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Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 01 July 2025

Content : Roll crunch Sheer negligence In a perilous world, India must read the tea leaves well Roll crunch Context and Significance Indian elections witness high participation from the poor and marginalised, offering them a key political outlet. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has a strong track record of expanding voter access through simplified registration processes. Relevance : GS 2(Elections -Reforms) Practice Question : In light of the recent Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, critically examine the challenges of ensuring both electoral integrity and inclusiveness in India’s voter registration process. Suggest measures to balance these objectives effectively. (15 marks, 250 words) Special Intensive Revision in Bihar The ECI initiated a “Special Intensive Revision” of electoral rolls in Bihar before the October 2025 Assembly elections. The stated goal is to ensure a clean electoral roll by adding eligible and deleting ineligible voters (dead, migrated, or non-citizens). Timeline and Procedural Issues The revision process is compressed into a short timeline: one month for document submission and one month for claims/objections. This tight schedule raises the risk of voter exclusion, particularly among disadvantaged groups. Scale and Attrition Draft electoral rolls list 7.96 crore electors. 4.96 crore were on the 2003 roll, but approximately 1.8 crore have likely died or migrated. Thus, only about 3.16 crore are eligible for simplified verification; nearly 4.74 crore need to submit fresh documentation. Documentation Challenges The verification process allows only 11 specific documents, many of which are not widely held in Bihar. Low birth registration rates and lack of educational or government-issued documents are common. Exclusion of more accessible documents like Aadhaar and ration cards is both puzzling and problematic. Risk of Exclusion A large number of genuine voters may be disenfranchised due to documentation and time constraints. The burden falls disproportionately on the poor, rural, and less educated populations. Recommendations The ECI should extend the revision timeline and implement a nationwide, phased approach. The entire exercise should be completed before the 2029 general election to avoid rushed disenfranchisement. Documentation requirements must be broadened to reflect ground realities and uphold electoral inclusiveness. Sheer negligence Recent Tragedy at Puri On June 29, during the Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, a stampede resulted in 3 deaths and over 50 injuries. This was the ninth stampede in India in the last 12 months, six of which occurred at religious events. Relevance : GS 3(Disaster Management) Practice Question : Discuss how India’s entrenched VIP culture undermines public safety and egalitarianism, particularly in the context of large public gatherings. In your opinion, what reforms are necessary to ensure inclusive and secure event management? (15 marks, 250 words) Rath Yatra Context The Rath Yatra is a centuries-old annual religious procession where Lord Jagannath and his siblings are taken to Gundicha temple. Over 5 lakh pilgrims gather in a 3 km radius during the event. Administrative Missteps Chariot pulling was paused due to an ‘unprecedented rush’, and Lord Jagannath’s chariot movement was deferred. 750 devotees were hospitalised in the interim due to heat stress and dehydration, indicating lack of basic facilities. Crowd Management Failures A VIP entry gate was created by closing a common exit, forcing large crowds to move in both directions through a single corridor. This bidirectional flow led to excessive congestion and mounting pressure in the crowd. Ritual material trucks entered the zone around 4:20 a.m., shattering makeshift stalls and creating panic. Broader Pattern of Neglect India has a recurring pattern of poor crowd control at public events, whether religious, political, or celebratory. Events are often held without protocols for thermal comfort, hydration, or safe passage, especially in peak summer. VIP Culture as a Structural Problem The VIP culture worsens public safety by disrupting standard arrangements and prioritizing access for a few over the many. Separate VIP gates create avoidable chokepoints for general pilgrims. It reflects a deeper issue of privilege overriding planning and accountability. Way Forward Crowd management must be scientifically planned using data, simulation, and real-time monitoring. VIP access should be minimized or scheduled at off-peak hours to avoid disruption. Ending entrenched VIP privilege is essential to ensure equitable and safe public spaces. In a perilous world, India must read the tea leaves well India’s Foreign Policy Crossroads India’s current foreign policy is under strain due to shifting global alliances and regional threats. The second Trump administration’s unpredictability has disrupted India’s balancing efforts. The recent India-Pakistan conflict is a stark reminder of the fragile security landscape. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question :  India’s traditional foreign policy of strategic autonomy and equidistance is being challenged by evolving geopolitical realities. Critically evaluate India’s current foreign policy dilemmas with reference to the China-Pakistan nexus and the West Asian conflict. Suggest a way forward. (15 marks, 250 words) China-Pakistan Nexus The deepening military collaboration between China and Pakistan is a growing threat. Chinese systems are being seamlessly integrated into Pakistan’s defence, including advanced jets (J-10C, JF-17) and precision strike capability. India needs to undertake a granular analysis of this defence alignment and its implications for a two-front war. West Asia and Neutrality Dilemma India’s fence-sitting approach in the Israel-Iran conflict is becoming increasingly untenable. With the US deploying bunker buster bombs against Iran, neutrality is no longer a safe or effective option. India’s historical non-alignment and equidistance have failed to secure goodwill or strategic advantage in recent crises. Diminishing Diplomatic Returns India’s Global South leadership and moral diplomacy have yielded little during key geopolitical moments. Pakistan’s endorsement by US leadership during the recent crisis and India’s muted response has weakened India’s position. India risks becoming diplomatically isolated if it continues on the current path of cautious hedging. Shifting Global Security Paradigms Increasing emphasis on ‘hard power’ and strategic deterrence at global platforms (e.g. Shangri-La Dialogue). US-China tensions over Indo-Pacific, Taiwan, and South China Sea directly affect India’s strategic space. Internal Strategic Readiness India must assess its own military capabilities and prepare for prolonged high-intensity conflicts. Drawing lessons from the Russia-Ukraine war, India needs reforms in: Ammunition stockpiles Cyber and electronic warfare AI, loitering munitions, drone defences There is a need for a new National Armament System and Cyber Command akin to the UK’s recent restructuring. China’s Strategic Thinking China’s 2024 White Paper on National Security stresses security as integral to development. It emphasizes technological self-reliance, border threats, and security of supply chains. India must decode and respond to this evolving strategic vision. Nuclear Imbalance China holds a 3:1 advantage over India in nuclear warheads; this becomes 5:1 when combined with Pakistan. With nuclear rhetoric becoming more explicit in global discourse, India must reassess its deterrence posture. Way Forward India must recalibrate its foreign policy to be more proactive, assertive, and strategically aligned. This includes: Reevaluating neutrality doctrines. Prioritising military and technological modernisation. Engaging with like-minded partners more assertively. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 01 July 2025

Content : Why the prestige of doctors is eroding Voter verification drive in Bihar: too little time, too many hurdles How do unsafe cancer drugs reach patients? Can a G.I. tag prevent cultural misappropriation? When does the gender gap emerge with respect to mathematical abilities? Bihar has consistently fallen behind in registering births, report shows Online, hybrid LL.M. degrees without BCI nod deemed invalid 683 species added to India’s fauna, 433 taxa to its flora during 2024 As GST Turns 8, Tax Experts Call for Fuel Inclusion, Fewer Rates Indian economy remains a key driver of global growth: RBI report Why the prestige of doctors is eroding Symbolism & Shifting Focus July 1st marks National Doctor’s Day in memory of Dr. B.C. Roy. However, its symbolic space is shrinking—overshadowed by policy events like GST (2017) and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (2024). This reflects a larger erosion of doctors’ moral authority, public trust, and professional respect. Relevance : GS 1(Society) ,GS 2(Social Justice ) Epidemiological & Demographic Transitions Inspired by Abdel Omran’s theory (1971): Societies evolve from infectious to chronic diseases as they progress economically. This is accompanied by demographic shifts—ageing populations, shrinking families. These transitions redefine medicine’s role—from curing acute infections to managing lifelong, complex conditions. From Ritual to Rational Science Historically, healing was spiritual and moral, often tied to religion and rituals. Industrial-era breakthroughs (e.g., Pasteur’s germ theory, anaesthesia) gave medicine scientific legitimacy. Doctors rose from barbers to respected professionals, seen as miracle workers in the post-Victorian era. Science to Commerce We’re now in Stage 4 & 5 of epidemiological transition: Delayed degenerative diseases, dual disease burden (e.g., diabetes + dengue). Chronic illnesses offer no clear cures, only probabilistic treatments. Modern medicine provides risk algorithms and lifestyle prescriptions, not certainties. Crisis of Expectations Medicine now demands lifestyle moderation (e.g., less salt, less screen time). This conflicts with consumer culture, making doctors seem like moral police. Protocols and statistics have replaced individualised care and certainty. Doctors as Foot Soldiers in a Healthcare Industry Medical innovation is now driven by corporate profit, not scientific curiosity. Healthcare is commodified, with doctors acting as intermediaries, not decision-makers. Public anger at systemic healthcare failures often lands on doctors, not corporations. Caught Between Contradictions Doctors are expected to deliver miracles amid: Corporate control of cures Rising patient expectations Sociopolitical challenges (e.g., food apps, screen addiction) They act as healers, technicians, and scapegoats in a fractured moral landscape. Conclusion The decline in public trust isn’t due to medical failure, but its evolution and overburden. Until a new medical revolution emerges, doctors must negotiate uncertainty, balancing clinical expertise with moral diplomacy. Voter verification drive in Bihar: too little time, too many hurdles Background & Context The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered a Special Intensive Revision of Electoral Rolls in Bihar, to be extended to all states. This revision requires voters not listed in 2003 rolls to prove citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003. The move is unprecedented, risking mass disenfranchisement and contradicts ECI’s traditional role of protecting universal adult franchise. Relevance : GS 2(Elections – Reforms) Scale of the Exercise Voting-age population of Bihar (2024): ~8.08 crore. Population aged 40 and under: ~4.76 crore (59%)—must submit proof of citizenship. ECI claim: Only 2.94 crore need documentation, assuming 4.96 crore still on rolls from 2003. Reality check: 1.1 crore deaths since 2003. 1.76 crore out-migrants, with ~70 lakh likely removed from Bihar rolls. Thus, only ~3.16 crore from 2003 list remain; rest 4.74 crore must submit documents—in line with independent estimates. Proof of Citizenship: Eligibility Document Issues ECI lists 11 types of documents, but majority in Bihar likely lack access to them: Birth certificate: Held by <3%. Passport: ~2.4%. Matriculation certificate: Held by ~45–50%; significant gender gap. Caste certificates: ~16% have it; mostly among SCs/OBCs/STs. Govt. job ID/pension card: <2% of age group. Other documents (NRC, forest rights, land allotment, family register) largely inapplicable to Bihar. Impact of Document Scarcity Matriculation certificate becomes default eligibility—this privileges the educated. 2.4–2.6 crore non-matriculates (poor, deprived) may be excluded from voter rolls. Risk of shifting from universal adult franchise to “educational franchise”. Administrative Infeasibility Deadline: July 1–31 for document submission; 62 days till August 31 for EROs to complete processing. ERO burden: ~1.95 lakh applications per constituency—logistically impossible without massive manpower expansion. No mention of assistant EROs on ECI website for Bihar. Systemic Inequity Many people missed in 2003 due to: Lack of birth records, education, or access to government schemes. Structural exclusion of poor and deprived castes/classes. Now penalised for state’s historical failure to provide documentation—violating constitutional spirit. Aadhaar Paradox Aadhaar held by ~90% of Bihar’s population, yet not accepted by ECI. If OBC/SC/ST certificates rely on Aadhaar, why exclude it for proving citizenship? Denial of Aadhaar as ID raises suspicion about ECI’s intent or trust in its own issued voter cards. Conclusion The revision may disenfranchise crores, especially the poor, uneducated, and marginalised. Even with document list expansion, the timeline and administrative overload render it impractical. ECI risks turning a democratic update into a bureaucratic disaster or a tool of voter suppression. How do unsafe cancer drugs reach patients? Key Concern: Substandard Cancer Drugs Distributed Globally A major investigation has revealed that poor-quality cancer drugs have been exported to over 100 countries. Such drugs, if contaminated or improperly manufactured, can cause immediate harm or death. Several high-profile incidents in Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Yemen, and Brazil have already resulted in child deaths and illnesses due to such drugs. Relevance : GS 2(Health ,Governance) Manufacturing Risks Sterility and contamination control are critical—tiny errors in cleanliness, equipment hygiene, or raw material testing can render a drug dangerous. Even small environmental changes (e.g., room airflow, temperature) during production can lead to contamination. Staff discipline and facility design play a major role; e.g., even a technician’s movement can affect air quality in sterile zones. Global Drug Quality Assurance Mechanisms Double quality checks: For countries like the UK, drugs are tested at both the production site and upon import. WHO tools to ensure drug quality: Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT): Rates regulatory systems (1 to 4). In 2023, 70% of countries were Level 1 or 2 (low capacity). Essential Medicines List (EML): Prioritizes critical drugs, though generics can still be substandard. Prequalification Programs: WHO-reviewed lists of safe drugs, ingredients, and labs. Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Ensures products meet quality standards—mandatory for many importing countries. Certificate of Pharmaceutical Product (CoPP): A “passport” that verifies the medicine’s approval and safe manufacture. Challenges in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) Many LMICs lack: Qualified experts or labs for drug testing. Resources to trace drugs through the supply chain. Effective border control and monitoring systems. Example: Nepal has no system for testing or monitoring imported medicines. These systemic gaps allow dangerous or fake drugs to infiltrate healthcare systems. Limitations of WHO Rapid Alert System WHO does maintain a rapid alert system for dangerous drugs. But this is reactive—alerts go out only after harm is reported, not preemptively. Consequences of Poor Drug Quality Substandard drugs can: Fail to treat the disease. Cause adverse effects or death. Undermine trust in public healthcare. Especially dangerous in cancer treatment, where accuracy, sterility, and dosage are life-critical. Conclusion While global mechanisms like GMP and WHO programs offer some protection, they are insufficient without national-level capacity. Ensuring drug safety requires strong local regulatory systems, cross-border cooperation, and greater transparency in pharmaceutical supply chains. Can a G.I. tag prevent cultural misappropriation? What is a Geographical Indication (GI)? A GI is a type of intellectual property that identifies goods as originating from a specific location (country, region, or locality). The distinctive quality, reputation, or characteristics of the product must be essentially linked to that place. In India, GIs are public property, collectively held by producer communities—not assignable or transferable like trademarks. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Legal Framework India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, in force since 2003. India is also a signatory to the TRIPS Agreement (1995) under the WTO. GI law allows: Registration and enforcement of GI rights. Penalties for infringement. Injunctions against unauthorized users misleading the public or indulging in unfair competition. Current Indian GI Landscape 658 registered GI-tagged goods in India (as of now). Examples: Darjeeling tea (West Bengal) Pashmina shawls (J&K) Kolhapuri chappals (Maharashtra/Karnataka) Madhubani paintings (Bihar) Chanderi sarees (Madhya Pradesh) Significance of GIs Boost rural development, exports, and local economy. Preserve cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. Improve consumer trust through certified authenticity. Cultural Misappropriation & Global Exploitation Indian traditional products have faced repeated misuse by global corporations: Basmati rice: Ricetec (USA) was granted a patent in 1997; later revoked. Turmeric: US patent granted for known wound-healing use (1995); revoked after Indian challenge. Neem: European patent for antifungal use overturned as it existed in Indian knowledge systems. Recent example: Prada’s 2026 Milan show featured footwear inspired by GI-tagged Kolhapuri chappals, raising accusations of misappropriation. Limits of GI Protection GI rights are territorial—valid only in the country that granted them. There’s no automatic global or universal GI protection. To secure cross-border protection, one must: Register the GI in the country of origin. Then apply for protection in other jurisdictions individually. Mechanisms to Tackle Infringement Registered proprietors or authorized users can: Initiate legal action against misleading use. Act against false origin claims or passing off. However, effectiveness depends on domestic enforcement capacity. What Can Be Done to Prevent Misuse? Expand the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) to include grassroots cultural expressions. Develop a searchable database of GI-tagged products and communities. Encourage due diligence by global brands to promote collaboration instead of exploitation. Conclusion GI laws help protect local producers and traditional knowledge, but territorial limits make international enforcement difficult. Without broader recognition, Indian communities remain vulnerable to misuse, commodification, and cultural theft by powerful foreign entities. A proactive global framework and digital transparency can help bridge this gap When does the gender gap emerge with respect to mathematical abilities? Key Finding: Gender Gap in Maths Emerges Early Boys and girls start school with similar math abilities. However, within the first few months of formal schooling, a maths performance gap favoring boys appears. By the second year, boys are twice as likely as girls to be in the top 5% of maths performers. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) ,GS 2(Social Issues) Scope and Strength of the Study Study analysed 26.53 lakh children aged 5–7 in France, across four consecutive cohorts (2018–2022). Used EvalAide, a national test for language and maths in Grades 1 and 2. Found the gap consistently across: Different regions Socioeconomic groups School types (public/private) Family structures Explanations & Patterns Observed No initial gap in kindergarten — gap emerges after school begins, not due to inherent ability differences. Higher-income families showed a wider gender gap, especially where both parents worked in STEM. Language scores showed no such gender bias, indicating the issue is math-specific. Why Does the Gap Emerge? Stereotypes & Labelling: Maths gets explicitly labelled as a domain by early primary school. Gender stereotypes like “boys are better at maths” may begin to take hold. Girls may start internalising low self-confidence in maths. Classroom Dynamics: Teachers may encourage boys more in problem-solving, and girls more in reading. Bias in attention and encouragement affects student self-perception. Competitive Testing Environments: Timed tests and performance pressure heighten anxiety in girls, reducing performance. Difficult tests widen the gender gap. Parental Attitudes: Parents may also unknowingly reinforce gendered beliefs about aptitude and diligence. Suggested Interventions Improve Teacher Training: Train teachers to treat boys and girls equally in STEM discussions. Strengthen teachers’ confidence in teaching maths — especially important since most primary school teachers in France are women. Address Student Anxiety: Use self-affirmation tasks and promote an incremental view of intelligence (i.e., abilities can be developed through effort). Introduce Role Models: Expose children to both male and female STEM professionals early in schooling. Helps girls identify with success in maths. Early & Quick Interventions: Since the gap forms within months, timely policy and curriculum-level changes are vital to prevent its solidification. Conclusion The gender gap in mathematics is not innate but socially constructed early in school life. Interventions must begin at the earliest stage of education, focusing on teacher training, stereotype correction, and student empowerment. Closing this gap is critical not only for gender equity but also for diversity in STEM innovation and workforce. Bihar has consistently fallen behind in registering births, report shows Context: Birth Registration & Electoral Roll Revision (SIR) in Bihar The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar requires voters born after December 2, 2004, to furnish any of 11 documents as proof of citizenship. This includes birth certificates, documents from parents, etc. Critics argue this process disproportionately impacts the poor and is functionally similar to NRC in effect. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) , GS 2(Governance) Poor Birth Registration in Bihar (CRS Data) 2000: Only 3.7% of births registered in Bihar vs. 56.2% national average. 2004–2005: Bihar’s birth registration rose to 11.5% and 16.9%, respectively. 2022: Improved, with 71% of births registered within the legal 21-day window. CRS vs. SRS (Systemic Gaps) CRS (Civil Registration System): Actual registration data. SRS (Sample Registration System): Survey-based demographic estimates. 2009 report noted a significant gap in estimated vs. registered births in Bihar, UP, and Andhra Pradesh. CRS underreporting continues to undermine document-based citizenship verification.  Consequences for SIR Implementation Due to poor historical registration, millions of citizens may lack official proof of birth or parentage. Penalizes citizens for failures in state capacity, like issuing timely certificates or maintaining proper records. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are overburdened and under-equipped to scrutinize such volumes of documents. Criticism and Legal Concerns Opposition parties and civil society allege this is NRC through the backdoor. Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM): Demanded transparency on criteria used in 2003 SIR and current scrutiny. Home Ministry (2023 Amendment): Mandated digital birth certificates from Oct 1, 2023, for school admissions, electoral rolls, etc., further raising barriers for rural and poor populations. Administrative Feasibility and Risks Nearly 5 crore voters in Bihar are being exempted due to presence in the 2003 rolls. But over 2.5 crore young voters may now be at risk of disenfranchisement due to lack of valid documentation. Medical institutions continue to underreport births despite legal mandates—10% underreporting in 2022. Key Statistics Summary Year Bihar Birth Registration (%) India Avg (%) 2000 3.7% 56.2% 2004 11.5% 60.4% 2005 16.9% 62.5% 2022 71% (within 21 days) Not specified Online, hybrid LL.M. degrees without BCI nod deemed invalid Context : BCI Clarification: Any LL.M. or equivalent legal degree offered via online, distance, blended, or hybrid mode without BCI approval is unauthorised. Such degrees will not be recognised for professional or academic purposes, including: Judicial service Faculty appointments Research registration (e.g. PhD) Departmental promotions Legal employment (e.g. advocacy) Relevance : GS 2(Education) Ban on Online/Hybrid LL.M. Courses The Legal Education Rules, 2020 strictly prohibit LL.M. and related legal programmes from being delivered through non-traditional formats (online/distance/hybrid). These rules apply irrespective of nomenclature — calling it “executive” or “not equivalent” doesn’t bypass restrictions if LL.M. is used. Institutions Under Scrutiny BCI has issued show-cause notices and is initiating action against institutions offering such unapproved programmes: National Law Institute University (Bhopal) IIT Kharagpur O.P. Jindal Global University (Sonipat) National Law University (Delhi) On the Use of “LL.M.” Title Even where institutions market courses as “executive” or non-traditional, if the protected title “LL.M.” is used in: Advertisements Brochures Prospectuses or communication …it is treated as misleading and unauthorised. Legal Challenges & Current Status The Rules of 2020 have been challenged in the Supreme Court. However, no stay has been granted — so the Rules remain enforceable. The BCI continues to assert its exclusive authority over legal education standards in India. 683 species added to India’s fauna, 433 taxa to its flora during 2024 Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Fauna Discoveries Total additions to fauna: 683 species 459 new species 224 new records (species found elsewhere, now recorded in India) Top states for faunal discoveries: Kerala: 101 (80 new species, 21 new records) Karnataka: 82 (68 new species, 14 new records) Tamil Nadu: 63 (50 new species, 13 new records) Arunachal Pradesh: 72 (42 new species, 30 new records) Meghalaya: 42 (25 new species, 17 new records) West Bengal: 56 (25 new species, 31 new records) Andaman & Nicobar Islands: 43 (14 new species, 29 new records) Key faunal highlights: 2 new genera, including Dravidoseps gouensis (reptile) Anguiculus dicaprioi (Colubridae family) — named after Leonardo DiCaprio 37 species of reptiles and 5 amphibians added Floral Discoveries Total additions to flora: 433 taxa 410 new species 23 infraspecific taxa (varieties, subspecies, etc.) Top states for floral discoveries: Kerala: 58 Maharashtra: 45 Uttarakhand: 40 Flora diversity added: 154 angiosperms (flowering plants) 4 pteridophytes (ferns, etc.) 15 bryophytes (mosses, liverworts) 63 lichens 156 fungi 32 algae 9 microbes Notable orchids discovered: Bulbophyllum gopalianum Coelogyne tripurensis Gastrodia indica Gastrodia sikkimensis Trends & Ecological Significance 35% of total discoveries came from biodiversity hotspots: Western Ghats & North-East India. India has now documented 56,177 plant species, including: Angiosperms, gymnosperms, pteridophytes, bryophytes, fungi, lichens, algae. As GST Turns 8, Tax Experts Call for Fuel Inclusion, Fewer Rates Achievements So Far GST has simplified India’s indirect tax regime by removing inter-State tax variations. Unified tax structure has enhanced compliance and transparency. Ease of doing business improved due to automated filing and one-nation-one-tax approach. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy -Taxation ) Challenges & Reform Suggestions (GST 2.0) Include Fuel & Electricity in GST Current Status: Petroleum products (petrol, diesel, natural gas) and electricity are kept out of GST. Implications: Causes tax cascading (tax on tax) and cash flow issues for sectors like oil, gas, transport, logistics. Inclusion would broaden the tax base and reduce cost burden on industries. Simplify Rate Structure Current Scenario: Five main slabs: 0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, 28%. Special rates: 0.25%, 1%, and 3% (for gold, silver, etc.). GST Cess: Imposed on luxury and sin goods under 28% slab. Issues: Confusing for businesses and consumers. Creates litigation and classification disputes. Proposal: Reduce number of slabs for clarity, simplicity, and neutrality. Streamline Input Tax Credit (ITC) Many restrictions and procedural delays affect working capital and business liquidity. Experts call for fewer ITC restrictions to ensure smoother credit flow. Address Procedural Complexities High-value litigations arising from minor procedural issues. Need to simplify compliance, reduce departmental scrutiny, and automate audits. Strengthen Dispute Resolution GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) is still not operational — leads to case backlogs. Call for urgent establishment of GSTAT to ensure quick, uniform dispute resolution. Expert Views Bipin Sapra (EY India): Calls for rate rationalisation, ITC reform, GSTAT, and wider tax base. Karthik Mani (BDO India): Stresses on resolving litigations and procedural bottlenecks. PwC Report: Bats for petroleum inclusion, dispute mechanism, and compliance easing. Indian economy remains a key driver of global growth: RBI report Positive Assessment of Indian Economy India remains a key global growth driver, despite global uncertainty. Growth is driven by: Strong domestic demand Sound macroeconomic fundamentals Prudent fiscal and monetary policies Inflation outlook is stable and closer to RBI’s target range, boosting confidence in price stability. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy ) Strength of Financial System Banking and NBFC sectors are robust, with: Strong capital buffers Low Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) High profitability Stress tests show banks and NBFCs can withstand adverse shocks and still remain above regulatory capital norms. Corporate balance sheets remain healthy, supporting financial system stability. Financial Market Conditions Monetary policy remains accommodative. Volatility in financial markets is low, aiding stability. Corporate sector and financial institutions are showing improved balance sheets and resilience. Key Risks & Challenges External Risks: Geopolitical tensions Capital outflows Global trade slowdowns due to reciprocal tariffs Weather-related disruptions could pose a downside risk to growth. Rising global public debt is flagged as a major concern, especially amidst global economic uncertainty. Conclusion India’s macroeconomic and financial indicators are resilient and stable. Continued policy prudence and monitoring of global headwinds will be critical for sustaining this momentum.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 30 June 2025

Content : From Zero-Dose to Zero-Gap: India’s Vaccine Revolution India Energy Stack: Transforming Power Through Digital Innovation From Zero-Dose to Zero-Gap: India’s Vaccine Revolution Zero-Dose Children & Global Recognition Zero-dose children (those receiving no vaccine at all) declined from 0.11% (2023) to 0.06% (2024) of total population. India acknowledged as a global exemplar in child health by UN IGME 2024. Awarded the Measles and Rubella Champion Award (March 2024) for immunization achievements. Relevance : GS 2( Health , Governance ,Social Issues) Maternal & Child Mortality Reduction MMR declined to 80 per lakh live births (UN-MMEIG), an 86% drop since 1990, compared to 48% globally. Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR) fell 78% (vs. 61% globally). Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR) declined 70% (vs. 54% globally).   Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) Covers 12 vaccine-preventable diseases (vs. 6 before 2014). Annual coverage: 2.9 crore pregnant women & 2.6 crore infants. 1.3+ crore immunization sessions held annually by ASHAs/ANMs. Tech integration: U-WIN digital platform tracks immunization status. Key Campaigns & Achievements Zero Dose Implementation Plan 2024: Rolled out in 143 districts across 11 states. Mission Indradhanush: Since 2014, vaccinated 5.46 crore children & 1.32 crore pregnant women. Pulse Polio Campaigns: Maintained polio-free status since 2014. Measles-Rubella Campaign 2025 launched for disease elimination. Maternal & Neonatal Tetanus eliminated by 2015. Antigen-wise Coverage & Global Comparison India’s DTP-1 coverage: 93%, higher than Nigeria (70%), Pakistan (84%). Dropout rate from DTP-1 to DTP-3 reduced from 7% (2013) to 2% (2023). DTP-1 and DTP-3 refer to the first and third doses of the Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis vaccine given to infants under the Universal Immunization Programme; Measles coverage improved from 83% (2013) to 93% (2023). India’s immunization rates are comparable or superior to high-income countries like Germany, Finland, and Sweden. Community Engagement & Governance Use of mass media, street plays, and community radio to fight vaccine hesitancy. Multi-tiered task forces (STFI, DTFI, BTFI) for program monitoring. VHNDs (Village Health and Nutrition Days) for outreach and awareness. Contextualizing India’s Progress India’s birth cohort of 2.6 crore exceeds total population of many developed countries.(Birth cohort refers to the total number of babies born in a year) Zero-dose % far lower than Yemen (1.68%), Nigeria (0.98%), Pakistan (0.16%). India’s high population size and strong delivery systems are crucial to fair comparisons. Conclusion India’s immunization success is a result of sustained policy priority, grassroots outreach, and data-driven strategies. It stands as a model for large-scale public health delivery, especially in low-resource and high-population settings. India Energy Stack: Transforming Power Through Digital Innovation What is India Energy Stack (IES)? A proposed Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for the power sector, akin to Aadhaar (identity) and UPI (payments). Aims to build a unified, secure, and interoperable digital backbone for India’s electricity ecosystem. Will standardize and streamline data and services across generation, distribution, consumption, and policy planning. Relevance : GS 3(Energy) ,GS 2(Governance) Why Now? – Context & Need India’s power sector is undergoing a paradigm shift due to: Rapid growth in renewable energy and electric vehicles. Increasing consumer participation in energy markets. Demand for grid stability, real-time data, and decentralized management. Current system is fragmented, lacks integration, and is digitally siloed. Key Features of India Energy Stack Unique IDs for consumers, assets, and energy transactions. Real-time, consent-based data sharing for transparency and privacy. Open APIs to ensure system interoperability and innovation. Consumer tools to enable energy choice, billing transparency, and market participation. Strategic Benefits DISCOM efficiency: Supports analytics, reduces loss, improves billing and services. Renewable energy integration: Enables smart grid operations and distributed energy management. Consumer empowerment: Ensures accessible, informed, and participatory energy use. Future-ready power services: Prepares infrastructure for smart homes, EVs, and AI-driven energy management. Implementation Plan A 12-month Proof of Concept (PoC) to be conducted with select DISCOMs. Includes piloting of Utility Intelligence Platform (UIP) – a modular analytics tool built on IES. Initial pilot in Mumbai, Gujarat, and Delhi. Development of an India Energy Stack White Paper for public consultation. A national rollout roadmap will follow based on pilot learnings. Governance & Collaboration A dedicated Task Force formed by the Ministry of Power: Includes experts from tech, energy, and regulatory fields. Will guide design, implementation, scaling, and monitoring of IES. Conclusion India Energy Stack is a transformative step to digitize and democratize the power sector. Positions India to lead globally in energy-tech integration, improve sustainability, and empower consumers. Aligns with India’s $5 trillion economy goal and Net Zero commitments.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 30 June 2025

Content: Language of unity A year later — colonial-era laws to new criminal codes Revisit digital search powers under the I-T Bill 2025 Language of Unity Three-Language Policy & NEP 2020 NEP 2020 mandates that students learn three languages in school. It is more flexible than earlier policies, allowing States to choose any two Indian languages and one foreign language. Despite flexibility on paper, Hindi is feared to become the default second language after the regional mother tongue. Relevance : GS 1(Culture) ,GS 2(Governance) Practice Question : “Uniformity in language policy may undermine India’s linguistic diversity and federal principles.” Critically examine this statement in the context of the NEP 2020 and the three-language formula.(250Words) Maharashtra Controversy Maharashtra govt initially announced Hindi would be taught until Class 5 as a second language. This move faced backlash, seen as Hindi imposition, leading to withdrawal of the decision. A committee led by Dr. Narendra Jadhav will now review the issue. Political Dynamics Language imposition can spark regional sentiments. Ruling government frames the three-language policy as a matter of national pride and unity, but this may backfire. Ground Realities in Implementation Students and parents across India, including in Hindi-speaking states, often prefer English. Though 15 languages are offered as third language options in Maharashtra, in practice, few opt for non-mainstream languages. Schools face resource constraints—they can’t offer a wide range of language choices. Critique of Policy Outcomes Despite neutral framing, implementation trends show a bias towards Hindi, raising fears of linguistic domination. Language associated with political power gains undue influence, which can be divisive. The uniformity in policy may erode linguistic diversity and local pride. Key Message National unity cannot be built on linguistic uniformity. The Government needs to adopt a more inclusive and flexible approach, respecting regional languages and sentiments. The real goal should be pluralism and voluntary adoption, not perceived imposition. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes. A year later — colonial-era laws to new criminal codes Overview of Legal Transition The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) replaced the IPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act. Transition facilitated via CCTNS, enabling smooth FIR registration within States under the new laws. Credit for the digital transition goes to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Relevance : GS 2(Laws , Justice ) Practice Question : Discuss the impact of technological tools like the ‘e-Sakshya’ app in strengthening criminal investigations under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). What are the challenges in its implementation, and how can they be addressed?(250 Words) Role of ‘e-Sakshya’ App Developed by NIC with MHA support for real-time collection and storage of evidence. Part of Inter-operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS)—links police, courts, jails, prosecution, FSLs. Used for capturing geo-tagged, timestamped photos/videos by Investigating Officers (IOs). Mandatory Use of Tech in Investigation BNSS mandates audio-video documentation of key processes like: Search and seizure (Sec 105) Search by police (Sec 185) Scene of crime videography (Sec 176) Statements (Sec 173, 180) Custody/disposal of property (Sec 497) IOs must take selfies to authenticate their physical presence at crime scenes—reduces delegation malpractice. Forensics Integration & Challenges Mandatory FSL expert visits at crime scenes (Sec 176) now observed. Forensic infrastructure expansion is slow; new CFSL & NFSU in Raipur expected to help. Use of police dogs adds to crime-scene efficiency. Implementation Gaps & Issues Courts cannot directly access ‘e-Sakshya’ data; IOs submit evidence via pen drives, causing duplication & cost. App works only on Android 10+ with 1 GB storage; many IOs forced to use personal phones or limited tablets. Storage issues: deletion allowed only in offline (unlinked FIR) mode; online entries are permanent. Accused persons reluctant to be recorded electronically during confessions or evidence recovery. Limitations in Scope & Execution Cybercrime evidence needs expert handling and certified cyber labs—many State labs yet to be notified under IT Act. Petty thefts (< ₹5000) not cognisable due to vague wording in BNS (Sec 303), while petty organised offences are still booked. Video conferencing for witness examination (Sec 530 BNSS) still not widely adopted. Post-mortem delays remain a concern; MedLEaPR system being tested to streamline this process. Need for Review and Support Feedback from all States/UTs is crucial to assess ease of implementation and modify laws as needed. More funds required for: Forensic tools & infrastructure Digital equipment for IOs Mobile FSL units in each district Conclusion ‘e-Sakshya’ is a potential game-changer, improving transparency, evidence quality, and accountability. Yet, without institutional support, tech upgrades, and feedback loops, its full potential cannot be realised. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes. Revisit digital search powers under the I-T Bill 2025 Proposal Overview Finance Minister proposes allowing tax authorities to access individuals’ “virtual digital space” during search and seizure under the Income-Tax Bill, 2025. Justification: As financial activity moves online, enforcement must follow. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Vigilance) Practice Question : Discuss the impact of technological tools like the ‘e-Sakshya’ app in strengthening criminal investigations under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). What are the challenges in its implementation, and how can they be addressed?(250 Words) Existing vs Proposed Powers Current powers (Sec 132, IT Act 1961) allow search/seizure of physical spaces like homes, offices, and lockers. New provision expands reach to include emails, social media, cloud storage, digital platforms, and “any other similar space”—a vague and open-ended definition. Tax authorities may also override device access codes, even in encrypted platforms like WhatsApp. Privacy & Overreach Concerns Proposal blurs the boundary between financial enforcement and personal digital privacy. Accessing digital spaces inadvertently affects third parties (e.g., friends, family, contacts). Especially risky for professionals (journalists, lawyers) holding sensitive and confidential data. Lack of Safeguards No requirement for prior judicial authorisation or demonstrable “reason to believe”. Violates Supreme Court’s proportionality test (Puttaswamy case) which demands: Legitimate aim Necessity Least intrusive means Proportionality of the action No clear protocol for operationalisation, particularly for encrypted platforms or protected content. Global Standards Contradicted U.S.: Supreme Court in Riley v. California requires warrants to access digital data. Canada: Section 8 of the Charter protects against unreasonable search and seizure. India: SC has called for protocols on digital device seizure (2023 interim guidelines). Transparency & Accountability Issues The Bill prohibits disclosure of the “reason to believe”—removing transparency. Lacks mechanisms for judicial oversight, public accountability, and redress. Risk of Surveillance State Opens doors to unchecked surveillance under the guise of tax compliance. Lacks distinction between financial and non-financial data in digital searches. Enables mass intrusion without relevance thresholds or individual safeguards. Recommendations & Way Forward Root digital enforcement in legality, proportionality, and transparency. Narrow the scope of ‘virtual digital space’ to relevant financial data only. Mandate judicial warrants, disclosure of reasons, and create redress mechanisms. Select Committee reviewing the Bill must incorporate privacy-protective reforms. Conclusion Digital enforcement is needed but must not come at the cost of fundamental rights. The current proposal, in its sweeping form, risks turning compliance into surveillance and governance into overreach. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 30 June 2025

Content : Ahead of Census, States asked to lock changes in boundaries before Dec. 31 The forced sterilisations of Emergency Why is the ECI de-listing political parties? Why did Axiom-4 need 28 hours to reach the ISS? Airlines are not reporting misconduct of passengers, says aviation watchdog At ISS, Shukla takes up experiment on skeletal muscle degradation in space Noble rot, the alchemist of wines, is setting fungal biology abuzz Ahead of Census, States asked to lock changes in boundaries before Dec. 31 Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Census 2027 Phase 1 – Key Details Timeline & Scope: Phase 1, i.e., House Listing & Housing Census, is tentatively scheduled to begin April 1, 2026. It will cover all States and UTs in a phased manner, ideally between April and September. Digital Census – First Ever: This will be India’s first digital Census. Enumerators will use mobile apps/tablets instead of traditional paper-based forms, aiming for real-time, geo-tagged data collection. Coordination & Human Resources: The Registrar General of India (RGI) is coordinating closely with State governments. 1.3 lakh Census functionaries will be deployed for the House Listing and Housing Schedule. Use of 2021 Enumeration Blocks (EBs): 24 lakh Enumeration Blocks (EBs), originally finalized for the postponed 2021 Census, will be reused. Each EB typically covers 150–180 households or 650–800 individuals. What is Done in House Listing Phase: Each house/building/public space is assigned a unique census number. Information collected includes: Building type and material Drinking water source Sanitation facility Electricity availability Use of the building (residential, commercial, vacant, etc.) Observations and Challenges Delayed but Digitally Upgraded Census: Originally slated for 2021, Census was delayed due to COVID-19. 2027 Census marks a transformational shift in methodology through digitization. Advantages of Going Digital: Faster data processing and dissemination. Reduction in manual errors and paper waste. Facilitates geo-tagging and real-time supervision. Challenges Ahead: Training over 1 lakh functionaries in using digital tools may be resource- and time-intensive. Digital divide and technological readiness in remote/rural areas could be a hurdle. Data privacy and security concerns will need to be addressed robustly. Reuse of 2021 EBs – Efficient but Risky: Ensures continuity and saves preparatory time. But urban expansion, migration, and demographic shifts since 2021 may render some EBs outdated, affecting accuracy. Census in India: Background Legal Basis: Conducted under the Census Act of 1948, which provides the framework for population enumeration and protects the confidentiality of individual data. Conducting Authority: Managed by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India under the Ministry of Home Affairs. First Census: The first synchronous census of India was conducted in 1881 during British rule under W.C. Plowden. Decennial Exercise: Held every 10 years, with the most recent completed in 2011. The 2021 Census has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other administrative reasons. Two Phases: House-listing & Housing Census: Collects information about buildings, amenities, and households. Population Enumeration: Collects demographic, social, and economic data on individuals. Digital Transition: The upcoming Census (2027, with first phase in 2026) will be conducted digitally for the first time using mobile apps and real-time data entry. Enumerators: Data is collected by over 1.3 lakh trained census functionaries, often drawn from the local government workforce like teachers. The forced sterilisations of Emergency Background and Policy Origins The campaign occurred during the National Emergency (1975–77), under India’s broader population control efforts. It was part of India’s National Family Planning Programme, which had historically supported voluntary sterilisation as a method of birth control. The policy was influenced by global support for population control, including from organizations such as the Ford Foundation, World Bank, and IMF. Relevance : GS 1(Post Independence) Scale and Statistics A significant increase in sterilisation numbers was recorded: 1975: Approx. 1.3 million vasectomies 1976: Approx. 2.6 million 1977: Total sterilisation procedures rose to approx. 8.3 million (both male and female) The highest concentration of procedures occurred in northern Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. Many enumerated figures were documented in studies by researchers such as Pai Panandiker and K.G. Jolly. Implementation and Methods Enumeration and sterilisation drives were conducted across urban and rural areas. Field-level functionaries — including local officials, teachers, health workers, and law enforcement — were involved in implementation. Measures to encourage participation included: Incentives: monetary compensation, food grains, or job-related benefits. Administrative pressure: In some areas, compliance became linked to access to government schemes and services. Reported Outcomes According to the Shah Commission of Inquiry: 1,778 deaths were reported due to sterilisation procedures. Instances of coercion and procedural irregularities were noted. In some areas, public protests and legal actions were recorded in response to specific incidents. Comparative Global Context India was not alone; other countries also implemented population control policies during the 20th century: United States: ~60,000 people sterilised under state eugenics laws (1907–1979). Sweden: ~63,000 sterilised under public health policies (1935–1976). Germany: ~400,000 sterilisations under the 1933 law on “genetic health”. Peru (1990s): ~3,00,000 people, mostly rural women, sterilised under family planning drives. China: Under the One-Child Policy, sterilisation was widely practiced to control population growth. Public Memory and Long-Term Impact In India, the 1975–77 sterilisation drive became a notable event in the history of public health administration and governance during the Emergency. It is often discussed in relation to: The evolution of health rights The balance between population control and individual consent The need for procedural safeguards in public health interventions. Why is the ECI de-listing political parties? Legal and Functional Framework Right to Form Parties: Forming political associations is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(c) of the Indian Constitution. Registration Process (Section 29A, RP Act, 1951): Parties must submit a memorandum/constitution within 30 days of formation. Must affirm allegiance to the Constitution of India, socialism, secularism, democracy, and national unity and integrity. ECI verifies provisions for internal democracy, including periodic elections for office bearers, before granting registration. Definition of RUPPs: Parties that are registered with ECI but not recognised as State or National Parties due to non-fulfilment of performance criteria (votes/seats). Relevance : GS 2(Polity, Elections) Current Status of RUPPs (as of May 2025) Total RUPPs: Over 2,800. Contested in 2024 General Elections: Approx. 750. De-listed and Inactive (by ECI): 281 de-listed RUPPs 217 marked inactive (no updated office bearer data since 2014) Recent ECI Action (2024–2025) De-listing 345 RUPPs: These parties have not contested any election since 2019. Their offices were found to be non-existent or untraceable. ECI has instructed Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to issue show-cause notices before final action. Objective: Prevent misuse of benefits such as income tax exemption, common election symbols, and star campaigner status. Statutory Obligations and Benefits of RUPPs Under Representation of the People Act (RP Act), 1951: RUPPs must submit details of donors contributing above ₹20,000 annually. Must maintain transparency in internal elections and financial disclosures. Under Income Tax Act, 1961: Tax exemptions under Section 13A. Donations above ₹2,000 must be via banking channels (no cash). Failure to file returns or donor lists may result in loss of tax benefits. Operational Advantages: Eligibility for common electoral symbol. Can nominate 20 star campaigners during elections. Legal Limitations & Reform Suggestions Supreme Court Ruling (2002): In Indian National Congress v. Institute of Social Welfare, the Court held that ECI cannot de-register a party unless: Registration was obtained by fraud. Party has ceased allegiance to the Indian Constitution. Party is declared unlawful by the Government. Pending Reform Proposals: Law Commission Report (255th, 2015): Suggests de-registration of parties inactive for 10 consecutive years. ECI’s Electoral Reform Memo (2016): Recommends amendments to RP Act to empower de-registration for non-compliance or inactivity. Issue of Inner-Party Democracy: Many parties do not conduct regular internal elections. Law Commission (170th & 255th reports) advocates legal provisions to enforce inner-party democracy. Broader Context and Implications “Letter Pad Parties”: Term used for parties that exist only on paper but do not engage in electoral activity. Risks: misuse of legal and financial privileges, opaque donations, and regulatory burden on ECI. Significance of Current Exercise: Enhances transparency, reduces compliance gaps, and supports genuine political participation. May serve as a precursor to long-term legislative reforms to streamline political party accountability. Why did Axiom-4 need 28 hours to reach the ISS? Context : Mission Overview: Axiom-4 is a private crewed space mission to the International Space Station (ISS), organized by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and using SpaceX’s Dragon crew capsule. Launched on June 25 from NASA’s Florida spaceport aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. Relevance : GS 3(Space , Technology) Indian Representation: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force officer, is part of the crew — marking his first spaceflight and a significant milestone for India’s global space presence.   Orbit and Pre-Docking Sequence Initial Orbit and Speed: After separation from the Falcon 9, Dragon entered a low elliptical parking orbit ~200 km above Earth, traveling at approx. 27,000 km/h. This orbit allowed the capsule to gradually phase and align with the ISS, which orbits ~400 km above Earth. Orbital Mechanics: Rather than flying “upward,” Dragon had to match the ISS’s orbit both in altitude and horizontal velocity. Like two cars merging on a curved highway, Dragon needed precise speed and timing adjustments. Docking Profile and Safety Protocols Duration & Orbits: The docking approach followed a 28-hour profile, completing ~18 orbits before docking. Step-by-Step Docking Process: Dragon aligned into a designated approach ‘corridor’ when ~30 km from the ISS. Docking involved progressive slowing, with mandatory hold points at: 400 m, 220 m, 20 m, and 1 m. At each point, the crew (including Group Capt. Shukla, the designated mission pilot) performed: Go/no-go checks LIDAR system verifications Abort Protocols: A single faulty sensor or system alert would have required Dragon to abort and retreat safely via a pre-set escape path. Deliberate Pacing: These safety steps intentionally extended the final approach time, prioritizing crew and ISS safety. Operational Advantages and Crew Readiness Use of SpaceX’s Dragon Capsule: Known for reliability, automated navigation, and reusability. Allowed for a conservative, fuel-rich approach profile, enhancing mission safety and flexibility. Crew Well-being: The slower approach gave the crew time for: System check-outs Rest and meals Final mission prep before docking Broader Significance Technical Excellence: Demonstrates advanced international cooperation in human spaceflight. Highlights the growing role of private aerospace firms in low-Earth orbit missions. India’s Emerging Role: Group Capt. Shukla’s inclusion reflects India’s deepening engagement with global human spaceflight programs. Airlines are not reporting misconduct of passengers, says aviation watchdog Core Concern The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) observed that many airlines: Delayed reporting incidents of unruly passenger behaviour. In some cases, did not report such incidents at all. Unruly behaviour is being flagged as a growing safety concern for passengers, crew, and overall flight operations. Relevance : GS 2( Governance, Policy, and Administration) Revised Reporting Guidelines Airlines must: Report incidents via email within 12 hours to the Chief of Flight Safety or Director of Cabin Safety. Submit detailed information within 24 hours of flight landing to DGCA. Applicable to: All scheduled and non-scheduled operators, including those with cabin crew on board. Operational Responsibility Pilots, cabin crew, and in-flight service directors are reminded of obligations under: Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) relating to unruly passengers. Earlier circulars emphasized vigilance and timely action in handling in-flight misconduct. Nature of Incidents Reported The advisory follows several types of serious onboard incidents, including: Alcohol-induced aggression Passenger scuffles after verbal disputes Sexual harassment of co-passengers Actions compromising flight safety Regulatory and Legal Measures As per DGCA guidelines (2017): Airlines must refer complaints to an Internal Committee. The committee must: Complete its review within 30 days. Decide on ban duration for the offending passenger. While the inquiry is pending, the airline can impose a temporary ban. Repeat offences: Penalty duration will be twice that of the previous ban. Legal Enforcement For cognisable offences (e.g., assault, harassment), law enforcement agencies are empowered to initiate legal action in parallel. Airlines are expected to coordinate with authorities when incidents meet criminal thresholds. Significance of the Advisory Reinforces the need for: Timely and transparent reporting Safety-first culture in air travel Aims to: Deter misconduct Maintain discipline and accountability Protect both crew welfare and passenger experience At ISS, Shukla takes up experiment on skeletal muscle degradation in space Mission Update: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla at the ISS Group Captain Shukla, known by his mission call sign “Shux”, has begun research activities aboard the ISS following successful adaptation to orbital conditions. As per Axiom Space, the crew has transitioned from arrival protocols to full-scale scientific work. Relevance : GS 3(Space , Research) Key Research Areas Myogenesis Experiment Conducted inside the Life Sciences Glovebox (LSG). Objective: Understand skeletal muscle degradation in microgravity. Potential outcomes: Develop therapies for astronauts to prevent muscle loss during space missions. Advance treatment for muscle-degenerative diseases on Earth. Proposed by: Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem), Bengaluru. Part of ISRO’s microgravity experiment initiative. Cerebral Hemodynamics Study Focuses on blood flow in the brain under microgravity. Tools: Uses ultrasound technology and real-time monitoring software. Significance: Enhances understanding of cardiovascular changes in space. May improve medical insights into conditions like stroke and hypertension on Earth. ISRO’s Role and Scientific Goals ISRO has selected seven microgravity experiments for Shukla to conduct during his 14-day stay. Aim: Build a sustainable microgravity research ecosystem in India. Long-term goal: Integrate such experiments into future Indian space missions. International Scientific Collaboration India-NASA Collaboration: Includes five joint science investigations. Also includes two STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) outreach experiments. Axiom-4 Mission Scope: Involves ~60 scientific studies. Represents contributions from 31 countries, including: India, U.S., Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and various European nations. Significance and Broader Impact Enhances India’s profile in human space research, especially in life sciences and biomedicine. Strengthens India’s collaboration with international space agencies and private players. Provides dual benefit: Supports astronaut health and mission sustainability. Contributes to Earth-based healthcare advancements. Noble rot, the alchemist of wines, is setting fungal biology abuzz Agricultural & Economic Significance Botrytis cinerea, known as noble rot, infects grape berries, causing water loss and concentrating sugars—crucial for high-end sweet wine production. Used in making Sauternes (France), Tokaji Aszú (Hungary), and Trockenbeerenauslese (Germany/Austria). Infection is selective; grapes must be hand-picked, making the process labour-intensive and economically valuable. Under uncontrolled conditions, the fungus may become agriculturally destructive, affecting crops adversely. Relevance : GS 3(Economy , Agriculture) Scientific Breakthrough in Cell Biology Research published in Science revealed that Botrytis and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum possess incomplete chromosome sets per nucleus — a first-of-its-kind discovery. Chromosomes are distributed across multiple nuclei, with no single nucleus holding a full genome — unprecedented in fungi, animals, or plants. Implications for Cloning & Genetics These fungi cannot be cloned like normal eukaryotes due to partial genomes in individual nuclei. Raises key questions about: Chromosome segregation Nuclear division Genetic integrity maintenance Experimental Origin of the Discovery The anomaly surfaced during UV mutation experiments on S. sclerotiorum. Researchers found all cells mutated—contrary to expectations—prompting deeper analysis using molecular chromosome probes. Confirmed that nuclei had non-overlapping chromosome sets. Fungal Reproduction Context Both fungi belong to the ascomycetes class, producing spores (ascospores) inside an ascus. Typically, these spores have genetically identical nuclei, but in these fungi, nuclear diversity was observed. Open Research Questions How are chromosomes split between nuclei? How is genetic stability ensured during cell division? What evolutionary or biological benefit does this nuclear organization offer? Wider Biological Significance Challenges foundational principles in nuclear and chromosome biology. Could redefine our understanding of multinucleate cells. Puts fungi at the forefront of genetic and cellular research, with implications for biotechnology, evolution, and genome engineering.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 28 June 2025

Content: India Flags Off First Consignment of Rose-Scented Litchi from Pathankot to Qatar Scientists uncovers an exciting use of Teak leaf which offers a natural, biodegradable laser shield towards protecting delicate optical devices and human eyes from high-power laser radiation India Flags Off First Consignment of Rose-Scented Litchi from Pathankot to Qatar Strategic Export Milestone First-ever consignment of rose-scented litchi from Pathankot, Punjab to Qatar and UAE (Dubai) flagged off. Boosts India’s presence in high-value, fresh fruit export markets of the Middle East. Relevance : GS 3(Economy , Agriculture, Export) Institutional Collaboration & Support Facilitated by APEDA (under Ministry of Commerce & Industry) in collaboration with: Department of Horticulture, Punjab Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Lulu Group and local progressive farmers . Horticultural Potential of Punjab Punjab contributed 12.39% of India’s litchi production in FY 2023–24. Pathankot’s favorable agro-climatic conditions make it an emerging export-oriented hub. National yield: 71,490 MT from 4,327 ha (avg. 16.5 MT/ha). Export & Economic Impact Twin exports: 1 MT to Qatar and 0.5 MT to UAE mark diversification of India’s fruit basket. FY 2024–25 (Apr–Mar): Fruit & veg exports stood at USD 3.87 billion, up 5.67% YoY. Litchi joins mango, banana, grape, orange as global exports, along with niche fruits like cherry, jamun. Farmer Empowerment & Policy Implications Enables market access and income boost for farmers via high-value global chains. Aligned with India’s agri-export policy and vision of turning farmers into export entrepreneurs. APEDA playing a pivotal role in linking FPOs, FPCs, and individual growers to international markets. Litchi: Type: Perennial, subtropical fruit crop from the Sapindaceae family. Botanical Name: Litchi chinensis Origin: Native to South China, but widely cultivated in India, especially in Bihar, West Bengal, UP, Punjab. Agro-Climatic Requirements Climate: Requires warm, humid climate with short dry winters. Temperature: Ideal range: 20–35°C; Sensitive to frost and extreme cold. Rainfall: Annual rainfall of 1000–2000 mm, but excessive rain during flowering harms fruiting. Soil Conditions Soil Type: Grows best in deep, well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter. pH Range: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–7.0). Avoid: Saline, alkaline, and waterlogged soils. Crop Cycle Planting Time: July–August or February–March (depending on region). Fruit Bearing: Starts from 4th–5th year, with economic yield after 8–10 years. Harvest Season: May to July (varies by region). Economic Importance High market demand for fresh consumption and processing (juices, pulps, canned fruit). India is 2nd largest producer globally after China. Pros of Litchi Nutrient-Rich: Excellent source of Vitamin C, antioxidants, flavonoids, and potassium. Boosts Immunity: High antioxidant content helps fight free radicals and infections. Hydrating Fruit: High water content makes it ideal for summer consumption. Export Potential: High demand in Gulf & Southeast Asian markets due to aroma, taste, and shelf life. Agro-Climatic Advantage: Grows well in regions like Bihar, Punjab, West Bengal, and Tripura. Cons of Litchi Highly Perishable: Short shelf life; requires cold-chain logistics for exports. Seasonal Availability: Limited to a short harvesting window (May–June). Potential Health Risk: Unripe litchis linked to acute encephalitis (Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain) cases in malnourished children (due to hypoglycin A). Price Volatility: Farmers often face fluctuating returns due to lack of processing infrastructure. Scientists uncovers an exciting use of Teak leaf which offers a natural, biodegradable laser shield towards protecting delicate optical devices and human eyes from high-power laser radiation Innovative Use of Natural Waste Scientists at Raman Research Institute (RRI) discovered teak leaf extract as a natural laser shield. Utilizes agricultural waste rich in anthocyanins—natural pigments with nonlinear optical (NLO) properties. Relevance : GS 3(Science , Technology ,Environment) Scientific Breakthrough Nonlinear optics observed: Teak dye shows Reverse Saturable Absorption (RSA) — absorbs more light as intensity increases. Techniques used: Z-scan and Spatial Self-Phase Modulation (SSPM) experiments confirmed suitability for optical power limiting. Applications in Laser Safety Can protect human eyes, sensors, and delicate optical devices from high-power laser radiation. Relevant for medical equipment, military lasers, and industrial applications.   Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Alternative Replaces synthetic optical limiters (graphene, fullerenes, metal nanoparticles) which are toxic and costly. Teak dye is biodegradable, compostable, low-cost, and environmentally safe. Potential for Commercial Use Could lead to eco-friendly products like: Laser safety goggles Sensor shields Coatings for optical equipment Promotes green photonic technologies in the long term. Women-Led Innovation Research led by Dr. Beryl C, DST Women Scientist, promoting both scientific innovation and gender representation in STEM. Teak: Tree Profile Type: Hardwood deciduous tree, primarily grown for timber. Botanical Name: Tectona grandis Family: Lamiaceae (formerly Verbenaceae) Native to: India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos Commercial Use: Known for durable, termite-resistant wood used in furniture, shipbuilding, construction. Agro-Climatic Requirements Climate: Tropical climate, with moderate to high temperatures (25–35°C). Rainfall: Ideal annual rainfall: 1200–2500 mm. Sunlight: Requires full sunlight; sensitive to frost.  Soil Conditions Soil Type: Thrives in deep, well-drained alluvial or loamy soils. pH Range: 6.5 to 7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic). Avoids waterlogged or saline soils. Growth & Harvesting Rotation Period: Harvestable in 20–25 years, though longer cycles (50+ years) yield premium timber. Height: Can grow up to 30–40 meters. Leaves: Large, papery, and shed annually (deciduous). Ecological & Industrial Significance Leaves are generally waste, but rich in anthocyanins (as per recent research). Teak plantations aid in carbon sequestration and soil conservation. A high-value export timber species for India.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 28 June 2025

Content : Missed Opportunity: India’s Withdrawal from SCO Defence Ministers’ Communiqué No Time to Rest: India’s Progress and Gaps in the SDG Rankings Practising Equality in Constitutional Courts: The Jitender Judgment and the Legal Oligarchy A China-led Trilateral Nexus: Strategic Challenge for India in South Asia Missed opportunity Concerns Raised at SCO Defence Ministers’ Meet No joint communiqué due to lack of consensus on mentioning terrorism. India withdrew support as terrorism (esp. cross-border) was omitted, allegedly due to Pakistan’s objection. India expected support post-Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : “India’s position in multilateral forums is often constrained by strategic divergence with member states.” Examine this statement in the context of India’s recent experience at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting.(250Words) Contradictions Within SCO SCO’s founding charter (2002) emphasizes combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism. Yet, the current outcome avoided these terms — even considered including “Balochistan disturbances” (Pakistan’s line). Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) was present, making omission more striking. China’s Role as Chair Disappoints China didn’t support India’s concerns, despite recent signs of improved ties. Both China and Russia leaned towards maintaining neutrality, avoiding contentious issues. India’s Diplomatic Misses No parliamentary outreach to SCO nations post-Operation Sindoor, despite delegations to 32 other countries. India’s disassociation from SCO statement on Iran-Israel conflict further isolated its stance. Skipping the in-person SCO Summit during India’s presidency in 2023 may have reduced diplomatic capital. Strategic Takeaways Unlike SAARC, India has less sway in SCO, which is dominated by founders China, Russia, and Central Asian states. Walking away from SCO weakens India’s regional voice and gives space to Pakistan. India must actively engage members and diplomatically build consensus for counter-terrorism cooperation. Way Forward Focus on convincing SCO members that combating terrorism aligns with collective regional interests. Reinforce India’s three-pronged “new normal” post-Sindoor with clear messaging and strategic outreach. Ensure a strong presence at the upcoming SCO Foreign Ministers’ and Summit meetings. SCO: Established: 2001 (evolved from the Shanghai Five, 1996) Headquarters: Beijing, China Members (9): China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Objectives Promote regional security, stability, and economic cooperation Combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism Strengthen mutual trust among member states Key Bodies SCO Secretariat – Administrative arm (Beijing) RATS (Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure) – Based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, focuses on security and counter-terrorism Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes. No time to rest Progress in SDG Rankings India ranked 99th out of 167 countries in the 2024 Sustainable Development Report — its first time in the top 100. In 2016, India was 110th out of 157, indicating steady but slow progress over 8 years. The SDSN report is published by an independent UN-affiliated body and closely tracked by global policymakers. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations , Governance) Practice Question : India’s entry into the top 100 of the Sustainable Development Goals Index reflects progress in development indicators but highlights persistent governance deficits. Discuss.(250 Words) Successes SDG 1 (No Poverty): Strong gains in poverty reduction, with poverty halving from 22% (2012) to 12% (2023, World Bank est.). SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): Near-universal household electrification; India is now 4th globally in renewable capacity (esp. solar & wind). SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure): Significant growth in mobile penetration and digital finance (e.g., UPI adoption). Challenges Data Gaps: No official consumption expenditure data since 2018; outdated poverty lines weaken measurement accuracy. SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Malnutrition persists — 35.5% stunted, 19.3% wasted (NFHS-5); slow improvement since 2015-16. Obesity rising among urban rich; coexists with undernutrition, reflecting inequality in diet and healthcare access. Urban-Rural Disparities Electricity & Internet Access: Universal access claimed, but quality and duration of power varies regionally. COVID-19 exposed deep digital divides affecting education (SDG 4) and service delivery. Lagging in Governance (SDG 16) Rule of law, press freedom, and institutional independence remain areas of concern throughout recent years. Despite development gains, governance-related indicators continue to drag down India’s overall SDG performance. Way Forward Need for timely, transparent data and updated poverty benchmarks. Address nutritional inequality, digital gaps, and quality of services, not just access. Strengthen democratic institutions and governance metrics to achieve balanced progress across all SDGs. SDG report Published annually by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) since 2016. Tracks global progress on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the UN in 2015. Uses a composite SDG Index to rank countries based on goal-wise performance. Coverage 2024 Report ranks 167 countries. Evaluates indicators like poverty, health, education, inequality, environment, and governance. Countries scored on a scale from 0 (worst) to 100 (goal achieved). Notable Global Trends No country is currently on track to achieve all SDGs by 2030. SDG progress slowed or reversed during COVID-19, especially in education and inequality. Calls for stronger international cooperation and local implementation. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes. Practising equality in constitutional courts Background In Jitender @ Kalla vs State (2025), the Supreme Court revisited its 2017 and 2023 judgments in Indira Jaising vs Supreme Court. Directed High Courts to frame new rules for designating senior advocates. Public largely overlooked the case, wrongly seeing it as a judiciary-internal matter. Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary) Practice Question: The continuing hierarchical classification of lawyers by constitutional courts contradicts India’s commitment to equality before law. Critically evaluate in light of the 2025 Jitender judgment.(250Words) Core Issues Highlighted Legal profession has a public character; inequality within affects judicial and political democracy. Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961 legally entrenches a hierarchy — senior advocates vs. others. This legal oligarchy fosters elitism and potentially undermines justice delivery. Systemic Concerns The senior designation system reinforces elitism, gender imbalance, and exclusion of marginalised lawyers. Court’s own acknowledgment: the point-based system is subjective and flawed, yet it chose not to strike it down. Key constitutional questions on equality (Article 14) and rationality of classification remain unaddressed. U.S. Parallel In the U.S., a tiny elite of corporate lawyers dominate Supreme Court litigation. A Reuters report (2014) found <1% lawyers handled 43% of SC appeals. India risks drifting towards similar legal plutocracy if disparities continue. Contradictions in the Judgment 2025 ruling admits flaws in existing norms, yet upholds the same classification without deeper scrutiny. Did not refer constitutional challenges to a larger bench despite compelling arguments. Cited foreign practices (e.g., Nigeria, Australia) without contextualising India’s constitutional vision of egalitarianism. Scholarly Critique F.S. Nariman: India has created a “caste system among lawyers.” Academic critique: “Homo-social morphing” — designations reflect judges’ personal biases and networks. Results in exclusion of women, rural, and non-English-speaking advocates. Key Implications Judicial diversity suffers — elite “star lawyers” dominate litigation space, leaving thousands of capable lawyers invisible. Democratization of legal representation is hindered. Litigation becomes the privilege of the rich, undermining the constitutional mandate of access to justice for all. What Needs to Change Rethink or abolish hierarchical classifications within the Bar. Ensure objective, transparent, and equitable mechanisms for recognition. Uphold the spirit of constitutional equality (Articles 14–16) in professional practice. Embrace historical context — legal profession as a tool of social justice, not privilege. Value addition What is a Senior Advocate? A designation given under Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961. Conferred by the Supreme Court or High Courts based on an advocate’s ability, standing at the Bar, and special knowledge/experience in law. Senior advocates follow specific court etiquettes (e.g., can’t file vakalatnamas or directly interact with clients; must act through a junior). Section 16 – Advocates Act, 1961 Classifies advocates into two categories: Senior advocates – designated by constitutional courts. Other advocates – regular practicing lawyers. Controversial for allegedly institutionalizing inequality among equals in the legal profession. Indira Jaising Case (2017) A seminal case where SC laid down guidelines for the designation of senior advocates: Point-based system (publications, pro bono work, interviews, etc.). Transparent procedure involving a Permanent Committee in each court. Later criticized as being subjective and prone to bias. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes. A China-led trilateral nexus as India’s new challenge Strategic Context China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh held their first trilateral meeting in Kunming, June 2025. Follows a similar China–Pakistan–Afghanistan trilateral in May, signaling a new regional outreach pattern by Beijing. Aims: Extend CPEC, deepen strategic cooperation, and counterbalance India’s rising regional stature. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : The China–Pakistan–Plus-One trilateral format signals a strategic shift in South Asia’s regional order. How should India recalibrate its neighbourhood policy in response?(150Words) China’s Strategic Objectives Make Pakistan regionally relevant despite its economic and diplomatic decline. Preoccupy India with regional tensions and security threats to curb its influence. Reinforce China’s leadership role in South Asia, using trilateral diplomacy as a tool. The China–Pakistan Nexus 1962 war laid the foundation of China–Pakistan alignment to contain India. China provides economic lifelines and arms to Pakistan: ~$29 billion in loans (by 2024), ~80% of Pakistan’s arms imports. In forums like the UNSC, China shields Pakistan from terror-related sanctions. Recent Developments Operation Sindoor (May 2025): India’s response to Pahalgam terror attack, backed by intelligence pointing to Pakistan. China called India’s response “regrettable”, echoing Pakistan’s narrative. Pakistan deployed Chinese-origin weaponry, showing tight military links. Geopolitical Echoes Strategy resembles 1965 attempt by Pakistan to encircle India using East Pakistan, China, and Nepal. China–Pakistan–Plus-One diplomacy is resurfacing amid: India’s assertive diplomacy and economic rise, Growing defence assertiveness (e.g., Doklam, Galwan), Isolation of Pakistan through diplomatic and economic measures. Regional Responses and Limits to China Maldives: Initially anti-India, now turned to India due to economic woes. Nepal: BRI progress is slow; funding and implementation issues persist. Sri Lanka: President Dissanayake is prioritizing ties with India over China. Bangladesh and Afghanistan: Once aligned with India; recent regime changes have opened doors to China–Pakistan engagement. Emerging Concerns for India China’s use of trilaterals could: Increase terror and security risks via Pakistan’s expanded influence. Disrupt India’s neighborhood-first policy. Facilitate BRI expansion through political entry points. Afghanistan and Bangladesh could become platforms for proxy influence if India’s outreach weakens. India’s Strategic Response Continue assertive redline diplomacy to deter misadventures. Deepen engagement with neighbours via economic aid, infrastructure, and energy diplomacy. Promote regional counter-terrorism efforts and push back against China-backed narratives. Bottom Line China’s trilateral strategy aims to reshape South Asia’s power dynamics. India must sustain pressure on Pakistan, reinforce its neighborhood ties, and guard against encirclement via multilateral counterbalances and regional coalitions. Value additions What is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)? Flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Runs from Gwadar Port (Pakistan) to Xinjiang (China). India opposes CPEC as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), infringing sovereignty. Estimated cost: ~$60 billion; currently facing delays and security issues. Bangladesh’s Strategic Importance Geographic proximity to India’s vulnerable “Chicken’s Neck” (Siliguri Corridor). Critical to India’s Act East Policy, transit connectivity, and maritime strategy. Strong historical ties with India, but recent strained relations (border killings, NRC/CAA concerns) are being exploited by China-Pak. Afghanistan’s New Dynamics Post-2021 Taliban regime: Pakistan’s influence has waned due to Taliban’s assertiveness. India maintains quiet diplomatic engagement — opened a technical mission in Kabul (2022). China aims to link Afghanistan with BRI through Pakistan, potentially bypassing India. Trilateral Diplomacy: What Does It Mean? China-led “2+1 format” seen as a geopolitical maneuver to: Undermine India’s bilateral influence. Promote BRI projects. Build alternate coalitions within South Asia. Strategic Tools India is Using Neighborhood First + SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). Infrastructure Diplomacy (e.g., Kaladan Project, Chabahar Port). Energy Cooperation (e.g., BBIN Grid, Trilateral Energy Trade). Military Diplomacy (e.g., joint exercises with Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh). Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 28 June 2025

Content : India rejects ‘supplemental award’ on Kishenganga, Ratle hydropower projects Tax, securities norm changes make buybacks less attractive Modern tech to keep an eye on NH traffic ALL ABOUT THE PROPOSED GLOBAL POTATO RESEARCH CENTRE IN AGRA How India ‘added’ more than 3,500 km to its coastline, 7 new islands Current account in $13.5-bn surplus India rejects ‘supplemental award’ on Kishenganga, Ratle hydropower projects India’s Position Total Rejection: India “categorically rejected” the Court of Arbitration’s supplemental award. Legal Standpoint: Maintains that it never recognized the Court’s legal standing—calls it “illegal” and “per se void”. Violation of Treaty: Considers the constitution of the arbitral body itself a “serious breach” of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), 1960. Treaty in Abeyance: Post-April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, India has placed the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, citing Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) , GS 3(Infrastructure) Project Dispute Background Projects in Question: Kishenganga and Ratle hydropower projects located in Jammu & Kashmir. Pakistan’s Objections: Raised concerns over design features—initiated arbitration in 2016 after failed bilateral talks. Unilateral Move: India views Pakistan’s approach to the World Bank for arbitration as a unilateral violation of dispute resolution procedures under the IWT. On the Court of Arbitration “So-Called” Tribunal: India deems the Court of Arbitration as non-existent in law and lacking jurisdiction. Supplemental Award: Recent award dismissed by India as a “charade” orchestrated at Pakistan’s behest. Strategic Implications Sovereign Action: India asserts its sovereign right to suspend treaty obligations in light of terrorism. No Binding Obligation: States that while the treaty is suspended, it is not bound to fulfill its terms, nor can any arbitral forum assess its actions. Broader Context Geopolitical Signal: Strong assertion of sovereignty linking hydro-diplomacy with national security. Evolving India-Pakistan Water Dynamics: Marks a shift in India’s traditionally restrained approach to the IWT amid escalating terror concerns. Value addition : Rare Invocation of Treaty Suspension: India placing the Indus Waters Treaty “in abeyance” is a rare case of linking transboundary water cooperation with cross-border terrorism. Violation of Article IX of IWT: India argues that Pakistan unilaterally approached the Court of Arbitration, bypassing prescribed stages (Neutral Expert first), thus breaching the treaty. Sovereign Right Cited Under VCLT: India’s action can be seen under Article 60 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, which allows suspension in case of material breach. Strategic Shift from Restraint: India’s move marks a shift from “treaty obligation compliance” to “conditionality-based engagement”, elevating water sharing to national security domain. Energy Security in J&K: Kishenganga (330 MW) and Ratle (850 MW) are vital for regional power supply, reducing dependence and boosting infrastructure in a sensitive border region. World Bank’s Dual Decision Controversy: The World Bank controversially allowed both Neutral Expert and Court of Arbitration in parallel, weakening its neutral facilitator role. Lawfare by Pakistan: Pakistan’s move reflects a strategy of lawfare—using international legal institutions to constrain India’s sovereign development rights. No Jurisdiction Without Consent: India asserts that no arbitral tribunal has jurisdiction without mutual consent, a key principle in international arbitration law. Transboundary Water Precedent: Acceptance of the Court’s award could undermine India’s rights over western rivers and create restrictive precedents for future hydro projects. China–Pakistan–Water Axis: Emerging alignment over water and infrastructure (e.g., CPEC, Chinese dams on Indus tributaries) adds a geostrategic layer to the water dispute. Tax, securities norm changes make buybacks less attractive Trend Overview Steep Decline: Only 4 share buybacks worth ₹186 crore occurred till June 26, 2025—a drastic drop from 38 buybacks worth ₹8,000+ crore in 2024. Pre-emptive Action: Many companies may have accelerated buybacks before September 2024, anticipating upcoming tax changes. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy) Taxation Changes New Tax Regime (Oct 1, 2024): Tax burden shifted from companies (20% buyback tax earlier) to shareholders, aligning it with dividend income taxation. Impact on Shareholders: Shareholders now pay capital gains tax on buyback proceeds, reducing the post-tax attractiveness of buybacks. Buybacks vs. Dividends: The new rule removes the tax advantage of buybacks over dividends, changing corporate payout strategies. Regulatory Changes by SEBI Phasing Out of Open Market Buybacks: SEBI has eliminated the open market buyback route, forcing companies to use only the tender offer method. Reduced Flexibility: Open market buybacks allowed greater flexibility and discretion, now removed under SEBI’s stricter framework. Merchant Banker Impact: Investment banks may be less active or adapting due to reduced business from buyback facilitation. Market Conditions Bear Market Unusual Behavior: Typically, buybacks increase in bearish markets as companies support stock prices—not seen this time, due to tax and regulatory deterrents. Implications Shift in Capital Allocation: Firms may now prefer dividends, acquisitions, or capex over buybacks. Policy Trade-off: The government’s attempt to curb tax arbitrage may have inadvertently reduced capital return options for investors. Corporate Governance Angle: Reduced buybacks could dampen investor confidence and affect perceived shareholder-friendliness of firms. Additional Info: What is a Share Buyback? A buyback is when a company repurchases its own shares from the market, reducing the number of shares in circulation. This often boosts earnings per share (EPS) and signals that the company believes its stock is undervalued. Why Do Companies Do Buybacks? Buybacks are used to return surplus cash to shareholders, improve valuation metrics, support share prices during market downturns, and sometimes deter hostile takeovers. What is a Bear Market? A bear market refers to a market condition where prices of securities fall by 20% or more from recent highs. It is often marked by pessimism, low investor confidence, and reduced buying interest. Buybacks vs. Dividends Both are ways of returning money to shareholders. While dividends are regular cash payouts, buybacks reduce share count, potentially increasing share value. Buybacks were often preferred due to lower tax incidence—a benefit now removed. Tender Offer vs. Open Market Buyback Open Market Buyback: Company buys shares from the stock exchange gradually and anonymously. Tender Offer: Company invites shareholders to sell a specific number of shares at a fixed price. SEBI now allows only tender offers, reducing flexibility for companies. Modern tech to keep an eye on NH traffic Core Analysis of the ATMS Rollout Nationwide Implementation: NHAI will implement Advanced Traffic Management Systems (ATMS) across 30,000 km of 4-lane+ national highways over the next 2–3 years. Real-time Enforcement: The new ATMS will allow for real-time tracking of traffic violations and instant e-challan generation, improving accountability and deterrence. Pilot Project: The Dwarka Expressway (56.46 km) is the first highway to be equipped under the revised ATMS policy (Oct 2023), serving as a model corridor. Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure ,Transport) Enhanced Enforcement Features 14 Violation Categories: Includes common violations like helmetless riding, triple riding, seatbelt non-use, wrong-way driving, and animal or pedestrian presence. Police Integration: Unlike earlier systems where NHAI was the end user, now traffic enforcement agencies are directly integrated to act on violations. Additional Information & Value Additions What is ATMS? An Advanced Traffic Management System uses sensors, Automatic Number Plate Recognition(ANPR) cameras, AI, and command centres to monitor traffic flow, detect violations, and manage incidents in real time. Why Is This Needed? India has the highest number of road deaths globally. Automated enforcement helps reduce human discretion, bribery, and enforcement gaps on highways. Policy Shift Since 2023: The revised October 2023 ATMS policy shifts focus from passive surveillance to proactive enforcement, with integrated software and hardware architecture. Global Parallels: Countries like the UK, UAE, and Singapore already use AI-driven highway enforcement systems. India’s move aligns with global best practices for smart road infrastructure. Traffic Safety Goals: Contributes to India’s target to reduce road fatalities by 50% by 2030, aligning with the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety. Tech-Infra Integration: Project reflects increasing use of AI, IoT, and edge computing in governance, part of the larger Digital India and Smart Mobility vision. Key Data for ATMS & Road Safety Road Fatalities: India recorded 1.68 lakh road deaths in 2022—highest globally (MoRTH). Highway Share: National highways form 2% of total roads but carry 40% of traffic. Blackspots: Hundreds of high-fatality zones identified on highways lack enforcement. Pilot Impact: ATMS pilot projects showed a 15–25% drop in traffic violations (NHAI data). Digital Expansion Goal: NHAI targets 30,000 km of highways under ATMS by 2027. ALL ABOUT THE PROPOSED GLOBAL POTATO RESEARCH CENTRE IN AGRA About the Proposal The Union Cabinet approved the CIP–South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC) at Singna, Agra—a regional arm of the Peru-based International Potato Center (CIP). Total cost: ₹171 crore (India: ₹115 crore; CIP: remainder). Land: 10 hectares provided by Uttar Pradesh government. Relevance : GS 3(Agriculture ,Infrastructure) About CIP (International Potato Center) Founded: 1971; HQ: Lima, Peru. Focus: Research on potato, sweet potato, and Andean root crops. Historical Link: Potato is native to the Peruvian-Bolivian Andes and introduced to India in the 17th century. Key Objectives of CSARC Boost food and nutrition security and farmers’ income. Develop climate-resilient, disease-free, processing-friendly potato & sweet potato varieties. Enhance post-harvest management and value addition. Support domestic seed production and reduce dependence on seed imports. Significance for India India is the world’s 2nd largest potato producer (2020: ~51.3 million tonnes); China is 1st (~78.2 million tonnes). Average potato yield in India: 25 t/ha vs. potential 50+ t/ha. Sweet potato yield: 11.5 t/ha vs. potential 30 t/ha. Access to CIP’s germplasm bank will help develop better, high-yielding seeds. Broader Impacts Will aid local food processing industries and job creation. Improves scope for exports of seed and processed products. Strengthens ICAR–CIP collaboration (ongoing since 1975). How India ‘added’ more than 3,500 km to its coastline, 7 new islands Key Findings from the New Measurement India’s coastline increased by ~48%: From 7,516 km (1970s data) to 11,098km (new measurement), due to higher-resolution data and modern GIS tools. No new territory added: The increase reflects more precise mapping, not geographic change or land acquisition. Resolution impact: Measurement scale improved from 1:5,000,000 to 1:250,000, enabling better capture of natural curves, bends, and offshore islands. Technology shift: Manual calculations replaced by modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for greater accuracy. Relevance : GS 1(Geography ),GS 3(Internal Security) Changes in Island Count Updated island count: Now 1,389 islands (1,298 offshore + 91 inshore) after reconciling data and resolving classification ambiguities. Earlier discrepancies: In 2016, estimates varied (e.g., Surveyor General: 1,382; other agencies: 1,334) due to tide-based ambiguities and varied definitions. Understanding the ‘Coastline Paradox’ Coastline paradox: The more detailed the measurement (finer the scale), the longer the coastline appears due to capturing more irregularities. A coastline has no fixed length—like rivers or mountain ranges, it changes depending on measurement resolution. Implications of the Change Administrative: Could affect CRZ (Coastal Regulation Zone) boundaries, land use classification, and planning zones. Developmental: Better mapping aids coastal infrastructure, tourism planning, and port development. Security: Accurate data enhances maritime surveillance, naval operations, and disaster risk planning. Climate resilience: Helps track erosion, plan coastal defenses, and improve climate vulnerability assessments. Global Context & Policy Measures Other nations also routinely re-measure coastlines to update maps and respond to natural or manmade changes (e.g., coastal erosion, land reclamation). India now mandates a coastline reassessment every 10 years for dynamic updating of data. Current account in $13.5-bn surplus Headline Trends Current Account Surplus (Q4 FY25): Surplus of $13.5 billion (1.3% of GDP), compared to a $4.6 billion surplus (0.5% of GDP) in Q4 FY24. Contrast with Previous Quarter: Q3 FY25 had a deficit of $11.3 billion, showing a strong quarterly reversal. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy – Current Account ) Annual Trends (FY25 vs. FY24) Full-Year CAD FY25: $23.3 billion (0.6% of GDP), down from $26 billion (0.7% of GDP) in FY24. Reason for Improvement: Largely driven by higher net invisible receipts (services + remittances + investment income). Trade & Services Performance Merchandise Trade Deficit (Q4 FY25): $59.5 billion, higher than Q4 FY24 ($52 bn) but lower than Q3 FY25 ($79.3 bn). Services Exports Surge: Net services receipts jumped to $53.3 billion from $42.7 billion in Q4 FY24, led by business and computer services. Financial Account Movements FDI Inflows (Q4 FY25): $0.4 billion, down from $2.3 billion in Q4 FY24. Full-Year FDI (FY25): Only $1 billion, sharply lower than $10.2 billion in FY24, indicating investment headwinds. Explanatory Additions What is Current Account? It tracks exports and imports of goods, services, income, and transfers. A surplus implies more inflows than outflows, while a deficit is the reverse. Why Does It Matter? A surplus indicates strong external performance, reduces reliance on foreign capital, and can support currency stability. Insights & Implications Surplus Due to Invisibles, Not Goods Trade: Despite a large trade deficit, the services and remittances cushion was strong enough to generate a net surplus. Seasonal Spike, Not a Structural Surplus: Analysts term this surplus seasonal, aided by temporary factors like lower primary income outflows. FDI Weakness is a Concern: A sharp fall in FDI inflows could impact medium-term growth and rupee stability.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 27 June 2025

Content : Sarbananda Sonowal Inaugurates India’s First Maritime NBFC — Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) MoHUA Rolls Out Mega Monsoon Swachhata Campaign Sarbananda Sonowal Inaugurates India’s First Maritime NBFC — Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) Highlights Inaugurated by: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. Date of RBI NBFC registration: June 19, 2025. Occasion: Marks transformation of Sagarmala Development Company Ltd. into an NBFC. Category: Mini Ratna, Category-I CPSE (Central Public Sector Enterprise). Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure , Banking) Purpose & Significance First NBFC dedicated to maritime sector in India. Aims to bridge financial gaps in maritime infrastructure and logistics. Supports Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and the goal of Viksit Bharat. Responds to a long-standing industry demand for tailored financial instruments. Strategic Roles & Functions Offers customized financial solutions: Short-term, medium-term, and long-term funding. Target stakeholders: Port authorities Shipping companies MSMEs, startups Maritime education institutions Enables investments in: Shipbuilding Renewable energy Cruise tourism Maritime skilling & education Impact on Maritime Sector Provides a sector-specific financial ecosystem. Expected to accelerate innovation, investment, and inclusive development. Enhances logistics efficiency and sustainable development in the maritime domain. Leaders’ Comments Sarbananda Sonowal: Called it a “major milestone in India’s maritime journey.” Emphasized alignment with PM Modi’s vision and the Amrit Kaal goals. Shantanu Thakur: Highlighted SMFCL’s role in fostering a dedicated financial ecosystem. Conclusion SMFCL positions India to become a global maritime power by providing structured, targeted financing to a crucial but underserved sector. MoHUA Rolls Out Mega Monsoon Swachhata Campaign Campaign Overview Name: Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao (SABB). Duration: 1st – 31st July 2025. Launched by: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) under Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban (SBM-U). Tagline: “Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao” Objective: Health-centric sanitation to prevent water-borne and vector-borne diseases during the monsoon. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Health) Key Focus Areas Preventive drain cleaning and garbage hotspot reduction. Avoiding water stagnation to prevent diseases like Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya. Ensuring access to sanitation and safe drinking water in vulnerable areas. Cleanliness drives in public/community toilets, schools, and slums. The 6 Swachhata Mantras Clean Hands Clean Homes Clean Neighbourhood Clean Toilets Clean Drains & Waterbodies Clean Public Spaces Behavioral & Community Interventions Citizen mobilization through behavioural nudges for hygiene and waste management. School campaigns promoting handwashing and child hygiene. Encouragement of RWA, NGO, and citizen participation. Use of the Swachhata App for grievance redressal. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) Responsibilities Identify high-risk areas and conduct targeted sanitation action. Ensure daily waste collection, toilet maintenance, and public space cleanliness. Report all campaign activities on the Swachhatam Portal. Special Initiatives Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) in 100 Smart Cities to clean markets, food streets, heritage areas. Use of Integrated Command and Control Centres for innovation and monitoring. Focus on SafaiMitras’ welfare, clean water access, and hygiene. Inter-Ministerial Coordination Aligned with efforts of: MoHFW DDWS MoRD MoWCD Department of School Education and Literacy Conclusion The SABB campaign reinforces a preventive, participatory, and inter-agency approach to urban sanitation during monsoon, aiming for cleaner, healthier cities.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 27 June 2025

Content : Vaccinating India Fathoming America’s plan to manage AI proliferation Vaccinating India Global Context Vaccine coverage for six major diseases (e.g., measles, polio, TB) has doubled globally (1980–2023). Zero-dose children (those who haven’t received even the first DTP vaccine dose) dropped sharply to 75% globally during this period. The number of zero-dose children is seen as a key indicator of health inequality and immunisation system performance. Relevance : GS 2(Health) Practice Question : Despite significant progress in immunisation coverage, the high number of zero-dose children in India reflects persistent socio-economic and geographic inequities. Critically examine the factors behind this trend and suggest measures to meet India’s commitments under the WHO’s Immunization Agenda 2030. (15 marks, 250 words) India’s Position India had 1.44 million zero-dose children in 2023 — 2nd highest globally. India is among 8 countries that account for over 50% of global zero-dose children (~16 million). India’s large birth cohort: 23 million babies born in 2023, the highest in the world. Historical Trends Zero-dose rate in India declined from 33.4% (1992) → 10.1% (2016). Numbers fluctuated recently: 2019: 1.4 million 2021 (post-COVID disruption): 2.7 million 2022: 1.1 million 2023: 1.44 million In percentage terms, 2023 zero-dose rate is 6.2% of total births — a relatively low share given the absolute size. Regional Distribution High-burden states: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat. High tribal/Northeast prevalence: Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh. Demographic Inequities Disparities based on gender, caste, and rural-urban divide have narrowed. However, high prevalence persists among: Poor households Low maternal education Scheduled Tribes Muslim communities Key Challenges Not due to conflict or fragile systems (unlike many high-burden countries). Barriers: Vaccine hesitancy in specific communities Access in tribal belts and urban slums Migrant populations with low service outreach Forward India must halve zero-dose numbers by 2030 (relative to 2019 baseline of 1.4 million) to meet WHO’s IA2030 goals. Requires sustained, targeted efforts: Community outreach Awareness campaigns Urban-slum and tribal area immunisation drives Fathoming America’s plan to manage AI proliferation Backdrop: The AI Diffusion Framework The AI Diffusion Framework was introduced by the Biden administration to regulate AI chip exports and model weights. It treated AI similarly to nuclear technology, aiming to prevent adversaries (like China, Russia) from accessing high-end compute power, a key driver of AI capabilities. Goal: Preserve U.S. AI leadership by limiting global access to compute-intensive hardware. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) , GS 3(Technology) Practice Question : The rescission of the U.S. AI Diffusion Framework signals a tactical recalibration, not a strategic shift in its AI control policy. Discuss the implications of such evolving technology-driven controls on global cooperation, innovation, and India’s strategic autonomy in the AI domain. (15 marks, 250 words) Why the Framework Was Withdrawn Rescinded by the Trump administration (2025), seen as a tactical rollback, not a strategic shift. Key flaws of the Framework: Undermined technological collaboration, even with allies. Created trust deficits by signaling U.S. dominance in setting rules. Treated civilian-origin AI tech as a purely military asset. Encouraged workarounds like China’s DeepSeek R1, which achieved high performance using low compute, negating U.S. controls. Global Reactions and Strategic Shifts Allies began pursuing technological sovereignty, investing in alternative ecosystems to avoid overdependence on U.S. AI infrastructure. For India, which wasn’t favoured under the framework, the withdrawal is a welcome development. The global AI race continues; the U.S. is still intent on denying China access to cutting-edge AI technology. Evolving U.S. Strategy: New Forms of Control Post-framework, U.S. focus has shifted to tech-enabled enforcement, not broad trade bans. Recent actions: Expanded export controls (March 2025). More companies added to the entity list (blacklist). New legislation introduced: On-chip surveillance features. Location tracking to prevent diversion of AI chips to adversaries. Emerging Concerns with Tech-Driven Controls Risks: Privacy, ownership, and surveillance issues. Reduced autonomy of buyers and users of AI hardware. Potential inhibition of legitimate civilian use. Could replicate the same trust and sovereignty issues as the original framework. Conclusion: Strategic Continuity, Tactical Change Withdrawal of the framework is not a change in intent, but a change in approach. U.S. AI control strategy persists in new, possibly subtler, forms. Failure to learn from the past risks undermining U.S. AI leadership, alienating allies, and accelerating global decoupling in AI development.

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