Data: Dowry Deaths in India (2017–2022) Indicator Value/Insight Avg. Dowry Deaths Reported/Year ~7,000 (NCRB data, likely under-reported) Charge-Sheeted Cases/Year ~4,500 (rest delayed or closed for lack of evidence) Pending Investigation Cases (2022) ~3,000, of which 67% pending >6 months Delay in Charge-Sheet Filing (2022) 70% filed after >2 months of investigation Cases Sent for Trial/Year ~6,500 Convictions/Year ~100 (⟶ conviction rate < 2%) States with Highest Incidence UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, MP, Odisha, WB, Haryana, Rajasthan City with Most Cases (2017–22) Delhi (30%), followed by Kanpur, Bengaluru, Lucknow Key Insights 1. Dowry Violence Is Rampant and Under-reported The 7,000 annual cases represent only the tip of the iceberg — social stigma, family pressure, and fear of reprisal prevent reporting. Cultural normalization of dowry demands continues, especially in patriarchal setups. 2. Investigations Are Slow and Incomplete Nearly half of the reported cases are not charge-sheeted. Delays in charge-sheeting (70% take >2 months) weaken the case and reduce chances of conviction. 3. Convictions Are Rare Less than 2% conviction rate despite FIRs and trial initiation. Acquittals, withdrawals, and plea bargains are common due to weak evidence, societal compromise, or prolonged legal processes. 4. Geographic Concentration 80% of dowry deaths are concentrated in 9 states, largely in the Hindi heartland and eastern India. Delhi alone accounts for 30% of dowry death cases among cities—reflecting both high reporting and severity. Legal & Institutional Framework Law/Provision Relevance Section 304B, IPC Punishes dowry death (within 7 years of marriage) Section 498A, IPC Cruelty by husband/in-laws for dowry Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 Prohibits giving/taking dowry CrPC Sections 174 & 176 Mandate inquest/investigation into unnatural deaths of married women NCRB Data Captures only police-reported cases; no mechanism for socio-cultural reporting Challenges 1. Delayed Justice Investigation lags and evidence tampering compromise trials. Lack of forensic support and insensitive police response further aggravate the problem. 2. Social Pressures & Normalisation Silencing of victims due to family honour, fear, or economic dependence. Many families withdraw or settle cases informally, undermining justice. 3. Misuse vs Genuine Cases Debate Concerns over misuse of Section 498A IPC have led to dilution in enforcement. Judicial caution often overrides the urgency in genuine dowry harassment cases. 4. No Survivor-Centric Framework Lack of psychological, legal, and financial support for survivors and families. No centralised tracking of dowry cases from FIR to conviction. Policy Recommendations Domain Suggestions Criminal Justice Reform Fast-track dowry death cases; monitor time-bound charge-sheeting Police & Forensics Capacity-building in gender-sensitive investigation, forensic tools Social Reform Mass awareness campaigns; involve community leaders & youth groups Survivor Support Legal aid, rehabilitation funds, and safe shelter mechanisms Data Transparency Create a real-time national dowry case dashboard for monitoring Abuse of right to free speech increasing on social media, says SC Context The Supreme Court has flagged the increasing misuse of free speech on social media, especially when it incites division, hate, or undermines dignity. The Court called for a framework of regulation, not censorship, to balance constitutional rights with social responsibility. Relevance : GS 2(Fundamental Rights, Fake Speech, Misinformation) Constitutional & Legal Context Provision / Case Relevance Article 19(1)(a) Guarantees freedom of speech and expression Article 19(2) Allows reasonable restrictions for interests like public order, morality, etc. IT Act, Section 66A (struck down) Declared unconstitutional in Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015) IPC Sections 153A, 295A, 505 Punish speech that promotes enmity, religious insult, or false alarms Supreme Court’s Observations (July 2025) Free speech is being weaponized—particularly online—to fuel communalism, defame individuals, or erode public trust. Social media magnifies harm due to its viral nature and low accountability. The Court clarified: “We are not calling for censorship, but for self-restraint and regulatory balance.” Why the Concern Over Social Media Speech? 1. Unchecked Virality Harmful or hateful content spreads rapidly—amplifying misinformation and communal tensions. Algorithms favour sensational content, not responsible speech. 2. Weak Platform Accountability No uniform grievance redressal. Platforms often delay taking down harmful content unless legally compelled. 3. Fragmented Legal Response Multiple FIRs across states for the same post—leads to harassment, forum shopping, and misuse of law. 4. Polarising Content Politically or religiously divisive speech increases during elections, riots, or crises. Example: Communal trolling, deepfakes, disinformation campaigns. Challenges in Regulation Challenge Details Balancing Free Speech vs. Regulation Overregulation may lead to suppression of dissent or creativity Jurisdictional Conflicts Same post may invite FIRs in multiple states Platform Non-Compliance Tech giants are governed by foreign laws and may resist Indian rules Ambiguity in ‘Harmful Speech’ Difficult to define ‘hate’, ‘offensive’, or ‘divisive’ speech uniformly Lack of Digital Literacy Many users unknowingly spread false or hurtful content Policy & Institutional Framework Initiative Status & Gaps IT Rules, 2021 Mandate content takedown, grievance officers, traceability. Digital India Act (Drafted) Aims to replace IT Act, 2000 — but still under consultation. Social Media Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC) Redressal mechanism lacks user awareness and enforcement teeth Judicial Guidelines (proposed) SC hinted at laying down uniform procedural safeguards Way Forward Priority Area Suggestions Regulatory Clarity Finalise and implement Digital India Act with free speech safeguards Self-Regulation & Platform Ethics Mandate code of ethics, transparency in moderation algorithms Judicial Framework SC to evolve guidelines on multi-state FIRs, content responsibility Digital Literacy Campaigns Public education on legal rights and responsible online behavior Stronger Civil Society Role NGOs, fact-checkers, and user groups to build counter-narratives How Denmark Plans to Use Copyright Law to Protect Against Deepfakes Context Denmark has proposed a new legal approach to combat the spread of deepfakes—synthetic media generated using AI—by extending copyright protections to individuals’ facial features, voice, and appearance, even if the manipulated media is not originally theirs. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations , Social Issues) Why This Matters Deepfakes are becoming more realistic and easier to create, posing serious risks to privacy, consent, democracy, and digital trust. India and many countries lack a specific legal framework to address deepfakes. Key Features of Denmark’s Proposal Provision Description Copyright-like Protection Individuals will get exclusive rights over their facial data, voice, etc., like authors have over their works. Criminalisation of Realistic Imitations Deepfakes mimicking a real person’s appearance/voice without consent will be illegal, even if not defamatory. Consent-Based Usage Platforms must obtain explicit permission from individuals before sharing their likeness. Platform Liability Social media platforms will face penalties for non-removal of deepfake content. Caveats & Limitations Limitation Explanation Scope Limited to Denmark Enforcement outside Danish jurisdiction will be difficult. Freedom of Expression Risks Risk of overblocking content; critics warn of unintended curbs on satire or art. Exemptions for News/Parody The bill doesn’t fully clarify if satire, journalism, or AI-generated art is protected. Global Relevance India’s Gap: India has no standalone law to regulate deepfakes. IT Rules 2021 address harmful content but don’t define deepfakes explicitly. Comparative Insight: EU AI Act: Classifies deepfakes as high-risk AI. US: Various state laws penalize deepfakes in elections or pornography. China: Requires labelling of all AI-generated media. Environment Ministry defends revised framework for thermal plants to meet SO₂ emission norms Context On July 11, 2025, the Union Environment Ministry issued a revised framework to regulate sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions from thermal power plants. It has exempted many older coal-based plants from retrofitting Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) devices and staggered deadlines for compliance based on location-based categorisation. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology)  Scientific & Technical Basis SO₂: Harmful gas emitted during coal combustion; causes acid rain and respiratory illnesses. Also contributes to secondary pollutants like particulate matter. Ministry claims: Framework is evidence-based, informed by: Ambient SO₂ studies from 7 cities. Inputs from CPCB, NEERI, and IITs. Scientific analysis across 537 thermal power plants (TPPs). Key Elements of the New Framework Category Description Deadline/Exemption A Within 10 km of Delhi-NCR or cities >1 million population Compliance by Dec 2027 B Within 10 km of polluted cities (non-attainment) Compliance case-by-case, based on expert review C Located outside polluted zones Fully exempted from SO₂ retrofitting, must meet stack height norms Plants retiring before Dec 2030 are also exempted, subject to ₹0.40/unit compensation if they continue operating beyond that date. Cost Implications Retrofitting FGD systems across 537 plants estimated to cost ₹2.54 lakh crore. Issues & Criticism Concerns Explanation “Regulatory dilution” Environmental groups fear that exemptions weaken pollution control and delay India’s clean energy transition. Health implications SO₂ is linked to asthma, bronchitis, and cardiovascular issues. Exemptions may worsen local air quality. Delayed action India committed to SO₂ norms in 2015, but deadlines have been repeatedly extended. Equity concern Populations near Category B/C plants may still face localized pollution, yet plants may escape full compliance. Concept Check Term Meaning FGD (Flue Gas Desulphurisation) A technology to remove SO₂ from exhaust flue gases of fossil-fuel power plants. Non-attainment cities Cities that consistently violate National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Stack height norms Chimneys must be tall enough to disperse pollutants and reduce ground-level concentration. Conclusion The revised SO₂ compliance framework reflects a balancing act between health, environment, and economic costs. While phased deadlines reduce retrofitting burdens, critics warn of potential dilution of environmental safeguards. Indians lost ₹7,000 crore to cyber frauds (Jan–May 2025) Context According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Indians lost over ₹7,000 crore to cyber frauds in the first 5 months of 2025. More than 50% of this loss is linked to cross-border scams originating in Southeast Asia (especially Cambodia), with deep links to human trafficking and organised cybercrime. Relevance : GS 3 ( Cyber Security, Internal Security, Governance) Key Data Month Amount Lost (₹ crore) January 1,992 February 951 March 1,000 April 731 May 999 Total ~7,000 crore Source: Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFRMS) under Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) Key Issues Identified 1. Transnational Nature of Cybercrime Scams operated from high-security compounds in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand. Controlled by Chinese-linked operators. At least 53 scam centres identified (45 in Cambodia alone). 2. Human Trafficking Angle Thousands of Indians trafficked and forced to work in scam operations. Workers recruited via agents under the promise of overseas tech jobs. 3. Types of Scams Investment scams, digital arrest scams, and task-based scams (e.g., fake stock trading apps, online tasks-for-money cons). 4. Recruitment Hubs in India State Number of Agents Maharashtra 58 Tamil Nadu 51 Jammu & Kashmir 46 Uttar Pradesh 41 Delhi 38 Trafficking route: India → Dubai → China → Cambodia/Vietnam/Thailand. Other direct routes: Delhi/Lucknow/Jaipur/Kolkata/Kerala to SEA nations. Institutional Response Inter-Ministerial Panel formed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). CBI FIRs filed against SIM card sellers aiding ghost identities. Collaboration with Cambodian officials, who sought exact GPS coordinates of scam centres for enforcement action. Governance Gaps Sector Identified Issues Telecom Ghost SIM cards issued via fraud Banking Lax KYC enables mule accounts Immigration Trafficking routes exploit visa gaps Conclusion The ₹7,000 crore cyber fraud loss highlights India’s growing vulnerability to transnational digital crime networks. Urgent legal, diplomatic, and technological coordination is needed to plug recruitment, financial, and cyber loopholes.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 14 July 2025

Content : North East India’s SDG Progress (2023–24) A Decade of Building Skills & Empowering Dreams North East India’s SDG Progress (2023–24) Overview & Coverage 121 out of 131 NE districts assessed — expanded from 103 (2021–22). Tracks 15 out of 17 SDGs using 84 indicators (41 from central, 43 from state sources). SDG 11 included only for 79 urban districts; SDG 14 excluded; SDG 17 minimally relevant. Classification: Achiever (Score = 100) Front Runner (65–99.99) Performer (50–64.99) Aspirant (<50) Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Key Outcomes 103 districts (85%) are now Front Runners (vs 62% in 2021–22). Top Scoring District: Hnahthial (Mizoram) – 81.43 All districts in Mizoram, Sikkim, and Tripura are Front Runners. SDG-Wise Progress (2021–22 → 2023–24) SDG Goal Front Runners Aspirants Key Insights 1 No Poverty 21 → 36 20 → 3 Targeted poverty schemes impactful 2 Zero Hunger 49 → 83 21 → 1 Nutrition missions gaining ground 3 Health & Well-being 14 → 48 18 → 6 Better access & infrastructure 4 Quality Education 36 → 80 – Education-focused schemes succeeding 5 Gender Equality 71 → 112 1 One of strongest performing goals 6 Water & Sanitation 81 → 114 – Driven by Jal Jeevan & Swachh Bharat 7 Clean Energy 7 → 14 (Achievers) – LPG & electrification improving access 8 Decent Work 69 → 111 – Economic activity expanding 9 Infrastructure 55 → 92 – Road, connectivity improved 10 Inequality 59 → 43 12 → 33 Major concern – rising gaps 12 Consumption 67 → 51 18 steady Calls for sustainability awareness 13 Climate Action 36 → 59 49 Weakest performing area 15 Life on Land 12 → 26 (Achievers) – Forest & biodiversity gains 16 Justice & Institutions 64 → 90 1 → 5 Governance improving but mixed Top 10 Performing Districts (NER) Mizoram: Hnahthial, Champhai, Kolasib Tripura: Gomati, West Tripura, South Tripura Nagaland: Mokokchung, Kohima, Dimapur Sikkim: Gangtok State-wise Highlights Mizoram 100% districts Front Runners Best: Hnahthial (NER’s highest score) Strong in SDGs 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 15, 16 Sikkim All 6 districts Front Runners Smallest intra-state gap (5.5 pts) Best: Gangtok | Balanced across SDGs Tripura All 8 districts Front Runners Top: Gomati | Strong across 9 SDGs Low disparity (6.5 pts between best-worst) Nagaland 9 of 11 districts Front Runners Wide performance gap (15.07 pts) Strong in SDGs 2, 5, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15 Assam 89% districts are Front Runners Best: Dibrugarh | Needs work in justice systems Arunachal Pradesh Only 59% Front Runners Best: Lower Dibang Valley | Worst: Longding (NER’s lowest score – 58.71) Challenges in SDGs 9, 13 Manipur 75% Front Runners Top: Imphal West | Weak in SDG 10 (Inequality) Meghalaya 84% Front Runners Top: East Khasi Hills | Weak in Education (SDG 4) Key Takeaways High Performers: Health, Education, Water, Gender Equality, Economic Growth. Lagging Areas: Climate Action (SDG 13), Inequality (SDG 10), Responsible Consumption (SDG 12). Flagship Schemes: Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat, Aspirational Districts Programme contributed strongly. Disparities Persist: Nagaland: 15.07 pt gap between best-worst districts Sikkim & Tripura: Least disparities, highest uniformity Governance & Systemic Impact Data Systems: Significant improvements in district-level data reporting. Localisation: Strong correlation between state-driven planning and SDG performance. Peer Learning: Index fosters competitive federalism & inter-district collaboration. Conclusion The NER SDG Index 2023–24 marks major progress in NE India’s sustainable development landscape. 85% of districts now Front Runners, up from 62% in 2021–22. Balanced progress across most SDGs, but climate resilience and inequality remain critical challenges. The Index stands out as a planning, performance, and policy tool — not just a ranking mechanism. A Decade of Building Skills & Empowering Dreams Macro Achievements (2015–2025) 6+ crore Indians empowered through skill development schemes since 2014. 1.63 crore+ candidates trained under PMKVY alone across four phases. Over 25 lakh candidates trained under PMKVY 4.0 (as of July 11, 2025). Training expanded to futuristic domains: AI, Robotics, IoT, Drones, Mechatronics. 45% of PMKVY trainees are women, with significant SC/ST/OBC representation. Relevance : GS 2(Schemes , Governance) Skill India Mission (SIM) – Structural Integration (2022–26) Unified under a single Central Sector Scheme approved in 2025. Schemes merged:  PMKVY 4.0 (Short-term skill training & RPL)  PM-NAPS (Apprenticeship & industry engagement)  JSS (Literacy-focused vocational training) Two new Centres of Excellence set up at NSTIs (Hyderabad & Chennai) for high-quality skilling. PMKVY: Phased Evolution & Milestones Phase Year(s) Key Milestones Candidates Trained 1.0 2015–16 Pilot phase, monetary reward (₹500), free certification 19.85 lakh 2.0 2016–20 Scaled across sectors/states; aligned with Make in India, Digital India 1.10 crore 3.0 2020–22 Introduced: COVID Crash Courses (1.2L), Skill Hub (1.8L), Traditional craft focus 7.37 lakh 4.0 2022–26 Digital reforms (SIDH), Academic Credit Transfer, Future skills 25+ lakh (till Jul ’25) STT placement rate till PMKVY 3.0: 42.8%. PMKVY 4.0: New Features & Focus (2022–2026) Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH): end-to-end digital integration of skilling, employment, and entrepreneurship. Academic Bank of Credits: Transferable skill credits to bridge education–vocational divide. Rs. 1244.52 crore utilized across states/UTs by Dec 2024. Encourages career-oriented skilling, not just placement tracking.   Innovative & Inclusive Initiatives Special Projects: Bru-tribe training in Tripura (2,500+) Jail inmates in Assam, Manipur PANKH project: 13,834 trained (70% women) Traditional Skills: 2,243 women trained in Namda craft (J&K) 9,605 artisans skilled via RPL (J&K, Nagaland) COVID-19 Response: 1.2 lakh healthcare workers trained as COVID Warriors. Skill Hub Initiative: 1.23 lakh trained through school/college-based hubs (aligned with NEP 2020). Mainstreaming with National Missions: Skills integrated into: PM Surya Ghar Vibrant Villages Programme Jal Jeevan Mission Green Hydrogen Mission Supporting Schemes in the Skilling Ecosystem Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Focused on non-literates, school dropouts (15–45 yrs). 26+ lakh trained from FY 2018–19 to 2023–24. Emphasis on women, SC/ST/OBC, minorities in rural & low-income urban areas. PM-NAPS (Apprenticeship) 43.47 lakh apprentices engaged as of May 2025. Over 51,000 establishments participating. PM Vishwakarma Yojana Launched: Sept 2023 | Budget: ₹13,000 crore Supports 18 traditional trades (e.g. blacksmiths, cobblers, potters). As of July 2025: 2.7 crore+ applications submitted 29 lakh+ registrations completed Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) Launched: 2014 | Target: rural youth Till Nov 2024: 16.9 lakh trained 10.97 lakh placed (~65% placement) Rural Self Employment & Training Institutes (RSETIs) Bank-led residential entrepreneurial training. Candidates trained: 2016–17: 22.89 lakh2025–26 (till Jun): 56.69 lakh   Thematic Impact Focus Area Progress Inclusivity 45% women; large SC/ST/OBC share Sectoral Spread Manufacturing, construction, IT, healthcare, retail, crafts Rural Reach Skilling penetrated remote regions Future Skills AI, IoT, Robotics, Drones, Green Hydrogen Digital Governance Aadhaar-linked validation, performance-based payments Academic Integration Credit-based skilling via ABC  Conclusion PMKVY = Backbone of India’s short-term skilling ecosystem over the past decade. Transformed from placement-linked certification to flexible, future-ready career empowerment. Integrated with national missions, NEP 2020, and digital governance frameworks. PMKVY stands as a cornerstone of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat, ensuring India’s youth are not only employable, but also entrepreneurial and globally competitive.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 14 July 2025

Content : Secularism — Implicit from Day One, Explicit in 1976 Assessing India’s Carbon Market Targets: Why Aggregate Emissions Matter More Smoke and Sulphur: Why There Cannot Be Different Environmental Standards Within India Secularism — implicit from day one, explicit in 1976 Why the Debate on Secularism Matters Secularism in India has long been a subject of legal, philosophical, and political discourse. With rising public interest in the constitutional origins and present interpretations of secularism, Faizan Mustafa’s article presents a historical and comparative exploration of how secular values have evolved in India. The piece seeks to clarify whether secularism was a post-1976 insertion or a foundational principle embedded in India’s constitutional and civilisational ethos. The article’s central argument is that secularism in India is deeply rooted not only in modern constitutionalism but also in ancient traditions of tolerance, coexistence, and pluralism. Relevance : GS 2(Polity ,Constitution ) Practice Question : “Secularism in India was not merely a constitutional insertion in 1976, but a civilizational ethos and a foundational principle of the Republic.” Critically examine with reference to historical precedents and constitutional interpretation.(250 Words) Historical Foundations of Indian Secularism Ashokan Edicts as Early Precursors: Rock Edict 7: Encouraged all religions to coexist and emphasised self-restraint and purity of heart. Rock Edict 12: Opposed the glorification of one’s religion and condemnation of others, promoting mutual respect. Ashoka’s dhamma was not religion-specific but a governance code based on ethical conduct and coexistence. Motilal Nehru Report (1928): Clause 4(11): Proposed that the Commonwealth of India shall have no state religion and the state should not favour or discriminate on religious grounds. Karachi Resolution (1931): Explicitly stated that the state would remain neutral toward all religions. Hindu Mahasabha Draft Constitution (1944): Included a clause rejecting any state religion at the Centre or in the provinces. These pre-Constitutional documents show that various political and ideological groups envisioned a secular framework even before India’s independence. The Constituent Assembly Debates and the 1976 Amendment In the Constituent Assembly (1949), a proposal to begin the Preamble with“In the name of God” was debated and rejected by a vote of 68 to 41. The word “secular” was not included in the original Preamble, but members agreed that secularism was consistent with democratic ideals and the goals of the freedom struggle. In Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973), the Supreme Court held secularism as part of the basic structure of the Constitution—before the word was inserted via the 42nd Amendment (1976). Several key terms like “federal,” “rule of law,” and “judicial review” are also not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution but have been interpreted as implicit principles. International Models of Secularism: Comparative Insights Mustafa points out that secularism has different expressions across democracies. A few models include: Country Key Features United Kingdom Anglican Church is the official church; monarchy is religiously symbolic, but equal rights are guaranteed. Ireland Preamble refers to the “Most Holy Trinity,” but Article 44 ensures religious equality and prohibits state endowment. Greece Declares Orthodox Christianity as dominant but protects individual freedom of religion. These comparisons suggest that secularism can take varied forms, balancing national traditions with commitments to religious freedom and equality. Key Constitutional Concepts: Explicit and Implicit Explicit Values: Articles 14–18 (equality), Articles 25–28 (freedom of religion), and Preamble (justice, liberty, equality, fraternity). Implicit Principles: Secularism, rule of law, federalism—recognized through judicial interpretation and legal practice. The article stresses that absence of a word does not imply absence of the idea, reinforcing that constitutional secularism was intended from inception. Present-Day Relevance and Models of Interpretation Mustafa suggests exploring alternate secular models like the “jurisdiction model”, where a dominant cultural heritage is acknowledged without compromising religious equality—similar to the UK or Ireland. The article argues that India’s secularism is unique: inspired by historical coexistence (Ashoka), shaped by modern constitutionalism (Nehru), and refined through judicial interpretation (Supreme Court rulings). Assessing India’s carbon credit trading scheme targets The Shift to Market-Based Climate Policy With the introduction of India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) compliance mechanism, the government has announced greenhouse gas emissions intensity targets for eight industrial sectors. This marks a significant milestone in operationalizing market instruments for emissions reduction. However, as discussions grow around the ambition of these targets, a critical question arises: How should we assess the ambition—entity-wise, sector-wise, or economy-wide? Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Practice Question : “In designing emissions trading systems like the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), ambition must be judged at the aggregate level, not at the entity or sectoral level.” Examine this statement in light of India’s climate targets.(250 Words) Key Premise: Aggregate Targets Matter More Than Entity-Level Goals The authors argue that economy-wide impact is the correct lens for assessing ambition—not individual firm or sectoral performance. Drawing lessons from India’s Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme (2012–14 onwards), they show that while some sectors improved efficiency and others did not, overall energy intensity declined, proving the efficacy of market-based mechanisms at scale. Market Mechanisms in Practice: Lessons from PAT Mixed Sectoral Performance: Energy intensity rose in paper and chlor-alkali, but fell in aluminium and cement. Economy-Wide Efficiency: Despite individual variations, combined analysis (adjusted for inflation, output, and price) showed net energy savings. Policy Insight: The market allowed firms with lower abatement costs to generate efficiency certificates, while others purchased them—leading to cost-effective decarbonisation. Why Not Focus on Sectoral Targets? Sector/entity-level targets enable financial transfers (through credit trading), but do not determine net emissions reduction. Comparing CCTS targets to historic sectoral performance under PAT is flawed because: Past performance may not reflect future potential. Future-oriented benchmarking aligned with India’s NDC (2030) and Net Zero (2070) goals is more meaningful. Benchmarking Ambition: Data from Economy-Wide Modelling Indicator Value Expected annual decline in CO₂ emissions intensity (energy sector) 3.44% (2025–2030) Expected annual decline in emissions intensity of value added (manufacturing sector) ≥ 2.53% Average EIVA decline in 8 CCTS sectors (based on current targets) ~1.68% (2023–24 to 2026–27) Inference: Industry sector decarbonisation is slower compared to the power sector. Current industrial targets may lack ambition relative to modeled pathways aligned with NDCs. Conclusion: Calibrating India’s Climate Ambition The early design of India’s carbon trading framework rightly introduces flexibility and market efficiency, allowing cost-effective pathways to emissions reduction. However, while sectoral participation is crucial, measuring ambition solely through industrial targets may understate or misrepresent national progress. To ensure alignment with India’s global commitments under the Paris Agreement and its Net Zero 2070 goal, aggregate modelling and monitoring should guide course correction. Future policy must ensure that ambition grows progressively—across all sectors, but especially in hard-to-abate industries. Smoke and Sulphur In a surprising reversal of its own 2015 directive, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has exempted the majority of India’s coal-fired power plants from mandatory installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems, which are designed to curb sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions. This decision raises pressing concerns around regulatory coherence, regional equity in environmental standards, and India’s public health commitments. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Practice Question : “India’s selective exemption of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) norms weakens its commitment to uniform environmental standards and public health.” Do you agree? Substantiate your answer.(250 Words) Background: 2015 Norms: All coal plants (≈180 plants, 600 units) were mandated to install FGDs by 2017 to reduce SO₂ emissions. Current Status: Only ~8% of units (mostly by NTPC) have complied. Recent Policy Change (2024): Majority exempted from FGD installation; only ~20% (in high-population or high-pollution zones like NCR) are now required to comply — by 2028. Justifications Cited by the Government: Reason Explanation New Scientific Assessments Studies claim no major SO₂ level differences between plants with or without FGD Low-Sulphur Indian Coal Coal burned domestically has relatively lower sulphur content Economic Burden High FGD installation costs and fear of increased electricity tariffs Sulfates as Climate Coolants Sulphate aerosols may help offset global warming effects — hence, reducing them could undermine climate goals  COVID-19 Disruption Pandemic-related delays cited for past non-compliance Scientific and Ethical Concerns: Partial Scientific Basis: IPCC does acknowledge sulfate cooling effects, but does not endorse SO₂ as a net positive — due to its harm to human health and contribution to PM2.5 pollution. Air Quality Standards: Average SO₂ levels in India may be below CPCB thresholds, but localised exposure risks and long-term particulate formation remain concerns. Inconsistent Policy Logic: Requiring FGDs only in select zones implies: Environmental protection is location-dependent, not health-outcome-based. A fragmentation of national environmental standards for a transboundary pollutant. Implications for Governance: Issue Implication  Policy Reversal Without Public Debate Undermines transparency and scientific deliberation Undermining Uniform Standards Breaks precedent of “One Nation, One Environmental Standard” Public Health Risk Weakens pollution safeguards for populations outside “priority zones” Climate Goals vs. Health Goals Conflict Raises a false binary between climate mitigation and air quality protection Policy Recommendations: Reinstate a Nationwide SO₂ Abatement Standard, with flexibility in compliance timelines, not in scope. Broader Stakeholder Consultation before revising critical pollution control policies. Invest in Domestic FGD Technology Ecosystem to reduce costs and reliance on limited vendors. Independent Health Impact Assessments of SO₂ and PM2.5 in exempted zones. Conclusion: While cost-effectiveness and evidence-based policy revisions are valid governance goals, the recent MoEFCC decision risks creating a regulatory patchwork in environmental standards. A pollutant like sulphur dioxide cannot be geographically neutralized — it demands a uniform, precautionary approach. Any exemptions, if scientifically valid, must pass the test of transparency, equity, and public health prioritization.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 14 July 2025

Content : The Changing Landscape of Employment Climate Change and Rural India: A Silent Displacement Crisis India’s Open Ecosystems: Rethinking ‘Wastelands’ India’s Opportunity to Repay Green Revolution Debt How is Mizoram Handling the Refugee Crisis? India’s FGD Rollback: Implications of Exempting 78% of Thermal Power Plants The changing landscape of employment Core Insight: India’s demographic dividend risks turning into a disaster as lakhs of graduates enter the job market without being job-ready, amidst rising automation and a shrinking formal job base. Relevance : GS-3 (Indian Economy) – Issues related to employment, skill development, and job market reforms. Alarming Statistics Indicator Data Youth Share in Unemployment 83% of unemployed are youth – India Employment Report 2024 (ILO + IHD) Formal Workforce (EPFO) >7 crore members; 18–25 age group = 18–22% of new additions Informal Workforce 90% of total employment remains informal Digital Illiteracy Among Youth – 75% can’t send email with attachment – 60% can’t copy-paste files – 90% lack basic spreadsheet skills Job Displacement vs. Creation (2030) – 170M new jobs to be created (14%) – 92M jobs displaced (8%) ➡ Net gain = 78M jobs (7%) – Future of Jobs Report 2025, WEF Core Challenges Unemployability > Unemployment Only 50% of Indian graduates are job-ready – Economic Survey 2023–24 Skill mismatch in digital, professional, and interpersonal domains AI and Automation Threat AI adoption is putting low-to-mid-level IT roles at risk Traditional service jobs in India may not survive next-gen tech transitions Job Quality Crisis Surge in contractual and gig employment without security or benefits Lack of long-term wage growth and poor financial security Skill Infrastructure Deficit Higher education and vocational institutes not aligned with job market needs Few formal linkages between academia and industry Strategic Policy Recommendations Pillar Action Needed Education-Industry Link – Mandatory partnerships for colleges with industry – Accountability for placements, not just degrees Skill-First Curriculum – Universal presence of Idea Labs & Tinker Labs – Compulsory digital + soft skill + foreign language training at all levels Global Skilling Strategy – Design courses aligned with ageing workforce needs in EU, Japan, etc. – Align with initiatives like EU’s Link4Skills, tapping migration corridors Institutional Reform – Create Indian Education Services (IES), equivalent to IAS, to attract top talent into education leadership Open Education Ecosystem – Invite industry professionals to teach/mentor in institutions to bridge theory-practice divide EPFO Data: Formalisation vs. Stability Rise in 18–25 age group enrolments in EPFO indicates push for formal employment. But unclear if these jobs are: Secure Well-paying Long-term Job creation ≠ job quality. The data must be paired with studies on job retention and income growth. The Cost of Inaction Wasted potential: India produces millions of graduates annually, many unemployable. Rising frustration: Educated youth without jobs fuels social unrest, migration, and mental health issues. Lost opportunity: Without global skill alignment, India risks missing out on exporting talent to ageing nations. Vicious cycle: Lack of jobs ➝ underemployment ➝ informal work ➝ no savings ➝ no upward mobility Conclusion India’s employment problem is not just about creating more jobs — it’s about creating relevant, high-quality, future-proof employment. Climate Change and Rural India: A Silent Displacement Crisis Key Observation: Climate change is no longer a future threat — it is actively transforming where and how millions of Indians live, work, and survive. Relevance : GS-1 & GS-3 – Geography (climate impact) and Economy (migration, livelihoods). Bundelkhand: Droughts, Heat, and Exodus Parameter Status Location 13 districts in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh Climate Impact 🔻 Rainfall, 🔺 Temperature (+2 to +3.5°C by 2100) Drought Frequency 9 droughts (Datia, 1998–2009); 8 in Lalitpur, Mahoba Result Massive male-dominated migration to cities like Delhi, Surat, Bengaluru Impacts: Agricultural failure and indebtedness Occupational shift: from farming to mining & construction Family separation and rising vulnerability of women and children Erosion of village social fabric and school dropout rates “Migration in Bundelkhand is not adaptation — it is a form of crisis-induced displacement.” – Dr. S.S. Jatav, BBAU Charpauli, Bangladesh: Floods and Erosion Parameter Status Location Along the Jamuna river Climate Impact 🔺 Floods & erosion due to rising river discharge Riverbank Erosion Left bank: -12m/year; Right bank: -52m/year (1990–2020) Migration Pattern Permanent displacement to Dhaka, nearby towns Impacts: Entire villages vanish annually into the Jamuna Families move first inland, then migrate completely Shift to agriculture in new villages or informal jobs in cities “Migration becomes the last-resort adaptation when resilience fails.” – Jan Freihardt, ETH Zürich Vidarbha & Marathwada: Heat Stress and Debt Cycles Parameter Status Region Rain shadow zone of the Western Ghats Temperature >50°C in peak May months (Satellite data, 2024) Rainfall Erratic: fewer rainy days, intense bursts, long dry gaps Livelihood Impact Seasonal migration to sugar cane farms in Western Maharashtra & Karnataka Cane Cutter Migrant Life: 4–6 month migration, hired as “koita” couples (husband: cutter, wife: stacker) Advance wage: ₹50,000–₹5 lakh (debt cycle begins) Output requirement: ₹50,000 ÷ ₹367/tonne = 136 tonnes sugar cane to cut Live in makeshift plastic tents, with no water, sanitation, or electricity Seniors (70+) now migrate due to labour shortages “Climate change is pushing people into debt bondage and worsening intergenerational precarity.” – Ankita Bhatkhande, Asar Scale of the Crisis Indicator Data Global Climate Migrants (2022) ~20 million/year (Internal migration) – International Refugee Assistance Project India’s Sugarcane Production (2021) 50 crore tonnes, ₹20,000+ crore revenue Protection for Migrants Weak; migrants face wage theft, health crises, and legal invisibility India lacks a dedicated legal framework for climate-induced internal migration. Adaptation or Displacement? Adaptation (Ideal Scenario): Diversified livelihoods Climate-resilient cropping Social security safety nets Displacement (Current Reality): Loss of land + livelihoods = forced migration Women and elderly disproportionately burdened Children drop out of school or face malnutrition “Migration may appear adaptive, but for many in India, it reflects a collapse of resilience.” — Sayantan Datta Policy Recommendations Area Action Needed Legal Framework Recognize climate migrants as a vulnerable group under national policy Housing & Rights Ensure safe shelters, portable social security, and labour protections Livelihood Resilience Invest in climate-smart agriculture, water access, and MGNREGA coverage Data & Planning Real-time climate–migration data to inform policy at district/state levels Interstate Coordination Protect rights of migrants across source and destination states Bottom Line India is living through a rural climate migration crisis — slow, silent, and scattered. Without urgent legal and policy recognition, millions risk falling into permanent precarity. India’s Open Ecosystems: Rethinking ‘Wastelands’ What Are Open Ecosystems? Open ecosystems refer to grasslands, deserts, scrublands, savannas, and open woodlands — landscapes characterized by low tree cover but high ecological and cultural value. These areas naturally support sparse vegetation due to arid climates or seasonal rainfall patterns. Unlike forests, they are not degraded forests, but distinct biomes with unique ecological functions. Relevance : GS-3 – Environment and Ecology; Land degradation, biodiversity, and sustainable land use. The ‘Wasteland’ Misclassification: A Colonial Legacy Official Label Ecological Reality “Wasteland” (as per Wasteland Atlas of India) Functional ecosystems with biodiversity, soil carbon, and pastoralist activity ~55.76 million hectares (16.96% of India’s land) Includes deserts, grasslands, scrub, coastal sand dunes Wastelands = ‘land to be fixed’ Actually = land to be preserved and stewarded Policy contradiction: While private real estate glorifies open green spaces (e.g., “Savana Villas”), India’s natural open landscapes are ignored or targeted for conversion. Why Deserts and Open Lands Matter Global Significance: Deserts cover ~33% of Earth’s land area. Host ancient civilizations (e.g., Indus Valley, Mesopotamia). Enable climate resilience through adapted flora and fauna. India-Specific Examples: Thar Desert (Rajasthan): Indigenous species like the Great Indian Bustard, caracal, desert fox. Banni Grasslands (Gujarat): Among Asia’s largest, now degraded by afforestation and invasive species. Pastoralist Communities: Stewards of Open Lands Community Region Dhangars Maharashtra Rabaris Gujarat Kurubas Karnataka Raikas Rajasthan Over 13 million pastoralists in India depend on open ecosystems for seasonal grazing. Their mobility and grazing cycles contribute to regenerative land use, seed dispersal, and biodiversity conservation. Afforestation on grasslands and fencing off commons disrupts both ecology and livelihoods. Greenwashing Concerns: Tree Planting ≠ Restoration Risks of Monoculture Afforestation: Reduces native biodiversity Alters hydrology and groundwater Converts carbon-rich soil systems into carbon-poor plantation zones Promotes Prosopis juliflora and eucalyptus, which degrade open biomes Instead, Promote: Rotational grazing Natural regeneration Check dams & water harvesting Pastoralist land governance Policy Roadmap: Recognising Open Ecosystems Priority Recommendation Reclassify lands Replace “wasteland” with “open ecosystem” in land-use maps Protect rights Recognize community tenure of pastoralist groups Incentivize carbon Reward soil carbon storage over tree carbon Embrace traditional knowledge Promote indigenous water and land management Reframe global language Change “World Day to Combat Desertification” to “World Day to Combat Land Degradation” Bottom Line “Deserts are not empty — they are alive, thriving, and culturally rich. Preserving them is not anti-development, but a climate-smart, justice-based environmental policy.” India’s Opportunity to Repay Green Revolution Debt From Recipient to Contributor India, once a major beneficiary of foreign agricultural assistance during the 1960s Green Revolution, now possesses the institutional and technological capacity to become a global contributor in agricultural R&D. With self-sufficiency achieved in wheat production, India is in a position to support international efforts—especially in developing countries facing similar challenges. Relevance : GS-2 & GS-3 – International Relations (South-South cooperation) and Agriculture R&D. Leadership in Wheat Innovation Indian agricultural research institutions have developed and scaled multiple high-yielding wheat varieties. Varieties like DBW187, DBW303, HD2967, HD3086 now dominate cultivation across millions of hectares. Research hubs such as IIWBR (Karnal), PAU (Ludhiana), and ICAR institutes play a leading role in this transformation. Strategic Opportunity for India As global funding for agricultural research declines, India has an opportunity to: Strengthen partnerships with international institutions like CIMMYT and IRRI Support research on climate-resilient crops and food security in the Global South Expand its soft power through agri-diplomacy and development cooperation Key Implications Transitioning from aid recipient to knowledge donor improves India’s global development profile. Agricultural assistance programs can be an extension of India’s South-South cooperation model. Investment in global research ensures preparedness against future food and climate crises. Policy Recommendations Create a formal International Agricultural R&D Support Mission led by Indian institutions. Allocate strategic funding to global wheat and rice research, especially in Africa and South Asia. Leverage public-private partnerships to commercialize and share India-developed crop innovations globally. How is Mizoram Handling the Refugee Crisis? Context: Refugee Influx from Myanmar Since February 2021, Myanmar has witnessed a military coup, triggering a civil war and ethnic conflicts. Over 40,000 refugees have crossed into Mizoram, especially from the Chin State of Myanmar, with recent influxes seen in Champhai district. The latest wave (July 2025) brought ~4,000 more refugees due to clashes between two anti-junta armed groups: Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) Chinland Defence Force-Hualngohm (CDF-H) Relevance : GS-2 – Polity and Governance; refugee management, Centre-State relations, and internal security. Why Mizoram? Ethnic Affinity: The refugees (Chins) share ethnic ties with Mizos; culturally and linguistically similar. Geographic Proximity: Chin State borders Mizoram; proximity to the conflict zones enables easier crossing. Humanitarian Tradition: Mizoram has historically sheltered fleeing ethnic groups from Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Manipur (Kuki-Zos). Timeline of Refugee Movements & Policy Evolution 1. Historic Background 1968–2004: Free Movement Regime (FMR) allowed cross-border travel up to 16 km; it was reduced from 40 km in 2004. 2016: FMR regulated; further restrictions imposed. 2024: MHA announced FMR suspension citing security concerns. 2. Post-2021 Influx Massive inflow post-coup; Chin National Army lost ground to pro-democracy forces → civilians fled. As of July 6, 2025: 3,890 Myanmar nationals recorded in Zokhawthar Spread across Zokhawthar, Khawmawi, Saisihnuam Central vs State Dynamics Aspect Mizoram Government Central Government Position Pro-refugee, citing ethnic and humanitarian grounds Restrictive, citing national security Actions Cash, relief camps, housing, refusal to evict refugees 28 crore aid, warning to stop refugee intake Conflict Ignored MHA order to evict refugees Accused Mizoram of altering demographics Civil society and organisations like Young Mizo Association (YMA), Churches, and student bodies have provided significant ground-level support. Refugee management is mostly local, decentralized, and supported by donations and voluntary contributions. Legal and Administrative Framework India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol. No national refugee law — refugees are treated under the Foreigners Act, 1946. Lack of clear refugee identification and rights creates legal ambiguity. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) retains control over international migration; states have limited jurisdiction. Ground-Level Realities in Mizoram Displacement hubs: Champhai, Zokhawthar, and border towns have seen the highest numbers. Living conditions: Improvised shelters, local integration, school access (in some cases), but high dependency on aid. Security risks: Intelligence reports warn about armed groups’ presence. Border militarisation may affect India-Myanmar ties. Broader Strategic Implications Domestic Strains Centre-State relations on federal responsibilities in managing cross-border migration. Highlights need for refugee protection law balancing national security and humanitarian obligations. Regional Border policy inconsistency impacts ties with Myanmar, especially with changes in junta control. Rising refugee influx from Bangladesh (Rohingyas), Myanmar (Chins), and Manipur (Kuki-Zos) reflects worsening stability in the Eastern neighborhood. Key Policy Recommendations Codify a National Refugee Law: Define refugee status Lay down rights and responsibilities Establish standard operating procedures Institutional Coordination: Create joint task forces between MHA and northeastern states for managing cross-border flows. Reinstate a Humanitarian FMR-lite: Controlled, tech-monitored travel for cross-border ethnic kin during crises. Leverage International Aid: Coordinate with UNHCR/ASEAN for refugee assistance, without compromising sovereignty Invest in Border State Capacities: Infrastructure, healthcare, digital ID systems for refugees, and local employment schemes. Key Numbers (as of July 2025) Indicator Value Total Refugees (post-2021) ~40,000 Latest influx (July 2025) ~4,000 Myanmar nationals in Zokhawthar (Champhai) 3,890 Government relief fund ₹28 crore Official camps with FGDs Very few – mostly informal, community-led India’s FGD Rollback: Implications of Exempting 78% of Thermal Power Plants Context The Union Environment Ministry has exempted 78% of India’s 600 thermal power plant (TPP) units from installing Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems. FGD systems are critical for reducing sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions, a precursor to acid rain and particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution. Only about 11% of thermal plants — those in high-density/population areas — are still mandated to install FGD systems. Relevance : GS-3 – Environment and Energy; air pollution, public health, and emission standards. What are FGDs and Why Do They Matter? Feature Description Purpose Reduces SO₂ emissions by up to 95% from coal combustion Mechanism Uses limestone slurry or seawater to scrub sulphur oxides from flue gas Relevance SO₂ contributes to PM2.5 formation, acid rain, respiratory and cardiac diseases Global Practice Mandatory in China, US, EU for all coal-fired plants since early 2000s India’s Thermal Power Pollution Profile Indicator Value Total TPPs ~180 (comprising 600+ units) Share in electricity ~72% of total generation (as of 2025) Share in SO₂ emissions ~51% of all industrial SO₂ Plants with FGD installed Only 8% (mostly NTPC-run) Exempted units post-policy ~468 units (78%) Key Policy Update (July 2025) Category Criteria FGD Mandate Category A Within 10 km of NCR or Tier-1 cities Mandatory Category B Within 10 km of Critically Polluted Areas (CPAs) or Non-Attainment Cities (NACs) Case-by-case Category C All others Exempted Result: Only ~11% (Category A) will remain under FGD norms. Basis for Exemption: What Experts Said The government relied on recommendations of a scientific panel led by Principal Scientific Adviser Ajay Sood: Claimed Indian coal has low sulphur content Found no major SO₂ difference in areas with or without FGDs Argued that sulphates suppress warming, so removing SO₂ may increase net radiative forcing Counterarguments by Public Health & Environmental Experts Argument Response “Indian coal is low in sulphur” But still emits enough SO₂ to drive PM2.5 in hotspots “FGDs don’t improve local air quality” Air quality impact depends on meteorology; long-range transport of SO₂ is well documented “Sulphates cool the planet” True — but co-benefits of SO₂ do not outweigh public health costs (respiratory illness, strokes) “FGDs are costly” Health costs of SO₂ are 5x higher than installation costs (per WHO/ICMR studies) Global Standards vs India’s Position Country FGD Mandate Implementation  China Mandatory since 2005 95%+ compliance  USA Under Clean Air Act Applied to >90% of coal plants  Germany FGD since 1983 Complete compliance  India First mandated in 2015, now diluted in 2025 78% exempted Implications of the Decision Environmental: Higher SO₂ emissions → elevated secondary particulate matter (sulphates) Weakens India’s commitment to air quality improvement under NCAP Potential rise in acid rain impacting crops, soil, monuments Public Health: Risk of increased respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses Higher disease burden in rural areas near exempted plants Economic: Disincentivises green tech investment in the power sector Short-term relief for discoms & thermal producers, but long-term cost-shifting to health sector Global Commitments: May impact India’s COP pledges on emissions intensity Could weaken diplomatic stance on climate finance and clean tech if domestic credibility erodes Way Forward: Balancing Power and Pollution Reprioritise Targeted FGDs: Mandate for plants near dense populations, agricultural belts, and ecological hotspots. Subsidised Technology Deployment: Viability gap funding for older plants; tie to ESG-linked financing. Integrated Emissions Tracking: Mandatory online SO₂, NOx, PM reporting on public dashboard. Health Cost Valuation: Incorporate externalities into tariff-setting by CERC. Accelerate Renewables: Reduce dependence on coal by scaling solar-wind-battery hybrids.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 12 July 2025

Content : World Population Day 2025 Maratha Military Landscapes of India Inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List as India’s 44th Entry World Population Day 2025 Theme: “Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world.” Demographic context: Over 65% of India’s population is under 35—a critical demographic dividend. Global framing: Reaffirms commitments made at the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD): rights-based family planning, gender equality, and informed reproductive choices. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) ,GS 2(Governance , Social Issues) Census 2027: A Paradigm Shift Scheduled Timeline: Phase 1 – Houselisting & Housing Census: Starts April 2026. Phase 2 – Population Enumeration: Begins March 2027 (Reference date: 1 March 2027; exception: 1 October 2026 for snow-bound areas). Postponed from 2021 due to COVID-19, making it India’s first census after a 16-year gap. Digital-First Features: Fully paperless, digital census. Mobile App & online self-enumeration (a first in Indian census history). Central Census Monitoring & Management Portal. Code Directory to streamline data processing and standardization. 35 lakh+ field functionaries to be trained digitally. Caste Enumeration: A Historic Breakthrough First-time inclusion of caste for all communities since independence. Post-1947 practice: Caste data limited to SC/ST only. SECC 2011 collected caste data but was not officially released; 2027 will integrate caste in main census—addressing concerns over transparency and politicization. Historic Roots of Census in India Ancient References: Arthashastra (321–296 BCE): Kautilya emphasized population count for governance. Ain-e-Akbari (1590s): Abul Fazl chronicled demographic and economic data under Akbar. Modern Census Beginnings: 1865–1872: First attempts, not simultaneous. 1881: First synchronized census—established India’s decadal census tradition. Legal Backbone: Census Act, 1948 & Census Rules, 1990—statutory basis for census operations. Post-Independence Census Highlights (1951–2011) Census Year Key Innovations / Contributions 1951 First post-independence census; pioneered field re-checking to verify data accuracy. 1961 Focused on rural crafts, festivals, introduced mechanical tabulation. 1971 First to capture migration data based on last residence. 1991 Only 45% digitization due to tech limits. 2001–2011 Adopted ICR tech (Intelligent Character Recognition) enabling 100% digitization. Census 2011: Scale, Structure & Data Operational Metrics Enumerators: 2.7 million Geographical units: 35 States/UTs, 640 districts, 5,924 sub-districts 7,933 towns, 6.41 lakh villages Languages: Schedules printed in 16 languages Logistics: 5.4 million instruction manuals 340 million printed forms Key Demographic Findings Total Population: 1.21 billion Males: 623.2 million Females: 587.6 million Decadal growth (2001–11): +182 million (+17.7%) Density: 382 persons per sq. km. Child Sex Ratio: 918 girls per 1000 boys Literacy Rate: 73.0% (M: 80.9%, F: 64.6%) Top states: Kerala (94.0%), Lakshadweep (91.8%), Mizoram (91.3%) SECC 2011: Socio-Economic & Caste Census Conducting Ministries: Rural: Ministry of Rural Development Urban: Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs Purpose: Data for welfare targeting, program design, and beneficiary selection. Tech Leap: Paperless enumeration using 6.4 lakh handheld devices Addressed 1.24 crore grievances with 99.7% resolution Caste Component: Data collected, but caste-wise data not made public Why Census 2027 Matters Policy & Planning: Foundational for resource allocation, electoral boundaries, and welfare schemes. Federal Empowerment: Caste data enables targeted state-level interventions and accurate backward class identification. Global Significance: India may retain its position as world’s most populous country, highlighting its need for granular governance tools. AI & Big Data Integration: Digital census may evolve into a real-time demographic dashboard for India’s planning architecture. India in the Global Census Context World’s largest census exercise involving over 130 crore individuals. Combines scale, complexity, diversity, and now digitization, setting a new global standard for democratic data collection. Other important dimensions Demographic Futures — Expanded Perspectives Comparative Lens: India’s age structure contrasts with ageing societies like Japan (median age: 49) vs. India (~28) — Census 2027 will sharpen India’s long-term demographic edge. Labour Market Integration: Census data can help map NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) youth – currently ~27% of youth (CMIE). Skilled vs. Unskilled Divide: Important for recalibrating Skill India strategy and vocational training. AI + Population Analytics: Use of demographic AI models to simulate regional fertility trends and future age pyramids. Urbanization and Migration Realities — Deeper Layers First-Time Urban Count Clarity: Many “census towns” (urban in nature but governed rurally) to be properly identified — critical for urban finance devolution and AMRUT 2.0 targeting. Real Estate and Infrastructure: Housing census data will shape PM Awas Yojana, RERA regulations, and rent-control policy in Tier-2/3 cities. Transport & Commuting Census: Opportunity to map last-mile transport stress and commuting zones, helping shape urban mobility blueprints. Water Stress & Urban Demography: Linking urban population maps with groundwater and surface water usage patterns—crucial for Smart Cities 2.0. Inclusion, Equity & Representation — Additional Insights Intersectional Analysis: Combine data on gender, caste, location, and disability to uncover multi-layered vulnerabilities—key for intersectional policymaking. Invisibility of Nomadic Tribes: Census may finally help enumerate Denotified and Nomadic Tribes who are often excluded from welfare due to lack of fixed residence. Mental Health Enumeration: A missed opportunity in 2011—Census 2027 can integrate self-reported indicators of mental well-being to influence Ayushman Bharat 2.0. Digital Identity vs. Demographic Identity: How will Census data align or contrast with Aadhaar-linked service access? Developmental Planning & SDG Alignment — Advanced Linkages Ecosystem Mapping: Census 2027 can feed into multi-sectoral planning dashboards — combining data from Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat, and Ujjwala schemes. Fiscal Federalism Alignment: Could influence the next Finance Commission formula, especially based on population vs. performance debates. Real-Time Policy Simulation: Census-linked analytics could simulate impact of UBI, food subsidy reforms, or reservation quotas on different castes or income groups. Global Benchmarking: India’s Census 2027 will become a model for Global South data governance, especially for low-cost digital enumeration. Conclusion: Census 2027 = Tech + Trust + Truth India’s Census 2027 is more than a demographic count—it is a data democracy revolution. With caste data inclusion, digital tools, and evidence-based design, India is poised to align its developmental vision with the aspirations of its young, diverse, and dynamic population. The exercise will shape 2020s policy, 2030s development, and 2040s India. Maratha Military Landscapes of India Inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List as India’s 44th Entry Cultural and Historical Significance Civilizational Continuity: These 12 forts, built between the 17th–19th centuries, reflect the military ethos of the Maratha Empire, known for its decentralized guerrilla warfare and stronghold-centric defence. Living Heritage: Recognized under UNESCO criteria (iv) & (vi) for showcasing a living cultural tradition and deep-rooted historical associations with regional identity and resistance movements (especially against the Mughals and British). Chronicles of Resilience: Raigad (capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji), Pratapgad (site of Afzal Khan’s defeat), and Shivneri (birthplace of Shivaji) are key historical nodes in the narrative of Indian self-rule and defiance. Spatial Typologies: Hill forts: e.g., Salher, Shivneri — adapted to rugged Sahyadri terrain. Island forts: e.g., Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg — designed for maritime surveillance and naval defence. Forest/hill-plateau forts: e.g., Pratapgad, Panhala — blending natural camouflage with defence. Relevance : GS 1(Culture , Heritage )                Architectural and Strategic Ingenuity Maratha Military Architecture: Emphasis on geographic advantage over size — unlike Mughal symmetry or Rajput opulence. Use of locally available basalt stone, multi-tiered walls, hidden pathways, and natural elevation for fortification. Decentralized Fort System: These forts weren’t standalone but functioned as a network of strategic outposts for rapid communication and flexible resistance. Maritime Defence Legacy: Island forts like Sindhudurg and Khanderi reflect India’s early naval ambitions and expertise in coastal military architecture. Technological relevance: Some forts had rainwater harvesting systems, granaries, and self-sustaining eco-defence systems, demonstrating early principles of sustainable architecture. Global Heritage & Diplomatic Relevance India’s 44th World Heritage Site: Ranks 6th globally, 2nd in Asia-Pacific, after China. UNESCO recognition elevates India’s cultural diplomacy and soft power on the global stage. UNESCO 47th Session, Paris: 18 of 20 State Parties backed India’s nomination after 59-minute deliberation. Reflects growing global acknowledgment of regional and indigenous heritage systems. India on World Heritage Committee (2021–2025): Strengthens India’s influence in global heritage governance. Follows the 2023 inscription of Moidams of Charaideo (Assam) — showing geographic and thematic diversity. Institutional, Governance, and Policy Dimensions Heritage Governance: Nodal agency: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Dual protection: Some forts under ASI, others under Maharashtra’s Directorate of Archaeology and Museums — a model for shared federal heritage management. UNESCO Nomination Process: 18-month preparation; includes ICOMOS mission, technical consultations, and stakeholder coordination. Reinforces India’s capacity for global-standard heritage documentation. Tentative List & Future Roadmap: India has 62 sites in the Tentative List — including sites from Odisha, Himachal, Gujarat, etc. Only one nomination per year per country allowed — necessitates strategic cultural prioritization. Environmental and Ecological Resilience Eco-sensitive Engineering: Many Maratha forts (e.g. Raigad, Pratapgad) were built using contour-sensitive construction, avoiding large-scale deforestation or ecological disruption. Sustainable Water Management: Rainwater harvesting tanks, step wells (kunds), and natural aquifers embedded in the forts (e.g. at Lohgad, Rajgad) ensured year-round water without external dependence — aligning with climate-resilient infrastructure principles. Climate-Adaptive Architecture: Forts adapted to high-rainfall Konkan regions, sea-wind exposure, and Sahyadri altitude — demonstrating vernacular green design. Modern Relevance: These forts can serve as case studies for eco-architecture and disaster-resilient planning, especially in hill and coastal zones. Knowledge Systems and Indigenous Technology Military Intelligence Networks: Use of visual signalling towers, hidden tunnels, and watch posts linked the fort network — an early form of strategic communication systems. Construction Science: Mastery in basalt rock-cutting, natural stone masonry without lime cement, and earthquake-resilient techniques. Knowledge Transmission: Passed down via guilds (silpakars) and oral engineering traditions, not formal manuals — a classic example of indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) now recognized under NEP 2020. Weapon Systems & Storage: Strategic placement of granaries, ammunition depots, and war rooms suggest early notions of military logistics. Community Participation and Cultural Ownership Grassroots Custodianship: Many forts are maintained or spiritually revered by local communities — e.g., Shivneri (linked to local deities), Pratapgad (site of jatra/fairs). Folk Memory & Oral Traditions: Ballads like “Powadas” recounting battles, and fort-centric festivals (e.g., Shiv Jayanti) reinforce living heritage. Youth Engagement: Rise of fort trekking communities (e.g., Sahyadri Trek Groups) contributes to citizen-led conservation awareness. Local Livelihoods: Forts generate eco-tourism, guide jobs, local artisan revival — key for cultural economy models. Tech-Enabled Heritage Conservation and Promotion Drone Mapping & 3D Modelling: Ongoing efforts by ASI to create digital inventories and restoration simulations — especially for deteriorating sea forts. Augmented Reality (AR) Integration: Pilot projects for immersive storytelling — allowing virtual walkthroughs of Raigad or Sindhudurg. Blockchain for Heritage Record-Keeping: Potential future use to ensure tamper-proof documentation of repairs, site status, and funds disbursed. Smart Heritage Corridors: Potential to integrate these forts into a Maratha Heritage Circuit under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 with QR-coded info panels and mobile heritage apps. Issuing Authority: UNESCO & the World Heritage Framework What is UNESCO? Full Form: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Established: 1945 Headquarters: Paris, France Mission: To promote global peace and sustainable development through education, science, culture, and communication. What is the World Heritage Convention? Adopted: 1972 (UNESCO General Conference) Title: Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage Purpose: To identify and protect cultural and natural heritage sites of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) to humanity. Members: 195 countries have ratified the convention (called State Parties), including India (joined in 1977). What is the World Heritage Committee? A 21-member intergovernmental body elected by the General Assembly of State Parties. Oversees the implementation of the Convention. Decides which sites get inscribed on the World Heritage List. India is a member for the term 2021–2025. What qualifies as a World Heritage Site? A site must: Possess Outstanding Universal Value (OUV). Meet at least one of 10 selection criteria: Criteria (i)–(vi): Cultural (e.g., architecture, tradition, heritage) Criteria (vii)–(x): Natural (e.g., biodiversity, ecology, landscape) The Maratha Military Landscapes were inscribed under criteria (iv) & (vi).