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Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 27 June 2025

Content: Ax-4 docking successful, Shukla sets foot in ISS Is voter registration being subject to fraud? What sparked the Keeladi controversy? What are the most commonly used cancer drugs? Schools can take time to use mother tongue as medium’ Staggered polls cannot be considered an immutable feature of Constitution: ex-CJI Additional demand behind delay in Jal Jeevan Mission’ At Bangkok event, a commitment to count every birth and death Ax-4 docking successful, Shukla sets foot in ISS India’s Historic Entry to the ISS Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian to enter the International Space Station (ISS). He was part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), a commercial space mission organized by Axiom Space. Onboard SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, the crew docked with the ISS on June 27, 2025, at 4:01 p.m. IST, over the North Atlantic Ocean. Relevance : GS 3(Space ) Mission Highlights Mr. Shukla served as the mission pilot, reflecting India’s growing capabilities in human spaceflight. He greeted the nation with a “Namaskar from space” as the capsule orbited Earth before docking. This marks a milestone for India’s space ambitions, bridging global cooperation and national goals. Link to Gaganyaan Mission Mr. Shukla is one of the four astronaut designates for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. Fellow astronaut Prasanth Nair was part of the Ax-4 backup crew, also designated for Gaganyaan. ISRO paid ₹500+ crore to Axiom Space to secure training and flight participation for Indian astronauts. Scientific and Strategic Objectives The Ax-4 crew will spend two weeks at the ISS, conducting scientific experiments, including eight from ISRO. The mission also serves as a training ground for space operations and life support readiness before Gaganyaan’s launch (expected no earlier than 2026). Global Collaboration Axiom Space is a private U.S. company facilitating commercial missions to the ISS, supported by NASA and SpaceX. The Ax-4 launch was initially planned for May 29, 2025, but faced multiple delays before successful liftoff on June 26 (IST). National Significance The mission is being celebrated as a landmark in India’s space history, enhancing India’s role in international human spaceflight. Union Minister of State for Space, Jitendra Singh, hailed the moment as one watched “with excitement and expectation”. Conclusion Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s successful arrival at the ISS through the Ax-4 mission marks a symbolic and operational leap in India’s space journey, strengthening the country’s preparedness for Gaganyaan and fostering international partnerships in space exploration. Is voter registration being subject to fraud? Context: Electoral Roll Concerns in Maharashtra A sudden increase of 40 lakh voters in Maharashtra between the 2024 Lok Sabha and Assembly elections raised questions. By comparison, only 32 lakh voters were added over the previous five years in the state. This pattern appeared statistically inconsistent with past trends and population growth rates, especially considering declining fertility rates. Relevance : GS 2(Elections -Reforms) Key Arguments by Analysts Praveen Chakravarty (data expert): The spike in new voters over a few months exceeds typical demographic trends. Questions the process of verification and documentation for newly enrolled voters. Argues that voter list data should be provided in machine-readable formats to enable better scrutiny. Also called for CCTV footage post-5 p.m. on polling days due to observed surges in turnout. R. Rangarajan (public policy expert): Acknowledges that a 40 lakh increase is unusual, but notes similar short-term increases occurred in previous election years. Points out that changes like quarterly cut-off dates for enrolment could partially explain the spike. Emphasises that both wrongful inclusions and exclusions need attention. Stresses the importance of transparency and political party participation in maintaining robust rolls. Election Commission of India’s (ECI) Position Maintains that tampering with voter rolls is nearly impossible due to existing checks. Called for a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of rolls in Bihar and other states to improve accuracy and transparency. Suggested political parties could have used the existing appeals process if they found anomalies. Broader Electoral Roll Issues Discrepancies may arise from: Delays or inefficiencies in field verification. Shifts in enrolment cut-off dates. Issues with documentation and data processing. There is growing demand for: Digital and accessible voter roll formats. Better tracking of voter additions and deletions. Enhanced mechanisms to reduce duplicates without wrongful exclusions. Ongoing Efforts and Recommendations The upcoming Special Intensive Revisions (SIRs) aim to: Ensure that all eligible citizens are included. Remove ineligible or duplicate entries. Introduce more transparency in voter list management. Experts suggest: Independent audits of electoral rolls. Public awareness and participation in revision processes. Stronger coordination between the ECI and all political stakeholders to ensure accuracy. Conclusion The discussion highlights the importance of accurate and trustworthy electoral rolls. While questions have been raised about recent trends, experts agree that solutions lie in data transparency, procedural reforms, and collaborative oversight, not just in reactive allegations. What sparked the Keeladi controversy? Background of the Keeladi Excavation The Keeladi excavation site is located near the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu. Initiated in 2014 by archaeologist K. Amarnath Ramakrishna, the site has yielded over 7,500 artifacts, including brick structures, wells, and drainage systems. Findings suggest the presence of a well-planned urban settlement dating back to around the 2nd century BCE, aligning with the Sangam period. Relevance : GS 1(Culture ,Heritage) Scientific Significance of the Findings Carbon dating and stratigraphy techniques were used to estimate the age of the site. The absence of religious symbols suggested a civic and secular lifestyle in the ancient settlement. The findings contributed to the understanding of urbanisation and literacy in ancient South India. Submission of the Report In 2021, Mr. Ramakrishna submitted a 982-page report based on the first two phases of excavation (2014–2016). The report detailed the site’s chronology and the scientific methods used to date the artifacts. ASI’s Request for Revision After reviewing the report for over two years, the ASI requested revisions in early 2024. The ASI raised questions regarding the dating and depth of the artifacts, seeking further scientific validation. Mr. Ramakrishna declined to revise the report, stating that it adhered to established archaeological standards, including Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) and stratigraphic sequencing. Administrative Developments Mr. Ramakrishna was transferred to a different role in June 2024, moving from his previous post in Delhi to Greater Noida. His new position is within the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities (NMMA). Ongoing Work and Public Interest Since 2019, the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology has continued further excavation and published its own findings. A museum dedicated to Keeladi has been established to display artifacts and educate the public. The site continues to attract attention from researchers, students, and visitors interested in ancient history. Conclusion The Keeladi excavation has made a significant contribution to the understanding of early urban life in South India. Scientific discussions about dating methods and interpretation are part of the natural process of archaeological review and validation. The ongoing research aims to further uncover and preserve the historical and cultural insights offered by this important site. What are the most commonly used cancer drugs? Key Finding: Global Quality Concerns A major investigation found that widely used cancer drugs, shipped to over 100 countries, had failed quality tests. Raises urgent concerns about the safety and effectiveness of cancer treatment worldwide. Relevance : GS 2(Health ,Governance) ,GS 3(Science) Understanding Chemotherapy Cancer is caused by uncontrolled cell growth due to gene mutations. Chemotherapy drugs work by disrupting DNA synthesis or function, inhibiting cancer cell replication. Goal: Target cancer cells while minimizing harm to normal cells. Common Chemotherapy Drugs and Their Profiles 1. Cisplatin Mechanism: Binds to and damages DNA in cancer cells. Used for: Testicular, ovarian, bladder, and lung cancers. Side Effects: Kidney damage Nausea Hearing loss Immune suppression 2. Oxaliplatin Similar to: Cisplatin (also platinum-based). Used for: Advanced colorectal cancer, especially post-surgery. Side Effects: Comparable to cisplatin (kidney, immune system issues). 3. Cyclophosphamide Used for: Breast cancer, leukemia, sarcoma, lymphoma. Mechanism: Disrupts DNA and suppresses immune system. Side Effects: Drop in white blood cells Bladder inflammation Increased infection risk 4. Doxorubicin Derived from Streptomyces bacteria; originally studied as an antibiotic. Used for: Breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, sarcoma. Mechanism: Interferes with DNA replication. Side Effects: Heart damage Hair loss Increased infection risk 5. Methotrexate Used for: Leukemia, lymphoma, solid tumors. Mechanism: Inhibits DNA synthesis by blocking folate metabolism. Side Effects: Bone marrow suppression Requires leucovorin rescue therapy to protect healthy cells 6. Leucovorin (Folinic Acid) Not a chemo drug, but a supportive agent used to: Reduce toxicity of methotrexate Enhance effects of other chemotherapy regimens Common Severe Side Effects Across Drugs Kidney and heart damage Immune system suppression Hair loss, skin changes Bladder irritation, hearing loss Increased vulnerability to infection Conclusion Chemotherapy drugs are life-saving but highly toxic, requiring strict quality control. The investigation exposes a critical gap in global pharmaceutical regulation. Emphasizes the need for strengthened drug safety standards and better oversight, especially in low- and middle-income countries where these drugs are widely distributed. ‘Schools can take time to use mother tongue as medium’ Policy Background NEP 2020 recommends teaching in mother tongue/local language up to Class 5 to enhance conceptual understanding and inclusivity. CBSE recently released language implementation guidelines to aid this transition. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) ,GS 2(Education ) Challenges in Metro Schools Metropolitan CBSE schools (approx. 800–900 institutions) face practical issues due to: Linguistic diversity among students from varied backgrounds. Lack of a single dominant mother tongue in many classrooms. Switching medium of instruction could be confusing or impractical in such multilingual settings. No Immediate Mandate CBSE clarified: No school is being forced to implement mother tongue instruction immediately. No penalties or disaffiliation for non-compliance at this stage. The goal is to ease into implementation, not enforce abruptly. Implementation Strategy Schools asked to conduct a language-mapping exercise to identify students’ language preferences. A potential strategy: section-wise division of classes based on mother tongue to allow targeted instruction. CBSE is organizing webinars and workshops to build capacity and awareness among school administrators and teachers. Key Takeaway While CBSE supports NEP 2020’s mother tongue-based pedagogy, it acknowledges the practical difficulties in metros. The approach remains flexible, consultative, and gradual, with an emphasis on training, adaptation, and localized solutions. Staggered polls cannot be considered an immutable feature of Constitution: ex-CJI Constitutional Standpoint Free and fair elections are a basic feature of the Constitution. The Constitution does not mandate that elections must be non-simultaneous to ensure fairness. Staggered elections are not an immutable feature of the Constitution. Relevance : GS 2(Elections , Constitution) Voter Autonomy & Maturity The argument that simultaneous polls manipulate voters assumes that the Indian electorate is naive. This, Chandrachud argues, this undermines the spirit of universal adult franchise, which has been a core value since 1950. On Tiered Governance The fear that simultaneous elections would blur lines between Centre and State issues is not constitutionally grounded, per Chandrachud. Voters are capable of distinguishing between national and regional concerns even if elections are held together. Smaller/Regional Parties Chandrachud acknowledges concerns that simultaneous polls may disadvantage smaller/regional parties. But argues that these challenges exist independent of the timing of elections and are not created by simultaneous elections per se. Parliamentary Review Context Chandrachud will formally present his views on July 11 to the Joint Committee reviewing: Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024 Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 Former CJI J.S. Khehar has also been invited. Other ex-CJIs have flagged infirmities in the draft legislation during earlier consultations. Conclusion Chandrachud’s submission appears to support the constitutional feasibility of simultaneous elections. He challenges the presumptions against voter maturity and the rigidity of staggered elections. However, he also acknowledges the need to address political and practical concerns, especially for regional representation. Additional demand behind delay in Jal Jeevan Mission’ Jal Jeevan Mission: Overview & Targets Launched in 2019 to provide functional household tap connections (FHTCs) to all rural households by 2024. Initial target: 19.3 crore rural households; only 16% (3.2 crore) had tap connections in 2019. Aim: 55 litres per capita per day (LPCD) of potable water, conforming to BIS:10500 standards. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance) Current Progress & Expansion As of March 2024: On track with 80% (15.6 crore) coverage. Post-March 2024: Target expanded due to the discovery of 4 crore additional households needing connections. Minister acknowledged the initial estimate of 19.3 crore households remains unchanged on the official site, causing a data mismatch. Implementation Challenges Groundwater insufficiency in many regions necessitated shift to surface water sources, increasing infrastructure demands. Contractor errors and technical issues further delayed implementation. Surface water infrastructure is costlier and slower to build. Funding and Utilisation Total expenditure so far: ₹3.6 lakh crore since 2019. Budgeted outlay: 2023–24: ₹69,992 crore 2024–25: ₹70,000 crore 2025–26 (projected): ₹67,000 crore As of Feb 2025: Only ₹22,694 crore spent out of ₹70,000 crore – indicating underutilisation of ~₹50,000 crore. Timeline Extension Mission deadline extended to 2028 (announced in Union Budget 2024–25) due to expanded scope and infrastructural challenges. Despite extension, the original target data hasn’t been revised, affecting transparency. Key Issues Going Forward Ground vs surface water dependency: Need for sustainable water sourcing strategies. Infrastructure bottlenecks, especially in remote and arid regions. Data transparency and dynamic target updating remain gaps. Budget underutilisation may reflect delays in procurement, execution, or reporting. At Bangkok event, a commitment to count every birth and death Regional Commitments and Progress Governments across Asia-Pacific signed a landmark declaration to ensure universal birth and death registration by 2030. The decision is part of extending the “CRVS Decade” (2015–2024) initiative led by UN-ESCAP to “get everyone in the picture”. Birth and death registrations are seen as foundational to legal identity and access to rights/services. Vital events include births, deaths, marriages, divorces, and causes of death. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations , Governance) Statistical Gains (2012–2022) Children under 5 without birth registration dropped from 135 million to 51 million (60% decline). 29 countries have achieved over 90% birth registration; 30 countries for death registration. Improved quality of cause of death reporting noted. Yet, 14 million children remain unregistered at birth each year, and 6.9 million deaths go unrecorded annually. Why CRVS Matters Birth registration enables access to education, health, protection from trafficking and child marriage. Death certificates help with inheritance, insurance, and closure of identity. Tied to SDG 16.9: “Legal identity for all, including birth registration”. India’s Efforts Birth registration rate rose from 86% to 96% during the CRVS decade. Digital transformation enabled by amendments to the RBD Act (1969): Online registration Use of DigiLocker Recognition of surrogate, adopted, abandoned, and single-parent children. New central CRVS portal launched; cause-of-death reporting made mandatory for medical institutions. Support from UNICEF for digitising old records. Voices from the Conference Children’s advocacy highlighted: “Bureaucracy shouldn’t be the reason we remain invisible.” ESCAP’s Armida Alisjahbana praised political will, digital innovation, and regional cooperation. Fiji’s Justice Minister emphasized shared commitment: “Together we can ensure everyone is seen, heard, and counted.” Challenges and Future Actions Remaining gaps due to: Bureaucracy and lack of awareness Weak inter-departmental coordination Low prioritisation at state/local levels Focus areas till 2030: Inclusive service delivery Digital transformation Legal strengthening and privacy safeguards Gender equity in registration

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 26 June 2025

Content Government to celebrate International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on 26th June, 2025 ECINET Operations started in Bye-polls Government to celebrate International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on 26th June, 2025 Context & Occasion Observed on: 26th June annually as International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. Organiser: Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE). Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues ,Governance) Nodal Ministry & Policy Framework Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) is the nodal ministry for drug demand reduction. Key mandate: Prevention, assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and public awareness. Framework: National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR). Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) Highlights Launched: As a nationwide awareness movement. Scope: Operational in all districts. Target groups: Youth, students (HEIs/schools), and communities. Key Achievements People sensitized: 15.78+ crore, including: 5.26+ crore youth 3.31+ crore women Educational institutions involved: 4.31+ lakh. Master Volunteers (MVs): 20,000+ trained. Pledge Campaign: 1.67+ crore students from 99,595 institutions pledged to stay drug-free. Digital & Outreach Tools NMBA App: Live on Google Play Store; real-time data tracking at district/state/national levels. NMBA Website: Offers dashboard, discussion forum, and e-pledge. Social Media: Active campaigns via Twitter, Facebook, Instagram. Community Engagement Events Organized: Nashe se Azaadi – Youth Interaction Naya Bharat, Nasha Mukt Bharat NMBA Interaction with NCC Partnerships: MoUs signed with major spiritual/social service orgs (Art of Living, ISKCON, etc.) for awareness drives. Institutional Support All de-addiction facilities geo-tagged for public accessibility. NGOs/VOs supported under NAPDDR mobilized for outreach from 1st–26th June 2025. Public Health Perspective Drug dependence seen as psycho-social-medical issue. Leads to: Neuro-psychiatric disorders Cardiovascular diseases Social disruptions (accidents, violence, suicides). Way Forward Jan Andolan approach emphasized to involve masses. Calls for multi-stakeholder participation to sustain awareness and prevention at grassroots level. Data and Facts : National Survey on Extent & Pattern of Substance Use in India (2019) (MoSJE, released 2019; age group 10-75 yrs unless noted) Alcohol 16 crore current users ≈ 14.6 % of population surveyed 5.2 % of all adults (≈ 5.8 crore) are alcohol-dependent Cannabis 3.1 crore users ≈ 2.8 % prevalence 72 lakh people ( 0.66 %) have cannabis-related disorders Opioids Overall use 2.06 % (≈ 2.3 crore people) 0.55 % (≈ 60 lakh) urgently need treatment/health services Sedatives (non-medical use) 1.18 crore users ≈ 1.08 % Inhalants Children & adolescents: 1.7 % users (≈ 22 lakh) Adults: 0.58 % users 18 lakh minors need intervention for inhalant abuse Injecting Drug Users (IDU / PWID) ≈ 8.5 lakh people actively inject psychoactive substances ECINET Operations started in Bye-polls Context & Background Event: Successful implementation of ECINET in bye-elections. States involved: Kerala, Gujarat, Punjab, and West Bengal. Bye-elections held in 5 Assembly Constituencies. ECINET was announced earlier on 4th May 2025 as a one-stop digital platform integrating 40+ ECI applications. Relevance : GS 2(Elections , Reforms) About ECINET Developed by Election Commission of India (ECI). Aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and real-time access to election data. Designed under the leadership of CEC Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi. Key Outcomes in Bye-Elections VTR Trends (Voter Turnout Reports): Uploaded directly by Presiding Officers (PROs) at polling stations. Replaced earlier manual reporting, reducing time lag and enhancing accuracy. Enabled real-time public access to approximate voter turnout data. Index Card Generation: Published within 72 hours of result declaration — a major speed improvement. Earlier: Took days to months due to manual data entry and verification. Now: Most fields are auto-filled via ECINET inputs. About Index Cards Non-statutory post-election statistical reports, introduced in the late 1980s. Purpose: Promote data transparency and accessibility at the constituency level. Contents include: Candidates and party-wise vote share Elector demographics and turnout Gender-based voting patterns Regional variations and party performance Audience: Useful for academics, policymakers, media, researchers, and the public. Access via: https://www.eci.gov.in/statistical-reports → Bye-elections tab. Significance of ECINET Enhances digital governance in the electoral process. Fosters data-driven election analysis. Reduces bureaucratic delay and human error in election reporting. Builds greater public trust in the election process through transparency.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 26 June 2025

Content : Qualified cheer A lofty concept, a Governor and unwanted controversy The ‘Axis of Upheaval’ in the West Asia conflict Qualified Cheer Historic Achievement Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the first Indian to reach ISS and first in orbital space since Rakesh Sharma (1984). Launched aboard Axiom-4 (commercial mission) from NASA’s Florida spaceport on June 25, 2025. Mission includes eight experiments from ISRO and is expected to last two weeks. Relevance : GS 3(Space ) Practice Question : “India’s participation in commercial space missions marks a strategic shift in its human spaceflight programme.” Critically examine the significance of Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 mission for India’s Gaganyaan programme and broader space ambitions. (250 words) Significance for Indian Space Programme Marks a major milestone in preparing for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight (planned for 2027). Provides firsthand data and experience in human spaceflight operations, crucial before launching indigenous missions. Cost: ₹548 crore for the seat and advanced training (alongside backup astronaut Prasanth Nair). Scientific & Strategic Value Facilitates human systems testing in microgravity, crew coordination, and experiment management. Exposure to global space standards (NASA, SpaceX, Axiom protocols) enhances ISRO’s readiness. Could strengthen US-India collaboration in space technology (NASA, Blue Origin show interest in Gaganyaan tech). Concerns & Gaps Lack of transparency: The Department of Space has not clarified the cost-benefit rationale of the paid mission. Raises questions amid ₹20,200 crore Gaganyaan budget and limited communication from ISRO. Geopolitical & Commercial Landscape Axiom is a private firm, highlighting growing commercialisation of space. Uncertainty in U.S. space access (e.g., SpaceX’s political dynamics under Trump) adds instability to future collaborations. ISS decommissioning by 2030 adds urgency for India to define its post-ISS strategy. The Way Forward India must: Communicate more transparently on mission goals, costs, and strategic intent. Invest in private space sector with more tangible policy and funding. Maintain strategic autonomy while leveraging global partnerships. ISRO’s next big challenge post-mission: sustaining public trust and meeting rising expectations. A lofty concept, a Governor and unwanted controversy Context of the Issue A painting of Bharat Mata was displayed at official events at Raj Bhavan, Kerala. The image featured a woman holding a saffron flag, with a lion in the background and the map of India. The Governor of Kerala has been offering floral tributes to the image before official functions. The state government raised concerns, stating this image is not part of officially recognised national symbols. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Federalism ) Practice Question : “In a federal democracy, public symbolism must adhere to constitutional decorum.”Discuss the constitutional and legal framework governing the use of symbols in official spaces, in the context of the recent Kerala Raj Bhavan episode. (250 words)   Constitutional and Legal Perspective India recognises specific national symbols: the flag, anthem, emblem, etc., under the Constitution or statutory provisions. No specific visual representation of Bharat Mata has been officially adopted as a national symbol. In public functions, especially those held in government venues, symbols are usually guided by official protocols and approvals. Role of the Governor As per constitutional norms, the Governor acts on the advice of the elected state government in matters of governance. Supreme Court rulings and Constituent Assembly debates (including views of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar) have emphasized that the Governor does not act independently in executive matters. Placement of portraits or symbols in official spaces typically follows guidelines set by the state administration. Understanding the Bharat Mata Concept The concept of Bharat Mata originated in the late 19th century. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay introduced a mother figure as Banga Mata in Anandamath. The first visual depiction was by Abanindranath Tagore in 1905; the image was later popularised by Sister Nivedita as Bharat Mata. Jawaharlal Nehru, in The Discovery of India, interpreted Bharat Mata as representing the people of India, rather than a specific image. Symbolism in Public Spaces In a diverse and plural society like India, the use of imagery in official settings is approached with sensitivity and inclusiveness. Public institutions often follow a secular and neutral framework for official ceremonies to reflect the country’s constitutional values. Institutional Coordination Raj Bhavan, while being the Governor’s residence, is also a public institution that hosts official state functions. Decisions regarding visual displays at such venues are generally made in consultation with the government, ensuring alignment with established norms and public expectations. Way Forward Coordination between constitutional authorities helps maintain the smooth functioning of governance. Public institutions can benefit from clear communication and adherence to constitutional protocols in organising official events. Discussions on national identity and symbolism can be approached with respect, balance, and institutional consensus. 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. The ‘Axis of Upheaval’ in the West Asia conflict Backdrop of the Conflict A ceasefire followed the escalation between Israel and Iran, including U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The incident challenges the idea of the world being divided into Cold War-like blocs, as key partners like Russia and China did not intervene militarily in support of Iran. Iran faces significant political and military setbacks, creating questions around the depth and reliability of its strategic alignments. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : “The so-called ‘Axis of Upheaval’ reflects geopolitical fluidity rather than a formal power bloc.” Analyze how the recent West Asia conflict exposes the limits of informal strategic alignments among Iran, Russia, and China. (250 words) Understanding the ‘Axis of Upheaval’ Term coined to describe a perceived counter-West alliance of Russia, China, and Iran. These partnerships are not bound by formal military treaties, making collective defense actions unlikely. Shared goals include: De-dollarisation of the global economy. Alternatives to SWIFT (global payment system). Strengthening groupings like BRICS and SCO. Promoting multipolar global governance. Iran’s Strategic Position Iran has provided drones to Russia in the Ukraine war and cooperated with Russia in Syria. China remains a key oil buyer, helping sustain Iran’s economy despite sanctions. Strategic partnerships with Russia (2025) and China (2021) are mainly economic, not defense-oriented. Russia’s Constraints Russia’s resources are largely committed to the Ukraine conflict, limiting its ability to support Iran militarily. With Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s exit and shift in Syria’s foreign policy, Russia’s military presence in West Asia has weakened. Moscow’s support remains diplomatic; offers to mediate the Iran-Israel conflict were declined. China’s Position China has condemned Israeli strikes and urged restraint but refrains from military engagement. Strategic tension in West Asia may serve Chinese interests by: Diverting U.S. focus away from the Indo-Pacific. Providing space for China to strengthen regional positions. Implications of U.S. Involvement The U.S.–Iran conflict may affect U.S. capacity to manage other global theatres (e.g., Ukraine, Indo-Pacific). A U.S.-backed ceasefire is currently in place but remains fragile. Challenges for Iran Iran’s regional allies (e.g., Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis) are currently weakened. Lacks military backing from its larger strategic partners. The experience may reinforce Tehran’s belief in the strategic value of nuclear deterrence. Key Takeaway The idea of an anti-West bloc appears more rhetorical than operational. While Russia and China align with Iran economically and politically, the absence of formal defense pacts limits coordinated action. The episode highlights asymmetries in global alliances and evolving power dynamics in West Asia.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 26 June 2025

Content: Indian astronaut in space after 41-year gap, on mission to ISS Enabling voting rights for migrants State- and sex-wise liver disease data hint at underlying factors Should the method of counting caste change? Chemotherapy drugs made by Indian firms fail quality tests, shows study New platform helped with faster update of turnout trends: EC When cities have trees that don’t belong, the birds notice Indian astronaut in space after 41-year gap, on mission to ISS Mission Overview: Axiom-4 Launch Historic Milestone: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the first Indian to reach space since Rakesh Sharma (1984), and first Indian to board the ISS. Launch Details: Launched on June 26, 2025 (IST) from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Florida. Vehicle: SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Spacecraft: Dragon crew capsule (commercial, reusable). Duration & Activities: Total mission span: 14 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Crew Composition: Astronauts from India, U.S., Poland, and Hungary. Objectives include scientific research (60+ activities), STEM outreach, and commercial engagements. Relevance : GS 3(Space , Science) Significance for India’s Space Programme Symbolic Launch of India’s Human Spaceflight Era: Shukla called this “the start of India’s human space programme”—signalling a formal operational step toward the indigenous Gaganyaan mission (planned 2027). Skill & Knowledge Transfer: Provides critical insights on life support, crew management, microgravity research, and ISS-standard procedures—vital for designing Gaganyaan’s crew module, mission control systems, and astronaut training protocols. Scientific & Technological Value Participation in Global Science: Ax-4 mission includes 60 experiments across 31 countries, many of which involve life sciences, material sciences, and human physiology—a collaborative platform for India. ISRO’s Role: 8 experiments contributed by ISRO and Indian academic institutions—potential validation of Indian payloads in microgravity. Microgravity Research: The data from Ax-4 could feed into human adaptation models, crucial for long-term crewed missions (e.g., Moon, Mars). Strategic & Diplomatic Implications Space Diplomacy: First instance of India joining a multilateral crewed space mission, strengthening ties with NASA, SpaceX, and the Axiom Space ecosystem. Enhances India’s standing in global space partnerships, especially with countries seeking alternatives to China-led collaborations. Bilateral Cooperation Potential: May open avenues for U.S.-India collaboration on future missions—e.g., NASA offering support in Gaganyaan, or co-developing tech with SpaceX or Blue Origin. Cost & Policy Dimensions ₹548 crore investment for the seat and advanced training (includes backup astronaut Prasanth Nair). Falls within India’s broader ₹20,200 crore Gaganyaan budget, but raises questions on: Transparency in cost-benefit analysis. The need for clearer public communication on strategic rationale by ISRO/Department of Space. Commercial Space Trend: Part of India’s move toward leveraging private space platforms—a step toward ISRO-private sector synergies. Forward Trajectory for ISRO Key Learnings for Gaganyaan: Operations, safety standards, mission readiness, crew psychological management. Institutional Expectations: Greater transparency, public engagement, and long-term visioning expected from ISRO. Urgency Post-ISS Era: ISS likely to be decommissioned by 2030. India must develop independent or collaborative space station capabilities (e.g., Bharatiya Antariksha Station announced for 2035). Conclusion The Ax-4 mission marks a symbolic and strategic inflection point in India’s space journey. Beyond technological validation, it tests India’s readiness for global space leadership, requiring policy clarity, institutional coordination, and private-public synergy in the coming decade. Enabling voting rights for migrants Context: Bihar, Migration, and Low Turnout Bihar’s Out-Migration Profile: One of the highest out-migration states in India. Over 50% of households experience migration, mostly for work. Voter Turnout Concerns: Bihar’s voter turnout in 2024 Lok Sabha elections was 56%, significantly below the national average of 66%. Migration is cited as a key factor reducing electoral participation. Relevance : GS 2(Elections ,Social Issues) Patterns and Complexity of Migration India-wide Migration Stats (2021): 28.9% overall migration rate. Majority of women migrate for marriage, while 10% migrate for work, especially in Bihar and eastern India. Types of Migrants: Intra-State Migrants (≈85%): Often in informal sectors and travel within state boundaries. Inter-State Migrants: Harder to reach due to geographic and logistical barriers. Challenges in Voting Access for Migrants Disenfranchisement Risks: Migrants often can’t travel home during elections due to distance, cost, or employment conditions. Lack of suitable voting mechanisms effectively denies many their right to vote. Proposed Mechanisms and Their Prospects Statutory Holiday + Transport for Intra-State Migrants Mechanism: Enforce paid holiday on polling day + arrange special buses. Benefit: Enables short-distance travel to home constituencies. Challenge: Needs coordination with employers, especially in the informal sector. Postal Ballot System Inspired by: Armed forces voting system. Mechanism: Migrants pre-register, ECI issues and collects ballots. Benefit: Could be efficient for inter-state migrants if managed well. Challenge: Requires extensive advance planning and bureaucratic capacity. Shifting Constituencies Mechanism: Long-term migrants register at place of current residence. Benefit: Empowers migrants as local political stakeholders. Challenge: May face local opposition; needs clear proof of residence. Remote Voting Machines (RVMs) ECI pilot (2023): RVMs capable of handling votes for up to 72 constituencies. Political Concerns: Transparency and credibility issues raised. Code of Conduct enforcement where migrants reside remains a grey area. Operational Difficulty: ECI would need to install multiple RVMs per city, especially for states like Bihar with 243 Assembly constituencies. Data collection and coordination must begin months in advance. Women Migrants: A Special Case Women migrating after marriage often don’t re-register in new constituencies. Targeted voter awareness and registration drives needed to include them in local electoral rolls. Why a Mixed Approach is Needed Heterogeneity of migrants demands multi-pronged solutions. Temporary vs permanent, intra- vs inter-state, skilled vs unskilled. No one-size-fits-all mechanism; ECI needs to combine: Postal ballots RVMs (long-term solution with fine-tuning) Transport/logistical support Flexible re-registration norms Policy Implications & the Way Forward Strengthen migrant inclusivity to uphold democratic ideals. Empower migrant workers politically, helping demand better living/work conditions. More research and pilot studies needed on: Voting behaviours of migrants Feasibility of tech-based interventions (RVMs, e-postal ballots) Build stakeholder consensus — ECI, political parties, civil society, and employers — to implement any voting reform successfully. State- and sex-wise liver disease data hint at underlying factors Rising Burden of Liver Disease in India Liver diseases have emerged as a major public health concern in India. In 2022, liver diseases made digestive system illnesses the 8th leading cause of death, a jump from previous years. This marks a notable epidemiological shift, highlighting changing lifestyle and health patterns. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance) Sex-Based Trends Men are disproportionately affected: Male deaths from digestive diseases in 2022 were 3.5 times higher than female deaths. This male-to-female mortality ratio is the highest since 2016. Liver disease’s share among digestive deaths: 75% of male digestive deaths were liver-related. For women, it was 57.5%, with the figure remaining between 52–57% from 2012–2022. Implication: Indicates possible sex-linked behavioural or biological risk factors. Age-Wise Distribution (2022) Men: Liver disease mortality peaks in the 35–54 age group. Suggests early onset of risk factors like alcohol and lifestyle issues. Women: 30% of female deaths from digestive diseases occurred in the 65+ age group. Likely indicates age-related liver complications rather than lifestyle-induced disease. State-Level Insights Sikkim has the highest proportion of certified deaths from digestive diseases (~20%). North-Eastern states show a distinct trend: Five states record >10% deaths due to digestive diseases — the highest regional cluster. No other Indian region shows such high percentages. Insight: Strong regional variation demands targeted public health responses. Behavioural Risk Factors Alcohol Consumption: Only 1% of women vs. 19% of men consume alcohol in India (NFHS data). Aligns with high male liver disease burden in middle age. Meat Consumption: Excessive intake is also linked to liver disease. Combined alcohol + meat consumption is highest in North-East India, potentially explaining regional spikes. Inference: Strong correlation (not causation) between diet/lifestyle and liver disease trends. Need for More Research While patterns are clear, the evidence is correlational. There is no established causation between alcohol/meat and liver disease mortality yet. Call to Action: Invest in epidemiological studies. Map risk factors by age, sex, and region for policy design. Policy & Health System Implications Early detection and awareness programmes targeting middle-aged men are crucial. Region-specific interventions (especially in North-East) are needed. Health infrastructure must be adapted to deal with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like liver disorders. Behaviour change communication (BCC) on alcohol and meat consumption should be tailored to demographics and regions. Should the method of counting caste change? Structure of the Upcoming Census (2026–27) Two-phase process: House-listing phase (2026): Lists all dwellings, housing quality, amenities, and assets. Population enumeration phase (2027): Collects demographic and socio-economic information — including caste data (for the first time since 1941). First caste enumeration since 1941: 1941 data couldn’t be processed due to WWII. The 1931 Census remains the last usable caste data set. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues) Why Caste Enumeration? PM Modi has stated it is meant to bring marginalised communities into the mainstream. Aims to identify disparities across castes to inform inclusive policy-making. However, current Census design may not support this goal without restructuring. Key Gaps in Existing Census Design Questionnaire Limitations: Earlier caste questions limited to Scheduled Castes (SCs). No questions on OBCs or other castes in prior censuses. Proposed changes for 2027: Extend caste questions to all non-ST populations. Update digital data collection software and enumerator instructions. Data Quality & Interpretation Issues Unemployment data flawed: Based on vague, year-long reference to “seeking/available for work”. Poor conceptual clarity and execution since 1981. Childbirth and survival data: Quality concerns; better captured by NFHS surveys. Not useful for reliable caste-wise analysis. Migration data weak: Many migrants undercounted or not identified as migrants. Weakens analysis of caste-mobility dynamics. Household Linkage Problem Current phase gap (6–9 months) between house-listing and population enumeration: Linking housing data with personal details (like caste) becomes error-prone. Especially affects urban poor and smaller communities. Solution proposed: Transfer housing, amenities, and asset questions from house-listing to population enumeration. Enables better integration and analysis of socio-economic data by caste. Missed Analytical Opportunities Without restructuring, Census cannot answer key policy questions: E.g., literacy rates of persons in kutcha houses by caste. Workforce patterns among urban poor across castes. Restructuring needed to allow such disaggregated, caste-wise insights. Need to Make Census Leaner Remove redundant questions to enhance accuracy and focus: Ownership of mobiles/computers and bank accounts may no longer be vital. A shorter questionnaire: Improves efficiency and quality of responses. Reduces enumerator fatigue and respondent confusion. Way Forward for Policy Use Past caste-wise data on socio-economic indicators underutilized. Upcoming caste data should: Be used for identifying Most Backward Castes/Tribes. Go beyond reservation quotas — inform targeted welfare policies. Despite practical limitations, Census remains the best tool for comprehensive nationwide caste data. Chemotherapy drugs made by Indian firms fail quality tests, shows study Key Findings from the Study A University of Notre Dame study tested 189 chemotherapy drug samples across countries. ~20% of samples failed quality checks — posing risks of ineffective treatment or toxic side effects. 16 of 17 failed drug manufacturers were India-based. Failed drugs were exported to over 100 countries, including Nepal, Ethiopia, U.S., U.K., and Saudi Arabia. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance ) Drugs & Manufacturers Under Scrutiny Venus Remedies: All 8 samples of its cyclophosphamide failed. Claimed test results were not “scientifically plausible”. Blamed storage conditions, denied receiving complaints. Zuvius Lifesciences, GLS Pharma, and Zee Laboratories: Supplied poor-quality drugs to 40+ countries. Did not respond to repeated requests for comment. Deviation from international testing standards was alleged by manufacturers, but: Study leader Marya Lieberman defended the methodology. Testing was peer-reviewed and followed standard practices.   Types of Drug Failures Too little active ingredient: Rendered the medicine ineffective. Too much active ingredient: Posed risk of organ damage or death. Case evidence: Doctors noted patients becoming unresponsive to treatment or suffering extreme side effects. Some were forced to discontinue chemotherapy due to toxicity. Global Regulatory Gaps More than two-thirds of countries cannot assure medicine quality. Nepal: One of the largest importers of the failed drugs. No capacity to test cancer drugs. Has never recalled any cancer drug despite external evidence. Patients have no visibility on drug quality; no accountability mechanisms in place. India: Major Supplier, Questionable Oversight India is the world’s largest generic drug manufacturer. Activists like Dinesh Thakur allege: Indian drug regulation protects industry more than patients. Enforcement is inconsistent and weak. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO): Claims failing drugs are recalled, and legal action is taken. Lacks transparency on actual recall data or prosecutions. High Stakes for Patients In low-income countries (e.g., Ethiopia), patients save for months or years to afford treatment. Receiving a faulty drug can be financially and emotionally devastating. Chemotherapy is already physically taxing; substandard drugs worsen outcomes. Larger Implications Highlights failure of international drug surveillance systems, including the WHO. Raises concerns over reliance on generic exports from countries with poor regulatory capacity. Calls for: Stronger cross-border pharmacovigilance. International accountability mechanisms. Investment in regulatory infrastructure in importing countries. New platform helped with faster update of turnout trends: EC What Is ECINET? ECINET is a new digital platform developed by the Election Commission (EC). Aimed at speeding up data entry, verification, and dissemination during and after elections. First piloted in by-elections across four States earlier this month. Relevance : GS (Elections -Reforms) Key Functional Improvements Voter turnout trends were uploaded directly by presiding officers. Replaced the manual paper-based process, leading to real-time updates. Index Cards — summaries of election results per constituency — were published within 72 hours. Earlier, this process took several days due to manual data verification. Impact of ECINET Faster and more transparent dissemination of election data. Reduces bureaucratic delay and potential for human error in tabulation. Enhances accountability, especially in the publication of post-election statistics. Broader Significance ECINET is part of the digitisation push by the EC to modernise election operations. If successful, it could: Become the standard model for future Assembly and General Elections. Lead to digitised electoral roll verification, faster result auditing, and increased transparency. However, political parties still demand more accountability tools, indicating digital tech alone isn’t enough to assure electoral fairness. When cities have trees that don’t belong, the birds notice Urban Heat and Biodiversity Decline Climate change + urbanisation is leading to rising temperatures and declining green cover in Indian cities, notably Bengaluru. Heat islands (urban zones hotter than surroundings) show significantly lower bird diversity. Biodiversity is clustered in areas with more tree cover and less heat, showing strong correlation between microclimate and species richness. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Bird Diversity Findings from the Study Study by IIHS researchers used eBird data and satellite heat models. Bengaluru, with over 350 bird species, sees sharp drops in diversity where tree cover declines or heat increases. Not all birds benefit from more trees — some open habitat species thrive where tree density is lower. Tree Cover: Quality Matters More Than Quantity Mere increase in tree cover doesn’t guarantee more biodiversity. 77% of Bengaluru’s tree cover is exotic, not supporting native fauna. Invasive ornamental trees (e.g., Jacaranda, Tabebuia) are visually appealing but harm local ecosystems and can exacerbate allergies and reduce insect biodiversity. Problems with Tree Plantation Drives Many afforestation efforts ignore local ecological history and plant non-native species. Cities like Pune originally had savannahs, grasslands, and wetlands, now replaced by tree plantations. Simplistic “tree = green = good” logic is flawed — restoration needs native diversity, not just tree count. What Should Urban Biodiversity Planning Involve? Move away from one-size-fits-all tree planting; consider historical land-use and local ecosystem types. Include native grasses, herbs, shrubs, and wetland species alongside trees. Mixed approach needed: small gardens, isolated trees, green corridors, wetlands, and large parks. Ecological & Social Equity Poor and marginalised communities are most affected by heat stress and lack of green spaces. Urban biodiversity planning must serve both ecology and equity. Increasing access to green spaces is vital — some public parks restrict entry, worsening inequity. Key Takeaways for Policy & Practice Tree planting must be strategic and ecologically informed. City biodiversity plans should have clear goals, zonal strategies, and native species focus. Heat mitigation and biodiversity conservation can be aligned — if done wisely

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 25 June 2025

Content : India Launches Largest-Ever Tribal Empowerment Campaign — DhartiAabaJanbhagidari Abhiyan (DAJA) A new innovation cleans water with the help of Sunlight, Vibration and Artificial Intelligence (AI), enables Bio-degradable, Eco-friendly and Low-cost Technology India Launches Largest-Ever Tribal Empowerment Campaign — DhartiAabaJanbhagidari Abhiyan (DAJA) Context & Significance Largest tribal outreach campaign in independent India, launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Honours Birsa Munda (Dharti Aaba) as a symbol of tribal pride under Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh. Reflects the PM’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas. Relevance : GS 1(Society ),GS 2(Governance) Scale & Coverage Duration: 15 June to 15 July 2025. Covers 1 lakh+ tribal villages/PVTG habitations across 550+ districts in 31 States/UTs. Aims to reach over 5.5 crore tribal citizens. Major Outcomes (First 9 Days) 53 lakh+ tribal citizens reached through 22,000+ camps. Aadhaar enrolments: 1.38 lakh+ Ayushman Bharat cards issued: 1.68 lakh+ PM-Kisan registration: 46,000+ PM Ujjwala Yojana enrolments: 22,000+ Jan Dhan accounts opened: 32,000+ Key Services Delivered Social security: Pensions, PM-JDY, Ayushman cards. Livelihood: PM-Kisan, start-up support. Legal & Land rights: FRA claim assistance. Nutrition & Health: Focus on millets and maternal nutrition. Cultural revival: Tribal art, music, and cuisine showcased. Five Pillars of DAJA Governance Janbhagidari – Tribal community-led implementation. Saturation – 100% coverage of eligible households. Cultural Inclusion – Use of tribal languages, art. Convergence – Ministries, CSOs, youth working together. Last-Mile Delivery – Focus on remote and PVTG areas. State-Level Highlights Ladakh: Focus on millet-based tribal nutrition (FM visit). Assam: CM flagged it as a new tribal development era. Maharashtra: Entrepreneurship & self-reliance focus. Kerala: Tribal conclave for collaborative planning. AP & MP: Inclusion of forest-dwelling and vulnerable groups. Mobilisation and Participation 3,000+ blocks, 700+ tribal communities, 75 PVTGs. Active support from MY Bharat, NSS, students, and CSOs. Pan-India cultural celebrations: cuisine, dances, crafts. Vision & Impact A step toward inclusive, participatory governance. Sets a new benchmark in tribal-centric service delivery. Seen as a grassroots revolution for dignity and identity. A new innovation cleans water with the help of Sunlight, Vibration and Artificial Intelligence (AI), enables Bio-degradable, Eco-friendly and Low-cost Technology Context & Innovation Overview A new biodegradable, eco-friendly, low-cost water purification system developed by INST Mohali under DST. Targets industrial dye pollutants like Methylene Blue and Congo Red in wastewater. Combines sunlight, mechanical vibrations, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) — a triple-layered sustainable solution. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology,Environment – Pollution) The Technology Explained Core structure: 3D-printed scaffold using Polylactic Acid (PLA) — a biodegradable polymer. Catalyst: Bismuth Ferrite (BiFeO₃) coated on PLA for piezo-photocatalysis. Principle: Photocatalysis: Sunlight activates BiFeO₃ to break down pollutants. Piezocatalysis: Gentle vibrations trigger the catalyst — works even on cloudy days. Result: Efficient pollutant degradation using solar + mechanical energy. AI-Driven Smart Efficiency Machine learning models (e.g. Artificial Neural Networks) trained to: Predict system performance across conditions. Achieve up to 99% accuracy in predictions. Help optimize real-world application and scalability. Performance Highlights Removed 98.9% of Congo Red and 74.3% of Methylene Blue from wastewater. Outperformed many conventional high-cost water treatment systems. Completely avoids hazardous chemicals or energy-intensive techniques. Environmental & Industrial Relevance Eco-friendly & reusable: Made of biodegradable PLA. Low-cost & scalable: Accessible to both industries and rural communities. Fossil fuel-free: Operates on renewable solar and mechanical energy. Sustainable Development Implications Addresses SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Also supports SDG 9 (Innovation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Ideal for circular economy models in industries like textiles, pharmaceuticals.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 25 June 2025

Content : Nuclear spectre A reset in West Asia, a ‘de-escalation’ for the world The need for gender equity in urban bureaucracy Nuclear spectre Context of Conflict: Israel launched a 12-day missile and air attack campaign on Iran, initially as a “pre-emptive” strike on its nuclear facilities, escalating into a full-fledged war. U.S. also conducted strikes on Iranian nuclear installations. Ceasefire announced on Tuesday, but actions ignored risks of radioactive leakage. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : Critically analyze the implications of recent Israeli-U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities for the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and global nuclear stability. Suggest measures to strengthen international norms and prevent nuclear brinkmanship. (150 words)   Iran’s Nuclear Status: Iran is a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has subjected its nuclear facilities to international inspections. Previously signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with P5+1 (U.S., Russia, China, UK, France, Germany) to ensure peaceful nuclear capabilities. U.S. withdrawal from JCPOA during Trump’s first term undermined the agreement. Attacks may have damaged Iran’s uranium enrichment capabilities, pushing Iran to consider exiting the NPT (parliament mulling a bill) and pursuing nuclear weapons as a deterrent. Escalating Nuclear Risks: Israeli-U.S. actions against Iran signal a fragile international order, with nuclear risks rising in West Asia, Ukraine, and the Indian subcontinent. Aggression against Iran, a compliant NPT signatory, could justify further attacks if Iran seeks nuclear weapons, undermining international law and NPT norms. Israel’s Hypocrisy: Israel is not an NPT signatory, refuses oversight of its undeclared nuclear arsenal, and may value nuclear weapons for destructive potential rather than deterrence. U.S. support emboldens Israel’s aggressive policies, including in Gaza and wars in West Asia. Global Nuclear Threats: Russia’s threats to use nuclear weapons in response to NATO’s actions in Ukraine highlight the destabilizing impact of great power competition. Nuclear disarmament efforts are failing as nuclear-armed states modernize and expand arsenals. Non-proliferation is at risk as more countries consider nuclear weapons for self-defense. Implications and Recommendations: Current actions signal a new era of nuclear brinkmanship, potentially more dangerous than the Cold War. Urgent need for renewed diplomacy to: Re-establish international conflict norms. Push for disarmament among nuclear-armed states. Strengthen commitment to the NPT to prevent further escalation. Key Takeaway: Israeli and U.S. actions against Iran, combined with global nuclear trends, are dismantling international stability, necessitating urgent diplomatic efforts to avert a catastrophic nuclear era. 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 reset in West Asia, a ‘de-escalation’ for the world Context : Israel and U.S. bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities, neutralizing its nuclear threat, with tacit or open approval from most regional and global actors. Europe offered contradictory statements but had no influence; Russia and China, despite strategic partnerships with Iran (2025 and 2021), remained silent. Conscious choice by these countries not to intervene as Iran and its proxies (e.g., in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza) were dismantled. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : The recent Israel–U.S. strikes on Iran have reshaped West Asia’s balance of power, but risk triggering long-term instability. Examine the implications of this “West Asia reset” for regional peace, Gulf politics, and India’s strategic interests.(250 Words)   New Regional Reality: Israel emerges as the sole nuclear power in West Asia, backed by 40,000 U.S. troops and air/sea assets, ensuring no military challenge to Israel. Gulf states initially feared Iran’s strategic depth and ideology, aligning with Israel-U.S. to counter it, compromising on issues like the Palestinian cause. With Iran weakened, Gulf states may now question an unchecked Israel but have limited leverage. Iran’s Retaliation and Crisis: Iran retaliated by targeting U.S. bases in Qatar (10,000 troops, largest in region) and Iraq, escalating tensions and violating Qatar’s sovereignty. Iran’s leadership, facing an existential crisis, sees retaliation as essential for political survival against U.S.-Israel’s aim for regime change. Risk of further escalation (e.g., closing Strait of Hormuz, exiting NPT) unless diplomacy intervenes. Ceasefire and Implications: U.S. announced a ceasefire, offering Iran a way to de-escalate after proving resilience, while Israel also faced significant hits (downplayed by Western media). Ceasefire is a wake-up call for Gulf states, signaling their vulnerability and the need to support a revived nuclear deal (JCPOA) to stabilize the region. Weakening Iran risks regional instability (like Iraq/Libya), potentially boosting terrorism (e.g., Islamic State, al-Qaeda). Israel’s Ambitions: With Iran’s nuclear program crippled, Israeli PM Netanyahu’s political fortunes are revived, paving the way for his “Eretz Israel” vision (annexation of Gaza and West Bank). Netanyahu’s UN map (2025) excludes Palestinian territories; annexation likely before U.S. 2026 elections, supported by ultra-right coalition members. Post-annexation, Israel may remain an apartheid state, denying Palestinians equal rights, rather than becoming a democracy. Gulf States’ Dilemma: Gulf countries, focused on Abraham Accords and U.S. ties, have softened on Palestine, accepting Gaza’s devastation (56,000 killed, mass displacement) for regional stability. Annexation or continued occupation may force Gulf states to rethink their strategy, as long-term peace is unlikely without addressing Palestinian rights. India’s Position: India maintained strategic neutrality, echoing its approach to other major global conflicts. While silent on Israel’s strikes, India balances ties with Israel (aiding Operation Sindoor) and Iran (via Chabahar Port). Its call for “de-escalation” mirrors diplomatic advice once directed at India during India-Pakistan tensions. With key stakes in energy, diaspora, and regional connectivity, India’s cautious diplomacy aims to limit fallout without compromising strategic interests. Global Perspective: U.S. ceasefire call is a rare voice of reason, but globally, “de-escalation” overshadows concerns about international law or territorial integrity. West Asia’s reset risks new crises (e.g., Israeli annexation), with global powers prioritizing stability over justice. Key Takeaway: The Israel-U.S. strikes on Iran have reshaped West Asia, leaving Israel dominant but risking new conflicts, like Palestinian annexation. Gulf states and global actors must push for diplomacy (e.g., JCPOA revival) to prevent further destabilization, while India’s neutral “de-escalation” stance reflects its strategic balancing act. 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. The need for gender equity in urban bureaucracy Context India’s urban population to exceed 800 million by 2050, shaping democracy and development. Political representation of women has improved post-73rd & 74th Amendments; 46% of local reps are women. Yet, urban bureaucracy remains male-dominated, limiting inclusive governance. Relevance : GS 2(Governance, Social Justice) Practice Question : Despite progress in political representation, gender disparity persists in urban administration. Discuss how gender-inclusive bureaucracies can improve urban governance in India.(250 Words) Low Representation in Urban Administration Only 20% of IAS officers and 11.7% of police personnel are women. Women are underrepresented in planning, engineering, transport, and often restricted to desk roles. This limits responsiveness to women’s urban needs (mobility, safety, caregiving). Gendered Urban Experience Women rely more on public/shared transport and make multi-stop journeys. Yet urban design prioritizes mega projects over safe, accessible local infrastructure. 60% of public spaces in 50 cities were poorly lit (Safetipin, 2019), endangering women. Women in Bureaucracy: Better Outcomes Studies show women officials prioritize health, water, safety, and foster public trust. Gender-balanced bureaucracies ensure inclusive, empathetic decision-making. Gender Budgeting: Missed Potential India introduced Gender Budgeting (GRB) in 2005–06, but impact remains limited. Good practices: Delhi: women-only buses, better lighting TN & Kerala: wider GRB adoption Challenges: weak monitoring, poor institutional capacity in ULGs. Global Best Practices Philippines: 5% local budgets for gender programmes Uganda: gender equity certificates for fund release Mexico & South Africa: results-based, participatory GRB These show how fiscal tools can drive equity. What Needs to Change Move beyond quotas — focus on bureaucratic inclusion via: Gender quotas in technical/admin roles Scholarships, mentorship in planning/engineering Gender audits and participatory budgeting Models to Emulate Kudumbashree (Kerala) and local gender equity councils can guide small cities. Global evidence: Rwanda: maternal health Brazil: sanitation South Korea: gender-sensitive transit Tunisia: technical leadership Conclusion: Cities With, Not Just For, Women Inclusive cities must mainstream gender in planning and delivery. Representation must translate into decision-making power. Cities that reflect women’s lived realities work better for all. 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 25 June 2025

Content : Two billion people don’t have safe drinking water U.S.’s heavy duty attack on Iran’s nuke sites Widely used fungicide found to be driving C. tropicalis infections For first time, India breaks into top 100 in global SDG rankings Maritime body sounds alarm on order to retire ‘old’ ships Technique to make CAR T-cells in vivo could transform cancer care Crushed stone is being spread across farms to capture carbon Two billion people don’t have safe drinking water Context & Scope 2 billion people globally lack safe drinking water. Over 800,000 deaths annually are linked to diseases from unsafe water. Access to clean water is essential for public health, dignity, and development. Relevance : GS 2(Health ,Social Issues) Key Definitions Safe Drinking Water (SDG 6.1 definition, post-2017): Water must be contamination-free, on-premises, and available when needed. Improved Water Source (earlier indicator): Includes protected pipes, springs, boreholes — but not necessarily safe at the point of use. Current Global Scenario 6 billion people have access to safe water. 2 billion lack it — but: Only 156 million rely on surface water (rivers/lakes). The majority use improved sources that are inconveniently located or intermittently available. Hidden Challenges Hours spent collecting water, especially by women and children, affects education and productivity. Even improved sources can become contaminated during storage or transit. 95% of the world uses improved sources — but not all are safely managed under SDG standards. Health Implications Unsafe water spreads diarrhea, cholera, hepatitis, polio, and causes malnutrition. In low-income countries, unsafe water contributes to over 5% of deaths. Child mortality and undernutrition are closely linked to water insecurity. Development Challenges Scaling access to basic improved sources is easier than ensuring safely managed household water. Requires investments in infrastructure, maintenance, and contamination control. Real progress under SDG 6.1 (Clean Water and Sanitation) demands universal access to safe water at home. Conclusion Universal access to safe drinking water (SDG 6) is essential for: Health outcomes Social equity Economic development Achieving broader Sustainable Development Goals U.S.’s heavy duty attack on Iran’s nuke sites Context & Strategic Significance On June 21, 2025, the U.S. launched airstrikes on three major Iranian nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Operation code-named “Midnight Hammer” aimed to cripple Iran’s nuclear enrichment capacity. Marked a direct U.S. military intervention in the Israel-Iran conflict that began on June 13. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) How the Strike Unfolded 7 B-2 Spirit stealth bombers flew a 37-hour round mission with multiple in-air refuellings. First B-2 dropped two GBU-57 MOP ‘bunker busters’ on the deeply buried Fordow site. Deception tactics included decoy aircraft flying westward to mislead radar tracking. Overall, 14 MOPs and 75 precision-guided munitions (including submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles) were deployed.   Why B-2 Bombers and MOPs Were Used Fordow site is buried under 80–90 meters of rock and reinforced concrete — beyond Israeli capabilities. The GBU-57 MOP is designed for deep penetration, capable of reaching up to 200 feet underground. B-2 Spirit is the only U.S. aircraft capable of carrying these 30,000 lb bunker-busters. Capabilities and Challenges of B-2 Bomber Only 19 operational B-2s exist; each costs $2+ billion. Extremely stealthy: avoids detection via low radar, heat, sound, and visual signatures. Highly maintenance-intensive: requires 100 hours of upkeep for each hour flown. Needs climate-controlled hangars to preserve stealth coating and tech. Holds record for longest air combat missions (e.g., 44-hour Afghan mission in 2001). Military and Political Implications Mission officially not aimed at regime change, but to “neutralize threats” and support Israel’s self-defence. The strike has raised questions about: The actual extent of damage (especially at Fordow). The fate of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile. May escalate regional tensions and invite retaliatory action from Iran. Next-Gen Stealth Bomber: B-21 Raider U.S. is developing the B-21 Raider, meant to replace aging B-2s. Dual-capable, stealth strike bomber with open systems architecture for quick software upgrades. Expected unit cost: $550 million; USAF plans to procure 100+ units. Conclusion Operation Midnight Hammer signals a tech-heavy, precision-first U.S. military doctrine. Brings into focus the evolving role of stealth aircraft and deep-penetration ordnance. Has strategic ramifications for non-proliferation diplomacy, U.S.-Iran relations, and West Asian stability. Widely used fungicide found to be driving C. tropicalis infections Context & Concern Candida tropicalis is a major fungal pathogen in India and globally, with a mortality rate of 55–60%. Increasing cases of drug-resistant C. tropicalis infections are being observed in clinical settings. Azole antifungals like fluconazole and voriconazole are becoming less effective. Relevance : GS 2(Health) ,GS 3(Science) Key Finding A study published in PLoS Biology links azole-resistance in C. tropicalis to the widespread agricultural use of the fungicide tebuconazole. Tebuconazole, a triazole fungicide, accumulates in the environment and triggers cross-resistance in clinical fungal strains. Mechanism of Resistance: Ploidy Plasticity Resistant strains showed aneuploidy: abnormal chromosome numbers (haploid to triploid). These chromosomal alterations enhance drug resistance but reduce growth rate in drug-free environments. Resistant strains showed: Duplications (e.g., of TAC1 gene → overproduction of drug-efflux proteins). Deletions (e.g., of HMG1 gene → enhanced ergosterol synthesis and drug resistance). Public Health Implications Resistant strains were more virulent in mice, even under antifungal treatment. Shows how agricultural misuse of antifungals can create clinical superbugs, threatening human health. Highlights interconnectedness of environment, agriculture, and public health (One Health concept). Serendipitous Discoveries First-time discovery of stable haploid strains of C. tropicalis — capable of mating, increasing potential for genetic spread of resistance. Two naturally haploid clinical strains were also found in global genome data. Larger Message The study warns against reckless use of triazoles in agriculture, which may drive antifungal resistance in human pathogens. It echoes the warning: “Sow the wind, reap the whirlwind” — stressing unintended consequences of unsustainable practices. For first time, India breaks into top 100 in global SDG rankings Context : India’s Performance in 2025 SDG Index India ranks 99th out of 167 countries in the 2025 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index, breaking into the top 100 for the first time. India’s SDG Index score: 67, up from its 2024 rank of 109. This reflects steady improvement over recent years: 2021: 120 2022: 121 2023: 112 2024: 109 → 2025: 99 Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) , GS 3(SDG) Comparative Regional Rankings China: Rank 49 (74.4) Bhutan: 74 (70.5) Nepal: 85 (68.6) Bangladesh: 114 (63.9) Pakistan: 140 (57) Sri Lanka: 93 Maldives: 53 About the SDG Index Published by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. Measures progress toward the 17 SDGs adopted by UN member states in 2015. Score out of 100: full achievement of all SDGs. Report lead: Economist Jeffrey Sachs. Global Trends and Concerns Only 17% of SDG targets are on track to be met by 2030. Global stagnation attributed to: Geopolitical conflicts Structural vulnerabilities Limited fiscal space in many countries. Top Performers Europe dominates the top ranks: Finland, Sweden, Denmark – top 3. 19 of top 20 countries are in Europe. Even top-ranked nations face sustainability challenges like: Climate change Biodiversity loss Unsustainable consumption patterns Requires accelerated action in lagging goals like: Climate action (SDG 13) Gender equality (SDG 5) Quality education (SDG 4) Health (SDG 3) Maritime body sounds alarm on order to retire ‘old’ ships Context : DG Shipping Order 6/2023 mandates the retirement of ships over 20 years old. International Maritime Federation (IMF) warns that this could lead to: Premature scrapping of 700+ Indian-flagged vessels. Loss of 20,000+ seafaring jobs. Indirect livelihood impact on over 1 lakh people. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ),GS 3(Infrastructure ,Transport) Key Concerns Raised by IMF Blanket age-based ban lacks flexibility and ignores actual vessel condition. Disproportionate penalties imposed on Recruitment and Placement Services Licence (RPSL) companies add to the burden. IMF terms these measures as existential threats to India’s maritime ecosystem. Global Context & Contradictions Global data from over 1.3 lakh vessels and 3.7 lakh safety inspections suggest: Older ships (25+ years) often show better safety records than newer ones. Attributed to: Rigorous maintenance routines. Survivorship bias — only robust, well-maintained older ships remain in service. Implications for India Coastal shipping and blue economy ambitions could suffer due to reduced fleet size. Threatens India’s goal to expand domestic shipping capacity and reduce dependency on foreign vessels. Could disincentivise private investment in Indian-flagged ships. Policy Suggestions Adopt a condition-based approach rather than fixed age limits. Ensure proportionality in penalties for RPSL companies. Align domestic norms with international maritime practices and safety standards. Technique to make CAR T-cells in vivo could transform cancer care What is CAR T-cell therapy? A form of immunotherapy where T-cells are genetically modified to detect and destroy cancer cells. Conventional method: T-cells are extracted, engineered with CAR (chimeric antigen receptor) in labs, and re-infused. Target cancers: Mostly B-cell driven cancers like leukaemia and lymphoma. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology) Current Challenges in CAR T-cell Therapy Complex & expensive: ₹60–70 lakh per patient in India. Requires: Personalised lab-based engineering Viral vectors for gene delivery Chemotherapy for immune suppression Risk of severe side effects: cytokine storms, secondary infections, and genetic complications. New Breakthrough: In Vivo CAR T-cell Engineering Published in Science (June 2025): Researchers used mRNA + lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to deliver CAR instructions inside the body. Target: CD8+ T-cells using antibody-tagged LNPs. No need for: Cell extraction Lab processing Chemotherapy Key Preclinical Results In mice: Tumours regressed after in vivo reprogramming. In monkeys: B cells depleted in multiple organs 85–95% T-cell reprogramming achieved after 2–3 infusions Some immune reset observed in autoimmune models. Advantages of In Vivo Approach Temporary modification via mRNA reduces long-term genetic risks. No chemotherapy required → safer for elderly/comorbid patients. Potential for mass production and standardised dosing, like vaccines or biologic drugs. Uses Lipid 829: a biodegradable carrier with lower inflammation risk. Safety Considerations Mild inflammation seen; manageable with premedication. One monkey developed severe immune reaction (HLH) → underlines need for careful dosing. Human trials essential to verify safety, reproducibility, and long-term effects. Relevance for India High burden of B-cell cancers (e.g., DLBCL, ALL). Rising autoimmune cases post-COVID. Existing barriers: Few specialised centres, high costs, limited trained personnel. This new infusion-based method could democratise access to CAR T therapy in low-resource settings. Broader Implications Could transform oncology and autoimmune treatment models. May set precedent for in vivo gene therapy platforms. Offers a path to affordable personalised medicine in developing countries. Crushed stone is being spread across farms to capture carbon What is Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW)? A climate mitigation technique that accelerates natural rock weathering to capture carbon dioxide (CO₂). Involves spreading finely crushed quick-weathering rocks (like basalt) on farmlands. Used in sugarcane fields (Brazil, Australia), tea plantations (India), and oil palm fields (Malaysia). Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) How It Works Weathering: CO₂ reacts with water forming carbonic acid, which breaks down rocks. This forms bicarbonates, eventually converting into limestone, locking away CO₂. ERW increases: Rock surface area (via grinding) Contact with air, water, and soil. Effectiveness: What Studies Show A U.S. study: 50 tonnes of basalt per hectare/year could remove up to 10.5 tonnes of CO₂ per hectare over 4 years. Field studies in Malaysia & Australia show lower CO₂ removal rates, suggesting earlier overestimation. Carbon capture depends on: Rock type & particle size Soil chemistry Temperature & moisture Land management practices Challenges in Measuring CO₂ Removal Carbon capture often inferred via cation release, but: Cations are produced by all acids, not just carbonic acid. Hence, it may overestimate CO₂ uptake. Better calibration and metrics are needed to accurately assess ERW impact. Other Environmental & Agricultural Benefits Increases soil alkalinity → improves: Crop growth Nutrient availability Soil formation May reduce acid runoff from soil → prevents CO₂ release from rivers/oceans. Risks & Limitations Finely crushed rock may contain heavy metals (e.g., nickel, chromium). Health hazards for workers due to dust inhalation → requires protective gear. Uncertain scale of actual CO₂ mitigation vs theoretical predictions. Carbon Credit Potential Attracting corporate interest: Tech firms, airlines, fashion brands are investing in ERW for carbon offsetting. Could become a part of carbon markets, if standardised and measurable.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 24 June 2025

Content : A holistic Approach at Transforming Mining Sector Tripura becomes third state in the country, after Mizoram and Goa, to achieve Full Functional Literacy A holistic Approach at Transforming Mining Sector Introduction : Over the last 11 years, India’s mining sector has undergone transformative reforms aimed at boosting transparency, private participation, and strategic resource security. Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy’s article outlines how these reforms support India’s vision for Viksit Bharat, linking mining with national goals of economic growth, self-reliance, and sustainability. Relevance : GS 3(Mines and Minerals) Structural Reforms in Mining Sector Auction regime (post-2015): Replaced opaque allocation with transparent, competitive bidding; over 500 blocks auctioned, 119 in just the last year. Amendments to Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act between 2015–2023 enabled policy modernization. Centre-State Synergy Strengthened cooperative federalism: ₹4 lakh crore earned by states via auction premiums and royalty. Tools like State Mining Index, State Mineral Exploration Trust, and Mining Ministers’ Conclaves deepened collaboration. District Mineral Foundation (DMF) enhanced local welfare through decentralized mineral wealth distribution. Critical & Strategic Mineral Push National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) launched to boost self-reliance in lithium, cobalt, REEs, nickel, etc. India’s first potash block auctioned, and offshore mineral exploration initiated. Strategic global outreach: Lithium mines in Argentina acquired; KABIL securing assets abroad. Private Sector Enablement 50-year leases, seamless transfer of clearances, and exploration license regime fostered investor confidence. MSMEs and start-ups now have greater access via reforms like faceless return filing, Mining Tenement System, and drone surveys. Tech & R&D Ecosystem National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) funded initiatives like Centres of Excellence and start-up R&D. Push for local innovation in recycling and processing, critical for a circular economy. Outcome & Vision Mining sector now aligned with goals of energy security, food security, and economic growth. Reforms have ensured predictability, transparency, and inclusivity, supporting India’s march to become the 3rd largest economy. Tripura becomes third state in the country, after Mizoram and Goa, to achieve Full Functional Literacy Introduction: On 23 June 2025, Tripura became the third Indian state (after Mizoram and Goa) to achieve full functional literacy (95.6%), as per national benchmarks. This success was achieved under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, a flagship adult education scheme aligned with NEP 2020. Relevance : GS 2(Education ,Governance) About the ULLAS Programme Centrally sponsored scheme (2022–2027), targeting non-literate individuals aged 15+. Focuses on foundational literacy, numeracy, and critical life skills using both physical outreach and digital tools (ULLAS mobile app). Implementation Highlights in Tripura Intensive district-level rollout with door-to-door surveys, volunteer mobilization, and strong community engagement. Emphasis on Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) and Kartavyabodh (sense of duty) ensured grassroots ownership. Leveraged digital platforms for certification and monitoring, enabling real-time progress tracking. Significance of the Milestone Tripura’s literacy rise from 20.24% in 1961 to 95.6% in 2025 reflects sustained policy and social commitment. Enhances human capital, gender empowerment, and inclusive development — key pillars of Viksit Bharat @2047. Reinforces the NEP 2020 principle of education as a lifelong and universal process. Broader Implications for India Demonstrates scalable best practices for adult literacy and community-led education models. Serves as a replicable model for other states and UTs in achieving educational equity. Boosts India’s global positioning in achieving SDG 4 – Quality Education for All.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 24 June 2025

Content: Many images The sorry state of South Asian economic integration Many images Context: The Kerala Governor’s use of a Bharat Mata image with a lion and saffron flag during official events triggered backlash from the ruling state government, alleging it reflected a sectarian political message. Relevance : GS 2(Federalism, Role of Governor, Secularism ) Practice Question : In a pluralistic democracy like India, what are the constitutional and ethical responsibilities of high public functionaries when engaging with culturally or politically charged symbols? (250 words) Nature of the Image: The specific image used aligns with a vision of Akhand Bharat (Undivided India), often associated with certain ideological narratives. Though Bharat Mata as a symbol is historically rooted, its interpretation has evolved in multiple, and often contested, directions. Historical Evolution of the Symbol: Originated in Anandamath (late 19th century), portraying the nation as a Hindu goddess. Gained patriotic fervor through the song Vande Mataram, yet faced criticism for potential communal undertones. Artists like Abanindranath Tagore reimagined her with secular-emotional appeal — as a nurturing, symbolic mother. Cinema, calendar art, and literature further diversified the representation, from devotional to critical portrayals. Symbolic Ambiguity: The image lacks a universally accepted visual form. While some see it as cultural heritage, others view certain versions as exclusive or majoritarian. Its depiction varies by context — political, religious, or artistic. Role of the Governor: As a constitutional authority, the Governor is expected to maintain political neutrality and uphold secular democratic norms. Using contested symbols in official events may be seen as breaching the non-partisan spirit of the office. Impact on Governance: Escalation of tensions between State and Raj Bhavan can hamper cooperative federalism. Street-level confrontations following the incident underscore the sensitivity around public symbolism. Conclusion: In a plural society, public figures must exercise caution in using culturally charged imagery. Respecting symbolic diversity helps preserve institutional neutrality and democratic harmony. 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. The sorry state of South Asian economic integration Context and Importance South Asia is one of the least economically integrated regions in the world. Economic instability and national security threats are deeply interconnected in the region. The region continues to face low intra-regional trade despite having shared history, borders, and a large consumer base. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) Practice Question : “Despite shared geography and historical ties, South Asia remains one of the least economically integrated regions in the world. Examine the reasons for this low intra-regional trade and suggest measures to enhance economic cooperation among SAARC countries.” (250 words) Current Status of Integration Intra-SAARC trade accounts for only 5–7% of total trade, far below EU (45%), ASEAN (22%), and NAFTA (25%). Trade between SAARC nations is $23 billion, while potential is estimated to be $67–172 billion. South Asia’s combined GDP ($5 trillion) is underwhelming given it hosts 25% of the world’s population, indicating untapped capacity. Trade Deficit & Decline South Asia’s trade-to-GDP ratio fell from 47.3% (2022) to 42.94% (2024). The region’s trade deficit widened from $204.1 billion (2015) to $339 billion (2022). Bilateral India–Pakistan trade fell from $2.41 billion (2018) to $1.2 billion (2024), showing fallout from political tensions. Trade Costs & Inefficiencies High intra-regional trade cost: 114% of goods’ value, compared to 109% with the U.S. India–Pakistan trade is 20% more expensive than trade with distant Brazil. Lack of regional value chains due to trust issues, red tape, and poor connectivity. Key Obstacles Trust deficit, border disputes, and terrorism derail cooperation. Ineffective SAFTA implementation due to politicisation and lack of strategic vision. Political fragmentation and bilateral tensions prevent collective economic growth. Opportunities and Solutions Lowering trade barriers and boosting trade in services can unlock regional synergies. Strengthening infrastructure, digital connectivity, and dispute resolution mechanisms is essential. Economic cooperation must be decoupled from political disputes to build resilient regional value chains. 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 24 June 2025

Content : Sharp Rise in Number of Women Maoists Killed in Security Ops, Data Show Inflation Falls but Not Unemployment Rising Evaporative Demand Spotlights India’s Data and Research Gap SC Deprecates ‘Trend’ of Accused Reneging on Bail Payment Promises SC’s Three-Year Bar Experience Rule for Judge Exam Triggers Concern No Headway in India-ASEAN Trade Deal Review Despite 9 Meetings in Last One Year Sharp rise in number of women Maoists killed in security ops, data show Relevance: GS 3(Internal Security) Trends in Casualties (2024–2025)  Sharp surge in total Maoist deaths:  2024: 217 killed (74 women)  Till June 2025: 195 killed (82 women)  Proportion of women casualties increased:  Over 1/3rd of Maoists killed in recent operations are women — a significant rise from previous years.  Contrast with past data (2019–2023):   Fewer overall deaths; lower share of women (e.g., 2023: 20 deaths, only 5 women). Reasons Behind High Women Presence  Coercion of tribal families:  Faced with threats, Adivasi parents often part with girl children, who are then inducted into Maoist ranks.  Formation of Bal Dastas:  Maoists recruit children, especially girls, indoctrinating them early.  Use of women as foot soldiers & human shields:  Women often deployed in vulnerable roles, while leadership remains male-dominated. Contradictions in Maoist Ideology  Discrepancy in gender rhetoric:  Maoists claim to oppose patriarchy, but rarely promote women to leadership roles.  Manipulation of education:  Maoists attack schools, fearing education will empower tribals and challenge their hold. Government Response Increased operations post-MHA’s goal to end Maoism by March 2026.  Focus on rehabilitation: Authorities encourage voluntary surrender, with gender-sensitive rehabilitation policies.  Sensitivity to women’s plight: Officials acknowledge physical/emotional hardship faced by women in Maoist ranks.  Broader Issues  State failure in tribal areas: Persistent poverty, lack of education, and insecurity make tribal women vulnerable. Need for balanced approach: Combining security action with development and social outreach is crucial. Inflation falls but not unemployment  Inflation fell sharply: From 3.2% in April to 2.8% in May 2025 — within RBI’s target.  Unemployment rose simultaneously: From 5.1% in April to 5.8% in May, based on PLFS data.  Key critique: Celebrating falling inflation while ignoring rising unemployment is economically myopic.  Relevance: GS 3(Indian Economy) Growth and Employment Link GDP growth slowed: From 9.2% in 2023–24 to 6.5% in 2024–25.  Broad-based deceleration: Most sectors saw slower growth except agriculture and public administration.  Rising unemployment aligns with this growth slowdown, showing a structural concern.  Agriculture’s Role in Lowering Inflation Agricultural sector outpaced non-agricultural sectors in growth.  This narrowed the supply-demand gap in food, sharply reducing food inflation:   From ~11% in Oct 2024 to <1% in May 2025.  Hence, real factors (supply-side) explain inflation reduction more than monetary tightening.  Limits of Monetary Policy Services sector slowdown can’t be attributed to interest rate hikes — it’s less credit-dependent.  Monetary policy likely followed inflation trends rather than driving them.  Econometric Evidence Study shows no conclusive role of interest rates in curbing inflation in India.  Agricultural price movements, linked to sectoral growth differences, are the dominant factor.  Inflation targeting via demand suppression is ineffective when inflation is supply-side driven.  Expectations & Central Bank Credibility RBI’s claim of influencing inflation expectations is weak:  Household inflation expectations remained high (above 4%) from Mar 2024 to May 2025.  Hence, inflation decline cannot be due to expectation management.  Conclusion: Rethinking Macroeconomic Assessment Focusing solely on inflation ignores jobless growth and the economic distress it causes.  A holistic macroeconomic evaluation must considered . Rising evaporative demand spotlights India’s data and research gap What is Evaporative Demand? A measure of how much water the atmosphere ‘wants’ to pull from land and vegetation. Depends on temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation. Increasing due to global warming, making the air “thirstier”. Relevance: GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Concept of ‘Thirstwave’ Coined by Kukal & Hobbins (2025): A thirstwave = ≥3 days of extreme evaporative demand. Found to be more frequent, intense, and longer over time. Different from heatwaves; includes moisture stress along with heat.  Agricultural Implications Even with adequate irrigation, crop water use now depends on atmospheric demand. Higher evaporative demand leads to: Increased water loss Drier soils and crops Potential stress on food security and irrigation planning Measurement Tool: Standardised Short-Crop Evapotranspiration Represents the water used by 12 cm high grass under ideal conditions. Simplifies complex evapotranspiration dynamics by assuming constant vegetation. Rising values reflect more intense weather parameters (heat, wind, radiation).  India’s Historical Data & Contradictions Earlier (pre-1997) studies (e.g., by Chattopadhyay & Hulme) found decreased evaporation, despite warming — due to high humidity. Future warming, however, expected to override humidity’s dampening effect, increasing evaporative demand.  Recent Indian Research Studies (e.g., IIT Roorkee 2022) noted: Increased evapotranspiration in North India, Western & Eastern Himalayas. Could indicate vegetation growth or agri-expansion. Yet, data on extreme thirstwaves in India is lacking.  Research and Policy Gaps India lacks: Real-time data on evaporative demand extremes. Crop-wise sensitivity studies to thirstwaves. Policy frameworks to integrate thirstwave risk into agri-planning. Current efforts (e.g., by Kukal & Shailza Sharma) aim to fill this void for South Asia.  Global South Vulnerability Greater exposure and weaker resilience in countries like India. Worst thirstwaves may occur in unexpected regions — necessitating re-evaluation of climate adaptation strategies.  Way Forward Incorporate thirstwave tracking in IMD & agri advisories. Train farmers and water managers on new irrigation demands. Boost climate-resilient research funding, especially in Global South. SC deprecates ‘trend’ of accused reneging on bail payment promises Supreme Court’s Concern SC flagged a growing trend: Accused persons promise large payments to secure bail, especially in financial fraud and tax evasion cases — but later fail to honour the commitment. The practice is seen as a deliberate ploy to mislead courts and gain temporary liberty. Relevance : GS 2(Social Justice, Judiciary)  Manipulation of Judicial Process Accused later challenge bail conditions as: Onerous or illegal, or Claim lawyers made the offer without consent. Courts become victims of tactical misuse, undermining the sanctity of judicial orders.  Judicial Observations Justice Viswanathan: “We cannot allow parties to play ducks and drakes with the court.” Courts must not permit misuse of voluntary undertakings used solely to secure bail. Case in Focus Accused in ₹13 crore tax evasion case. Had secured bail by promising to pay ₹2.5 crore after partial payment. Failed to pay the promised sum → High Court cancelled bail. Moved Supreme Court against bail cancellation. SC’s Balanced Approach Initially ordered the accused to surrender. Later, in view of familial responsibilities, recalled the surrender order, showing: Balance between Article 21 (Right to Liberty) and Integrity of the legal process. Ethical and Legal Concerns Raises questions on: Good faith in litigation, Abuse of anticipatory/regular bail procedures, and Role of counsel accountability in submitting financial offers. Calls for stricter scrutiny of bail conditions and their enforcement. Implications for Judicial Reform SC’s remarks could: Influence stricter guidelines on bail undertakings, Lead to penal consequences for non-compliance, Reinforce ethical standards in legal representations. SC’s three-year Bar experience rule for judge exam triggers concern What Did the Supreme Court Rule? On May 20, the SC reinstated the rule requiring a minimum of 3 years litigation experience before a candidate can take the judicial service examination for entry-level judges. Rationale: First-hand court experience is essential for judicial officers who deal with life, liberty, and property from Day 1. Court’s Justification Book knowledge and pre-service training are not substitutes for real courtroom exposure. Learning by assisting seniors, observing judicial proceedings, and experiencing case flow is seen as indispensable. Concerns and Criticisms Raised Hardship for recent law graduates (2023–25 batch) who prepared under the old eligibility criteria. Review petitioners argue the change: Violates legitimate expectations Causes retrospective disadvantage Infringes Article 14 (Right to Equality) Access and Certification Issues Practical hurdle: Candidates must get a practice certificate from a 10-year experienced lawyer. Many young lawyers (like petitioner Chandra Sharma) worked with seniors who don’t meet the 10-year threshold, adding bureaucratic difficulty. Shetty Commission Debate SC cited the 1999 Shetty Commission, which recommended a 3-year rule. However, the same report also noted that modern legal education with practical training might negate the need for such a rule, if robust post-selection training is ensured.  Arguments for Reform and Phased Implementation Petitioners suggest: Implement the 3-year rule from 2027 to avoid penalising current aspirants. Emphasize training post-selection rather than pre-entry restrictions. Larger Questions Raised Should judicial recruitment focus more on experience or aptitude? Does the rule reduce access for talented freshers from marginalised or rural backgrounds? How to balance professional competence with inclusion and fairness in judicial recruitment? No headway in India-ASEAN trade deal review despite 9 meetings in last one year Background: ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Signed in 2009. India opened 71% of its tariff lines to ASEAN. In contrast: Indonesia: 41% Vietnam: 66.5% Thailand: 67% This asymmetry in market access has become a key concern for India. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations),GS 3(Economy) Trade Imbalance Concerns over 15 years: Exports to ASEAN doubled. But imports from ASEAN tripled. This growing trade deficit has fueled India’s demand for a review of the agreement. Review Efforts and Deadlock Despite 9 meetings since Feb 2024, no tangible progress in the review. ASEAN seen as stonewalling reforms, resisting changes to existing terms. China Angle: Rules of Origin Violation India has flagged indirect Chinese imports via ASEAN: ASEAN nations allegedly import cheap, subsidised Chinese raw materials, process them minimally, then re-export to India. Violates spirit of free trade and may amount to trade circumvention.  Strategic and Economic Implications Delay in review hurts Indian manufacturing and domestic industry competitiveness. Weak rules of origin enforcement undermines Atmanirbhar Bharat goals. India’s trade strategy faces a credibility test: balancing openness with protection. Way Forward India may need to: Push for stricter rules of origin and safeguard clauses. Explore bilateral tracks with key ASEAN nations. Use WTO-compatible tools to counter trade diversion.

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