Jan 12, 2026 Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 12 January 2026

Content Delimitation, Finance Commission & Southern States Quad in 2025: A Year of Interregnum Delimitation, Finance Commission & Southern States Why in News? Renewed debate on post-2026 delimitation of Lok Sabha seats ahead of the 2029 General Elections. Finance Commission allocations to southern States declining as population carries ~50% weight in tax devolution. Concern that States which successfully reduced fertility will face loss of political and fiscal power. Delimitation Commission (DC) likely to be constituted after Census 2026 (expected results by Oct 2028). Relevance GS II – Polity & Governance Delimitation Commission: constitutional mandate, democratic representation. Federalism: Centre–State balance, political equity. Constitutional amendments: 42nd, 84th, 87th CAA. Role of constitutional bodies: Finance Commission vs Delimitation Commission. GS III – Economy Fiscal federalism and horizontal imbalances. Demographic transition and economic performance. Incentive structures in public policy. Practice Question “Post-2026 delimitation risks undermining the principle of cooperative federalism.” Examine in the context of demographic transition across Indian States.(250 Words) Core Issue Policy paradox: States investing in health, education, and family planning face: Reduced Union tax share. Potential relative loss of Lok Sabha seats. Population growth since 1991 concentrated in: Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh. Southern States (TN, Kerala, Karnataka, AP, Telangana): Near-replacement or below-replacement TFR. Slower population growth → representation penalty. Constitutional & Legal Background 84th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2001: Froze Lok Sabha seat allocation till Census after 2026. Explicit intent: incentivise population stabilisation. Census delay: 2021 Census postponed. Results now expected 2028, enabling DC before 2029. Implication: Seat proportions may change, widening absolute seat gap between North & South. Fiscal Federalism Link Finance Commission criteria (15th FC indicative): Income distance: ~50%. Population (2011): significant weight. Demographic performance. Tax effort. Southern States’ grievance: High contribution to GDP & taxes, declining relative transfers. Key contradiction: FC rewards population control. DC likely to penalise population control. Political Impact of Delimitation Even if seat proportion freezes, absolute numbers matter: Northern States gain more MPs. Southern States’ agenda-setting power weakens. Risk of permanent political dominance by high-population States. Proposed Solutions Increase Lok Sabha Seats (Status Quo Ratios) Basis: 2011 Census. Lok Sabha size: ~866 seats. Pros: No State loses seats. Least disruptive. Cons: Still rewards high population growth. Equal Representation in Rajya Sabha Fixed seats per State (e.g., 10 each). RS strength: ~290. Federal logic (US Senate model). Politically unlikely due to Lok Sabha dominance focus. Expand Vidhan Sabhas Equalise MLAs per 1,000 population. Improves State-level representation. Does not address Lok Sabha power imbalance. Digressive Proportionality (Most Viable) Lok Sabha seats: 60% population-based 40% demographic performance-based Rewards States with: Lower fertility. Better human development. Mirrors: EU Parliament’s digressive proportionality. Aligns with Finance Commission logic. Comparative & Conceptual Anchor Digressive Proportionality: Larger States: more seats, fewer per capita. Smaller States: fewer seats, higher vote weight. Balances: One person, one vote vs federal equality. Strategic Imperative for Southern States Build early political consensus before DC constitution. Demand: Explicit inclusion of demographic performance in delimitation. Frame issue as: Rewarding responsible governance, not regional favouritism. Takeaway Post-2026 delimitation risks penalising States that achieved demographic transition; adopting digressive proportionality offers a constitutionally consistent and federal solution to balance representation with responsibility. Delimitation – Static Notes What is Delimitation? Delimitation: Redrawing boundaries of Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly constituencies to reflect population changes. Objective: Equal representation → “one person, one vote, one value”. Constitutional Provisions Article 82: Parliament enacts a Delimitation Act after every Census. Article 170: Delimitation of State Legislative Assembly constituencies. Article 327: Parliament’s power over elections. Article 329: Bars judicial interference in delimitation orders. Delimitation Commission (DC) Nature: Independent, high-powered statutory body. Constitution: Chairperson: Retired Supreme Court judge. Members: Chief Election Commissioner / Election Commissioner. State Election Commissioners. Key Feature: DC orders have the force of law. Not challengeable in court. Historical Timeline Delimitation Commissions constituted in: 1952 1963 1973 2002 Last major delimitation: Based on 2001 Census (implemented in 2008). Freezing of Seats 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976 Froze Lok Sabha and Assembly seats based on 1971 Census. Period: 1976–2000. Rationale: Encourage population control. 84th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2001 Extended freeze till Census after 2026. Allowed: Readjustment of constituency boundaries, not seat numbers. Explicit intent: Reward States with successful family planning. 87th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003 Permitted delimitation using 2001 Census data. Did not alter total number of seats. Quad in 2025: A Year of Interregnum Why in News? 2025 marked the first year since 2021 without a Quad leader-level summit, despite escalating Indo-Pacific tensions. Return of Donald Trump as U.S. President triggered uncertainty over U.S. multilateral commitments. India was scheduled to host the 2025 summit, but it did not materialise, raising questions about the Quad’s momentum. Despite this, Quad initiatives continued, signalling resilience rather than decline. Relevance GS II – International Relations Indo-Pacific strategy. Minilateralism vs multilateralism. India–US–Japan–Australia strategic convergence. Rules-based international order. GS III – Security Maritime security. Naval interoperability. Maritime domain awareness. Practice Question The absence of a Quad leaders’ summit in 2025 does not imply strategic irrelevance. Critically analyse. (15 marks) Strategic Context Indo-Pacific remains the most contested geopolitical theatre. Intensifying U.S.–China strategic competition. Quad positioned as a key instrument to: Uphold a rules-based order. Promote a Free, Open, and Inclusive Indo-Pacific (FOIP). Core members: India, U.S., Japan, Australia — all maritime democracies. Quad’s Evolution Formed: 2004 (Indian Ocean tsunami coordination). Dormancy: Post-2008 due to strategic hesitations. Revived: 2017, amid China’s growing regional assertiveness. Leader-level summits: 6 summits held (2021–2024). Latest: 2024, Wilmington (U.S.) — President Biden’s farewell summit. Trump Factor in 2025 Trump was a key architect of the 2017 revival of the Quad. Initial concerns: “America First” doctrine. Skepticism toward multilateral groupings. Reassurance signals: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosted Quad Foreign Ministers: January 2025 July 2025 Quad featured as first major diplomatic engagement of Rubio. Why 2025 Is Called an “Interregnum” ? No leader-level summit for over a year. Political transitions: U.S.: Biden → Trump. Japan: New PM Sanae Takaichi (Oct 2025), yet to attend Quad summit. Quad lacks: Treaty status. Secretariat. Hence, leader-level summits are critical for strategic coherence. Continuity Through Operational Initiatives Quad-at-Sea: Ship Observer Mission Operationalised: June 2025 Enhances: Coast Guard cooperation. Maritime domain awareness. Ports of the Future Partnership First meet: October 2025, Mumbai Focus: Sustainable and resilient port infrastructure. Indo-Pacific connectivity. Malabar Naval Exercise Held in Guam (2025). Though not formally a Quad initiative: Involves all four Quad navies. Enhances interoperability and maritime signalling. Assessment of Quad’s Resilience No summit ≠ strategic drift. Continued programme delivery shows: Institutional learning. Operational depth beyond symbolism. Quad functioned as a “minilateral without paralysis”. Why Leader-Level Summit Matters ? Historically, major initiatives announced at: Vaccine partnership. Critical technologies. Maritime security. Diplomatic push underway: U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor (Oct 2025): Confirmed efforts for early 2026 summit. Strategic Implications Quad remains: Central to U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy. Crucial balancing mechanism against unilateralism. 2025 tested Quad’s institutional elasticity. Outcome: Pause, not decay. Takeaway Despite leadership transitions and the absence of a summit, 2025 demonstrated the Quad’s operational resilience, underscoring its enduring relevance in sustaining a rules-based Indo-Pacific order. Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) – Notes What is QUAD? Informal strategic forum of four democracies: India, United States, Japan, Australia Objective: Promote a Free, Open, Inclusive, and Rules-Based Indo-Pacific. Nature: Minilateral, non-treaty, non-institutional grouping. No secretariat, charter, or mutual defence obligation. Origin & Evolution 2004: Emerged from coordination during the Indian Ocean Tsunami relief. 2007: First Quad meeting (Abe Shinzo’s “Confluence of the Two Seas” vision). 2008–2016: Dormancy due to strategic hesitations (esp. Australia). 2017 Revival: Restarted amid China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. Core Strategic Objectives Uphold international law, especially UNCLOS. Counter: Coercive actions. Unilateral status-quo changes. Ensure: Maritime security. Freedom of navigation. Provide public goods in the Indo-Pacific.

Jan 12, 2026 Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 12 January 2026

Content Centre Seeking Smartphone Source Code Should the Age of Consent Be Lowered? Bhairav Battalions PSLV-C62 / EOS-N1 Mission HPV Vaccine and Herd Protection Zehanpora Stupas, Kashmir Centre Seeking Smartphone Source Code Why in News? Government is considering legally mandating security requirements for smartphones sold in India. Draft framework: Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirements (ITSAR), 2023. Most contentious proposal: Access to smartphone source code for vulnerability analysis. Strong behind-the-scenes resistance from global manufacturers like Apple and Samsung. Ongoing consultations between IT Ministry and tech companies. Relevance GS II – Governance & Polity State regulation vs individual privacy. Role of executive rule-making. Digital sovereignty. GS III – Internal Security & Science & Tech Cybersecurity. Supply-chain security. Technology regulation. Basics: What is Source Code? Source code: Human-readable programming instructions that define how software functions. Considered: Core intellectual property (IP). Central to: Security architecture. Commercial competitiveness. Access risks: IP leakage. Reverse engineering. Loss of proprietary advantage. What Are the Proposed Security Measures? Under ITSAR (Drafted 2023): 1. Source Code Access Smartphone makers must: Share source code (or parts) with designated Indian testing labs. Purpose: Vulnerability analysis Detection of hidden backdoors or security flaws. 2. Mandatory Malware Scanning Automatic and periodic malware scans on devices. Applies even after sale to consumers. 3. Data & Activity Logs Smartphones must: Store device activity records for at least one year. Raises concerns on: User privacy. Surveillance architecture. Government’s Rationale Smartphones now: Handle critical personal, financial, and strategic data. Rising concerns: Cyber espionage. Supply-chain vulnerabilities. Embedded malware or backdoors. India’s position: Large digital population. Increasing reliance on foreign hardware/software. Seen as: National security and cyber sovereignty measure. Industry Concerns IP Protection: Source code disclosure risks trade secrets. Global Precedent: Fear India becoming a high-compliance market. Trust Deficit: Storage and handling of code by government labs. Privacy Risks: Mandatory logging could violate: Data minimisation principles. User consent norms. Legal & Policy Dimensions Cybersecurity Aligns with: National Cyber Security Strategy (proposed). Moves India towards: Pre-market security certification for devices. Data Protection Potential conflict with: Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023: Purpose limitation. Storage limitation. Malware scanning and logging raise: State vs individual privacy tension. Trade & WTO Issues Possible violation of: TRIPS Agreement (IP protection). Non-tariff trade barriers. Risk of: Retaliatory measures. Global Comparison China: Extensive source-code audits for foreign tech. EU / US: Prefer: Security certification. Independent third-party audits. Do not routinely demand source code access. India’s approach: More state-centric and interventionist. Strategic Implications Positives: Enhanced device-level cybersecurity. Reduced dependence on opaque foreign systems. Risks: Reduced investor confidence. Higher device costs. Slower tech diffusion. Key question: Can security be ensured without intrusive code access? Takeaway India’s proposal to seek smartphone source code reflects a shift towards assertive digital sovereignty, raising complex trade-offs between cybersecurity, privacy, and intellectual property rights. Should the Age of Consent Be Lowered? Why in News? Supreme Court (Jan 10, 2026) in State of Uttar Pradesh vs Anurudh & Anr.: Acknowledged misuse of POCSO, 2012 in consensual adolescent relationships. Urged the Union government to consider corrective measures. Rising number of POCSO cases involving 16–18-year-olds where the relationship is claimed to be consensual. Renewed debate on the conflict between adolescent autonomy and child protection. Relevance GS II – Polity & Governance Child rights vs individual liberty. Judicial interpretation of social legislation. Role of Parliament vs judiciary. GS I – Society Adolescence, sexuality, social norms. Gender and family dynamics. Basics: What Is the Age of Consent? Age of consent: Legally defined age at which a person can consent to sexual activity. In India: 18 years (gender-neutral). Anyone below 18 is a “child” → consent is legally irrelevant. Sexual activity with a minor = statutory rape, irrespective of consent. Legal Framework in India POCSO Act, 2012 Defines all persons under 18 years as children. Section 19: Mandatory reporting of suspected offences. No distinction between: Consensual adolescent relationships. Exploitative sexual abuse. IPC / Criminal Law Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013: Raised age of consent from 16 → 18. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023: Section 63: Sexual acts with a woman under 18 constitute rape, with or without consent. Distinction to Note Age of consent ≠ Age of marriage: Marriage: 18 (female), 21 (male). Consent law deals with sexual autonomy, not marital validity. Historical Evolution of Age of Consent 1860 IPC: 10 years 1891: 12 years Later raised to 14, then 16 2012 (POCSO): Raised to 18 Trend reflects: Increasing emphasis on child protection, not autonomy. Arguments in Favour of Lowering the Age (to 16) 1. Criminalisation of Consensual Adolescence Large share of POCSO cases involve romantic relationships. Enfold study (2016–2020): 7,064 POCSO judgments analysed. 24.3% involved romantic relationships. 82% victims refused to testify against the accused. 2. Ground Reality of Adolescent Sexuality NFHS-4 (2015–16): 11% girls had first sexual experience before 15. 39% before 18. Law ignores biological and social realities. 3. Judicial Concerns Bombay HC (2023): Sexual autonomy includes both: Right to engage. Right to protection. Justice B.V. Nagarathna (SC, 2025): Romantic relationships near majority age should be treated differently. POCSO often used by parents to criminalise elopement. 4. Comparative Practice Many democracies (UK, Canada, EU): Age of consent: 16. Use “close-in-age” (Romeo–Juliet) exemptions. Arguments Against Lowering the Age 1. Risk of Weakening Child Protection Majority of abuse cases involve: Known persons (family, neighbours, caregivers). MWCD Study (2007): Over 50% of abusers known to the child. Consent in such power-imbalanced relationships is often illusory. 2. Deterrence Against Exploitation Bright-line rule (under 18 = no consent): Avoids subjective interpretation. Simplifies enforcement. Dilution may: Enable trafficking. Mask coercion as “consent”. 3. Parliamentary & Expert Consensus Justice Verma Committee: Recommended 16, but Parliament chose 18. Standing Committees (2011, 2012): Rejected recognising minor consent. Law Commission (283rd Report, 2023): Lowering age would make POCSO a “paper law”. Judicial Tightrope Courts acknowledge: Harsh impact of blanket criminalisation. Yet repeatedly affirm: Consent is legally immaterial under POCSO. Example: SC (Aug 2024): Overturned Calcutta HC acquittal in a POCSO case involving a 14-year-old. Conviction upheld; sentence waived under Article 142 (not precedent). The Core Policy Dilemma Adolescent autonomy vs Child protection. Binary choice (18 vs 16) is inadequate. Real issue: Distinguishing consensual peer relationships from exploitative abuse. Middle-Path Solutions No blanket reduction of age of consent. Introduce: Close-in-age exemption for 16–18-year-olds (e.g., ≤3–4 years gap). Mandatory judicial scrutiny for coercion or abuse. Complement legal reform with: Comprehensive sex education. Adolescent-friendly reproductive health services. Gender-sensitive policing and counselling. Takeaway The age-of-consent debate is not about lowering protection, but about recalibrating the law to distinguish adolescent autonomy from exploitation without diluting the core safeguards of child protection. Bhairav Battalions Why in News? Bhairav Battalions will debut in the Army Day Parade (15 January, Jaipur). Two units participating: 2 Bhairav Battalion (Southern Command) – “Desert Falcons”. 4 Bhairav Battalion (South Western Command). Marks India Army’s visible shift towards modern, technology-driven warfare. Relevance GS III – Internal Security Modernisation of armed forces. Emerging warfare domains (drones, hybrid warfare). Basics: What are Bhairav Battalions? Newly raised, high-speed offensive units of the Indian Army. Designed to: Execute Special Forces–like tasks. Operate from tactical to operational depth. Intended to bridge the gap between: Para Special Forces (elite, limited numbers). Regular infantry (large but less specialised). Why Were Bhairav Battalions Raised? Changing Nature of Warfare Modern conflicts are: Hybrid (conventional + irregular + cyber + drones). Technology-intensive. Lessons drawn from: Global conflicts (Ukraine, West Asia). India’s operational experience, including Operation Sindoor. Operational Gaps Identified Need for: Faster, more lethal units than regular infantry. Wider availability of special-operations capability without overstretching Para SF. Key Features of Bhairav Battalions High-speed offensive orientation. Capable of: Precision strikes. Deep penetration missions. Disruption of enemy bases and formations. Flexible employment: Tactical raids. Operational-level missions. Technology & Drone Warfare Focus Integral to Army’s unmanned warfare push. Indian Army creating: Pool of over 1 lakh drone operatives. Bhairav units trained to: Operate UAVs. Conduct drone-based reconnaissance, targeting, and strikes. Reflects shift from: Man-centric → man–machine teaming. Force Restructuring Context Bhairav Battalions 15 battalions raised so far. Target: ~25 battalions in near future. Deployed across border formations. Rudra Brigades (Parallel Reform) Integrated all-arms formations. Combine: Infantry. Mechanised units. Tanks. Artillery. Special Forces. Unmanned systems. Dedicated logistics and combat support. Aim: Faster mobilisation. Higher lethality. Integrated battlefield response. Place in India’s Military Doctrine Aligns with: Theatre-level readiness. Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) concept. Enhances: Offensive deterrence. Rapid response along borders. Reduces dependence on: Limited Para SF units for routine special operations. Strategic Significance Signals: Transition to next-generation land warfare. Improves India’s: Offensive capability without escalation dominance. Ability to respond swiftly in grey-zone conflicts. Supports: Credible deterrence against both western and northern adversaries. Challenges & Cautions High training and technology costs. Command and control integration with: Infantry. Special Forces. Air and drone assets. Avoiding dilution of Para SF’s elite role. Takeaway Bhairav Battalions represent the Indian Army’s shift towards agile, technology-enabled offensive forces, bridging the gap between conventional infantry and Special Forces in an era of hybrid warfare. PSLV-C62 / EOS-N1 Mission Why in News? ISRO commenced the 22.5-hour countdown for PSLV-C62 / EOS-N1 mission. Launch scheduled at 10:17 a.m. from Sriharikota. Mission highlights: Strategic Earth Observation satellite (EOS-N1). 15 co-passenger satellites from Indian start-ups, academia, and foreign partners. Commercial launch by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). PSLV-DL variant with PS4 stage restart and controlled re-entry. Relevance GS III – Science & Technology Space technology. Launch vehicles. Earth observation satellites. GS III – Security Strategic surveillance. Dual-use space assets. Basics: What is PSLV? Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV): ISRO’s workhorse launch vehicle. Optimised for Sun-Synchronous Orbits (SSO) and LEO. Known for: High reliability. Multi-satellite launch capability. PSLV Variants PSLV-CA: Core Alone. PSLV-DL: Dual strap-on motors. PSLV-QL: Four strap-ons. PSLV-XL: Six strap-ons (heavy-lift PSLV). Mission Profile: PSLV-C62 64th PSLV flight. 5th PSLV-DL mission. 105th launch from Sriharikota. Launch pad: First Launch Pad. Orbit: Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO). Primary Payload: EOS-N1 Earth Observation Satellite. Purpose: Strategic surveillance and imaging. Users: National security. Strategic planning. Reinforces: India’s space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capability. Co-Passenger Satellites: Key Features 15 small satellites. Developed by: Indian start-ups (Dhruva Space, TakeMe2Space, OrbitAid). Academic institutions. Foreign partners (Thailand-UK, Brazil, Nepal, Spain-France). Examples: Theos-2 (Thailand-UK EO satellite). CGUSAT, DSUSAT, MOI-1, LACHIT (Indian start-ups). Munal (Nepal–India collaboration). KID Capsule (Spain–France re-entry experiment). What is Special About This Mission? 1. Commercialisation via NSIL Mission operated by NewSpace India Limited. Reflects: Shift from ISRO as operator → ISRO as enabler. Supports: India’s space economy expansion. 2. Start-up & Academic Participation Strong representation of: Indian private space ecosystem. Encourages: Innovation. Indigenous space manufacturing. 3. PS4 Stage Restart & Re-entry PS4 stage restarted post satellite deployment. Purpose: Controlled de-orbiting. Space debris mitigation. Both PS4 stage and KID Capsule: Re-enter Earth’s atmosphere. Impact zone: South Pacific Ocean. What is Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO)? Near-polar orbit. Satellite passes over same location at same local solar time. Ideal for: Earth observation. Remote sensing. Environmental monitoring. Strategic & Policy Significance Enhances: National security surveillance. Space situational responsibility (debris mitigation). Aligns with: Indian Space Policy 2023. IN-SPACe–driven private participation. Strengthens India’s: Position as reliable global launch service provider. Takeaway PSLV-C62 reflects India’s mature space capabilities, combining strategic surveillance, commercial launches, start-up participation, and responsible space operations in a single mission. HPV Vaccine & Herd Protection Why in News? A large Swedish population-based study shows school-based HPV vaccination provides herd protection, reducing cervical cancer even among unvaccinated women. Evidence strengthens the case for including HPV vaccine in India’s Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). Relevant as India is planning school-based HPV vaccination (ages 9–14). Relevance GS II – Governance & Social Justice Public health policy. Universal Immunisation Programme. Women’s health. GS III – Science & Technology / Health Preventive healthcare. Vaccine science. Disease elimination strategies. Basics: What is HPV? Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Sexually transmitted virus. >200 types identified. High-risk strains (notably HPV-16, HPV-18) cause: ~95% of cervical cancer. Also linked to: Anal, oropharyngeal, penile cancers. Genital warts (low-risk strains). Cervical Cancer: India Burden 2nd most common cancer among Indian women. Annual impact: ~1.25 lakh new cases ~75,000 deaths Disproportionately affects: Low-income, low-screening populations. What is Herd Protection? When high vaccination coverage reduces overall virus circulation. Protects: Unvaccinated individuals. Especially relevant for sexually transmitted infections when transmission chains are disrupted. Key Findings of the Swedish Study Cohort: Women born 1989–2000. Vaccination coverage: Rose from 25% → 80% via school-based programmes. Results: Significant reduction in precancerous cervical lesions. Even unvaccinated women benefited if community coverage was high. Critical thresholds: ≥70% coverage → visible herd effects. ~90% coverage → optimal protection. Why School-Based Vaccination Works ? Early age (9–14): Vaccination before sexual debut → maximum efficacy. School-based delivery: Higher coverage. Lower dropout. Equity across socio-economic groups. Cost-effective at population scale. HPV Vaccine: Scientific & Medical Aspects Type: Preventive, not therapeutic. Effectiveness: Nearly 100% protection against HPV-16/18-related precancerous lesions. Limitation: Does not eliminate need for screening (Pap smear / HPV DNA test). No proven herd immunity evidence yet in India, but established in: Sweden UK Australia. India’s Current Position Indigenous vaccine: CERVAVAC developed by Serum Institute of India. Policy direction: Govt considering routine immunisation inclusion. Proposed age group: 9–14 years. Challenges: Awareness gaps. Vaccine hesitancy. Need for adolescent health infrastructure. Public Health Significance Shifts cervical cancer control from: Late-stage treatment → Primary prevention. Reduces: Screening burden. Long-term oncology costs. Aligns with: WHO Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy: 90% vaccination 70% screening 90% treatment. Ethical & Social Dimensions Gender equity: Protects women disproportionately affected. Intergenerational benefit: Herd protection amplifies social returns. Justice argument: Preventable cancer → moral obligation of the State. Takeaway High-coverage, school-based HPV vaccination can generate herd protection, making cervical cancer a largely preventable disease and strengthening the case for its inclusion in India’s universal immunisation strategy. Zehanpora Stupas, Kashmir Why in News? Archaeological discovery of ancient Buddhist stupas at Zehanpora, Baramulla (J&K). Site mentioned by Prime Minister in Mann Ki Baat. Excavations suggest structures dating back to the Kushan period (≈2,000+ years old). Reinforces Kashmir’s overlooked Buddhist heritage. Relevance GS I – Art & Culture / History Buddhism in India. Kushan period. Stupa architecture. GS I – Indian Society Cultural pluralism. Historical continuity in Kashmir. Basics: What are Stupas? Stupa: Buddhist commemorative structure. Houses relics of the Buddha or monks. Core elements: Anda (hemispherical mound) Harmika Chhatra Functions: Religious worship. Symbol of Buddha’s enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana. Location & Site Details Zehanpora village, near Baramulla town, north Kashmir. Spread across 10+ acres. Landscape: Plateau-like mound. Reduced over centuries due to: Floods. Canal digging (1970s). Long mistaken as natural earth mounds. Archaeological Findings Multiple earthen mounds forming a stupa complex. Evidence suggests: Wooden superstructure over stone base. Site used as winter halt for monks. Methods used: Modern archaeological tools. Drones and remote sensing. Dating & Historical Context Estimated age: ~2,000 years. Period: Kushan Empire (1st–3rd century CE). Kushans known for: Patronage of Buddhism. Trade along Silk Route. Gandhara art tradition. Buddhism in Kashmir: Historical Background Introduced during: Mauryan period (Ashoka) — traditional belief. Major expansion under: Kanishka (Kushan ruler). Kashmir’s role: Scholarly centre of Buddhism. Transmission point to Central Asia and China. Buddhist councils: 4th Buddhist Council traditionally associated with Kashmir (per some sources). Why Zehanpora is Significant ? Adds to known Buddhist sites: Harwan Kanispora Ushkur Hutmur Semthan Confirms: Dense Buddhist settlement in north Kashmir. Shows: Kashmir as a monastic and trade hub, not peripheral region. Global Link: France Connection Photograph of Zehanpora site found in French museum archives. Indicates: Colonial-era documentation. Early European scholarly interest. Reflects: Global dispersal of Indian archaeological records. Cultural & Civilisational Significance Challenges narrative of Kashmir as only: Shaivite or Islamic heritage region. Highlights: Pluralistic religious history. Cultural continuity across centuries. Strengthens: Buddhist civilisational map of India. Governance & Heritage Implications Need for: Site protection. Scientific excavation. Heritage tourism integration. Aligns with: Cultural revival initiatives. Soft power diplomacy via Buddhism. Takeaway The Zehanpora stupa complex reaffirms Kashmir’s role as a major Buddhist centre during the Kushan period, highlighting the region’s deep civilisational pluralism and strategic position in ancient trans-Asian networks.

Jan 10, 2026 Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 10 January 2026

Content Year End Review 2025 – Ministry of Women & Child Development (MWCD) Digitalising India’s Dairy Sector Year End Review 2025 – Ministry of Women & Child Development (MWCD) Why in News? PIB release dated 09 January 2026 published the Year End Review 2025 of MWCD. Highlights scale-up of nutrition, women safety, maternity benefits, child protection, and digital governance. Emphasises technology-led welfare delivery, DBT expansion, and convergence with NEP 2020 & tribal welfare missions. Relevance GS II – Governance & Social Justice Welfare delivery: Poshan 2.0, PMMVY, Mission Shakti, Mission Vatsalya E-governance: Poshan Tracker, FRS, Helpline 1515 Cooperative federalism: Suposhit GP Abhiyan, DAJGUA, ERSS-112 Institutions: OSCs, SHe-Box, Child Helpline, CARINGS GS I – Indian Society Women empowerment: Mission Shakti, PMMVY, shelters Children & vulnerable groups: ECCE, Mission Vatsalya, BVMB Gender issues: GBV (Nayi Chetna, 16 Days of Action) Tribal inclusion: PM-JANMAN AWCs, DAJGUA convergence Macro Overview Focus: Inclusive development, safety, nutrition, early childhood education, women-led growth. Flagship umbrellas: Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 Mission Shakti Mission Vatsalya Strong push towards real-time monitoring, biometric verification, grievance redressal. Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 (Nutrition + ECCE + Adolescent Girls) Coverage: 8.69 crore beneficiaries (PWLMs, children 0–6 yrs, adolescent girls) (as on 30 Nov 2025) Anganwadi Infrastructure 2 lakh AWCs approved for upgradation. 94,077 AWCs upgraded with improved infrastructure incl. LED screens. PVTG Focus (PM-JANMAN): 2,500 AWCs sanctioned, 2,326 operational. MWCD awarded Best Performing Ministry for PM-JANMAN implementation. Tribal Convergence (DAJGUA – MoTA): 875 AWCs sanctioned, 455 operational. 27,785 tribal beneficiaries covered. Digital Governance – Poshan Tracker Launched: March 2021 Nature: End-to-end, real-time governance tool for ICDS. Key Data (2025) 9+ crore beneficiaries registered ~8 crore children monitored monthly (height & weight) 14 lakh Anganwadi Centres connected 24 Indian languages supported PM’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2024 (Innovation – Centre) Functional Scope Attendance & AWC opening HCM & THR distribution ECCE instructional content ABHA & APAAR ID creation Citizen module for self-registration at nearest AWC Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan Launched: 26 Dec 2024 Objective: Identify 1,000 high-performing Panchayats. Criteria: Nutrition outcomes Infrastructure Malnutrition reduction Methodology: Poshan Tracker-based benchmarking Cross-State peer review Goal: Malnutrition-free Bharat Nutrition Outreach & Behaviour Change 8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah (2025) Launched: 17 Sept 2025, Dhar (MP) Theme: Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan 14.33 crore activities conducted nationwide. Convergence with 20+ Ministries. PMMVY DBT Push ₹450 crore transferred in one day Beneficiaries: 15 lakh+ women Strengthening ECCE – Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi Alignment: NEP 2020 Capacity Building 8,55,728 Anganwadi Workers trained 41,645 State/Local Master Trainers trained Curricula: Aadharshila (0–3 yrs) Navchetana (3–6 yrs) Translated into 12 regional languages Digital Learning 2.56 crore preschool activities/month logged on Poshan Tracker. Co-location with Schools Guidelines issued: 3 Sept 2025 2.9 lakh AWCs already within school premises. Helpline Rationalisation – 1515 Unified helpline for: PM CARES Poshan 2.0 PMMVY Short code changed: 14408 → 1515 Grievances (till Dec 2025): Received: 1,40,862 Resolved: 1,04,662 FRS-Based Verification (Governance Reform) Anganwadi – THR Delivery Aadhaar-based Face Recognition System (FRS) via Poshan Tracker. No separate app. Status (31 Dec 2025): Eligible: 4.73 crore eKYC completed: 4.51 crore (91.38%) THR via FRS (Dec): 2.79 crore (52.68%) PMMVY Mandatory FRS for new enrolments since 21 May 2025. 17.82 lakh beneficiaries enrolled via FRS (till 17 Nov 2025). Outcome: Reduced leakages, enhanced transparency. Mission Shakti – Women Safety & Empowerment One Stop Centres (OSCs): Approved: 1025 Operational: 865 Women assisted: 12.67 lakh Women Helpline 181: Integrated with ERSS-112 in 35 States/UTs 93.48 lakh women supported Shelter Infrastructure: 411 Shakti Sadan 531 Sakhi Niwas PMMVY Overall Impact: 4.26 crore beneficiaries ₹20,060 crore DBT Beti Bachao Beti Padhao – 10 Years Observed: 22 Jan – 8 Mar 2025 Significance: Decade of girl child protection, education & empowerment Aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047 Shift towards Women-Led Development SHe-Box Portal Launched: 29 Aug 2024 Purpose: Single-window SH Act (2013) grievance redressal Coverage: Organised & unorganised sectors Public & private Data (as on 05 Jan 2026): 1.3 lakh workplaces onboarded 50,000+ Internal Committees LCs of all 777 districts Languages: 22 + English Significance: Workplace safety, labour force participation 16 Days of Action & Nayi Chetna 4.0 Period: 25 Nov – 10 Dec 2025 Focus: Gender-based violence Nayi Chetna 4.0: 25 Nov – 22 Dec 2025 Led by Women SHGs MoRD–MWCD convergence Mission Vatsalya – Child Protection Unified Mission Vatsalya Portal operational. CARINGS adoption platform integrated. Child Helpline: Functional in all 36 States/UTs Installed in 728 districts Capacity Building: 303 Master Trainers trained Locations: Delhi, Bengaluru, Guwahati, Bhopal, Lucknow Karmayogi–iGOT Course (with LBSNAA): Enrolled: 37,242 Completed: 19,728 Key Campaigns PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 Ceremony: 26 Dec 2025, Vigyan Bhawan 20 children from 18 States/UTs Fields: Bravery, Art & Culture, Environment, Social Service, S&T, Sports Veer Bal Diwas 2025 Observed: 26 Dec 2025 Nationwide celebrations PM interaction with PMRBP awardees Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat (BVMB) 1 year completed: 27 Nov 2025 100-day intensive campaign launched: 4 Dec 2025 Portal: 58,262 CMPOs listed 92,819 awareness activities 1.79 crore participants 8 lakh pledges recorded Takeaway Shift from welfare delivery to welfare governance. Strong use of biometrics, real-time dashboards, convergence models. Nutrition & ECCE positioned as human capital foundations. Aligns with: SDG 2, 3, 5 NEP 2020 Tribal inclusion & Women-led development. Digitalizing India’s Dairy Sector Why in News? PIB release dated 09 January 2026 published the Year End Review 2025 on digital transformation of India’s dairy sector. Highlights NDDB-led technology-driven reforms covering livestock identification, milk procurement, breeding, ERP systems, logistics, and cooperative governance. Reinforces India’s push towards traceability, farmer-centric DBT, productivity enhancement, and cost efficiency in the world’s largest dairy ecosystem. Relevance GS III – Agriculture & Economy Allied sector: Dairy & agri-GDP Farmer income: AMCS, DBT, cooperatives Agri-tech: NDLM, Pashu Aadhaar, INAPH, SSMS Logistics: GIS route optimisation, ERP DPI: Bharat Pashudhan, i-DIS, NDERP India’s Dairy Sector: Strategic Context India accounts for ~25% of global milk production (largest producer globally). Dominated by small & marginal farmers → high need for: Transparency Payment assurance Disease control Productivity enhancement NDDB positioned as the technology backbone of cooperative dairying. National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM) – “Bharat Pashudhan” Implementing agencies: NDDB + Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) Core Objective Create a unified national digital livestock ecosystem with individual animal traceability. Pashu Aadhaar 12-digit unique ear tag (barcode-based) aligned with global best practices. Acts as primary key for all animal-related transactions. Coverage (till Nov 2025): 35.68 crore animals tagged Enables tracking of: Vaccination Breeding & AI Treatment & health services Bharat Pashudhan Database 84+ crore field transactions recorded. Users: Farmers Veterinarians Extension workers Benefit: Single-window animal health & productivity history. Farmer Support Tools 1962 App & Toll-Free Helpline (1962): Best practices Scheme information Doorstep veterinary services via Mobile Veterinary Units Analytical Value → NDLM strengthens disease surveillance, productivity analytics, insurance readiness, and export compliance. Automatic Milk Collection System (AMCS) Purpose: Transparent, error-free, and farmer-friendly milk procurement. Functional Design Digitally records: Quantity Fat/SNF quality Price Instant DBT to farmers’ bank accounts Real-time SMS alerts to farmers. Coverage (as on 22 Oct 2025) 17.3 lakh milk producers 26,000+ Dairy Cooperative Societies 54 milk unions Operational in 12 States/UTs System Architecture DCS Application: Windows / Linux / Android Central Portals: Union, Federation, National Mobile Apps: Farmer Society Secretary Dairy Supervisor AMCS Mobile App Adoption 2.43 lakh farmers 13,644 society secretaries 1,374 supervisors Governance Impact Eliminates manual manipulation Enhances price transparency & trust Strengthens cooperative accountability NDDB Dairy ERP (NDERP) Nature: End-to-end digital backbone for dairy & edible oil sectors. Key Features Web-based ERP (built on Frappe ERPNext – open source) No license or installation cost. Modules: Finance & Accounts Purchase & Inventory Sales & Marketing Manufacturing HR & Payroll Maker–checker workflows for internal controls. Distributor Interface iNDERP portal + mNDERP app (Android/iOS): Orders Invoices Delivery challans Payment tracking System Integration Fully integrated with AMCS → cow to consumer digital chain. Uses mass-balance technique to minimise processing losses. Analytical Value → Supports cost optimisation, supply chain transparency, and financial discipline in cooperatives. Semen Station Management System (SSMS) Objective: Quality assurance & traceability in artificial insemination. Operational Scope Bull lifecycle management Frozen Semen Dose (FSD) production Quality control & biosecurity Farm & fodder management Sales & distribution tracking Integration Linked with INSPRM (national portal). Connected to INAPH for field-level traceability. Uses RFID bull tags & lab equipment integration. Coverage 38 graded semen stations nationwide. Developed under National Dairy Plan-I (World Bank funded). Significance Improves genetic quality Enhances milk yield Reduces regional productivity gaps INAPH (Information Network for Animal Productivity & Health) Captures real-time data on: Breeding Nutrition Health services Enables project monitoring & outcome assessment. Supports evidence-based livestock interventions. Internet-based Dairy Information System (i-DIS) Purpose: National cooperative dairy MIS & benchmarking platform. Coverage 198 milk unions 29 marketing dairies 54 cattle-feed plants 15 federations Functional Utility Tracks: Milk procurement & sales Manufacturing & distribution Input supply Enables inter-union benchmarking. Institutional Role Creates National Cooperative Dairy Industry Database. NDDB conducts regular MIS capacity-building workshops. Milk Route Optimisation (GIS-Based) Objective: Reduce logistics cost & time. Technology GIS-based digitised route planning. Replaces manual route mapping. Impact Examples Vidarbha–Marathwada Dairy Development Project (Aug 2022): 4 milk chilling centres redesigned. Significant transport cost savings. Successful pilots in: Varanasi Milk Union West Assam Milk Union Jharkhand Milk Federation Indore Milk Union Scaling Tool Web-based dynamic route optimisation software Free for dairy cooperatives. Enables: Fleet optimisation Real-time planning Fuel & emission reduction Overall Impact Assessment Farmer-centric outcomes: Assured payments Service delivery at doorstep Digital inclusion Systemic gains: End-to-end traceability Reduced leakages Data-driven policymaking Strategic alignment: Doubling farmers’ income Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Climate-efficient logistics Conclusion India’s dairy digitalisation, led by NDDB, represents a rare case of technology successfully penetrating a smallholder-dominated sector, creating a transparent, traceable, and productivity-oriented ecosystem aligned with inclusive growth and cooperative federalism.

Jan 10, 2026 Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 10 January 2026

Content Letting the rupee slide isn’t the answer High-quality education needs trust between State and institutions Letting the rupee slide isn’t the answer Why in News? Recent editorial in The Indian Express argues against RBI’s policy of allowing rupee depreciation as a tool to manage external shocks. Context: Persistent rupee volatility amid global monetary tightening. Debate on RBI’s exchange rate management strategy, FX reserves usage, and inflation-growth trade-offs. Relevance amplified by: Rising imported inflation risks. Declining global capital flows to emerging markets. RBI’s balancing act between exchange rate flexibility and stability. Relevance GS III – Indian Economy Exchange rate management Inflation control External sector stability Capital flows & FX reserves GS II – Governance Role of RBI as an independent regulator Credibility of monetary policy institutions Practice Question Letting the rupee depreciate is often presented as a natural adjustment mechanism for external shocks. Critically examine why excessive reliance on currency depreciation can undermine macroeconomic stability in India.(250 Words) Core Argument of the Editorial Letting the rupee depreciate is not a sustainable macroeconomic solution. Excessive reliance on depreciation creates long-term structural and credibility risks. Key Issues Highlighted Limits of Rupee Depreciation as a Policy Tool Depreciation may: Temporarily support exports. Reduce pressure on FX reserves. But: India’s exports are import-intensive → weak competitiveness gains. Trade balance response is limited and delayed (J-curve effect). Imported Inflation Risk Rupee depreciation: Raises cost of oil, fertilisers, electronics, defence imports. Directly fuels cost-push inflation. Inflation transmission: Undermines monetary policy credibility. Forces tighter domestic financial conditions. Corporate Balance Sheet Stress Many Indian firms have: Unhedged foreign currency exposure. Sharp rupee fall: Inflates external debt servicing. Weakens balance sheets → investment slowdown. FX Reserves Are Not Just a Stockpile Reserves serve: Confidence anchor for investors. Buffer against sudden stops. Excess volatility: Increases precautionary reserve demand. Ironically raises pressure on FX reserves instead of reducing it. The “Equilibrium Exchange Rate” Fallacy RBI’s implicit assumption: Market will find a “fair value” if intervention is limited. Editorial’s critique: Equilibrium exchange rate is unobservable and unstable. Global savings-investment dynamics are shifting unpredictably. Risk: Overshooting and self-fulfilling depreciation cycles. Volatility vs Flexibility Trade-off Limited two-way volatility: Encourages hedging. Disciplines speculative positions. Excess volatility: Discourages trade and investment. Raises transaction costs. Hurts small and medium enterprises disproportionately. Capital Flow Dynamics In EMs like India: Capital flows are pro-cyclical. Currency overshooting: Triggers outflows instead of correcting imbalances. Creates feedback loops between currency and capital markets. What Should RBI Do Instead? 1. Managed Flexibility Allow gradual adjustments, not sharp slides. Prevent disorderly movements via calibrated intervention. 2. FX Reserve Utilisation Use reserves to: Smooth volatility. Anchor expectations. Not to defend a fixed level, but to avoid destabilising overshoot. 3. Encourage Hedging, Not Speculation Stable currency environment: Promotes long-term hedging. Discourages short-term carry trades. 4. Policy Credibility over Tactical Gains Prioritise: Inflation control. Financial stability. Predictability in macro framework. High-quality education needs trust between State and institutions Why in News? Recent editorial in The Indian Express discusses structural reforms in Indian higher education in the context of: NEP 2020 implementation Proposed Bharat Shiksha Adhisthan Bill, 2025 Expansion of Viksit Bharat @2047 vision Highlights tensions between: State regulation vs institutional autonomy Scale vs quality in higher education. Relevance GS II – Governance Role of the State in education Regulatory reforms Cooperative institutional governance GS III – Human Capital & Growth Education–productivity linkage Innovation ecosystem Skill and knowledge economy Practice Question Critically examine why trust between the State and higher education institutions is essential for achieving quality and global competitiveness in Indian education.(250 Words) Central Thesis High-quality higher education cannot be achieved through control-heavy regulation alone. It requires: Trust-based governance Academic autonomy Outcome-oriented accountability, not micromanagement. Key Arguments Explained NEP 2020 as a Structural Shift NEP marks a transition from: Rigid degree structures → flexible, multidisciplinary pathways Rote evaluation → holistic, competency-based assessment Introduction of: Multiple entry–exit options Academic Bank of Credits Success depends on institutional freedom, not uniform templates. Role of the State: Enabler, Not Controller International evidence (esp. US, Europe): Strong state funding + low academic interference → global excellence. Indian challenge: Tendency towards procedural compliance, approvals, inspections. Editorial argues: State should set outcomes and benchmarks, not dictate processes. Regulatory Overlap and Fragmentation Existing system: Multiple regulators (UGC, AICTE, councils) Overlapping mandates → delays, uncertainty. Bharat Shiksha Adhisthan Bill, 2025: Proposes unified regulation covering: Institutions Standards Accreditation Welcomed as reform, but: Risk of centralised overreach if trust deficit persists. Differentiated Institutional Roles Not all HEIs should be treated alike. Editorial stresses: Research universities Teaching-focused institutions Liberal arts colleges Vocational & skill institutions Uniform regulation: Suppresses diversity Penalises innovation. Innovation Requires Academic Freedom World-class research thrives on: Freedom to design curricula Interdisciplinary experimentation Risk-taking Excess approvals and reporting: Reduce faculty creativity Discourage global collaboration. Global Competitiveness Gap India’s strengths: Large youth population Rising GER Gaps: Few Indian universities in top global rankings Weak international faculty & student mobility Root cause: Limited autonomy + procedural regulation. Science Education: Excellence with Gaps While elite science institutions excel: Undergraduate exposure Laboratory access Experiential learning remain uneven. Emphasis needed on: Hands-on learning Research-based pedagogy Institutional capacity building. Trust as the Missing Institutional Capital Trust deficit manifests as: Excess audits Over-regulation Suspicion-driven oversight High-performing systems operate on: Trust + accountability Outcome audits, not input control. Way Forward Suggested Outcome-Based Regulation Shift from: Permission-based → performance-based oversight Focus on: Graduate outcomes Research output Global engagement. Graded Autonomy Expand autonomy to: Proven institutions With transparent disclosures. State as Capacity Builder Invest in: Faculty development Research infrastructure Digital & blended learning ecosystems. Trust + Transparency Framework Replace micromanagement with: Public disclosure Independent accreditation Social accountability.

Jan 10, 2026 Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 10 January 2026

Content National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS) DPDP Act, 2023 vs RTI Act, 2005 — Attorney-General’s Opinion Assam’s Pride: Golden Langur Losing Its Only Home The Mountain Monarch: Nilgiri Tahr in the Western Ghats Pesticides Management Bill, 2025: Revised Draft, Old Gaps Persist Only 67 Cities Covered under the National Clean Air Programme Drugs Problem Is Narco-Terrorism, Not a Mere Issue of Crime National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS). Why in News? Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS). It is a first-of-its-kind national database documenting all bomb blast / IED incidents in India since 1999. Aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism investigations, trend analysis, and predictive policing. Relevance GS III – Internal Security Terrorism and insurgency Use of technology in security management Intelligence sharing and coordination GS II – Governance Role of Union Home Ministry Cooperative federalism in policing Institutional capacity building What is NIDMS? NIDMS (National IED Data Management System): A secure national digital platform. Houses comprehensive data on bomb blasts and IED incidents across India. Designed for systematic collection, standardisation, integration, and sharing of blast-related data. Institutional Framework Nodal Agency: National Security Guard (NSG) Operational Hub: National Bomb Data Centre (NBDC), NSG Headquarters: Manesar, Haryana Primary Role of NSG: Lead force for post-blast analysis in India. Coverage & Scale Temporal coverage: All IED / bomb blast incidents since 1999. User agencies: State Police forces Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) Central investigating and anti-terror agencies Nature of access: Single-click access to previously scattered case-file data. Key Features of NIDMS End of Data Silos Earlier: Explosion-related data existed across multiple agencies and case files. Now: Integrated into one centralised national repository. Signature Linking of Incidents System can establish linkages between multiple blasts based on: Location Type of explosion Explosive material Circuit and timer design Example cited: Same delayed circuit timer used in: Rameswaram café blast (March 2024) Mangaluru blast (2022) AI-Enabled Analysis Home Ministry aims to: Connect multiple internal data sources. Use advanced AI-based software for: Pattern detection Modus operandi analysis Predictive assessment of future threats. Predictive & Preventive Capability Enables: Identification of repeat signatures. Mapping of terror networks and bomb-makers. Anticipation of emerging trends in IED design and deployment. Strategic Significance Counter-Terrorism Helps: Investigate terrorist incidents across States. Establish inter-State and inter-incident linkages. Strengthens India’s intelligence-led counter-terror framework. Federal Coordination Common platform for: Centre–State cooperation. Information symmetry across police forces. Reduces duplication and investigation delays. Evidence-Based Security Policy Supports: Trend analysis of explosives used. Shifts in terrorist tactics. Enables data-driven formulation of counter-terror strategies. Governance & Technology Angle Reflects shift towards: Digital governance in internal security AI-supported law enforcement Aligns with: National security modernisation Smart policing initiatives. DPDP Act, 2023 vs RTI Act, 2005 — Attorney-General’s Opinion Why in News? Attorney-General of India, R. Venkataramani, in a written opinion, stated that the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 does not dilute the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. Comes amid criticism from civil society and transparency advocates after the Centre notified amendments to RTI in November 2025 via the DPDP Act. Core dispute: Whether amendment to Section 8(1)(j) of RTI weakens transparency by expanding the “personal information” exemption. Relevance GS II – Polity & Governance Transparency vs privacy Role of Attorney-General Accountability mechanisms GS IV – Ethics Public interest vs individual privacy Discretion and ethical decision-making by public authorities Legal & Policy Background RTI Act, 2005 Enacted to operationalise Article 19(1)(a) (Right to know). Section 8(1) lists exemptions from disclosure. Section 8(2) provides an override clause allowing disclosure if public interest outweighs harm. DPDP Act, 2023 Enacted to protect informational privacy under Article 21, following Puttaswamy (2017). Amended RTI Act’s Section 8(1)(j) relating to personal information. What Changed in Section 8(1)(j)? Earlier Position (Pre-DPDP) Personal information could be disclosed if: It had a relationship to public activity/interest, or Larger public interest justified disclosure. Included a key proviso: Information not denied to Parliament could not be denied to citizens. Post-DPDP Amendment Language simplified to exempt “personal information” without explicitly mentioning: Public activity linkage Parliamentary disclosure proviso Triggered concerns of a blanket exemption. Attorney-General’s Opinion 1. No Dilution of RTI AG argues: Section 8(2) of RTI Act remains untouched. This section mandates disclosure of even exempt information if public interest outweighs harm. Hence, transparency safeguards still exist. 2. Balance Between Privacy and Transparency DPDP Act provides a legal framework to balance: Right to Privacy (Article 21) Right to Information (Article 19(1)(a)) Explicitly aligned with Supreme Court’s Puttaswamy judgment (2017). 3. Harmonious Construction RTI exemptions must be read with Section 8(2), not in isolation. CPIOs and appellate authorities retain discretion to disclose in public interest. Government’s Stand RTI amendment notified November 2025, even as: Other DPDP provisions were given 12–18 months for implementation. Centre maintains: No reduction in accountability. Only clarification to avoid misuse of personal data. Concerns Raised by Critics Transparency Advocates’ Arguments Removal of explicit public interest language in Section 8(1)(j): May lead to over-cautious denial by officials. Parliamentary proviso omission: Weakens a key democratic safeguard. Practical risk: Information on assets, appointments, disciplinary actions may be denied citing privacy. Constitutional Dimension Article 19(1)(a): Right to Information (derived). Article 21: Right to Privacy (Puttaswamy, 2017). AG’s view: DPDP Act restores constitutional balance, not hierarchy. Implications for Governance Positive Stronger personal data protection regime. Reduced arbitrary disclosure of private data. Compliance with global data protection standards. Risks Chilling effect on RTI usage. Increased discretion at CPIO level. Potential dilution unless Section 8(2) is robustly applied. Key Data & Facts for Mains Enrichment RTI Act enacted: 2005 DPDP Act enacted: 2023 RTI amendment notified: November 2025 Landmark case: K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) Assam’s Pride: Golden Langur Losing Its Only Home Why in News? Recent article highlights rapid habitat fragmentation threatening the Golden Langur, a globally rare primate endemic only to Assam (India) and Bhutan. Raises concerns over: Infrastructure-led habitat loss Genetic isolation Long-term survival of an endemic species Fits into broader debates on: Biodiversity conservation Human–wildlife conflict Community-led conservation models Relevance GS III – Environment & Biodiversity Endemic species conservation Habitat fragmentation Human–wildlife conflict What is the Golden Langur? Taxonomy & Identity Common name: Gee’s Golden Langur Scientific name: Trachypithecus geei Group: Old World monkeys Identified as a distinct species by Zoological Survey of India, based on documentation by Edward Pritchard Gee (1964). The IUCN Red List lists the golden langur as Endangered Geographic Distribution Endemic range: Western Assam Foothills of Bhutan’s Black Mountains Natural boundaries: Manas River (east) Sankosh River (west) Altitudinal range: 100–1,500 metres (subtropical Himalayan foothills) Population Status Estimated population in Assam: ~7,400 individuals Source: Global Ecology and Conservation (2024) One of the rarest and most threatened primates globally. Habitat & Ecology Habitat Type Subtropical broadleaf forests: Moist evergreen Semi-evergreen Riverine forests Strictly arboreal: Depends on continuous tall forest canopy. Behaviour & Social Structure Group size: Average 8 individuals Social system: One male, multiple females, juveniles Behaviour: Shy Avoids human contact Physical Characteristics Long, silky coat with golden to silvery-white sheen. Seasonal colour variation: Males darker golden Females and juveniles lighter Distinct features: Black face Pale beard Crown hair whorl Tail length often >1 metre Cultural Significance Known and revered by: Bodo community (considered descendant of a mythical monkey king) Rabha community Bodoland Territorial Council: Golden langur is the official mascot Cultural reverence has enabled community protection. Key Threats 1. Habitat Fragmentation Causes: Roads Power transmission lines Forest clearance Results in: Isolated forest patches Disrupted canopy continuity 2. Direct Mortality Factors Electrocution from overhead power lines Roadkill (especially near highways) Dog attacks near villages and plantations 3. Genetic Risks Fragmentation restricts gene flow. Leads to: Inbreeding Reduced genetic diversity Long-term population decline Conservation Efforts Protected Areas Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary Raimona National Park Kakoijana Reserved Forest Parts of Manas National Park Fragmented patches in Kokrajhar & Dhubri districts Community-Based Conservation Local groups: Patrol forests Prevent timber smuggling Plant native tree species Example areas: Chakrashila Kakoijana Infrastructure Mitigation Canopy bridges: 4 bridges constructed over NH-117 (Bongaigaon) Enable safe arboreal movement Reduce roadkill and electrocution What Needs to Be Done Restore forest corridors: Reconnect fragmented habitats across Assam and Bhutan Wildlife-sensitive infrastructure planning: Underground cabling in key habitats Mandatory canopy crossings Transboundary conservation: India–Bhutan coordination Strengthen community stewardship: Incentives for conservation Recognition of indigenous knowledge The Mountain Monarch: Nilgiri Tahr in the Western Ghats Why in News? New 2025 joint survey by Kerala & Tamil Nadu Forest Departments estimates Nilgiri tahr population at 2,668 individuals, indicating cautious recovery. Revival linked to: Project Tahr (Tamil Nadu, 2023) Grassland restoration and habitat connectivity efforts. At the same time, article warns recovery is fragile due to climate change, invasive species and habitat fragmentation. Relevance GS Paper III – Environment & Biodiversity Endemic species conservation Shola–grassland ecosystems Invasive species management Climate change impacts on fauna GS Paper I – Culture & Geography Sangam literature Tribal ecological knowledge Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot What is the Nilgiri Tahr? Identity & Taxonomy Common name: Nilgiri tahr Scientific name: Nilgiritragus hylocrius Category: Mountain ungulate (goat-antelope) Endemic to the Western Ghats (India only) The Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List Geographic Distribution Habitat: Shola–grassland ecosystems of the Western Ghats. Elevation: Typically above 1,200 metres, prefers cliffs and alpine grasslands. Major landscapes: Eravikulam Anamalai Mukurthi Silent Valley Glenmorgan Present only in: Kerala and Tamil Nadu Cultural & Historical Significance Mentioned in: Tamil Sangam literature (Kurinji landscape) as varayãdu. Epics like Silappathikaram. Tribal knowledge: Toda, Badaga, Kota, Muthuvan tribes. Tahr tracks used to: Navigate fog Locate springs Identify safe mountain passes. Symbol: Endurance, survival, mountain wisdom. Physical & Ecological Adaptations Stocky, sure-footed body adapted to steep cliffs. Curved horns; males have silvery “saddleback” patch. Diet: Generalist feeder Consumes 120+ plant species: Grasses Herbs Shrubs Legumes Some trees. Ecological role: Maintains grassland structure Nutrient recycling Supports predator populations. Population Status – Key Data Total population: 2,668 Kerala: ~1,365 individuals Eravikulam National Park: 841 (largest, most secure population) Tamil Nadu: ~1,303 individuals Indicates recovery after decades of decline. Why Did the Tahr Decline Earlier? 1. Habitat Loss & Fragmentation Conversion of grasslands for: Agriculture Tourism infrastructure Reduced continuous shola–grassland mosaics. 2. Invasive Species Spread of: Wattle Eucalyptus Suppressed native grasses essential for tahr grazing. 3. Climate Change Rising temperatures pushing tahrs: To higher elevations Into smaller habitat zones. 4. Ecological Risks Fragmented populations led to: Genetic isolation Disease vulnerability Reduced resilience. Conservation Turnaround: What Changed? 1. Project Tahr (Tamil Nadu, 2023) Declared Nilgiri tahr as Tamil Nadu’s State Animal. Budget: ₹25.14 crore. Focus areas: Grassland restoration Invasive species removal Long-term population monitoring. 2. Grassland Restoration Revival of native grasses: Chrysopogon zeylanicus Tripogon wightii Enhances forage quality and soil fertility. 3. Community Integration Collaboration with Muthuvan tribe: Mapping migration routes Identifying feeding grounds Use of indigenous ecological knowledge. 4. Kerala’s Parallel Efforts Active conservation in: Eravikulam National Park Silent Valley National Park Protection of core breeding populations. Advanced Conservation Strategies (Current) 1. Translocation (Planned) Kerala considering relocation to: Suitable but under-occupied habitats. Includes: Habitat assessment Forage improvement Soft-release protocols. 2. Habitat Connectivity Mapping wildlife corridors across: Mukurthi Anamalai Glenmorgan Eravikulam Aim: Restore genetic exchange Reduce isolation. Key Concerns Going Forward Translocation risks if: Habitats are not ecologically stable. Climate change may: Shrink high-altitude grasslands further. Conservation success depends on: Landscape-level restoration, not isolated protection. Pesticides Management Bill, 2025: Revised Draft, Old Gaps Persist Why in News? Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare released a revised draft of the Pesticides Management Bill, 2025 on January 7, 2026. Bill seeks to replace the Insecticides Act, 1968 and its Rules framed over 50 years ago. Despite revisions, experts and civil society argue core regulatory and accountability gaps remain unaddressed. Public comments invited till February 2, 2026. Relevance GS Paper III – Environment & Agriculture Pesticide regulation Environmental health Sustainable agriculture GS Paper II – Governance Regulatory institutions Centre–State relations Accountability mechanisms Background & Evolution 1968: Insecticides Act enacted. 2008: First attempt to replace the Act. 2018: New Bill introduced. 2020: Revised Bill introduced in Rajya Sabha → referred to Parliamentary Standing Committee. 2025: Fresh draft released with limited changes. What the Bill Seeks to Do ? Regulate: Manufacture Import Sale Distribution Use of pesticides Aim (as per draft language): To “strive to minimise risk to humans, animals, non-target organisms, and the environment”. Promote: Transparency Traceability Farmer-centric regulation Biological and traditional-knowledge-based pesticides. Key Structural Changes in 2025 Draft Clauses reduced: From 65 (2020 draft) → 55 (2025 draft). Government claims: Simplification Ease of compliance. Critics argue: Weaker language, not stronger safeguards. Major Concerns & Gaps 1. Weak Role of State Governments States cannot permanently ban pesticides. Powers limited to: Temporary prohibition (max 1 year). Final decision rests with: Registration Committee (Union-controlled). Implication: States remain administrative implementers, not regulators. 2. Centralised Regulatory Architecture Registration Committee Constituted by Union Government. Members include: Drugs Controller General of India ICAR MoEFCC Dept. of Chemicals & Petrochemicals Plant Protection Advisor Reviews state prohibitions and decides continuation. Issue: Over-centralisation. Weak cooperative federalism in agriculture (State subject). 3. Central Pesticides Board – Advisory, Not Binding Functions: Recommend pesticides for inclusion. Frame: Good Manufacturing Practices Recall procedures Disposal norms SOPs for poisoning cases. Problem: Functions not embedded as enforceable legal provisions. Similar to 2020 draft → no strengthening. 4. Absence of Criminal Liability No explicit provision for: Criminal liability of manufacturers, distributors, marketers. Critical gaps in cases of: Pesticide misuse for suicides. Deliberate poisoning of lakes and water bodies. Weakens deterrence against corporate misconduct. 5. Diluted Environmental & Health Safeguards Language shift: From “minimise risk” → “strive to minimise risk”. Seen as: Lowering regulatory obligation. Creating ambiguity in enforcement. Flagged by organisations like Pesticide Action Network (PAN) India. 6. No Price Regulation Mechanism Bill silent on: Price control of pesticides. Concern: Farmers vulnerable to exploitation. Contradiction with “farmer-centric” claim. 7. Accountability & Redressal Deficit No robust: Compensation mechanism Liability framework Farmer grievance redressal authority. Weak enforcement against: Spurious pesticides Fake seeds (raised by Agriculture Minister in 2025). Government’s Justification Describes Bill as: “Farmer-centric legislation”. Focus on: Ease of living Transparency Traceability. Context: Month-long farmer complaints campaign (2025) highlighted spurious pesticides. Federalism & Governance Angle Agriculture is a State subject (Entry 14, State List). Bill reinforces: Central dominance in regulation and prohibition. Raises questions on: Cooperative federalism State capacity to respond to local agro-ecological risks. Environmental & Public Health Implications India is among the largest pesticide consumers globally. Pesticide misuse linked to: Farmer suicides Water contamination Biodiversity loss Weak regulation undermines: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) SDG 3 (Health) SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption). Only 67 cities covered under clean air plan Why in News? A CSE–CREA report (Jan 2026) highlights that only 67 cities are covered under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). This is despite India having 1,878 cities with population above 4 lakh. Raises concerns over: Limited coverage of air-pollution control Chronic PM pollution across urban India Misalignment of funding priorities. Relevance GS Paper III – Environment Air pollution Environmental health Policy evaluation (NCAP) GS Paper II – Governance Public policy design Centre–State coordination Evidence-based policymaking Basics: What is NCAP? National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched in 2019. Nodal ministry: MoEFCC. Objective: 20–30% reduction in PM10 and PM2.5 levels (baseline 2017; later extended to 2026). Approach: City-specific action plans Non-attainment city focus Multi-sectoral coordination. Key Findings of the Report 1. Limited Coverage Cities with population >4 lakh: 1,878 Cities under NCAP: 67 Coverage ratio: ~3.6% Implication: Vast majority of polluted cities remain outside structured clean-air interventions. 2. India’s Most Polluted Cities (2025 PM2.5) Assam: Byrnihat – 90 µg/m³ Delhi NCR: Delhi – 35 µg/m³ Ghaziabad – 35 µg/m³ All far above: WHO guideline: 5 µg/m³ Indian NAAQS: 40 µg/m³ (annual PM2.5). 3. Widespread Chronic Pollution 44% of Indian cities face chronic air pollution. Driven by: Persistent emissions (transport, industry, construction) Not just episodic events (stubble burning, dust storms). 4. PM10 Dominance in NCAP NCAP primarily targets PM10, not PM2.5. Issue: PM2.5 is more harmful (penetrates lungs & bloodstreaaam). Under-addressed despite being dominant pollutant in most cities. Funding & Implementation Gaps 1. Misaligned Spending 68% of NCAP funds spent on: Roads Traffic management Limited spending on: Industrial emission control Clean energy transition Airshed-based interventions. 2. Sectoral Blind Spots Weak focus on: Industrial fuel switching Power plant emissions Construction dust beyond urban roads. Structural Problems in NCAP Design 1. City-Centric, Not Airshed-Based Pollution spreads across regions. Current model ignores: Inter-city transport of pollutants. Need for regional / airshed approach. 2. Exclusion of Industrial Towns Many polluted industrial clusters are: Outside NCAP Outside city-based governance frameworks. 3. Weak Regulatory Integration NCAP relies on: Action plans Advisory mechanisms Lacks: Binding emission reduction mandates Strong enforcement teeth. Implications Public Health Air pollution is among top risk factors for premature deaths in India. PM2.5 linked to: Respiratory diseases Cardiovascular disorders Reduced life expectancy. Environmental Governance NCAP’s limited reach questions: Equity in environmental protection Urban bias vs regional pollution realities. SDG Linkages SDG 3: Good Health SDG 11: Sustainable Cities SDG 13: Climate Action Way Forward Expand NCAP coverage to more cities & industrial clusters. Shift from: City-based → airshed-based planning. Rebalance funding towards: Industrial emissions Power plants Clean fuel transitions. Strengthen: PM2.5 monitoring Emission inventories Accountability frameworks. Drugs problem is narco-terrorism, not mere crime Why in News? Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared India’s drug problem as narco-terrorism, not just a law-and-order issue. Announcement coincides with: Launch of a 3-year national anti-drug campaign (2025–2028). Inauguration of National IED Data Management System (NIDMS) by NSG. Reflects a shift from policing approach to national security framework. Relevance GS Paper III – Internal Security Terror financing Organised crime Border security Use of technology in security GS Paper II – Governance Federal coordination Role of MHA Institutional strengthening What is Narco-Terrorism? Narco-terrorism: Use of drug trafficking networks to finance terrorism, insurgency and organised violence. Drugs → money → weapons → terror infrastructure. Recognised globally by: UNODC US DEA (since 1980s, Latin America). India’s Context: Why Drugs = National Security Threat 1. Terror Financing Link Drug profits fund: Terror outfits Cross-border insurgency Urban terror modules. Particularly relevant for: Punjab Jammu & Kashmir North-East. 2. Geographic Vulnerability (Facts) India lies between: Golden Crescent (Afghanistan–Pakistan–Iran) Golden Triangle (Myanmar–Laos–Thailand). Major trafficking routes: Western border (Pakistan-linked heroin) Eastern border (synthetic drugs, methamphetamine). Data & Enforcement Outcomes (As cited) 2014–2024 (last decade): ₹1 lakh crore worth drugs seized. Sharp rise from pre-2014 levels. 2024 alone: Major seizures of heroin, cocaine, synthetic drugs. Shows: Scale of narco-economy Growing sophistication of networks. Government’s Strategic Shift From Crime Control to Security Doctrine Earlier view: Drugs as law-and-order / social problem. Current view: Strategic conspiracy to destroy youth & economy. Narco-terrorism placed alongside: Terrorism Insurgency Organised crime. 3-Year “Drug-Free India” Campaign (2025–28) Pillars: Supply reduction: crackdown on traffickers. Demand reduction: awareness, de-addiction. Financial disruption: freezing narco-funds. Target: Youth protection Social health Economic security. Operational & Institutional Measures 1. Financial Intelligence Focus Emphasis on: Tracking narco-money flows Digital payment trail analysis Narco-terror networks depend on: Hawala Shell firms Cross-border laundering. 2. Integrated Forensics & Technology Use of: Forensic intelligence AI & machine learning for pattern analysis. Aim: Identify linkages between drugs, terror & explosives. 3. National IED Data Management System (NIDMS) Maintains data on: All IED incidents since 1999. Enables: Signature matching Pattern recognition Terror network mapping. Narco-terrorism link: Drugs → terror → explosives. 4. Database Integration (Key Facts) Existing platforms: CCTNS (crime & criminals) ICJS (justice delivery) NATGRID NIDMS complements them by: Adding explosives-terror data layer. Example data scale: ICJS: ~17.4 crore cases Prison database: ~2.2 crore prisoners Forensics database: ~31 lakh samples. Role of States & Police Shah directed: State DGPs to adopt mission-mode permanent teams. Better coordination between: Police NCB CAPFs Intelligence agencies. Emphasis on: End-to-end disruption (supply → finance → terror). Why This Approach Matters? Internal Security Narco-terrorism: Fuels terrorism without visible weapons. Weakens society internally. Treating it as crime alone is insufficient. Youth & Social Impact Drugs: Destroy demographic dividend. Create social instability. Hence framed as: Threat to future generations. International Cooperation Narco-terrorism is transnational. Requires: Intelligence sharing Financial tracking Border cooperation.

Jan 9, 2026 Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 09 January 2026

Content 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet PANKHUDI – an Integrated Digital Portal to Strengthen Partnerships for Women and Child Development 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet Why in News ? 25th edition of the All India Major Port Cultural Meet inaugurated on 8 January 2026. Hosted at Paradip Port, Odisha — a major maritime hub on India’s east coast. Organised under the aegis of Major Ports Sports Control Board, reflecting institutional focus on employee welfare and cultural integration. Participants: 200+ participants from 9 major ports. Theme: Cultural unity, inter-port harmony, and talent beyond professional roles. Relevance GS II (Governance): Humanising public administration; employee welfare and institutional cohesion. GS III (Infrastructure): Ports as socio-economic institutions; importance of soft infrastructure. Participating Major Ports Chennai Port Cochin Port Deendayal Port (Kandla) Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPA) Kolkata Port Mumbai Port Visakhapatnam Port V.O. Chidambaranar Port Paradip Port (Host) Institutional & Administrative Significance Highlights soft power within public sector institutions. Reinforces employee engagement and morale-building in strategic infrastructure sectors. Demonstrates federal cultural integration across ports located in diverse regions. Aligns with the broader governance approach of “humanising public administration”. Notable Observations Emphasis on participation over competition reflects inclusive institutional ethos. Odisha’s selection underscores its classical Odissi heritage and cultural prominence. Marks continuity of inter-port cultural diplomacy over 25 editions. Conclusion The event underscores that India’s port ecosystem integrates economic, social, and cultural dimensions, reinforcing unity among employees of strategically vital maritime institutions. PANKHUDI – an Integrated Digital Portal to Strengthen Partnerships for Women and Child Development Why in News ? Launched on 8 January 2026 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. Introduction of PANKHUDI, an integrated digital portal for CSR and partnerships in women and child development. Aimed at strengthening transparency, convergence, and stakeholder participation using technology. Relevance GS II (Governance & Social Justice): Women–child welfare; PPP/CSR in governance; Centre–State–civil society convergence. GS II (E-Governance): Digital transparency, single-window platforms, Jan Bhagidari. What is PANKHUDI ? Full Form: Platform for Partnerships, Knowledge, and Holistic Development Initiatives (officially branded as PANKHUDI). Nature: Single-window digital partnership & CSR facilitation portal. Objective: Streamline voluntary, CSR, and institutional contributions for women and child welfare. Key Features of the Portal Single-window digital interface for: Individuals and citizens NRIs NGOs Corporate entities CSR contributors Government agencies End-to-end workflow: Registration Identification of initiatives Proposal submission Approval tracking Non-cash contributions only → enhances financial transparency and auditability. Thematic Focus Areas Nutrition Health Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Child protection, welfare, and rehabilitation Women’s safety, empowerment, and livelihood support Alignment with National Vision Inspired by PM’s emphasis on: Technology as a trust-building bridge Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) in governance Reflects Digital India + Inclusive Governance approach. Convergence with Flagship Missions PANKHUDI digitally strengthens implementation of: Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 Mission Vatsalya Mission Shakti Governance & Accountability Dimensions Common platform for Centre–State–CSR–Civil Society convergence. Enables: Better monitoring Outcome-based implementation Traceability of funds and initiatives Reduces fragmentation in welfare delivery. Scale of Impact 14 lakh+ Anganwadi Centres ~5,000 Child Care Institutions ~800 One Stop Centres (OSCs) 500+ Sakhi Niwas 400+ Shakti Sadan Directly impacts crores of women and children across India. Bottom Line PANKHUDI institutionalises CSR–Government collaboration through a transparent digital framework. Marks a shift from fragmented welfare initiatives to outcome-oriented, partnership-driven social governance in women and child development.

Jan 9, 2026 Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 09 January 2026

Content Central Tax Devolution & GSDP Debate Top Court’s Green Governance & Regulatory Uncertainty Central Tax Devolution & GSDP Debate Why in News ? Recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission are yet to be tabled in Parliament. Renewed debate on fairness of Centre–State fiscal transfers, especially by high-performing States. Rising concerns over GST-induced fiscal centralisation, cesses/surcharges, and skewed devolution outcomes. Relevance GS II – Polity & Governance Finance Commission and fiscal federalism Centre–State relations; cooperative vs competitive federalism GST and constitutional rebalancing of taxing powers GS III – Economy Public finance, tax devolution, inter-governmental transfers Efficiency vs equity in resource allocation Regional disparities and inclusive growth Practice Question “Tax collection does not necessarily reflect tax contribution of States.” Examine this statement in the context of the debate on using GSDP as a criterion for tax devolution. (250 words) Background: India’s Fiscal Transfer Architecture Central transfers to States occur via: Tax Devolution (as per Finance Commission recommendations) Grants-in-Aid Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) 15th Finance Commission: Recommended 41% devolution of gross tax revenue to States (2020–25). Implemented fully; 16th FC awaited. Core Issues in the Current System Erosion of State Fiscal Autonomy GST subsumed major State taxes → reduced independent revenue handles. GST rate cuts → revenue uncertainty. Rise of Non-shareable Revenues Increasing use of cesses and surcharges by Centre (not devolved). CSS Dominance Tied transfers constrain State-level expenditure priorities. Equity vs Efficiency Bias Heavy reliance on: Income distance Population (often outdated base years) Frequent changes in weights → unpredictability. Regional Disparities Persist Wide variation in fiscal capacity and expenditure needs across States. Tax Contribution vs Tax Collection: The Controversy High-income States (Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka): Argue high contribution but low devolution. Counter-argument: Direct tax collection is location-biased: Based on PAN/registered office, not place of income generation. Distortions arise due to: Multi-State firms Migrant labour Centralised corporate registrations Absence of granular inter-State transaction data Why GSDP is a Better Proxy ? Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) reflects: Actual economic activity Underlying tax base in a State Assumptions (largely valid): Similar tax administration efficiency across States Stable direct tax-to-GSDP ratios Empirical evidence (2023–24): Correlation: GSDP vs Direct Taxes: 0.75 GSDP vs GST: 0.91 GST being destination-based → relatively uncontroversial attribution. Devolution Outcomes (2020–25): Key Data Insights Total transfers: ₹75.12 lakh crore Major recipients: Uttar Pradesh: 15.81% Bihar: 8.65% West Bengal: 6.96% Their tax contribution (Direct + GST): UP: 4.6% Bihar: 0.67% WB: 3.99% Major contributors: Maharashtra: 40.3% contribution, 6.64% transfers Karnataka: 12.65% contribution, 3.9% transfers Tamil Nadu: 7.61% contribution, 4.66% transfers Correlation Analysis 15th FC devolution share vs actual transfers: 0.99 Devolution share vs tax collections: 0.24 (very weak) GSDP share vs tax collections: 0.81 GSDP share vs devolution: 0.58 Inference: GSDP balances efficiency (contribution) and equity (redistribution) better than current criteria. State-wise Anomalies Explained Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra: Tax collection > GSDP share → HQ concentration effect. Tamil Nadu: GSDP share > tax collection → production without tax booking. Winners & Losers under GSDP-based Devolution Gainers: Maharashtra Gujarat Karnataka Tamil Nadu Losers: Uttar Pradesh Bihar Madhya Pradesh Adjustments are moderate, not disruptive. Policy Implications Higher weight to GSDP would: Reflect true tax accrual Recognise States’ contribution to national income Improve perceived fairness Strengthen credibility of India’s fiscal federalism Relevant for: 16th Finance Commission deliberations GST reform debates Centre–State trust deficit Top Court’s Green Governance & Regulatory Uncertainty Why in News ? Increasing judicial intervention by the Supreme Court in environmental governance over the last decade. Concerns over regulatory uncertainty, role confusion, and policy instability arising from court-driven environmental management. Renewed debate on limits of judicial review vs executive regulation, especially in climate, pollution, and environmental clearances. Relevance GS II – Polity & Governance Judicial review vs separation of powers Role of judiciary in policy-making Accountability of regulatory institutions GS III – Environment Environmental governance and regulatory capacity Pollution control, environmental clearances Sustainable development vs precautionary principle Practice Question “Judicial intervention in environmental governance is often a response to regulatory failure but can itself become a source of uncertainty.” Critically examine. (250 words) Core Argument of the Article The Supreme Court has shifted from reviewing legality of administrative action to micro-managing environmental governance. This shift has: Weakened statutory regulators Increased uncertainty for States, industry, and citizens Blurred separation of powers Key Trends Identified From Regulator-Corrector to Regulator-Substitute Court increasingly issues continuing mandamus. Replaces regulator discretion with judicial directions. Managerial Role of Judiciary Court supervises implementation rather than correcting errors. Results in ad hoc governance rather than rule-based regulation. Illustrative Judicial Shifts Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs): 2022: Mandatory 1 km ESZ around protected areas. 2023: Partial dilution due to implementation challenges. Vehicle Pollution (NCR): 2015: Blanket diesel vehicle ban. 2016: Ban lifted, replaced with pollution charge. Later: Coercive scrappage rules, then narrowed to BS-IV vehicles. Firecrackers & Air Pollution: Near-total bans → festival-specific relaxations. Result: Frequent litigation, exemptions, confusion. Structural Cause: Regulatory Failure Weak enforcement Delayed notifications Poor monitoring Arbitrary exemptions → Invites judicial intervention, even if sub-optimal. Doctrinal Inconsistency Court often: Justifies intervention using consequentialist reasoning. Later retreats due to implementation backlash. Example: Vanshakti v Union of India (2025): Post-facto environmental clearances invalidated. Later reconsideration acknowledging disruption. Problem of Expertise Courts rely on: Expert committees Ad hoc definitions (e.g., “Aravalli hills”) Issues: Experts compensate for technical gaps but lack institutional continuity. Rapid constitution and dissolution of committees → policy flip-flops. Uniform judicial rules ignore ecological diversity across regions. Consequences of Judicial Overreach Uncertainty for Regulated Actors Industries face shifting compliance rules. State Capacity Erosion Regulators hesitate, anticipating judicial override. Finality Without Process Court rulings often bypass statutory sequencing. Distorted Accountability Regulators answer to courts, not legislatures or citizens. Institutional Cost Projects stalled before statutory clearance process concludes. Litigation becomes first resort, not last. Courts reshape: Who decides What evidence counts How policies evolve Suggested Corrective Approach Judicial Restraint with Regulatory Discipline Court should: Enforce statutory duties Avoid substituting policy judgment Threshold-Based Intervention Clear criteria for when court will intervene. Process-Oriented Oversight Insist on: Transparency Timelines Accountability Predictability Avoid sweeping bans. Specify evidentiary and implementation standards in advance. Broader Governance Lesson Environmental protection is best achieved by: Strong regulators Clear rules Stable enforcement Not by continuous judicial management.

Jan 9, 2026 Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 09 January 2026

Content 10–20 Minute Delivery Model & Gig Workers ISRO and the Next Big Challenge Madhav Gadgil’s Enduring Legacy in the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve Why Folic Acid Awareness is Key to Preventing Spina Bifida Monument Conservation Opens to the Private Sector AI-Based Citizen Participation in Budgeting 10–20 Minute Delivery Model & Gig Workers Why in News? On 31 December, over 1 lakh gig and platform workers went on strike across India. Memorandum submitted to Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya demanding: Immediate withdrawal of 10–20 minute delivery models. Priority to worker safety, income stability, and accountability of platforms. Renewed debate on: Adequacy of four Labour Codes in protecting gig workers. Regulation of algorithm-driven work systems. Contextual relevance due to: Rapid expansion of quick commerce. Projections by NITI Aayog that 2.35 crore workers will be part of the gig economy by 2029–30. Relevance GS II (Governance & Social Justice) Labour reforms and adequacy of Labour Codes. Social security coverage of gig and platform workers. Role of State in regulating new forms of work. Worker safety, dignity of labour, and grievance redressal mechanisms. GS III (Economy, Technology & Employment) Gig economy and platform capitalism. Impact of AI and algorithms on labour markets. Employment generation vs job precarity. Urban logistics, quick commerce, and informalisation of work. What is the 10–20 Minute Delivery Model? Ultra-fast delivery promise driven by competitive business strategy, not essential consumer demand. Initiated by private platforms; replicated to avoid market loss. Relies on: Dense urban logistics. Algorithmic task allocation. High-pressure human labour rather than pure technological efficiency. Key Concerns with the 10–20 Minute Delivery Model 1. Worker Safety & Human Cost Time compression leads to: Rash driving, traffic violations, accident risks. Physical exhaustion and mental stress. Speed is extracted from workers, not created by technology. 2. Algorithmic Control & Precarity Work allocation, incentives, ratings, and deactivations controlled by opaque algorithms. Risks: Sudden ID blocking without explanation. Income volatility and psychological stress. No statutory right to explanation, appeal, or grievance redressal. 3. Unequal Risk Allocation Tech infrastructure and marketing costs treated as fixed. Labour treated as the only adjustable variable. Workers effectively subsidise platform growth through risk-bearing. Economic Context: Why Platforms Defend the Model ? Quick commerce growth trajectory: ~₹50,000 crore market (2025). Expected to reach ₹1–1.5 lakh crore in next 2 years. Industry CAGR ~28%. Online grocery market projected growth: 40–50%. Generates rapid, low-entry-barrier employment in an economy with: ~20 million new workforce entrants annually. Only ~2 million formal jobs created per year. Are the Labour Codes Adequate for Gig Workers? Structural Limitations Gig workers explicitly excluded from employee status. No entitlement to: Minimum wages. Regulated working hours. Paid leave, overtime, or collective bargaining. Social Security Provisions: Weak & Non-Mandatory Social Security Code mentions: Accident insurance, maternity benefits, welfare schemes. Issues: Non-binding nature. No guaranteed funding ratios. Registration on e-SHRAM offers identification, not assured benefits. Algorithmic Blind Spot No regulation of: Automated penalties. Task allocation logic. Deactivation decisions. Absence of transparency or accountability mechanisms. Debate: Protection vs Platform Viability Platform-Side Argument Over-regulation may: Reduce flexibility. Increase costs. Shrink gig opportunities. High attrition suggests workers value flexibility. Fear of “killing the golden goose” in a fast-growing employment segment. Worker-Centric Argument Evidence shows ~80% of gig workers are full-time. For millions, gig work is primary livelihood, not supplemental income. Core demands are basic, not radical: Predictable minimum earnings. Safety cover. Protection from arbitrary deactivation. Data and algorithmic transparency. Impact of AI on Gig Work: Future Risks AI likely to: Intensify surveillance and control. Enable faster, cheaper worker replacement. Reduce human discretion and dialogue. Workers risk becoming: More disposable. One algorithm update away from income loss. Way Forward: Regulatory Balance Avoid binary of “consumer convenience vs worker welfare”. Key policy directions: Minimum floor income and insurance mandates. Algorithmic transparency and explainability norms. Independent grievance redressal mechanisms. Shared responsibility where control implies obligation. Parallel focus on: Expanding labour-intensive manufacturing to absorb workforce surplus. ISRO and the next big challenge Why in News? Over the last decade, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has delivered high-complexity, high-credibility missions: Chandrayaan-3 soft lunar landing (23 Aug 2023). Aditya-L1 placed in halo orbit at Sun–Earth L1 (6 Jan 2024). NISAR launched with NASA (July 2025). Parallel preparation for Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-4, and Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). Post-2020 liberalisation of India’s space sector has exposed gaps in governance, execution capacity, and competitiveness. Relevance GS III (Science & Technology) Space technology and applications. Transition from mission-based success to institutional capacity building. Heavy-lift launch vehicles, reusability, and space competitiveness. ISRO’s Recent Performance: What Has Changed? 1. Launch Reliability Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV): Normalised multi-satellite, multi-orbit missions. Reliable, cost-effective access to space → operational maturity. 2. Capability Leap Shift from Earth-centric missions to: Lunar surface operations. Solar physics. Human spaceflight preparation. 3. International Credibility NISAR marks: Billion-dollar, equal partnership mission. Entry into elite group executing advanced Earth-observation systems. Implication Success has raised the bar: future evaluation is about routine excellence, not isolated achievements. Core Challenges Ahead 1. Execution Capacity & Mission Bottlenecks Parallel Mission Load Human spaceflight. Advanced science missions. Satellite replenishment. Development of NGLV (beyond medium-lift Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle). Symptoms of Strain Only 5 launches in 2025 (vs projected 8). Delays linked to: Big-ticket programme prioritisation. Limited annual launch cadence. Structural Issue ISRO remains: Designer + integrator + operator. Creates a single institutional bottleneck. Systemic Risk One anomaly → cascading delays across unrelated missions. What is Needed ? Expanded integration and testing capacity. Robust industrial supply chains (structures, avionics). Clear separation of: R&D vehicles vs operational vehicles. Workflows that absorb setbacks without system-wide paralysis. 2. Governance Gap in a Liberalised Space Sector Post-2020 Institutional Architecture IN-SPACe: authorisation & promotion. New Space India Limited: commercialisation. Critical Gap Absence of a comprehensive national space law. Consequences Legal ambiguity on: Authorisation powers. Liability and insurance. Dispute resolution. ISRO pulled in as: Default regulator. Technical certifier. Commercial failures risk being socialised onto ISRO. Why a Space Law Matters ? Provides statutory authority to IN-SPACe and NSIL. Insulates ISRO from routine regulatory/commercial tasks. Ensures continuity across political and administrative cycles. 3. Competitiveness as an Ecosystem Problem Global Trends High-frequency launches. Partially reusable launch vehicles. Rapid satellite manufacturing cycles. India’s Strategic Response NGLV targeting: Reusability. ~30-tonne payload to Low Earth Orbit. Core Constraint Competitiveness is no longer purely technological. Requires: Advanced manufacturing. Production depth. High qualification throughput. Large, patient capital. Financial Stress Space-sector investment fell sharply in 2024. Hardware-heavy, long-gestation projects deter private finance. Policy Response IN-SPACe’s Technology Adoption Fund: Bridge prototype → scalable product. Reduce import dependence. Strategic Insight: From Feats to Systems Past: Individual mission brilliance. Future: Sustained, institutionalised performance. Decisive factors: Engineering capacity. Legal clarity. Industrial depth. Financial maturity — evolving together. Madhav Gadgil’s Enduring Legacy in the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve Why in News? Madhav Gadgil, one of India’s most influential ecologists, passed away recently. Renewed national attention on: His foundational role in the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve (NBR). His philosophy of people-centric, landscape-level conservation. Relevance for contemporary debates on: Western Ghats conservation. Community participation vs top-down environmental regulation. Sustainable livelihoods in biodiversity-rich regions. Relevance GS I (Geography & Environment) Western Ghats as a global biodiversity hotspot. Biosphere Reserves and landscape ecology. GS III (Environment & Ecology) Conservation models: people-centric vs exclusionary. Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs). Human–wildlife coexistence and corridor-based conservation. Who Was Madhav Gadgil? Pioneer of ecological science and conservation biology in India. Founder of the Centre for Ecological Sciences (CES) at Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Architect of participatory environmental governance in India. Chairperson of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP). Contribution to the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve (NBR) 1. Conceptualising India’s First Biosphere Reserve Authored the NBR concept document. Enabled designation of NBR as: India’s first Biosphere Reserve. Part of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB). Integrated conservation with human use rather than exclusionary protection. 2. Landscape-Level Conservation Approach Moved beyond fragmented, species-specific protection. Emphasised: Ecological connectivity across forests, grasslands, and human settlements. Conservation at landscape and regional scales. Insight emerged from: Field studies on Asian elephants, highlighting the need for corridor-based conservation. 3. People-Centric Conservation Philosophy Advocated: Local communities as stakeholders, not threats. Protection of biodiversity-dependent livelihoods. Rejected fortress-style conservation. Influenced later debates on: Eco-sensitive zones. Community forest rights. Institutional & Academic Legacy 1. Building Ecological Institutions Established CES at IISc as: India’s premier ecology research hub. A cradle for interdisciplinary ecological science. Trained generations of ecologists, conservationists, and policy thinkers. 2. Western Ghats Network Programme Connected: Universities and researchers from Gujarat to Tamil Nadu. Created a pan-Western Ghats research ecosystem. Democratized ecological knowledge across regions and institutions. Policy Impact Beyond the Nilgiris Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) Chaired by Gadgil. Recommended: Zoning of Western Ghats into Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs). Decentralised, participatory decision-making. Though politically contested, it: Set the intellectual benchmark for future Western Ghats governance. Why Gadgil’s Legacy Matters Today ? Climate change, habitat fragmentation, and infrastructure pressures are intensifying in the Western Ghats. Gadgil’s framework offers: A scientifically grounded yet socially just conservation model. An alternative to purely technocratic or exclusionary approaches. His work underlines that: Long-term conservation success depends on local legitimacy and ecological realism. Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve India’s first Biosphere Reserve (declared in 1986); part of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. Located at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka in the Western Ghats. Covers diverse ecosystems: tropical evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, shola–grassland complexes. Landscape-level conservation model integrating forests, wildlife habitats, and human settlements. Folic Acid Awareness & Prevention of Spina Bifida Why in News? Renewed public health concern following reporting on Spina Bifida, India’s most common birth defect, and the persistently low awareness about its prevention. Expert calls for: National awareness campaigns. Food fortification with folic acid. India continues to record one of the highest global prevalence rates, despite three decades of scientific evidence on prevention. Relevance GS II (Social Justice & Health) Preventive healthcare and maternal nutrition. Public health awareness failures. Role of State in reducing avoidable disabilities. GS III (Human Resource Development) Nutrition, micronutrient deficiency, and long-term productivity. Cost-effectiveness of prevention vs treatment. What is Spina Bifida? A neural tube defect (NTD) where the spinal cord fails to develop properly in early pregnancy. Occurs very early in gestation (within first 28 days). Leads to irreversible neurological damage. Magnitude of the Problem in India >25,000 children born annually with Spina Bifida. Prevalence: ~4 per 1,000 births (much higher than global best practices). India among countries with highest disease burden globally. >75% of affected children lack access to comprehensive medical care. Clinical & Social Impact Physical disability: Ranges from mild foot weakness to complete paralysis below the hips. Many children wheelchair-dependent from early childhood. Associated conditions: Hydrocephalus (excess fluid in brain). Urinary & bowel incontinence. Orthopaedic deformities (club foot). Cognitive function: No intellectual impairment — children can lead productive lives if treated. Socio-economic burden: Long-term medical costs. Caregiver burden. Loss of household income and dignity. Why Folic Acid is Critical ? Folic acid (Vitamin B9) intake: Before conception and during early pregnancy. Can prevent >70% of Spina Bifida cases. Evidence established since 1991: Medical Research Council (MRC) Vitamin Study (published in The Lancet). Cost-effective: ₹1 spent on prevention saves >₹100 in treatment and rehabilitation. India’s Policy & Awareness Gap No large-scale national awareness campaign. Limited counselling on pre-conception nutrition, especially for: Rural women. Unplanned pregnancies. Absence of: Mandatory food fortification with folic acid. Systematic education via primary healthcare systems. Represents public health negligence, given known preventability. Global Best Practices 68 countries mandate folic acid fortification in staple foods. Outcomes: Reduced Spina Bifida prevalence to <1 per 1,000 births. Combined approach: Mass awareness campaigns. Mandatory fortification laws. Emerging Research & Indian Context Exploration of universally consumed food vehicles: Salt. Tea. Preliminary Indian trial: Tea fortification with folate and vitamin B12. Published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. Objective: Address both neural tube defects and anaemia-related neurological issues. Expert & Institutional Advocacy Strong advocacy by public health experts including: Emory University-based Center for Spina Bifida Prevention. Calls for: Primary prevention over curative focus. Integration of folic acid awareness into maternal health programmes. Way Forward Launch nationwide awareness campaign on: Pre-conception folic acid intake. Early antenatal nutrition. Introduce mandatory food fortification with folic acid and vitamin B12. Strengthen: Primary healthcare counselling. Referral and rehabilitation systems for affected children. Align with goals of: Reducing under-five mortality. Preventing avoidable disabilities and stillbirths. Monument Conservation Opens to Private Sector Why in News? The Ministry of Culture has decided to open conservation and restoration of centrally protected monuments to private agencies. This marks a major shift as Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will no longer be the sole implementing authority. Over 200 private heritage conservation agencies are being empanelled following a Request for Proposals (RFP). The move formally ends ASI’s exclusive mandate in monument conservation. Relevance GS I (Indian Culture & Heritage) Conservation of monuments and heritage management. Role of ASI and centrally protected monuments. GS II (Governance) Changing role of the State: implementer → regulator. Public–Private Partnerships (PPP) in public goods. Accountability and regulatory oversight. What is the New Conservation Framework? Private sector participation allowed in: Conservation. Restoration. Preservation of centrally protected monuments. Work will be carried out: Under ASI supervision. Following approved conservation plans and standards. Ministry will: Vet and empanel agencies through an internal committee. Monitor execution and compliance. How Will the System Work? Detailed Project Reports (DPRs): Prepared by expert conservation architects. Execution: Can be done by: PSU corporations. Municipal bodies. Private heritage firms. Funding mechanism: Use of National Culture Fund (NCF). Encourages CSR-based funding. ASI’s role shifts to: Approval of plans. Oversight and quality control. Ensuring adherence to conservation norms. Rationale Behind the Move Capacity constraints of ASI: Conservation work for nearly 3,700 monuments handled largely by ASI staff. Slow pace of conservation: Limited manpower and institutional bandwidth. Need to build a broader ecosystem: Create a national talent pool of conservation professionals. Utilise private expertise: Many private agencies possess advanced conservation skills and experience. Key Institutional Changes ASI transitions from: Implementer → Regulator & Supervisor. Conservation becomes: More decentralised. Potentially faster and scalable. Marks shift from a state-monopoly model to a PPP-style framework. Illustrative Case Ranthambore Fort: Among monuments where NCF is seeking private support for conservation. Indicates application to high-value, iconic heritage sites. Concerns & Criticisms Risk of commercialisation: Profit motives may dilute conservation ethics. Past experience: Corporates struggled with heritage timelines and compliance. Quality control challenges: Need to prevent cosmetic or tourism-oriented alterations. Accountability gaps: Clear liability needed in case of damage or non-compliance. Safeguards Built into the Model ASI retains: Final approval authority. Monitoring and enforcement powers. Mandatory adherence to: Conservation charters. Scientific restoration norms. No transfer of: Ownership. Monument management rights. Global Parallels United Kingdom: Churches Conservation Trust. United States: Strong role of private funding and foundations. Germany & Netherlands: Historic foundations managing heritage assets. India aligning with international best practices under regulatory oversight. AI-Based Citizen Participation in Budgeting Why in News? Haryana government has launched an AI-based Voice Feedback Portal to gather citizen inputs for Budget 2026–27. Objective: Formulate a “People’s Budget” through direct public participation. Claimed as the first-ever use of Artificial Intelligence for budget consultation within India’s administrative and democratic framework. Initiative launched at the instance of Nayab Singh Saini, Chief Minister of Haryana. Relevance GS II (Governance & Democracy) Participatory democracy and citizen engagement. Budget-making as a democratic exercise. Role of States as laboratories of governance reform. GS III (Technology & E-Governance) Use of AI in public administration. Data-driven policymaking. Digital inclusion and exclusion risks. What is the Initiative? An AI-enabled chatbot and voice-based platform allowing citizens to: Submit budget-related suggestions. Share priorities and grievances. Inputs collected live and analysed using AI tools. Aims to support data-driven budget formulation. Institutional Framework Implemented through Swarna Jayanti Haryana Institute for Fiscal Management. Role: Design and operationalise AI-based consultation. Aggregate and analyse citizen feedback for policymakers. Key Features Voice-based access: Reduces digital literacy barriers. Enables participation beyond text-based portals. AI-driven analysis: Categorisation of suggestions. Identification of recurring themes and priorities. Real-time feedback loop: Faster collation compared to traditional consultations. Why It Matters? Deepening participatory democracy: Moves beyond token consultations. Gives citizens a direct voice in fiscal decision-making. Administrative innovation: Demonstrates use of AI in core governance functions. Inclusive governance: Potential to include rural, semi-literate, and marginalised populations. Governance Significance Marks a shift from: Elite-driven budgeting → citizen-informed budgeting. Aligns with: Digital governance. Evidence-based policymaking. Sets a precedent for other States and possibly the Union government. Challenges & Concerns Representativeness: Risk of over-representation of digitally active groups. Data governance: Privacy, consent, and ethical use of citizen data. Policy translation gap: No statutory obligation to incorporate suggestions. Algorithmic transparency: Need clarity on how AI prioritises and filters inputs. Way Forward Combine AI consultations with: Offline public hearings. Gram Sabha-level discussions. Ensure: Transparency on how feedback influences budget allocations. Clear data protection safeguards. Institutionalise citizen consultation as a regular budgetary process, not a one-off experiment.

Jan 8, 2026 Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 08 January 2026

Content DGMS Marks 125 Years Indusfood 2026 DGMS Marks 125 Years Why in News ? Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) celebrated its 125th Foundation Day at Dhanbad, Jharkhand. Relevance GS-III (Economy / Internal Security / Industry) Mining sector governance: Safety standards in coal, metalliferous & oil mines Occupational Safety & Health (OSH): Link with Mines Act, 1952 Sustainable industrial growth: Safe mining as prerequisite for economic growth DGMS: Basics You Must Know Established: 1902 (colonial-era origin; one of India’s oldest regulators) Ministry: Ministry of Labour & Employment Headquarters: Dhanbad, Jharkhand Mandate: Safety, health and welfare of mine workers Regulation of coal, metalliferous & oil mines Legal framework: Mines Act, 1952 Rules & Regulations framed under it Core Functions of DGMS Framing and enforcing mine safety standards Inspection of mines and accident investigation Approval of mining plans from safety perspective Training, certification & rescue preparedness Advising Centre and States on mine safety policy Institutional Reforms & Symbolism Launch of: New DGMS Logo Digital Compendium of Best Practices Purpose: Modern institutional identity Knowledge sharing & capacity building Indusfood 2026 Why in News ? Indusfood 2026, India’s flagship global Food & Beverage (F&B) sourcing exhibition, is being held in Greater Noida. Key announcements: India–UAE Food Corridor launch APEDA’s ‘Bharati Initiative’ for agri-food start-ups Reflects India’s expanding role in global food trade, food processing, and agri-exports. Relevance GS-III (Economy / Agriculture / Infrastructure) Agri-exports & food processing Export-led growth strategy: Value-added food products Role of institutions: TPCI APEDA What is Indusfood? Event: Indusfood 2026 (9th edition) Nature: Global Food & Beverage sourcing exhibition Organiser: Trade Promotion Council of India Venue: India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida Objective: Position India as a reliable global food supplier Facilitate B2B trade, sourcing, and export partnerships Institutional & Ministerial Linkage Inaugurated by Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Demonstrates: Government backing for food processing sector Integration of trade, agriculture, and industry policy Scale & Global Outreach Participation from 120+ countries Thousands of verified global buyers Presence of: International trade delegations Retail chains Global chefs & institutions Indicates India’s shift from regional exporter → global agri-food hub India–UAE Food Corridor Launched by Abu Dhabi Food Hub Purpose: Strengthen bilateral food trade Improve supply chain efficiency Enhance food security (especially for UAE) Strategic significance: UAE as a re-export hub India as a reliable food surplus producer Part of India’s broader West Asia economic diplomacy APEDA’s ‘Bharati Initiative’ Implemented by Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Format: Shark Tank–style pitching Direct interaction with global buyers Focus: Agri-food start-ups Innovation, branding, value-addition Policy relevance: Aligns with Start-up India Boosts non-traditional agricultural exports Logistics & Export Infrastructure ‘Bharat Mart’ session by DP World Focus areas: Port-led logistics Cold chain integration Trade facilitation Addresses structural bottleneck: High logistics cost in agri-exports Culinary Diplomacy & Soft Power World Culinary Heritage Conference India on a Platter Gala Dinner Role: Promotes Indian cuisine globally Links culture with commerce Example of soft power via food diplomacy Strategic Significance for India Strengthens: Export-led growth Agri-industrialisation Global value chain integration Reinforces India’s image as: Trusted food supplier Stable trade partner

Jan 8, 2026 Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 08 January 2026

Content Natgrid’, the search engine of digital authoritarianism Fine-tune this signal to sharpen India’s AMR battle ‘Natgrid’, the search engine of digital authoritarianism Context & Background 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks (2008): Over 160 lives lost Exposed serious intelligence coordination failures Core problem identified: Intelligence inputs existed Failure lay in fragmentation, poor aggregation, and weak institutional response Example: David Headley’s travel, visas, hotel stays created data trails No system stitched these into a preventive warning Relevance GS-III (Internal Security & Technology) Counter-terrorism architecture post-26/11 Use of big data, AI, analytics in internal security Limits of techno-solutionism in intelligence failures Shift from targeted intelligence to mass surveillance Institutional capacity vs technological capacity Practice Question Q1.“Security without accountability erodes democracy.”Critically examine this statement in the context of the expansion of NATGRID in India.(250 Words) Birth of NATGRID: The Original Rationale Psychological and political aftermath of 26/11 led to: Expansion of intelligence architecture Emergence of National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) as the technological solution Core idea: A middleware platform Enables selected agencies to query multiple databases in real time Objective: Prevent future terror attacks through data integration Design & Scope of NATGRID Access: Initially 11 central intelligence and investigative agencies Data sources (21 categories): Identity records Travel & immigration Financial transactions Telecom metadata Property & asset databases Function: Acts as a search-and-correlation layer, not a data owner Constitutional & Legal Concerns Key constitutional question: Can a mass surveillance system function without: Parliamentary law Independent oversight? Timeline: 2009: Public announcement 2010: Cabinet concerns on safeguards and privacy 2012: Cleared by executive order + CCS, not Parliament Funding: ₹1,002.97 crore (Horizon–I) Core issue: No statutory framework No oversight mechanism From ‘Vaporware’ to Reality Long delays created belief NATGRID was symbolic Situation changed in 2025: ~45,000 queries per month Usage expanded to: State police forces Officers down to Superintendent of Police rank Shift: From elite intelligence tool → routine policing infrastructure Integration with NPR: A Structural Turning Point NATGRID reportedly integrated with National Population Register (NPR) NPR contains: Data of ~1.19 billion residents Household, lineage and demographic linkages Why this is critical: Moves from event-based intelligence To population-wide surveillance Political sensitivity: NPR closely linked with NRC debates Result: Intelligence grid becomes a citizen-mapping platform Technological Escalation: From Search to Inference Deployment of advanced analytics tools (e.g. “entity resolution” engines) Capabilities: Merge fragmented records into a single identity Link faces, telecom KYC, driving licences, travel data Transformation: From “search bar” → predictive inference system Risk: Algorithms infer intent, not just retrieve facts Two Qualitative Dangers 1. Algorithmic Bias Algorithms reflect: Biases embedded in data Prejudices of policing practices Likely outcomes: Reinforcement of caste, religious, regional profiling Disparate impact: Affluent citizens → inconvenience Marginalised individuals → detention, harassment, violence 2. Tyranny of Scale Tens of thousands of queries monthly Safeguards claimed: Logging Sensitivity classification Problem: Without independent audit, safeguards become ritualistic No parliamentary or judicial supervision Core Fallacy: Data ≠ Intelligence Intelligence failures are rarely due to: Lack of data alone Real causes: Institutional decay Poor training Lack of accountability 26/11 example: Local police lacked even basic firearms training NATGRID does not fix: Human competence Organisational incentives Political interference Judicial & Democratic Deficit Supreme Court recognised right to privacy (Puttaswamy, 2017) Yet: Surveillance systems continue expanding No final adjudication on legality of NATGRID Pending issues: Absence of enabling law Absence of proportionality tests Absence of remedies for citizens Security Narrative vs Accountability Public discourse shaped by: Political rhetoric Cultural normalisation of surveillance Questioning intelligence agencies seen as: Anti-national Consequence: Silence on accountability Even after fresh terror attacks (e.g. Delhi, Nov 2025) Overall Assessment NATGRID has drifted from: Counter-terrorism tool To everyday surveillance infrastructure Without: Parliamentary oversight Judicial scrutiny Transparency It risks becoming: An architecture of suspicion A pillar of digital authoritarianism Way Forward Genuine prevention requires: Professional, well-trained investigation Clear statutory backing for intelligence tools Parliamentary and judicial oversight Transparency about failures, not just data accumulation Core message: Security without accountability erodes democracy Technology cannot substitute institutional integrity Fine-tune this signal to sharpen India’s AMR battle Context & Trigger In the 129th edition of Mann Ki Baat (Dec 28, 2025), Prime Minister Narendra Modi explicitly flagged Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) as a national concern. He cited national data from Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) showing: Declining effectiveness of antibiotics against pneumonia and urinary tract infections. Central message: Indiscriminate and self-medicated antibiotic use is at the core of India’s AMR crisis. This is seen as a possible anagnorisis (moment of realisation) capable of catalysing mass behavioural change. Relevance GS III – Health Security & Sustainable Development Antimicrobial Resistance as a non-traditional security threat Surveillance gaps and data-driven policymaking One Health approach (human–animal–environment interface) Global health governance (WHO, GLASS) Long-term economic costs of health crises Practice Question Q1.Antimicrobial Resistance is increasingly being viewed as a silent pandemic.Discuss the reasons for its rapid spread in India and evaluate the adequacy of existing policy responses.(250 Words) What is AMR? Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites evolve to resist medicines. Consequence: Common infections become harder or impossible to treat. Increased mortality, longer hospital stays, higher health costs. Global recognition: WHO classifies AMR as one of the top global public health threats. Why AMR is a Serious Problem in India India is: One of the largest consumers of antibiotics globally. Structural drivers: Over-the-counter antibiotic sales Self-medication culture Incomplete treatment courses Poor regulation of private healthcare Core contributor : Irrational use / misuse / overuse of antibiotics. Significance of PM’s Intervention AMR had remained: Confined to hospitals, laboratories, experts, and policy documents. PM’s speech: Mainstreams AMR as a public behavioural issue. Translates technical warnings into citizen-level responsibility. Why this matters: Previous policy tools (National Action Plan on AMR, drug bans) had limited mass impact. A direct appeal from the head of government can alter social norms. Behavioural Change as a Policy Tool Message delivered: Antibiotics are not casual medicines. Self-medication is dangerous. Strength: Targets the broadest base of the pyramid. Limitation: Awareness alone is necessary but not sufficient at India’s current AMR stage. The One Health Imperative AMR is a multi-sectoral problem: Human health Animal health Environment One Health approach: Recognises interlinkages between: Antibiotic use in humans Antibiotics as growth promoters in animals Environmental contamination Without this integrated approach: AMR behaves like a hydra-headed problem, regenerating across sectors. Surveillance: The Weakest Link Effective AMR control requires: Accurate, representative, nationwide data. Present limitation: Surveillance heavily skewed towards: Urban areas Tertiary care hospitals Risk: Overestimation or distortion of national AMR trends. Community-level AMR remains under-reported. India’s AMR Surveillance Architecture NARS-Net National AMR Surveillance Network (NARS-Net): Established in 2013. Provides data to WHO’s Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS). Current status: ~60 sentinel medical college laboratories. Latest GLASS report (2023 data): Inputs from 41 sites across 31 States/UTs. Scope: Surveillance of 9 priority bacterial pathogens Some fungal pathogens. Critical Gaps Highlighted Non-urban India largely absent from datasets. Primary and secondary care centres excluded. Private hospitals not systematically integrated. Result: National AMR picture is incomplete and potentially misleading. Expert Viewpoint Dr. Abdul Ghafur (Chennai Declaration on AMR): Calls for true national representation. Advocates inclusion of: Primary healthcare Secondary hospitals Private sector facilities Rationale: Balanced, realistic estimation of resistance patterns. Evidence-based policy design. Global Framework Reference WHO Global Action Plan on AMR (2015) outlines five pillars: Improve awareness and understanding Strengthen surveillance and research Reduce infection incidence Optimise antimicrobial use Ensure sustainable investment in new drugs, diagnostics, vaccines PM’s speech: Strongly advances Pillar 1 (awareness). Missing acceleration: Pillar 2 (surveillance expansion) Pillar 4 (enforcement and regulation) What Still Needs Political Will ? Expanding surveillance sites nationwide Integrating private healthcare data Regulatory enforcement on antibiotic sales Investment in diagnostics and infection prevention Monitoring, accountability and inter-ministerial coordination Overall Assessment PM’s statement is a necessary inflection point, not a complete solution. Awareness can: Slow misuse Change social behaviour But without: Robust surveillance One Health governance Regulatory enforcement AMR will continue to rise silently. Way Forward India needs: Mass awareness + structural reform Surveillance that reflects community reality Integration of human, animal and environmental health Core takeaway: AMR is not just a medical issue; it is a governance and behavioural crisis.

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