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Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 18 April 2025

Content: Are Indian startups not scaling up on innovation? Is the once-extinct dire wolf back? How can V2G technology help India’s power sector? Prisons plagued by lack of medical, mental health professionals: report Environment Ministry must roll back order on desulphurising coal plants’ Scientists using James Webb telescope find ‘strongest sign of life’ on alien planet Making primary health care visible, accessible and affordable Are Indian startups not scaling up on innovation? Context : Startups in India are increasingly venturing into deep-tech sectors like AI, blockchain, and electric mobility, which shows a focus on higher-order innovation beyond basic services like grocery delivery. However, despite this interest, many startups face challenges in scaling up their innovations due to higher capital requirements and the early-stage risks involved. Relevance : GS 3(Economic Development) Capital and Risk in Deep-Tech Startups: Deep-tech startups require significant capital in their initial phases, and this is often not available from early-stage funding sources. While government schemes like the Startup India Seed Fund provide some support, they often fall short in meeting the higher funding needs for scaling deep-tech innovations. There is a need for private sector investments to complement initial government funding, especially in high-risk, high-capital sectors. Venture Capital and Innovation: Venture capitalists have shifted focus from e-commerce-driven innovations to deep-tech fields. Investment trends indicate a growing interest in AI, blockchain, and electric mobility, reflecting a broader definition of innovation. Successful innovation, from an investor’s perspective, involves not only the novelty of the technology but also its commercial viability and ability to solve real market needs. Growth of Startups in India: India has seen a significant rise in the number of startups, with thousands of new companies emerging across diverse sectors. This growth has been fueled by government initiatives and increased availability of capital, both equity and debt. While larger companies often attract more funding, there is potential for smaller startups to benefit from increased access to risk capital and a more supportive ecosystem. Challenges in Scaling Startups: One key challenge is the distribution of funding—should government and venture capital focus on a large number of small startups or provide significant support to a few larger ventures that have the potential for large-scale impact? The current model tends to favor smaller amounts of funding across many startups, but larger, more concentrated funding could help scale up the most promising innovations. Barriers to Growth: Bureaucracy and regulatory processes remain a challenge for many startups, hindering their ability to operate smoothly and efficiently. Simplifying administrative processes and ensuring better implementation of supportive policies can help alleviate some of these operational hurdles. Inclusivity in Startups: The initial wave of tech-driven startups primarily catered to urban and upper-middle-class consumers, leading to concerns about inclusivity. To truly scale, startups need to focus on addressing the needs of a broader, more diverse population, including rural and underserved markets. Keys to Success for Startups: Continuous innovation and strong corporate governance are essential for startups aiming to grow and sustain their businesses. Building foundational products that can create lasting value is crucial for achieving long-term success. Success stories like Freshworks, which listed on NASDAQ, show the potential for Indian startups to make a global impact if they scale up effectively. Conclusion: Indian startups are innovating in multiple sectors, but scaling up remains a significant challenge. High capital requirements, access to funding, and bureaucratic obstacles need to be addressed to enable deeper technological innovation and broader market impact. Is the once-extinct dire wolf back? Overview of the Technology: Colossal Biosciences recently announced the successful “resurrection” of the extinct dire wolf (Aenocyon dirus) using the genome of the gray wolf (Canis lupus). The company claimed the birth of three pups, genetically modified to closely resemble the dire wolf, a predator that vanished over 12,000 years ago. The genetic editing involved precise alterations across 20 loci in the gray wolf genome to recreate key characteristics such as size and fur color of the extinct species. Relevance : GS 3(Science ,Technology) Scientific Basis and Limitations: The genomes of the two species are 99.94% identical, with only a 0.06% difference. This small genetic gap still corresponds to 1.47 million base pairs. Despite the high genetic similarity, the modified gray wolf pups are not true dire wolves. The genetic edits made are mainly cosmetic, affecting traits like size and fur color, which implies the current animals are more like modified gray wolves than resurrected dire wolves. Genetic reclassification: Some studies suggest dire wolves were not true wolves but part of a distinct evolutionary lineage, adding further complexity to the claim of resurrection. De-Extinction Debate: Ecological Risks: While the idea of bringing back extinct species like the woolly mammoth or dire wolf seems intriguing, the modern environment has drastically changed. Ecosystems today are fragmented and human-altered, making the reintroduction of ancient species potentially harmful. These species might struggle to survive or disrupt existing ecosystems. Ethical and Practical Concerns: There are fundamental issues with whether de-extinct species can thrive in the current world. The ecosystems and ecological roles these species once occupied have evolved, and reintroducing them could lead to unforeseen ecological consequences. Conservation Priorities: The focus should arguably be on preserving existing species rather than focusing resources on reviving extinct ones. Claims of de-extinction could detract from urgent conservation efforts and may influence policymakers to divert attention from protecting endangered species in favor of high-profile projects. The Larger Picture of Conservation: Colossal’s mission aims to “secure the health and biodiversity of the planet” by reintroducing extinct species, but critics argue this could exacerbate environmental issues rather than solve them. Historical evidence shows that species like the dire wolf likely went extinct due to changes in prey availability and climate shifts at the end of the Ice Age. A shift in conservation strategies toward preserving existing ecosystems may be more beneficial in addressing current biodiversity crises than focusing on the resurrection of species no longer adapted to modern conditions. Key Takeaways: Ecological Concerns: Reintroducing extinct species into modern ecosystems could lead to unintended consequences. Genetic Modifications: While Colossal Biosciences’ work is groundbreaking, the genetic modifications made to create “dire wolves” are still far from replicating the original species. Conservation Priorities: Focusing on protecting and restoring current ecosystems and species should take precedence over reviving extinct ones. How can V2G technology help India’s power sector? What is V2G Technology? Definition: Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) is a technology that enables Electric Vehicles (EVs) to send power back to the electricity grid. This is possible when an EV is connected to a bi-directional charger. Functionality: When EVs are idle (not in use), their batteries can act as decentralized energy storage systems. V2G allows for the discharging of stored energy from EVs back to the grid to stabilize supply and demand, especially during peak times. Types: The key uses include V2G, Vehicle-to-Home (V2H), and Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V), with V2G being the most common for grid support. Relevance : GS 3(Technology , Energy) Global Status of V2G Mature Markets: In regions like the U.K. and the Netherlands, V2G has already been implemented, where EV owners are incentivized to send excess power back to the grid during peak hours. Incentives and Market Mechanisms: In places like California, EV users contribute to grid stability, particularly during fluctuations in renewable energy generation, and are compensated for this service. Distributed Energy: EVs serve as a form of decentralized energy storage, becoming a critical resource for grid support during emergencies or natural disasters. V2G in India: Current Scenario Nascent Stage: While the concept of V2G has gained momentum in mature EV markets, India is still in the early stages of integrating V2G technology into the power grid. Focus Areas: EV charging infrastructure planning is a major priority in response to the growing number of EVs on the roads. Pilot projects are being initiated by Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) for smart charging, with a focus on V2G integration. Challenges: India’s electricity market structure is different from countries like the U.S. and Europe, and is not yet conducive to decentralized solutions like V2G. The current grid system faces challenges due to the variable nature of renewable energy and the imbalance between supply and demand. Key Project: KSEB-IIT Bombay Collaboration Kerala’s EV Adoption: Kerala is seeing rapid adoption of EVs, which has raised concerns about increasing electricity demand, particularly during peak hours in the evening. Project Focus: The KSEB-IIT Bombay project aims to assess the ability of EVs to provide support to the grid, particularly during periods of peak demand when renewable solar energy is unavailable. The collaboration will explore V2G as a means to utilize EVs as decentralized energy resources and ensure a stable supply to the grid. Potential Benefits for India’s Power Sector Grid Stability: V2G can enhance grid reliability by acting as a distributed storage solution. This becomes critical for balancing grid demand, especially during peak hours or when renewable energy generation is low. Renewable Energy Integration: EVs can help integrate renewable energy sources like solar and wind by storing excess energy and providing it to the grid when needed, thus reducing the intermittency of renewable power. Support to the Energy Transition: The deployment of V2G could facilitate India’s transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy system, supporting both the growing adoption of EVs and the country’s renewable energy targets. Prisons plagued by lack of medical, mental health professionals: report Overview of the Issue: India’s prison system faces severe overcrowding, with the national average occupancy rate exceeding 131%. This leads to a projection of India’s prison inmate population reaching 6.8 lakh by 2030, against a capacity of just 5.15 lakh. The overcrowding exacerbates multiple health challenges, both physical and mental, for inmates. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues) Health Staffing Crisis: Mental Health Care Shortage: There is a critical shortage of mental health professionals, with only 25 psychologists for the entire nation’s prisoners. The number of prisoners diagnosed with mental illnesses has nearly doubled from 4,470 in 2012 to 9,084 in 2022, yet the mental health care response remains insufficient. The absence of psychologists and psychiatrists in most states further highlights the disparity in the mental health services available in prisons. Medical Staff Deficiency: The report reveals that 43% of medical officer positions in prisons are vacant. The prescribed prisoner–doctor ratio according to the model prison manual (2016) is 300:1, but the actual national average is 775 prisoners per doctor, far surpassing the benchmark. This lack of adequate healthcare staffing contributes to the worsening health conditions of inmates, especially in overcrowded prisons where basic healthcare services are stretched thin. Overcrowding and Health Risks: Overcrowding not only makes it difficult to provide adequate medical care but also increases the transmission of communicable diseases within prisons. Lack of proper space and sanitation, along with a shortage of healthcare personnel, makes the situation even more dire, increasing the vulnerability of inmates to health issues. Key Gaps in Mental Health and Disability Care: Psychiatric Support: The significant shortage of psychologists and psychiatrists is alarming. As per the India Justice Report, no state or union territory meets the benchmark of one psychologist or psychiatrist per 500 inmates. The country’s prison population (5.7 lakh inmates in 2022) is only supported by 69 sanctioned positions for mental health professionals, of which less than half are filled. This gap in mental health services leads to inadequate care for those suffering from mental health disorders, contributing to worsened conditions and recidivism rates. Disability Support: The report points to a lack of health data regarding prisoners who enter jails with disabilities or develop disabilities during their incarceration. The absence of a robust mechanism to monitor and address the needs of disabled prisoners underlines a broader issue of neglect in providing comprehensive care to vulnerable inmate populations. Long-term Implications: If the prison system does not address the shortage of medical and mental health professionals, the lack of proper care could further degrade the mental and physical health of inmates, potentially worsening recidivism rates. Overcrowded prisons with insufficient healthcare infrastructure may also fuel public health crises, with outbreaks of diseases potentially spilling over into the broader community. Recommendations for Reform: Increase Investment in Healthcare Staffing: Immediate steps should be taken to increase the recruitment of medical professionals, including doctors, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Additionally, training programs to build capacity for dealing with the unique mental health and medical needs of prisoners should be prioritized. Strengthen Health Data Collection and Management: Establishing robust health data systems to track the health conditions of prisoners, especially those with disabilities or mental illnesses, will ensure better-targeted interventions. Address Overcrowding: Addressing the root cause of overcrowding by improving prison infrastructure and exploring alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders could alleviate some of the health burdens currently experienced in the system. ‘Environment Ministry must roll back order on desulphurising coal plants’ Context: A recent study commissioned by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser suggests that the Union Environment Ministry should roll back its 2015 mandate requiring all coal-fired power plants to install Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) units. The recommendation is based on India’s coal sulphur content, emissions behavior, and the cost-benefit analysis of FGD installations. Relevance :GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Key Points from the Study: FGD Mandate (2015): All 537 coal-based power plants in India were mandated to installFGD units by 2018 to control Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) emissions. Compliance is extremely poor: only 8% of plants have installed FGDs. Deadlines now extended to 2027-2029 based on plant categories. Cost Implications: ₹1.2 crore per MW to install FGD. For the current 218 GW coal capacity, estimated cost is massive. Would increase freshwater use and power consumption within the plants. Emission Composition: 92% of Indian coal has low sulphur content (0.3%-0.5%). SO₂ disperses due to tall chimneys (220m+) and Indian climatic conditions. Acid rain is “not a significant issue” in India per IIT-Delhi (2024). Environmental Trade-Off: FGD installation (2025-30) would: Cut SO₂ by 17 million tonnes. But emit 69 million tonnes of CO₂ additionally. SO₂ has a cooling effect (masks global warming by ~0.5°C): IPCC insight cited. Arguments for Rollback: Localized emissions impact is limited due to stack height and weather. Huge capital & operational costs, with low marginal gain in Indian context. Resource intensity (water, electricity) contradicts sustainability goals. Emission reduction vs. climate warming acceleration via increased CO₂ is counterproductive. Arguments Against Rollback: SO₂ still a hazardous pollutant, linked to respiratory illnesses. Health externalities (not quantified here) might outweigh costs. Potential rise in imported/high-sulphur coal in future. Sends weak signals on environmental regulation compliance. International commitments under Paris Agreement may require tighter norms.  Policy Implications: A selective FGD mandate for high-sulphur or imported coal-based plants may be more viable. Reassess environment vs. climate trade-offs using region-specific pollution data. Explore alternative technologies or hybrid emission controls. Balance between economic, health, and climate objectives is crucial. Scientists using James Webb telescope find ‘strongest sign of life’ on alien planet Context: Astrophysical Discovery: Using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), scientists have detected dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) in the atmosphere of K2-18 b, a planet 120 light-years away in the constellation Leo. These gases are biosignatures on Earth, typically produced by marine phytoplankton and other microbial life. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology) Highlights: Biosignature Detection: DMS and DMDS are only known to be produced biologically on Earth. Their detection in an exoplanet’s atmosphere marks a significant potential sign of extraterrestrial microbial life. Nature of the Exoplanet – K2-18 b: Super-Earth: Mass is 8.6 times that of Earth, diameter is 2.6 times larger. Lies in the habitable zone of its star (where liquid water could exist). Considered a Hycean world – a class of planets with hydrogen-rich atmospheres and water-rich surfaces. Scientific Caution: Researchers emphasize this is not a confirmation of life, but a possible biosignature. Further data and peer verification needed to rule out abiotic (non-living) sources of these gases. Significance: Breakthrough in Astrobiology: Marks a shift towards observational astrobiology — the study of life in the universe through direct observation of planets. Opens avenues for targeted searches for life on exoplanets with similar atmospheric chemistry. Role of James Webb Space Telescope: JWST’s advanced spectroscopic capabilities allow chemical analysis of distant planetary atmospheres. Reinforces the technological leap in space observation. Broader Implications: May influence future space exploration priorities. Could shape astroethics, interstellar communication policies, and planetary protection protocols. Making primary health care visible, accessible and affordable Context The National Health Accounts (NHA) 2021–22 reveal marginal increases in public healthcare expenditure, even as India faces complex public health challenges like NCDs, AMR, and mental health issues. This necessitates reforms for a holistic, trusted, and accessible public health system. Relevance : GS 2(Health ,Governance) Key Issues in India’s Public Health System Emerging Challenges: Rise in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) (60%+ of deaths globally). Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), zoonotic outbreaks, and mental health concerns. Urbanisation, lifestyle changes, and environmental factors affecting health-seeking behaviour. Structural Gaps: Marginal rise in public health expenditure (as per NHA 2021–22). High reliance on private sector for healthcare due to better infrastructure and trust. Persistent out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPHE) though declining. Government Initiatives Ayushman Bharat (2018): Three components— PM-JAY: ₹5 lakh health insurance for economically weaker sections. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs): Focus on primary health care through 1.75 lakh+ operational Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) offering holistic care. PM-ABHIM (2021): Strengthening public health infrastructure for long-term resilience. National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS): Based on ISQua benchmarks. Emphasises patient rights, infection control, clinical care, and overall service quality. National Health Mission (NHM): Complements State efforts for rural and urban health care development. Concerns Highlighted Trust Deficit: Public preference for private healthcare due to perceived better quality and consistency. Trust in healthcare affects health-seeking behaviour and service utilisation. Visibility and Experience: Absence of user experience metrics in current data reporting. Need to publicly publish findings to build community confidence. Basic Infrastructure ≠ High Quality: As per Lancet Global Health Commission, merely having physical infrastructure doesn’t guarantee quality. Need systems that are responsive, valued, and outcome-oriented. Way Forward Revise Public Health Standards: Shift focus from Indian Public Health Standards (2007) to NQAS-based upgrades. Build Trust through Transparency: Collect and disseminate user experience and satisfaction data. Enable citizen feedback mechanisms for accountability. Strengthen Primary Healthcare: Expand AAMs with community engagement and continuous care (preventive to palliative). Promote health literacy and behavioural change programs. Integrated, Holistic Approach: Address social determinants of health (sanitation, nutrition, education, environment). Adopt a “One Health” approach for zoonotic and AMR challenges. Increase Public Health Spending: Aim for the National Health Policy 2017 target of 2.5% of GDP on health. Prelims Pointers Catastrophic Health Expenditure (CHO) – WHO defines it as OOPHE >40% of the capacity to pay. PM-JAY – World’s largest government-funded health insurance scheme. NQAS – Based on ISQua standards; ensures quality across 8 domains.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 17 April 2025

Context: India poised to become a trusted bridge of global connectivity through India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): Shri Piyush Goyal Ministry of Mines Issues Guidelines for Setting up of Centres of Excellence Under the National Critical Mineral Mission India poised to become a trusted bridge of global connectivity through India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): Shri Piyush Goyal Overview of IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor) Envisioned as a modern-day Silk Route with strategic geopolitical and economic significance. Aims to link India, the Middle East, and Europe via integrated infrastructure (rail, road, energy pipelines, undersea cables). Part of broader Indo-West Asia-Europe cooperation, aligning with India’s Act West policy. Positions India as a reliable bridge connecting Asia, Europe, Middle East, and potentially Africa, under the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) ,GS 3(Economy , Infrastructure)  Strategic Significance Bridges East and West: Enhances connectivity from Southeast Asia through the Gulf to Central and East Europe. Cultural Diplomacy: Not just a trade initiative, but also a civilizational and cultural connector. Access to Africa: Potential to extend trade linkages to Africa via Middle Eastern nodes. Economic & Trade Impact Reduces logistics costs by up to 30%, and transportation time by 40%. Boosts global trade efficiency, supply chain reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Supports clean energy infrastructure, promoting energy security and green growth. Infrastructure Components Multimodal: Railways, roadways, energy pipelines, undersea cables, EV infrastructure. Clean Energy Focus: India exploring energy transmission partnerships with Singapore, UAE, Saudi Arabia. Digital infrastructure: Enabling digital trade corridors and interoperable systems. Political and Diplomatic Dimensions Sovereignty-respecting model: Not a coercive economic bloc but a voluntary and inclusive framework. Trust-based partnership: Promotes mutual respect, sovereignty, and equality among nations. Counters China’s BRI narrative through transparent, sustainable development. Five Strategic Suggestions by Shri Piyush Goyal PPP-led Implementation Private sector to lead with innovation, flexibility, and efficiency. Encourages cost-effective, practical planning and execution. Regulatory Connectivity Harmonization of customs, trade processes, and digital systems. Suggests using India’s UPI as a model for cross-border payments. Promotes virtual trade corridors, building on the India-UAE digital corridor. Innovative Financing Calls for multilateral agency involvement, green bonds, and ‘IMEC Bonds’. Seeks sustainable long-term funding to support infrastructure and trade. Industry Collaboration Role of industry bodies and trade associations is crucial. Can help identify practical bottlenecks, improve policy fit, and share best practices. Think Tanks & Academia Involvement Supports policy research, innovation, and capacity-building. Encourages academic-policy-industry synergy to shape long-term vision and sustainability. Sustainability & Innovation Focus Strong emphasis on green logistics, clean energy integration, and digital platforms. Envisions decarbonized trade routes, long-term economic and environmental resilience. Ministry of Mines Issues Guidelines for Setting up of Centres of Excellence Under the National Critical Mineral Mission Context & Importance Definition: Critical minerals are essential raw materials with high economic importance and supply risk, crucial for advanced technologies like electronics, renewable energy, electric vehicles, aerospace, and defense. Examples: Lithium, Cobalt, Graphite, Nickel, Rare Earth Elements (REEs), Titanium, Tungsten — vital for batteries, magnets, semiconductors, and clean tech. India’s NCMM aims to ensure supply chain security, technological self-reliance, and strategic autonomy in critical raw materials. R&D and technology development are key pillars to elevate Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) and reduce import dependence. Relevance : GS 3(Economy & Infrastructure) Objective of the Guidelines Establish Centres of Excellence (CoEs) as national hubs for advanced R&D in critical minerals. Drive end-to-end solutions from extraction to beneficiation and pre-commercial demonstration (up to TRL 7/8). Promote technology innovation, reduce supply vulnerability, and build domestic capacity. Geopolitical & Strategic Dimension Critical minerals are the new oil in the era of energy transition — essential for EVs, batteries, solar panels, semiconductors. China’s dominance (e.g., in rare earths) poses a strategic threat; India needs to build resilience and independence in critical mineral supply chains. CoEs can help India counter mineral dependency through Atmanirbhar Bharat. Structure & Model CoEs to function in a Hub-and-Spoke model: Hub Institute: Central node (leading R&D institution). Spokes: At least two industry partners + two R&D/academic partners. This model ensures collaboration, resource sharing, and multidisciplinary innovation. Scope of R&D Work Focus on: Extraction & beneficiation technologies Processing from diverse sources Sustainable mining methods Technology demonstration for scale-up Enable India to develop high TRL solutions for domestic deployment and potential exports. Strategic Goals Build competency centers with global standards. Encourage multidisciplinary and transformative research. Position India as a tech leader in critical mineral processing. Integrate industry, academia, and research institutions for outcome-based collaboration. Implementation Ministry will soon call for proposals from eligible institutions. Recognized CoEs will be selected based on prescribed eligibility and evaluation criteria.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 17 April 2025

Context: Good news, and bad Monsoon anticipation  Good news, and bad Context : Decline in Retail Inflation: India’s retail inflation has dropped to 3.34% in March 2025, marking the lowest level in nearly six years. This decrease suggests that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to reduce its repo rate further in upcoming Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meetings. The RBI has already reduced the repo rate twice (by 25 basis points each in February and April), from 6.5% to 6%, signaling a focus on stimulating economic growth. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy ) Practice Question : Highlight the role of monetary policy in stimulating economic growth during low inflationary periods. What are its limitations in a rural agrarian economy like India? (250 words) Food Inflation Eases: Food inflation, which had surged to 10.87% in October 2024, has fallen to 2.69% in March 2025. The reduction in food inflation is attributed to significant declines in vegetable prices (-7.04%), eggs (-3.16%), and pulses (-2.73%). Impact of Rate Cuts: Lower interest rates are expected to reduce the cost of borrowing for businesses, which may boost investments, job creation, incomes, and consumption in the economy. Potential for Increased Domestic Consumption: Easing inflation could stimulate domestic demand, particularly in the context of sluggish industrial production. With reduced food prices, consumers may have more disposable income, which can lead to higher consumption. Bad News: Negative Impact on Farmers’ Incomes: The sharp decline in food prices, particularly vegetables, is a cause for concern as it leads to a reduction in farmers’ incomes. In places like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, farmers have faced steep losses, with prices of tomatoes dropping to as low as ₹1/kg, leading some to abandon their produce or feed it to cattle. Post-Harvest Losses: India’s post-harvest losses are alarmingly high, with an estimated₹1.52 trillion worth of crops wasted annually due to inadequate cold storage and transport facilities. This problem is exacerbated by market inaccessibility for small farmers, particularly those with less than two hectares of land (86% of Indian farmers). Low Farmer Incomes: Despite rural consumption improving since the COVID-19 pandemic, average monthly agricultural household income remains low at₹13,661 (according to NABARD’s 2021-22 survey), far below that in other emerging economies like China, Mexico, and Brazil. The disparity between rural and urban consumption expenditure is stark, with rural areas spending₹4,122 per capita per month in fiscal 2024, compared to ₹6,996 in urban areas, highlighting the income gap. Impact on Rural Consumption Demand: Falling food prices and low incomes are negatively impacting rural consumption, which is a key driver of domestic demand. Policymakers must address these concerns to avoid a downturn in rural demand, which could counteract the positive effects of reduced inflation. Key Concerns for Policymakers: Ensuring Farmer Welfare: While inflation reduction benefits consumers, it is critical that the government introduces measures to safeguard farmer incomes and ensure rural prosperity. Post-Harvest Infrastructure: Expanding cold storage facilities and improving market access for farmers is crucial to reduce post-harvest losses and improve farmer profitability. Addressing Rural-Urban Consumption Gap: Bridging the gap between rural and urban consumption through targeted economic policies, increased investments in rural infrastructure, and enhanced social safety nets could stimulate rural demand. Export Slowdown Impact: As export growth is expected to slow, the government must focus on boosting domestic consumption, particularly in rural areas, to maintain economic momentum. Conclusion: While India is experiencing a positive trend in retail inflation, which could support growth, the government must address the challenges faced by farmers, including low incomes and post-harvest losses, to ensure long-term rural economic stability and consumption demand. Monsoon Anticipation Context : Monsoon Forecast Overview: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) projects above-normal rainfall (5% more than the historical average of 87 cm) for the monsoon season from June to September. This would mark a second consecutive year of above-normal rains, following an 8% increase in rainfall last year. While the forecast is promising for agricultural production, particularly kharif crops, it also comes with challenges. Relevance : GS 1(Geography) Practice Question : Discuss the socio-economic implications of above-normal monsoon rainfall in India. Examine both opportunities and challenges. (250 words) Impact on Agriculture: Kharif Crops: Above-normal rainfall is expected to positively impact kharif sowing, which is crucial for improving grain stocks and ensuring reserve stocks for exports. Pulses Procurement: The government aims to procure pulses at minimum support prices to reduce imports. Pulses, being more land-intensive, require good rainfall for a healthy harvest, making the anticipated monsoon critical for this sector. Monsoon Forecasting Methodology: The IMD employs a two-stage forecasting system: an initial forecast in April, followed by an updated forecast in mid-May, which provides additional details on rainfall distribution. Forecast Accuracy: While forecasts are regularly updated, the accuracy of predictions is limited by meteorological science and computational tools, meaning that early predictions may not entirely reflect the actual outcomes. Factors Favoring a Positive Monsoon: El Niño Absence: This year, there is certainty that El Niño will not occur. El Niño typically causes weak monsoons, so its absence is a positive indicator for rainfall prospects. Eurasian Snow Cover: The snow cover in the northern hemisphere (January-March 2025) was below normal, which, according to IMD meteorologists, has an inverse relationship with monsoon rainfall. Lower snow cover generally correlates with higher monsoon rainfall. Uncertainty in Oceanic Parameters: The IMD’s weather models simulate oceanic and atmospheric conditions to forecast the monsoon. However, this year, oceanic parameters (apart from El Niño) do not provide clear indications about the monsoon’s behavior. Local factors like cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea will likely have a more significant impact on the monsoon’s development. Climate Change and Extreme Weather: Past Flooding and Landslides: Years with above-normal rainfall have been associated with extreme weather events like flooding and landslides. The increasing severity of such events due to global warming adds an additional layer of concern. Case Study: The 2024 Wayanad disaster in Kerala, which resulted in at least 200 deaths and widespread displacement, highlights the risks associated with heavy rainfall. Such events may become more frequent and intense in the future. Need for Preparedness: Despite the positive outlook for rainfall, the government and state authorities must focus on enhancing disaster preparedness. Adequate infrastructure and disaster management systems should be in place to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events, ensuring that the benefits of above-normal rainfall do not come at the cost of human lives and property. Flood management, early warning systems, and efficient relief mechanisms are critical to minimize the damage from potential disasters. Conclusion: While the anticipated above-normal rainfall is beneficial for agriculture and food security, it brings with it the risk of extreme weather events. India must prepare for both the positive and negative consequences of a strong monsoon, ensuring that the focus remains on infrastructure and preparedness to protect vulnerable communities from the impacts of flooding and landslides.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 17 April 2025

Content : Waqf-by-user denotification would be ‘huge problem’: SC Call for permanent settlement for tribals Five military personnel get MacGregor medals Urdu is the finest specimen of composite cultural ethos of India, says Supreme Court India’s trade deficit with China widens to record $99.2 billion Does AI still hallucinate or is it becoming more reliable? Waqf-by-user denotification would be ‘huge problem’: SC Background Context Waqf refers to a permanent dedication of property by a Muslim for religious, pious, or charitable purposes recognized under Islamic law. Waqf-by-user is a long-standing category where usage and public perception over centuries determine Waqf status, even without formal registration or title deeds. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Key Provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 Under Challenge Denotification of Waqf-by-user: Act removes legal recognition for Waqf-by-user category. Non-Muslims in Waqf bodies: Permits appointment of non-Muslims to administrative bodies like Central Waqf Council. State authority: Empowers state officials to determine whether a property is Waqf or government-owned. Supreme Court Proceedings Highlights (April 16, 2025) Around 100 petitions heard together. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna led a 3-judge Bench. Three-Point Interim Relief Proposed by the CJI Protection of Judicially Recognised Waqf Properties Properties already declared as Waqf by courts (including Waqf-by-user) not to be denotified temporarily. Covers those without registration or deed (e.g., Jama Masjid, Delhi). Review of Property Status Can Continue Government officers may continue to assess Waqf vs. government property. But freeze on using such properties as non-Waqf in the meantime may be stayed. Conditional Inclusion of Non-Muslims Non-Muslims maybeincluded as ex-officio members in Waqf bodies. Provided majority of other members remain Muslims, preserving religious representation. Judicial Philosophy General Non-Intervention in Legislation: Court respects Parliament’s law-making power. But exceptional circumstances (e.g., rights, historical injustice) allow judicial scrutiny. Current Status No interim order passed yet. Government requested more time for arguments. Next hearing scheduled for April 17, 2025 (2 PM). Broader Implications Raises questions on constitutional protection of religious and minority rights. Balancing secular state administration with religious autonomy. Legal debate on retrospective invalidation of community-accepted property usage. Call for permanent settlement for tribals Historical Background of Displacement In 2005, ~50,000 Gond tribals were displaced from Chhattisgarh due to the ‘strategic hamleting’ programme (modeled on Vietnam war tactics) to combat Maoists. These tribals were relocated to roadside camps in then-Andhra Pradesh (now Andhra Pradesh and Telangana). This tactic had colonial echoes, having been used in 1949 in Telangana to fight communist revolutionaries by forming “special police constables” from tribals. Relevance : GS 1(Society ,Tribes) Militarisation and Tribal Agency Many displaced tribals, unable to return due to Maoist threats, later joined security forces. Their deep knowledge of terrain, language, and culture made them highly effective — even outperforming paramilitary and non-tribal police. Several Maoists surrendered and also joined these forces. Their contribution is seen as crucial to recent military gains against Maoists in Bastar, aligning with Home Minister Amit Shah’s 2026 deadline to end the insurgency. Lack of Rehabilitation and State Support Despite their role in the state’s counter-insurgency success, these tribals continue to live in legal limbo: No rehabilitation policy, no land rights, and no tribal recognition in the host states. Repeated efforts to secure Forest Rights under Clause 3.1(m) of FRA (2006) have been stalled for years. This clause mandates alternative forest land for those displaced before the cut-off date (Dec 13, 2005). Chhattisgarh government has not processed applications or raised the issue with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana governments refuse to grant tribal status, viewing them as migrants. Bureaucratic and Political Apathy National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) ordered a survey of displaced tribals in 2019 — still incomplete, with excuses like COVID-19. Earlier statements from Chhattisgarh even denied displacement entirely, illustrating official denialism. Unlike the Bru Reang case (2019), where the government offered options and resettlement support, the Gutti Koya tribals have been ignored by both State and Centre. Human Rights Violations and Social Discrimination Displaced tribals face: Atrocities from forest officials and police. Rejection by local tribals, who see them as encroachers. Violent demolitions of homes built in forests. Exclusion from PDS, healthcare, education, and job quotas due to lack of tribal recognition. Inter-generational Crisis Over two decades, a new generation has grown up in AP & Telangana: They are integrated into local economies, prefer staying due to better livelihood opportunities. However, they live without identity security, land tenure, or legal recognition. Pushback by Host States Telangana has taken over tribal farmlands, planting trees to reclaim forest cover. Andhra Pradesh has destroyed shelters built by tribals, effectively pushing them back to Chhattisgarh. Both states provide minimal humanitarian aid, citing lack of legal mandate. Urgent Need for a National Policy on IDPs India lacks a national/international legal framework for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Displaced tribals are stuck in a stateless existence within the Union. There is a growing call for: Permanent resettlement in host states. Tribal recognition and rights under the Constitution and FRA. Intervention by the Union Government, similar to past instances (e.g., Mizoram, Bru crisis). Key Takeaways Strategic militarisation has ironically relied on displaced tribals, yet offered them no socio-legal settlement. The issue highlights deep contradictions in India’s tribal policy — valorising tribals in security discourse but ignoring their civil rights. Permanent rehabilitation is essential not just for justice, but for long-term peace and development in the Red Corridor. Five military personnel get MacGregor medals About the MacGregor Memorial Medal Instituted in 1888 in memory of Maj. Gen. Sir Charles Metcalfe MacGregor, a British military officer known for his reconnaissance and geographical contributions in British India. Awarded annually by the United Service Institution of India (USI). Recognizes exceptional achievements in military reconnaissance, exploration, and adventure. Relevance : GS 3 (Internal Security / Defence) Event Overview Date of Conferment: April 17, 2024. Presenter: General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). Venue: Likely under the aegis of the USI, New Delhi. Honoured a total of five military personnel for 2023 and 2024. Awardees for 2023 Wing Commander D. Panda (Indian Air Force) Likely recognized for aerial reconnaissance or high-altitude operations. Electrical Artificer (Radio) Rahul Kumar Pandey (Indian Navy) Highlights technological or communication-related exploration efforts in naval contexts. Awardees for 2024 Chief Electrical Aircraft Artificer (Radio) Ram Ratan Jat (Indian Navy) Likely recognized for sustained or pioneering technical contributions in naval aviation or maritime missions. Sergeant Jhumar Ram Poonia (Indian Air Force) Recognition possibly related to field communication, surveillance, or remote area operations. Special Mention: Col. Ranvir Singh Jamwal Position: Director, National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), Arunachal Pradesh. Current Activity: On an expedition to Kangchenjunga (3rd highest mountain in the world). Profile: Veteran mountaineer, known for multiple successful summits of Everest, Lhotse, and other peaks. His recognition underlines the synergy of military service and adventure sports as tools of soft power and morale-building. Significance of the Awards Reinforces the Indian military’s commitment to non-combat excellence — mapping, exploration, and national prestige. Encourages technical and physical excellence in challenging terrains — land, sea, and air. Promotes India’s strategic interest in high-altitude warfare training, Arctic/Antarctic expeditions, and border area familiarity. Acts as a morale-booster and showcases the diversity of talent in technical and field roles. Broader Context Comes at a time of increasing emphasis on: High-altitude defence preparedness (LAC tensions with China). Technological integration in field operations (e.g., drones, AI, communication tech). Civil-military synergy in adventure training and national pride. Also reflects India’s increasing participation in global mountaineering circuits and strategic reconnaissance efforts. Urdu is the finest specimen of composite cultural ethos of India, says Supreme Court Context of the Case Case Origin: Appeal was filed against the use of Urdu on the signboard of the Municipal Council, Patur in Akola, Maharashtra. Appellant’s Claim: Urdu signage was “wrong” since Marathi is the official state language. SC Bench: Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Vinod Chandran delivered the judgment. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Key Observations by the Supreme Court Language ≠ Religion It is a “pitiable digression from reality” to associate Hindi with Hindus and Urdu with Muslims. Language is secular in nature: A medium of communication, not a marker of faith. Language represents communities, regions, and cultures, not religions. Cultural and Civilizational Value of Language Language is a yardstick to measure civilisational progress and the evolution of a community. Urdu is the finest example of Ganga-Jamuni tahzeeb — a symbol of India’s composite culture. Ganga-Jamuni tahzeeb: Refers to the syncretic Hindu-Muslim cultural traditions of northern India. Urdu’s Indigenous Roots Urdu is not alien; it was born and nurtured in India. It evolved within the subcontinent’s linguistic ecosystem, alongside Hindi and Marathi. Urdu is a part of the Indo-Aryan language family, like Hindi and Marathi.  Linguistic Similarities between Hindi & Urdu Common Phonology, Syntax, and Grammar: Despite script differences (Devanagari vs Nastaliq), the spoken form is largely the same. Script ≠ Language: Scripts are writing systems, not language identities. The divergence between Hindi and Urdu came from purist influences: Hindi leaned toward Sanskritisation. Urdu absorbed more Persian and Arabic vocabulary. Everyday Hindi spoken by the common man is rich with Urdu terms. Judgment’s Cultural Message Composite Heritage Urdu symbolizes the fusion and harmony between communities. The judgment reasserts India’s pluralistic ethos and linguistic inclusivity. Rejection of Prejudice Misconception of Urdu being foreign is a product of cultural ignorance. Condemns the linguistic prejudices that alienate Urdu from its Indian roots. Wider Implications Policy and Governance Encouragement for inclusive use of regional and minority languages in official domains. Boosts the constitutional values of linguistic diversity under Article 29 and Article 350. Social Harmony Reinforces the idea that language can be a bridge, not a divider. Encourages recognition and respect for shared cultural contributions across communities. Conclusion The Supreme Court’s remarks go beyond legal technicalities and affirm India’s syncretic identity. The judgment upholds constitutional secularism and celebrates linguistic heritage as a unifying cultural force. India’s trade deficit with China widens to record $99.2 billion Context : Magnitude of the Trade Deficit India’s trade deficit with China reached an all-time high of $99.2 billion in FY 2024-25. This marks a sharp increase from previous years, reflecting rising imports and stagnant exports. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) ,GS 3(Indian Economy) Composition of Imports from China Electronics & Consumer Durables were the major drivers of imports. Includes smartphones, telecom equipment, laptops, televisions, etc. Other key import items: Machinery, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), chemicals, and auto components. Reflects continued dependency on Chinese manufacturing despite efforts like Atmanirbhar Bharat. Stagnant Indian Exports Indian exports to China have not kept pace with rising imports. Major exports include iron ore, organic chemicals, cotton, and seafood. Limited value-added products in export basket limits India’s leverage. China’s non-tariff barriers and selective import practices further restrict Indian access to Chinese markets. Geopolitical Context Comes amid U.S. tariff hikes on Chinese goods under President Trump’s policy. The 90-day pause on tariffs for countries like India may cause: Trade diversion: Chinese firms redirecting goods to Indian and other Asian markets. Flooding of cheap Chinese products into India, further worsening the deficit. Raises concerns over dumping practices and economic over-dependence. Economic and Strategic Implications for India Widening trade imbalance puts pressure on India’s current account deficit (CAD). Heightens the urgency to: Boost domestic manufacturing through PLI schemes. Reduce critical import dependency, especially in tech and pharma sectors. Strategic concerns: High import reliance on an adversarial neighbor weakens economic resilience. Policy Response and Way Forward Need for targeted trade diversification: Strengthen ties with ASEAN, EU, Africa, and Latin America. Enhance domestic supply chains and infrastructure to attract investments. Consider tariff and non-tariff barriers to prevent unfair dumping. Promote export competitiveness via innovation, branding, and trade facilitation. Does AI still hallucinate or is it becoming more reliable? Current State of AI Hallucination Hallucination persists: Despite improvements, AI models like ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overviews still hallucinate—i.e., produce factually incorrect or absurd outputs. Example incidents: Google’s AI told users to add glue to pizza sauce or eat rocks—clearly fabricated answers. DALL-E generated images with elephants when explicitly asked for a room with no elephants. Relevance : GS 3(Technology) Why Do AI Models Hallucinate? Statistical reasoning, not understanding: AI doesn’t “understand” language. It uses statistical associations, so it struggles with abstract concepts like negation (e.g., “no elephants”). Data limitation: Lack of training data on rare or negative queries contributes to these failures. Conceptual connections: Hallucinations arise with queries needing complex reasoning or novel concept connections. Training-testing gap: AI may perform well during testing but fail in real-world scenarios if it was never exposed to similar queries during training. Defining AI Reliability Two criteria: Consistency: Ability to give similar outputs for similar inputs. Factuality: Providing accurate information, including acknowledging ignorance when unsure. Hallucination compromises factuality: AI may confidently state false information instead of admitting uncertainty.  Empirical Evidence of Hallucination A 2023 study showed: ChatGPT-3.5 had 55% hallucinated references. ChatGPT-4 reduced this to 18%, but hallucinations remained. Challenges to AI Reliability Benchmark manipulation: Some AI models might perform better on benchmarks by being trained on test data (“data leakage”). Real-world drop: Good performance in benchmarks doesn’t always translate to real-life accuracy. Strategies to Reduce Hallucinations Band-aid training: Newer models are trained with more examples where earlier models failed. Example: Spotting failure patterns and fine-tuning with better data. Limitation: Reactive, not preventive. Specialised AI models: Small Language Models (SLMs) are trained for specific tasks. Example: Microsoft’s Orca 2 excels at math, reasoning, and summarisation. Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG): AI refers to specific external sources (e.g., Wikipedia) for factual queries. Reduces hallucinations by anchoring outputs to trusted databases. Curriculum learning: AI is trained from simple to complex problems, mimicking human learning. Helps improve performance over random data exposure. Limitations of Current Solutions No absolute fix: Even the best techniques can’t guarantee hallucination-free AI. Need for verification: Ongoing necessity of human oversight and fact-checking systems to ensure output reliability. Trend: Becoming More Reliable (But Not Fully) Reduced hallucination in newer versions: Especially for common queries due to expanded training data. Persistent problem for uncommon/complex inputs. Expert Opinion Summary Sarawagi (IIT-B): AI’s hallucination is like a “band-aid” fix; models still can’t say “I don’t know.” Chatterjee (IIT-D): AI can’t be fully reliable without real-time global knowledge access. Kar (IIT-D): General models like ChatGPT may never eliminate hallucination entirely. Consensus: Targeted models and smarter training help, but verification systems are crucial. Conclusion  AI is becoming more reliable, especially for routine and common queries.  But hallucinations still exist, especially in complex, negative, or niche queries.  The field is progressing, but perfect reliability requires structural changes—and human oversight remains essential.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 16 April 2025

Content: NITI Aayog launches Report on ‘Unlocking $25+ Billion Export Potential – India’s Hand & Power Tools Sector’ Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs) NITI Aayog launches Report on ‘Unlocking $25+ Billion Export Potential – India’s Hand & Power Tools Sector’ Context : India’s hand and power tools sector holds immense untapped potential in the global market. NITI Aayog’s latest report charts a strategic roadmap to boost exports to $25+ billion by 2035, transforming India into a global manufacturing hub. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy & Infrastructure) Hand & Power Tools Sector Hand tools are manually operated tools like hammers and screwdrivers used for basic tasks. Power tools are electrically or mechanically powered tools like drills and grinders, used for faster, precision work. Sector Overview and Global Context Global Market Size (Current): ~$100 billion (Hand tools: $34B; Power tools: $63B). Projected Global Market (2035): ~$190 billion (Hand tools: $60B; Power tools: $134B). Dominant Player: China – holds ~50% of hand tools and ~40% of power tools export market. India’s Current Share: Hand tools exports: ~$600 million (1.8% global share). Power tools exports: ~$470 million (0.7% global share). India’s Target Vision (2035) Export Goal: $25+ billion over the next 10 years. Job Creation: ~35 lakh jobs. Market Share Aspirations: 25% in global hand tools market. 10% in global power tools market. National Strategy Goal: Elevate India as a high-quality, reliable global manufacturing hub, aligned with Make in India and Viksit Bharat @ 2047. Key Challenges Identified Cost Disadvantage: India faces a 14-17% cost disadvantage vs. China. Reasons: High cost of key inputs: steel, plastic, electric motors. Labour productivity issues: capped overtime, higher costs. Elevated interest and inland logistics costs. Low Scale & Fragmented Production: MSME-dominated sector lacks economies of scale. Regulatory Burdens: Restrictive Quality Control Orders (QCOs). Complicated import duties and EPCG (Export Promotion Capital Goods) norms. Complex AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) requirements. Inflexible labour laws and real estate/building regulations. Three-Tiered Intervention Strategy Proposed  World-Class Hand Tool Clusters Infrastructure Investment: 3–4 clusters aggregating ~4,000 acres. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with plug-and-play readiness. Facilities: worker housing, logistics connectivity, convention centers. Goal: Enable scale, reduce transaction costs, enhance productivity.  Market & Policy Reforms Input Cost Reduction: Rationalise import duties on raw materials (steel, plastic, motors). Ease of Business: Simplify EPCG and AEO procedures. Reduce harsh penalties like interest on defaults. Structural Reforms: Amend labour laws for flexible hours and productivity. Reform land/building regulations to promote industrial construction. Bridge Cost Support (Conditional) Fiscal Requirement: If reforms delay: Rs. 8,000 crore support estimated. RoI Perspective: Considered an investment, expected to yield 2-3x in tax revenues in 5 years. Existing Support Schemes: RoDTEP, Duty Drawbacks sufficient if structural reforms succeed. Strategic Importance of the Sector Enabler of Global Manufacturing: Tools are foundational to all manufacturing industries. Growth Drivers: Construction boom (domestic and global). Rise in DIY market trends globally. Synergy with National Missions: Supports Make in India, Skill India, and Viksit Bharat @ 2047. Strengthens MSMEs and industrial value chains. Way Forward Innovation and R&D: Promote tech advancement in MSMEs. Skill Development: Upskill workforce for modern tool manufacturing. Brand India: Position Indian tools as synonymous with quality and reliability. Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs) Context : India’s automotive industry, a pillar of its manufacturing sector, is rapidly evolving amid global shifts toward electric, digital, and sustainable mobility. A new NITI Aayog report charts a roadmap to boost India’s integration into Global Value Chains (GVCs) and position it as a global auto component powerhouse. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy & Infrastructure) Macroeconomic Importance Contributes 7.1% to India’s GDP and 49% to manufacturing GDP. Over 28 million vehicles produced in 2023–24, showing India’s scale advantage. Supports millions of jobs, including in steel, electronics, IT, logistics—demonstrates sectoral interdependence. Global Value Chain (GVC) Snapshot India holds just 3% share (~$20 bn) in the $700 bn global auto component trade. Trade ratio ~0.99 shows a near balance of imports and exports—indicating domestic demand dominance, but low global integration. Weak presence in high-value segments like engines, transmission, and steering systems (only 2–4% global share). Vision 2030 Targets Production target: $145 billion Exports: $60 billion Jobs: 2–2.5 million direct jobs GVC share goal: Raise from 3% → 8% Trade surplus goal: $25 billion Strategy: From low-cost assembly → high-value, innovation-driven manufacturing Key Global Trends Reshaping the Sector Electric Vehicles (EVs): Global push via mandates/subsidies; opportunity in batteries, semiconductors. Smart Manufacturing (Industry 4.0): Adoption of AI, IoT, robotics, digital twins, 3D printing—areas where India must catch up. Sustainability: Shift toward carbon neutrality, recycling, energy efficiency—automakers like BMW, VW already transitioning. Component Dependency: Rising demand for precision electronics, semiconductors, smart sensors. Major Government Interventions Make in India: Boosted auto manufacturing, FDI inflows. Atmanirbhar Bharat: Incentivized indigenous production of engines, EV batteries. FAME I & II (₹11,500 cr): Subsidies for 2W, 3W, buses, charging infra → EV ecosystem buildout. PM E-Drive (₹10,900 cr): Targets 24.79 lakh 2W, 3.2 lakh 3W, 14,028 buses. ₹2,000 cr for charging infra. PLI for Auto + ACC (₹44,038 cr): Incentivizes advanced tech like hydrogen vehicles, EVs, batteries, job creation, value addition. Challenges to GVC Integration Cost disadvantage vs China (~10%): High raw material and capital costs Depreciation rate differential (100% in India vs 50% in China → adds 3.4% cost) High logistics, energy, financing costs R&D & Precision Gaps: Weak IP ownership Lack of high-end manufacturing in critical parts Cluster fragmentation: Lack of consolidated testing, R&D, and supplier networks. Proposed Strategic Interventions Fiscal Measures Opex Support: For Capex like dies, tools, infra. Skill Development: Build domain-specific talent pool. R&D Incentives & IP Transfers: Public-private R&D, promote MSME innovation. Cluster Development: Shared testing, design, logistics facilities. Non-Fiscal Measures Digital Upgrade (Industry 4.0): Incentivize smart factories, digital tracking. International Collaboration: JVs, FTAs, co-development with global OEMs. Ease of Doing Business: Simplify compliance, promote MSME onboarding. Way Forward: Tapping the GVC Potential Shift from volume to value: Compete in high-margin, tech-heavy auto components. Deepen export footprint: Develop global scale + branding + standards. Policy certainty & reform alignment: Critical for investor confidence and infra buildout. EV & Green Mobility: India can leapfrog legacy tech with EV-first approach.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 16 April 2025

Content: A proclamation of democracy in legislative process India, rising power demand and the ‘hydrogen factor’ A proclamation of democracy in legislative process Context: The Supreme Court’s verdict in State of Tamil Nadu vs. Governor of Tamil Nadu marks a significant judicial intervention to uphold legislative supremacy and curb executive delays in the law-making process. Relevance: GS 2(Polity ,Constitution,Governance,Judiciary) Practice Question : The recent Supreme Court judgment in “State of Tamil Nadu vs. Governor of Tamil Nadu” is being hailed as a proclamation of democracy in the legislative process. Critically examine the constitutional implications of this verdict with respect to the role of the Governor and President in the law-making process. (250 words) Key Dimensions of the Analysis: Background of the Judgment: Supreme Court in State of Tamil Nadu vs Governor of Tamil Nadu invoked Article 142 to enforce timelines for assent to Bills by Governor and President. It addressed delay tactics and inaction, which effectively stalled the legislative will of the elected State government. Marked first instance of declaring “deemed assent” by the President — a constitutional innovation to ensure accountability. Constitutional Provisions Involved: Article 200: Lays out Governor’s options: Assent, Withhold, Refer to President, or Return (except Money Bills). On re-passage of a returned Bill, Governor is constitutionally bound to give assent. Article 201: President may give or withhold assent to Bills reserved by Governor. Provision for reconsideration and resending a non-Money Bill by President. Issues Identified by the Court: No time limits prescribed → Enabled arbitrary delay or “pocket veto.” Lack of requirement for reasoned decisions by constitutional authorities. Unfettered discretion misused for political purposes, violating democratic ethos. Judicial silence so far allowed misuse to persist — Court finally intervened to remedy constitutional silence. Role of Judicial Interpretation: Interpreted the Constitution organically, not mechanically. Affirmed the federal spirit by limiting centralist tendencies. Used Article 142 to uphold “complete justice” and democratic accountability. Recognized “deemed assent” to uphold legislative supremacy and continuity of governance. Significance of the Judgment: Reasserted Legislative Primacy: Prevents Governors/President from becoming roadblocks to elected governments. Judicial Review of President’s/Governor’s Actions: Clarified that these are not above scrutiny in a parliamentary democracy. Removed perceived immunity of constitutional heads in legislative process. Set precedent for reasoned decision-making in constitutional functions. Scholarly and Precedential Backing: Cited Sarkaria Commission (1988): “Non-conformity with Union policy is not ground to withhold assent.” Relied on Shamsher Singh (1974): Governor bound by Cabinet advice. Overturned B.K. Pavitra (2019) doctrine of “unfettered discretion” in such constitutional acts. Judicial Restraint vs Activism Debate: Criticism by some (e.g., Kerala Governor) as judicial overreach into executive/legislative domain. Author argues Court has only supplemented (not supplanted) constitutional text to plug procedural gaps. Interpretation is rooted in constitutional morality and democratic functionality. Suggestions for Future Adjudication: Shorter judgments, quicker delivery for time-sensitive constitutional issues (e.g., Brexit case). Streamlining case management: Similar petitions (e.g., Kerala) should be clubbed for consistency and efficiency. Way Forward: Codify timelines for constitutional functions of assent. Institutional clarity in procedures involving Centre-State legislative interactions. Encourage Governor and President to maintain political neutrality and transparency. Build on this judgment to strengthen cooperative federalism and legislative sovereignty. India, rising power demand and the ‘hydrogen factor’ Introduction & Context India aims to achieve a net-zero economy, which entails massive electrification of energy end-use sectors and decarbonization of industrial processes. Hydrogen emerges as a critical vector, especially for industries where electrification is not feasible. The article emphasizes integrating low-carbon power sources (especially nuclear) with hydrogen production and electricity storage to address India’s future energy demands. Relevance :GS 3(Science and Technology) Practice Question: A net-zero future for India demands not just clean energy generation but also deep industrial decarbonization through hydrogen integration.” Discuss the role of nuclear energy and green hydrogen in this context, and suggest policy measures for their synergistic deployment. Rising Power Demand & Nuclear’s Role Electricity demand will rise steeply as India moves toward net–zero and developed nation status by 2047. Solar, wind, and hydro alone cannot meet India’s future base load demand; nuclear energy must be a significant part of the energy mix. The government aims for 100 GW of nuclear installed capacity by 2047, a sharp increase from current levels (~7 GW). Nuclear Power Developments in India NPCIL is aggressively expanding nuclear capacity, especially with indigenously developed 700 MW PHWRs. Key installations: 2 reactors operational in Kakrapar, Gujarat New reactors being added in Rajasthan, Haryana Plans announced to construct 20 more units, totaling 26 reactors of 700 MW each. Introduction of Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs): 220 MW PHWRs aimed at captive use by public sector undertakings like Indian Railways. Need for Low-Carbon Electricity Mix India’s future electricity mix will comprise: Base-load: Nuclear + Hydro Intermittent: Solar + Wind Flexing coal plants (ramping them up/down) is currently used to balance renewables — reduces emissions but isn’t sustainable long-term. Flexing nuclear plants is technically and economically inefficient due to: High capital cost Minimal reduction in variable costs when operated below capacity Safety and operational challenges The Hydrogen Factor Hydrogen offers a solution: Use surplus electricity (especially from nuclear and renewables) to produce hydrogen via electrolysers. Advantages of this approach: Avoids flexing high-capital nuclear plants Reduces need for battery-based electricity storage Supports industrial decarbonization (e.g., steel, ammonia) Provides long-duration energy storage in chemical form Green Hydrogen vs. Low-Carbon Hydrogen Current government policy labels hydrogen from renewables as “green”. Author suggests shifting taxonomy to “low-carbon hydrogen” to include nuclear-based hydrogen, since: Life-cycle emissions of nuclear-based H₂ are comparable to that from renewables. Promotes technology neutrality while reducing GHGs. Proposed standard: Hydrogen with <2 kg CO₂/kg H₂ should be classified as “low-carbon”. Synergizing Hydrogen & Electricity Storage Presently treated as separate sectors, hydrogen production and electricity storage must be synergized. Case studies show combined planning improves: Economic viability Grid stability Resource utilization efficiency Electrolysers are flexible and can act as demand sinks during low-demand/high-supply periods, complementing battery storage. Recommendations Policy-level shift from “green” to “low-carbon hydrogen” to include nuclear. Synergize hydrogen production and electricity storage in future grid planning and investments. Key Takeaways Hydrogen is not just a fuel, but a strategic enabler in India’s transition to a low-carbon, high-energy economy. Nuclear energy, often under-discussed, is positioned to play a central role in ensuring round-the-clock clean electricity and hydrogen generation. Integrated planning, including taxonomy change and demand shaping through hydrogen, is essential for a resilient and future-ready energy system.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 16 April 2025

Content : Retail inflation eases to 3.34%, lowest since 2019 IMD forecasts ‘above normal’ monsoon The approach to regulating AI in India Are births, deaths being properly registered? Bonds surge to more than 3-year high on RBI’s liquidity infusion plan Retail inflation eases to 3.34%, lowest since 2019 Context : Retail inflation (CPI) fell to 3.34% in March 2025, the lowest since late 2019. The drop was driven by falling food prices, particularly vegetables, pulses, and eggs. Rural inflation fell to 3.25%, while urban inflation rose slightly to 3.43%. Consumer Food Price Inflation declined sharply to 2.7%, from 3.75% in February. Fuel and light inflation rose marginally to 1.48%, marking the first price rise since Sep 2023. State-wise variation: Highest inflation: Kerala (6.6%) Lowest inflation: Delhi (1.5%), Telangana (1.1%) Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy) Policy and Monetary Context The decline follows two recent RBI repo rate cuts (each by 25 bps). Indicates monetary policy easing is yielding results, without triggering inflation. Analysts expect inflation to stay below 4%, creating space for a further 50 bps repo rate cut. Implications Boosts household purchasing power, especially in rural areas. Signals macroeconomic stability and room for growth-focused policy. Could stimulate consumption and investment, given lower interest rates. Positive sentiment for bond and equity markets due to lower inflation expectations. Implication: Inflation Management Reflects effectiveness of inflation-targeting framework (RBI’s 4±2% band). Emphasizes food price volatility’s role in retail inflation—a persistent issue in India. Monetary Policy & Growth Trade-off Shows a pro-growth bias of RBI amid global disinflationary trends. Highlights the delicate balance between stimulating demand and maintaining price stability. Sectoral Impact Agriculture: Lower food inflation might hurt farmer incomes despite consumer benefit. Manufacturing & MSMEs: May benefit from rate cuts, improving credit access. State-level divergence: Calls for granular inflation management, considering regional disparities. Broader Macroeconomic Linkage May aid in current account control if rate cuts improve competitiveness. Needs alignment with fiscal policy and supply-side measures for sustainable inflation control. IMD forecasts ‘above normal’ monsoon Context : IMD forecast: India likely to receive “above normal” monsoon in 2025 — i.e., 5% more than the long-period average (LPA) of 87 cm. This would be the second consecutive year of surplus rainfall (2024 had 8% above normal). The margin of error in the forecast is ±4%. Relevance : GS 1(Geography) ,GS 3(Climate Change) Positive Implications Agriculture: Likely to benefit kharif crops (e.g., paddy, pulses, oilseeds) due to adequate soil moisture. May enhance agricultural output, supporting rural income and food security. Water Resources: Better reservoir storage improves irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydropower generation. Inflation Control: Good monsoon → stable food prices → supports low retail inflation (relevant from previous news). Rural Economy: Employment under MGNREGA, agro-based sectors, and rural consumption could get a boost. Risks and Concerns Flood Risk: Above-normal rainfall may bring episodes of intense rainfall → urban flooding, crop loss, and infrastructure damage. Climate Extremes: Recent years show a trend of spatial and temporal rainfall variability, even during surplus monsoons. Forecast Limitations: Models have only moderate predictability (~33%); high uncertainty due to complex monsoon dynamics. Scientific Basis No El Niño: Typically leads to better monsoons; this year’s forecast benefits from its absence. Eurasian Snow Cover: Below-normal snow in Jan–Mar 2025 → historically associated with better Indian monsoons (inverse correlation). Dynamical Model Forecasting: IMD uses coupled ocean-atmosphere models, fed into supercomputers with parameters like: Sea surface temperatures Snow cover Oceanic heat content Wind patterns The approach to regulating AI in India Context : India lacks a formal AI regulatory law or national strategy, unlike several other countries. Current efforts are centered around IndiaAI Mission and an advisory group, but lack enforceability, accountability, and public engagement. The article stresses the need for a comprehensive AI policy and public discourse to ensure ethical and inclusive AI development. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ), GS 3(Technology) Global Context of AI Regulation Countries with enacted laws: China, EU, Canada, Korea, Peru, USA (Trump revoked Biden’s AI EO). Countries with draft AI bills: UK, Japan, Brazil, Costa Rica, Colombia, Pakistan. 85+ countries (including the African Union) have national AI strategies, outlining: Vision and priorities Budgetary support Roadmaps for ethical and inclusive growth India’s Approach to AI Governance No official National AI Strategy or AI-specific legislation. Relies on: NITI Aayog’s 2018 Strategy Document – yet to be formally adopted. IndiaAI Mission with seven pillars – still evolving. Expert advisory group – work-in-progress; recommendations not officially binding. Advantages of India’s Flexible Approach Adaptability to evolving tech, global trends, and domestic needs. Can respond dynamically to citizen sentiment and market shifts. Avoids premature rigid regulation that may stifle innovation. Major Concerns No binding vision or enforcement tools. Reactive governance – lacks clear milestones, accountability, or long-term planning. Overdependence on leadership – initiatives can change with political priorities. Low algorithmic transparency – no standards for public disclosure or audit. Social risks – exclusion, discrimination, deepfakes, violence from AI-generated content (e.g., social media unrest). Lessons from Global Models EU GDPR Model (Comprehensive & Centralised) India’s DPDP Act, 2023 aligns more closely with this model. Could be extended into AI governance. US Model (Sector-Specific & Decentralised) Focuses on industry-specific regulations. May not suit India’s federal structure or need for unified standards. China’s Use-Case Specific Laws Targeted laws for Generative AI, Deepfakes, etc. Offers clarity for high-risk sectors. Way Forward for India Short-Term Goal: Develop a National AI Policy Document addressing: Vision & guiding principles Priority sectors (e.g., health, agriculture, judiciary, education) Institutional roles & responsibilities Ethical standards Infrastructure & capacity building Transparency and accountability mechanisms Medium-Term Goal: Pilot test enforcement tools, public consultations, and ethical frameworks. Long-Term Goal: Enact formal AI legislation integrating learnings from pilots and international norms. Are births, deaths being properly registered? Context : The Registration of Birth and Death (RBD) Act, 1969 mandates the timely registration of births and deaths, with penalties for negligence. The government is pushing for digital registration through the Civil Registration System (CRS) to ensure accuracy and update vital national databases. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Social Issues) Legal Framework: Registration of Births and Deaths (RBD) Act, 1969 (Amended 2023) Mandate: Registration of all births and deaths within 21 days is compulsory. Penalty: Registrar’s negligence in registering births/deaths is punishable with a fine (increased to ₹1,000 from ₹50). Digital Mandate (since Oct 1, 2023): Digital birth/death certificates are now mandatory and are the sole legal proof for various public services. March 17, 2024 Circular by Registrar General of India (RGI) Reason: Noted violations by hospitals in reporting birth/death data. Findings: ~90% registration level, but 10% still unregistered. 2011 levels: 82.4% (births), 66.4% (deaths). Reminder: Hospitals (govt. & private) must report events promptly. Roles and Responsibilities under the Civil Registration System (CRS) Government hospitals: Act as registrars. Private hospitals: Must report events to the registrar — they cannot issue certificates directly. Variability: Departments responsible differ across States (Health Dept., Panchayats, or Economics & Statistics). Centralised Database: RGI now maintains a national database (post-2023 amendment), integrated with NPR. Purpose of Centralised Digital Registration The digital birth certificate is now used for: Admission to schools, govt. jobs, marriage registration, etc. Updating NPR, ration cards, property, and electoral rolls. NPR (2010, updated 2015) — contains data of 119 crore residents; next update on hold due to census delay. Ground-Level Challenges Hospitals often delay registration till relatives initiate it. Some private hospitals ask families to report events themselves. Registrars sometimes lack citizen-friendly registration mechanisms. Certificates should ideally be issued within 7 days. Vital Statistics Report Status Purpose: Tracks infant mortality, stillbirths, death data — key for socio-economic planning & public health. Current status: Last national-level report: 2020. Some States like Mizoram (2023), Kerala (2021), Karnataka, Delhi, HP (2022) have updated data. 2020 Trends: Birth registrations fell from 2.48 cr (2019) to 2.42 cr (2020). Death registrations rose from 76.4 lakh (2019) to 81.2 lakh (2020). Beware of child traffickers, top court cautions parents Context : Supreme Court Warning to Parents: Parents must remain “extremely vigilant” against child trafficking. The Court highlighted various forms of child trafficking, including sexual exploitation, forced labor, begging, and child marriage. Trafficking rings may disguise child sales as inter-country adoptions, making it harder to detect. Relevance : GS 2 (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice) Technology’s Role in Child Trafficking: Criminal gangs use technology to share victim information, photos, and locations, making their operations more efficient. The Court emphasized the ease with which traffickers operate due to these technological advancements. Emotional Impact on Parents: The pain of losing a child to trafficking is different from the grief of death, as parents face long-term uncertainty and helplessness. The Supreme Court’s verdict calls for greater care and attention from parents, especially in poor, vulnerable sections of society. Court’s Actions Against Hospitals: Hospitals will face license suspension and legal action if newborns go missing or are trafficked under their care. Hospitals are held responsible for the protection of infants during delivery, emphasizing strict accountability. Inter-State Trafficking and Involvement of Healthcare Professionals: The case involved 13 members of a child trafficking ring, including a nurse working at a primary health center in Chhattisgarh, highlighting the role of trusted professionals in these crimes. This points to potential collusion within healthcare systems, complicating efforts to prevent trafficking. Delays in Justice: The Court criticized the slow progress of the trial and the Uttar Pradesh government for lack of action, with no appeal against the bail granted by the Allahabad High Court. It ordered the completion of the trial within six months and a two-month deadline for the police to trace the absconding accused. Call for Urgent Action by High Courts: The Supreme Court directed High Courts across India to expedite the trials of pending child trafficking cases and ensure completion within six months. The need for a stronger, more active response from the judiciary and law enforcement was emphasized. Exploitation of Juvenile Justice Protections: Traffickers exploit the protections offered to minors under the juvenile justice system, which inadvertently becomes a haven for committing crimes. The Court expressed concern over how such protections are misused by criminal networks involved in child trafficking. Socio-Political Issues Highlighted: The case points to systemic flaws in the handling of child trafficking, including insufficient governmental action and accountability at the state and institutional levels. The Court’s strong stance calls for a more proactive, coordinated response from both the government and judiciary to combat the issue. Bonds surge to more than 3-year high on RBI’s liquidity infusion plan Indian government bond prices surged to over three-year highs as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a significant liquidity infusion plan, including bond purchases and repo operations. This move is part of RBI’s accommodative stance to support economic growth and ensure effective monetary policy transmission. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy, Banking) Key Developments: Bond Price Surge: Indian government bond prices hit more than a three-year high, driven by short-end gains. RBI’s Liquidity Infusion Plan: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced its plan to buy bonds worth ₹400 billion ($4.67 billion) and conduct a 43-day repo for ₹1.50 trillion on Thursday. Repo Rate Reduction: Last week, RBI reduced the repo rate for the second consecutive time and changed its monetary policy stance to “accommodative,” signaling a focus on growth. Significance of the Move: Continued Liquidity Support: Market participants expect continued liquidity injections in the future, indicating a strong commitment from RBI to ensure sufficient liquidity in the banking system. Policy Transmission: Comfortable liquidity conditions are deemed essential for effective monetary policy transmission. A surplus in liquidity allows for faster and more efficient transmission of rate cuts, facilitating economic growth. Targeted Surplus Levels: RBI is aiming for a liquidity surplus of around 1% of deposits, which amounts to approximately ₹2.20 trillion to ₹2.50 trillion, with the daily average standing at₹1.70 trillion this month. Market Reactions: Bond Yields Decline: Bond yields have fallen as a result of RBI’s actions. The 10-year benchmark bond yield decreased by 3 basis points to 6.41%. Meanwhile, the 3-year and 5-year bond yields fell by 5-6 basis points, reaching 6.12% and 6.17% respectively. Underlying Objectives and Implications: Accommodative Stance: RBI’s accommodative stance aims to support economic growth by reducing borrowing costs through lower bond yields. Liquidity Injection’s Role: By buying bonds and injecting liquidity, RBI aims to ensure that the banking system remains well-supplied with funds, which is crucial for stimulating credit growth and supporting economic recovery. Economic Growth Focus: The primary goal is to stimulate growth amid a softening economy, with the expectation that comfortable liquidity will ease credit availability for businesses and consumers. Challenges and Considerations: Sustaining Liquidity Surplus: Ensuring that the surplus liquidity remains durable in the long term is a critical challenge. Too much liquidity can lead to inflationary pressures, while too little could stifle growth. Impact on Inflation and Currency: While current policy measures are aimed at boosting growth, the long-term impact on inflation and the Indian Rupee’s strength against global currencies will need to be monitored. Conclusion: The RBI’s decision to infuse liquidity through bond purchases and repo operations aligns with its growth-supporting monetary policy, aiming to enhance policy transmission and ease borrowing costs. The market’s positive response in the form of lower bond yields indicates confidence in RBI’s actions to support economic recovery. However, sustaining liquidity without sparking inflation remains a balancing act that will require careful monitoring.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 15 April 2025

Content: Department of Justice Celebrates the 135th  Birth Anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Startup selected under NQM develops platform to empower enterprises protect their critical infrastructure Department of Justice Celebrates the 135th  Birth Anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Contextual Background Occasion: 135th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Date: 14th April 2025. Organizer: Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice, Government of India. Relevance : GS 1(Modern History ) , GS 2(Social Justice) Significance of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Born: 14th April 1891. Legacy: A pioneering jurist, economist, and social reformer. Key architect of the Indian Constitution. Major Contributions: Fought caste-based discrimination; championed the rights of Dalits and other marginalized groups. Worked for gender equality, labor rights, and the upliftment of the oppressed. Advocated for social, political, and economic justice, forming the backbone of modern India’s democratic values. Ambedkar Jayanti / Equality Day Celebrated across India as a symbol of social equality and constitutional justice. Also known as “Equality Day”, symbolizing: Upliftment of marginalized communities. Constitutional morality and the rule of law. April 14, 2025 declared a public holiday nationwide as a mark of respect. Objective: Pay tribute to Baba Saheb. Reinforce the Department’s commitment to justice, equality, and constitutional values. Symbolic Importance Reiterates the relevance of Ambedkar’s vision in contemporary India: Uplifting the downtrodden. Ensuring access to justice for all. Promoting constitutional literacy among citizens. Reinforces institutional memory and moral obligation to uphold the ideals of democracy and inclusivity. Relevance for Governance & Policy Highlights the role of the Law and Justice Ministry in promoting Ambedkar’s ideals. Offers an opportunity for: Public institutions to reaffirm their role in social transformation. Strengthening legal empowerment of vulnerable sections. Startup selected under NQM develops platform to empower enterprises protect their critical infrastructure Context & Occasion Occasion: Launched on World Quantum Day (14 April 2025). Startup: QNu Labs, incubated at IIT Madras Research Park (established 2016). Program: Supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the National Quantum Mission (NQM). Significance: Marks a major leap in India’s indigenous quantum cybersecurity capabilities. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology , Research , Cyber Security)  Key Launch: QShield Platform Claim: World’s first unique platform for seamless cryptography management across: Cloud On-premises Hybrid environments Purpose: Protect critical enterprise infrastructure through quantum-safe cybersecurity.  Core Technologies in QShield Armos – Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): Uses quantum physics principles for unhackable encryption keys. Tropos – Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG): Generates truly random numbers, crucial for secure cryptographic systems. QHSM – Quantum Hardware Security Module: Hardware-based secure key storage and cryptographic operations. PQC – Post-Quantum Cryptography: Compliant with NIST standards, designed to withstand quantum computer attacks.  Integrated Quantum-Safe Services QShield includes the following enterprise-ready modules: Qosmos: Cryptographic key generation. QConnect: Secured connectivity channels. QVerse: Secure collaboration platform. QSFS: Secure file storage & sharing system. QVault: Centralized key management.  Deployment & Integration Flexible deployment: Supports hybrid, cloud, and on-prem solutions. Unified management dashboard. Seamless integration with 3rd-party services, ensuring real-world scalability for diverse enterprise needs.  Strategic Implications Strengthens India’s cybersecurity ecosystem amid growing quantum threats. Ensures data protection in transit and at rest, addressing vulnerabilities across sectors like: Banking & finance Defence & critical infrastructure Telecom & cloud-based services Makes enterprises quantum-resilient, preparing them for the post-quantum era.  National & Global Significance Demonstrates the success of India’s National Quantum Mission in supporting deep tech startups. Aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global quantum technology leader. Positions QNu Labs as a pioneering force in commercial quantum cryptography.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 15 April 2025

Content: Unnecessary change History as battlefield — the perils of reversing the past Unnecessary change  Background Context: RTI Act (2005): A landmark legislation that empowered citizens to seek information from public authorities, enhancing transparency, accountability, and participatory governance. Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act: Permits withholding of personal information unless there is an overriding public interest or if the information has a direct relationship to public activity or public interest. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Practice Question :“The recent amendment to the Right to Information Act through the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 undermines the balance between transparency and privacy.” Critically examine the implications of this amendment on democratic accountability in India. (250 Words)  The DPDP Act & Section 44(3): DPDP Act, 2023: Enacted to protect personal data, arising from the K.S. Puttaswamy (2017) verdict that declared right to privacy a fundamental right under Article 21. Section 44(3) of DPDP Act: Amends RTI Act’s Section 8(1)(j) by allowing blanket denial of personal information without considering public interest. Key Concerns with the Amendment: Undermining Transparency Removes the “public interest override“ clause — weakening the very essence of accountability. RTI Act was already equipped to handle privacy concerns via reasonable restrictions in Section 8(1)(j). Vague Definition of ‘Personal Information’ The amendment lacks clarity — almost any data (e.g., educational qualifications, caste certificates, service records) could now be classified as “personal” and denied. This opens the door to arbitrary interpretation and denial of legitimate RTI queries. Potential for Abuse Public officials could suppress information under the pretext of personal data. E.g., in cases like forged caste certificates or fake degrees, public interest outweighs privacy — but the amended law may block such disclosures. Contradiction with Puttaswamy Judgment The judgment never called for amending RTI; it acknowledged the need to balance privacy and transparency — which the original RTI Act already does. Misuse Argument is Weak The government claims the amendment prevents “misuse” of RTI. However, RTI misuse is not widespread, and existing provisions (penalties for frivolous RTIs) already act as safeguards.  Legal & Ethical Implications: Legislative Overreach: Amending a transparency law through a privacy law sidesteps parliamentary debate and undermines democratic processes. Chilling Effect on Accountability: Reduces the incentive for honest disclosure by public officials. Dilution of Citizen Empowerment: Citizens lose a powerful tool to demand governance reforms or expose corruption.  Civil Society Response: Transparency activists and watchdog groups argue the amendment is regressive. Demand for removal or rollback of the Section 44(3) amendment from the DPDP Act.  Conclusion: The RTI Act already balances privacy and transparency effectively. The amendment is legally unnecessary, politically undesirable, and ethically questionable. To uphold democratic accountability, the government must repeal the amendment and ensure RTI’s core purpose remains intact. History as battlefield — the perils of reversing the past Context & Background In March 2025, textbook revisions and public campaigns emerged targeting few rulers and monuments. Historical narratives are being selectively reinterpreted to glorify certain native rulers while demonizing others. These actions coincide with rising public anger, ideological polarization, and identity politics. Relevance : GS 1(History) ,GS 2(Social Issues) Practice Question : “Rewriting history with a revisionist agenda often leads to division rather than reconciliation.” Critically examine the impact of historical revisionism on social cohesion and democratic values in India.(250 Words) Understanding History: Role and Responsibility History is not a binary of heroes and villains; it involves causes, consequences, and context. It should function as a guide for the present — not a battlefield to settle contemporary scores. The weaponization of history transforms it from a tool of reflection to a means of division. Revisionism vs. Reinterpretation Reinterpretation is: An academic process. Based on new evidence or emerging perspectives. Enhances understanding without compromising integrity. Revisionism, particularly political: Distorts facts to suit current ideologies or political agendas. Linked to nationalism, religious supremacy, and territorial disputes. Creates divisive narratives that deepen social cleavages. Global Case Studies of Dangerous Revisionism The Crusades (1096–1291): Claimed to reclaim Christian holy lands. Led to centuries of violence, not reconciliation. Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648): A product of religious revisionism post-Reformation. Caused massive death and economic ruin in Europe. Nazi Germany: Hitler’s ideology was built on mythical Aryan past and post-WWI grievances. Resulted in World War II and the Holocaust. Israel-Palestine Conflict: Ongoing struggle over divergent historical claims. Demonstrates the irreconcilability of revisionist narratives. Russia-Ukraine War (2022 onwards): Russia used historical unity as justification for invasion. Aimed at reversing post-Soviet independence of Ukraine. Key Insights Historical grievances are not always meant to be avenged, but understood. The idea of reversing history to reclaim lost glory may leads to instability. Selective remembrance distorts public memory and hinders reconciliation. History as a Guide, Not a Grudge The role of history is: To educate, not inflame. To promote empathy, not hostility. To strengthen democratic values, not erode them. Quoting George Santayana: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Consequences of Historical Revisionism Marginalizes minority contributions. Leads to communal tensions and cultural erasure. Damages academic integrity and civil discourse. Way Forward Encourage inclusive and evidence-based history education. Resist politicization of curriculum and historical monuments. Promote historical reckoning with empathy and balance. Uphold constitutional values of secularism and pluralism.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 15 April 2025

Content: Telangana govt. formalises categorisation of SCs for granting separate quotas How is spaceflight safety ensured? How governmentality exacerbates the problem of farmers’ stubble burning ASI seeks to shed new light on Dwarka through explorations Miniature laser grown onto silicon chip could revolutionise computing Land-holding farmers doing non-farming activities helps efficiency’ Telangana govt. formalises categorisation of SCs for granting separate quotas Telangana has become the first state to implement sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes for targeted reservations, following the Supreme Court’s 2024 verdict upholding such classification. The move aims to ensure equitable access to opportunities for the most marginalised SC sub-groups. Relevance : GS 2(Polity & Governance)  Legal and Constitutional Context SC Categorisation Legally Validated: Follows the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment (Aug 1, 2024), which upheld the constitutionality of sub-classifying SCs/STs for targeted reservation within communities. Act Enacted: Telangana Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Act, 2025 implemented through gazette notification.  Effective From: April 14, 2025 (Ambedkar Jayanti) — symbolically chosen to align with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision. Key Features of Categorisation Total SC Sub-Castes: 59 Three-Group Model based on empirical data (socio-economic, educational, employment, political): Group I: Most Backward SCs 15 sub-castes 0.5% of SC population Reservation: 1% Rationale: Over-representation not needed; instead, targeted upliftment through higher per-capita allocation. Group II: Marginally Benefitted SCs 18 sub-castes Reservation: 9%  Group III: Relatively Better-Off SCs26 sub-castesReservation: 5%  Impact on Recruitment & Administration Govt. Jobs: Future recruitment will strictly follow this categorisation. Retrospective Non-Applicability: Does not apply to already notified vacancies. Youth Encouraged: Govt calls on SC youth to make use of these targeted opportunities.  Continuity & Change in Classification No Major Shakeup: 33 sub-castes retained their earlier categories. Only 26 sub-castes (3.43% of SC population) underwent reclassification.  Empirical & Policy Foundations Based on: Socio-economic and educational surveys Political representation and public employment trends  Guided by data-driven social justice principles Future Course Post-2026 Census Review: Govt plans to revisit and possibly enhance SC reservations based on fresh data. Signals dynamic policy rooted in demography and equity. National Significance  First State in India to operationalise SC categorisation post-SC verdict. May act as a template for other States considering similar steps. Reflects a shift from monolithic treatment of SCs to intersectional affirmative action. Critical Takeaways Equity over Equality: Recognises internal stratification within SCs to ensure meaningful representation. Landmark Policy Moment: Represents a progressive realignment of reservation policy to address deepest layers of deprivation. Constitutional Morality in Action: Upholds Ambedkarite vision of justice through institutional mechanisms. How is spaceflight safety ensured? ISRO is preparing for its first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, by implementing robust safety protocols across all mission phases. These draw from past global experiences like Apollo-1 and current best practices to ensure astronaut safety. Overall Safety Strategy ISRO is drawing from global best practices, past incidents, and recent research to ensure astronaut safety. Safety is addressed across three phases: launch, orbit, and reentry — each with tailored protocols and systems. Relevance : GS 3(Space ,Technology )   Launch Phase Safety a) On the Launchpad Inspired by the 1967 Apollo-1 fire tragedy, ISRO has set up: Ziplines and fireproof bubble lift at SHAR (Sriharikota) to enable rapid crew evacuation. b) During Lift-off Human-rated LVM3 (HLVM3) includes a Crew Escape System (CES): Tower-like structure above the crew module. In case of failure, CES detaches and pulls the crew module to safety using solid fuel motors. ISRO uses tractor-type CES (pulls the capsule); contrast: SpaceX uses pusher-type (pushes the capsule). c) Abort Modes Low-altitude Escape Motor (LEM): activates shortly after ignition. High-altitude Escape Motor (HEM): kicks in later in flight. Pad abort mode: both LEM and HEM fire to distance crew rapidly from danger. Post-abort, crew module splashes down at sea at pre-designated recovery zones. Orbit Phase Safety a) Crew & Service Module Configuration Gaganyaan’s spacecraft has: Crew Module: living space for astronauts. Service Module: engines, fuel, life-support systems. b) In-Orbit Emergency Protocols In case of malfunction, the service module’s propulsion and crew module’s thrusters can initiate controlled reentry. Though Gaganyaan won’t dock with ISS, astronauts are trained in docking protocols. c) Docking & Space Station Safety (for future missions) Capsules used for docking serve as “lifeboats” in emergencies. Safe refuge zones exist within stations, with shielding against fires, debris impacts, and solar radiation. Redundancy in escape capsules ensures no astronaut is stranded (e.g., NASA’s spare docked capsules). Reentry Phase Safety a) Controlled Reentry Capsule fires thrusters to exit orbit and initiate descent. Reentry causes frictional heating up to 1,800º C. Ablative heat shields protect astronauts during descent. b) Deceleration & Landing System Multi-phase parachute deployment ensures controlled descent: Apex cover separation parachutes deploy at 15.3 km. Drogue parachutes stabilize descent (to 70 m/s at 3 km). Three primary canopies reduce speed to 10–12 m/s. Retrograde thrusters and pyrotechnic release mechanisms assist in final touchdown and splashdown. Case Studies & Historical Lessons Used by ISRO Apollo-1 (1967): Pad fire; led to modern launchpad safety upgrades. Soyuz T-10 (1983): Rocket fire before liftoff; CES saved crew. Blue Origin NS-23 (2022): In-flight engine failure; capsule escape system worked successfully. Conclusion ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission is adopting a layered, redundancy-based safety approach. Every phase — launch, orbit, and reentry — has fail-safe mechanisms to protect astronauts. Learning from both historical tragedies and successful recoveries has been vital in shaping current protocols. How governmentality exacerbates the problem of farmers’ stubble burning A study analyzes how governmentality and market failures exacerbate the issue of farmers’ stubble burning in India. It highlights how policies like MSP push farmers toward mono-cropping and unsustainable practices, with stubble burning seen as a survival tactic. Relevance : GS 3(Economic Development,Agriculture) Governmentality and Its Role in Exacerbating Stubble Burning: Governmentality: The concept introduced by Michel Foucault emphasizes how governments exert control indirectly, influencing self-regulation in individuals rather than using direct coercive measures. Indirect Government Control: The study suggests that the Indian government’s emphasis on increasing agricultural production, particularly wheat and rice, inadvertently encourages behaviors like stubble burning. Farmers are left with few choices and little support, leading to the adoption of unsustainable practices. Neoliberal Policies and Market Failures: Minimum Support Price (MSP) Paradox: While MSP guarantees prices for crops, it discourages crop diversification and leads to over-reliance on wheat and rice. This increases dependency on practices like stubble burning to prepare soil for the next crop cycle. Mono-cropping: Farmers, incentivized by MSP, often focus on mono-cropping, which in turn creates soil health degradation and an overproduction of certain crops (wheat and rice). This system encourages stubble burning as an immediate and cheap solution for residue disposal. Market Dysfunction: The agricultural market system in India, influenced by neoliberal policies, remains skewed against farmers. The role of middlemen (arhtias) exacerbates the issue, as they dictate prices and credit terms, trapping farmers in a cycle of debt and limited financial agency. Farmers’ Perceptions and Government Policies: Contradictory Signals: Farmers report receiving conflicting signals from the state—while stubble burning is penalized, no affordable alternatives are provided. The government seems to prioritize urban-industrial interests over rural communities, aggravating the alienation of farmers. Debt Dependency: Farmers rely heavily on arhtias for credit and price determination, perpetuating a cycle of debt bondage. The stagnant MSP rates, which have not kept pace with the rising cost of inputs like labor and equipment, further contribute to financial strain. State’s Role in Marginalization: The study asserts that stubble burning should not be viewed as merely an individual act of negligence but as a result of a larger systemic failure rooted in government policies and market dynamics. Market and Policy-Based Solutions to Mitigate Stubble Burning: Developing a Market for Stubble: The authors propose creating a market for stubble and stubble-based products (e.g., fodder, bioenergy, packaging) to provide farmers with alternative, income-generating options. This market could reduce the incentive for burning. Strengthening the Value Chain: To make stubble-based products viable, technological interventions and a supportive ecosystem are essential. This will require policy and market interventions, including stakeholder involvement from both state and market actors across the agricultural value chain. Regulatory Interventions: Prohibitions and Permits: The government could consider a mix of regulatory strategies: enforcing a ban on stubble burning, managing it through selective permits, and promoting stubble utilization for value-added products. Addressing Market Inefficiencies: Ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their produce is a crucial intervention. Enhancing price transparency, fairness, and reducing the influence of middlemen will help alleviate the economic pressures that drive stubble burning. Socio-Cultural Factors: Aspirational Consumption Pressure: Farmers often face socio-economic pressure to consume aspirational goods despite limited income. Addressing this pressure may involve shifting cultural norms and promoting a mindset that values sustainability over material aspirations. Role of Cultural Organizations: The involvement of religious and cultural organizations in demarketing non-essential aspirational consumption can play a role in mitigating the socio-cultural pressure on farmers, thereby contributing to long-term changes in behavior. Conclusion: Governmentality and Market Failures: The study concludes that governmentality, along with neoliberal policies and market failures, exacerbates the problem of stubble burning. The existing system marginalizes farmers and incentivizes unsustainable practices. Holistic Solutions Needed: Effective solutions require an integrated approach, involving both regulatory interventions and market-based strategies that empower farmers economically, address the root causes of stubble burning, and provide viable alternatives. ASI seeks to shed new light on Dwarka through explorations Context :The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is undertaking new efforts to explore and study the submerged remains at Dwarka, Gujarat, a site of great cultural and historical significance. Relevance : GS 3 (Research and Development) A nine-member team from the Underwater Archaeology Wing is engaged in both onshore and offshore expeditions at Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka. The goal is to identify, document, and analyze submerged archaeological remains, with a particular focus on establishing their age through scientific methods like sediment and marine deposit analysis. Historical and Cultural Significance of Dwarka: Dwarka is deeply linked to ancient Indian literature, and its historical and cultural importance has long attracted the attention of historians and archaeologists. The city of Dwarka is believed to be associated with Lord Krishna, with Beyt Dwarka, an island off the Gujarat coast, housing the Dwarkadhish Temple. Recent Fieldwork and Investigations: A 5-member ASI team conducted preliminary investigations in February 2025, focusing on the Gomati Creek area, southeast of Dwarka. The goal was to assess previously explored sites, monitor their current condition, and identify new potential areas for further exploration. Key archaeological features were documented through photography for future studies. Previous Archaeological Findings (2005-2007): Between 2005 and 2007, the Underwater Archaeology Wing conducted systematic investigations both onshore and offshore, revealing several significant archaeological findings. Items discovered included ancient sculptures, stone anchors, and other objects of historical value, which were indicative of the site’s past significance. The archaeological efforts involved scientific surveys of large areas and targeted underwater excavations conducted by ASI archaeologists and Navy divers. Submerged remains were cleaned and studied, with excavations revealing clusters of submerged objects, and areas with thick calcareous deposits were carefully analyzed. Specific Excavation near Dwarkadhish Temple (2007): A focused excavation was conducted near the northern gate of the Dwarkadhish Temple in 2007. The excavation uncovered a 10-meter deep deposit containing 26 layers, revealing a variety of antiquities, including iron objects, beads, copper items, rings, and pottery. The pottery and other artifacts were subjected to in-depth analysis to understand their historical context. Expansion of Current Investigations: The new study aims to expand the scope of archaeological work in Okhamandal, an ancient city near Dwarka. The ASI team is exploring additional potential sites within the area to understand the broader historical context of Dwarka and its surroundings. The exploration involves both archaeological excavations and scientific studies, including diving operations, to collect and document artifacts. Scientific and Archaeological Methods: The investigations combine traditional archaeological methods with modern scientific techniques, such as diving and sediment analysis, to enhance the understanding of the artifacts’ age and historical significance. The study will focus on collecting a wide range of archaeological remains, ensuring that these are properly documented, studied, and scientifically analyzed. Conclusion and Future Prospects: The ASI’s ongoing research at Dwarka aims to provide new insights into the city’s ancient past, contributing significantly to the understanding of India’s cultural history. The expanded investigations will help clarify the role of Dwarka in ancient civilization, exploring its connection to mythology, history, and archaeology. Miniature laser grown onto silicon chip could revolutionise computing Scientists have successfully integrated lasers directly onto silicon wafers, marking a breakthrough in silicon photonics. This innovation promises faster, more energy-efficient data transmission and could revolutionize computing, particularly in data centers and quantum computing. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology) Revolutionizing Computing with Silicon Photonics: Silicon photonics involves replacing electrons with photons (particles of light) for storing and manipulating information, which has the potential to enhance computing efficiency. Laser integration on silicon chips marks a significant breakthrough, allowing lasers to be grown directly onto silicon, eliminating the need for separate laser light sources. This integration can make photonic chips scalable, more efficient, and easier to produce compared to previous methods. Background on Silicon Photonics: Silicon chips, a cornerstone of modern communication technologies, have traditionally used electrons to carry information. Researchers are now exploring silicon photonics to carry information via photons, as they move faster, offer greater data capacity, and experience fewer energy losses than electrons. While photons are promising, integrating a light source (laser) directly onto the silicon chip was a major challenge. Challenges in Integrating Lasers with Silicon: Silicon’s inefficiency in emitting light: Silicon has an indirect bandgap, meaning electrons cannot emit photons efficiently without external energy sources, unlike direct bandgap materials such as gallium arsenide (GaAs). The mismatch between silicon and gallium arsenide (used for efficient light emission) led to defects, which hindered light emission and reduced efficiency. Key Innovations in the Study: Researchers successfully fabricated miniaturized lasers directly onto a silicon wafer, solving the integration problem by using a nanostructured design with gallium arsenide. Nanometer-wide ridges were carved into a 300-mm silicon wafer, with silicon dioxide serving as an insulating material. This confined defects to the trench’s bottom, allowing for defect-free gallium arsenide growth above. Indium gallium arsenide layers were deposited, replacing some gallium atoms with indium to optimize light emission, forming the laser. Efficient Laser Fabrication: The team successfully embedded 300 functional lasers on a single 300-mm silicon wafer, the industry standard for semiconductor manufacturing, ensuring compatibility with existing infrastructure. The laser emitted light with a wavelength of 1,020 nm, suitable for short-range transmissions between computer chips. The laser operates with a low threshold current (5 mA), similar to that of an LED in a computer mouse, making it energy-efficient. Promising Results and Future Prospects: Energy efficiency: The laser’s output reached around 1MW, and it could run continuously for 500 hours at room temperature (25°C), although efficiency drops at higher temperatures (55°C). Challenges in temperature stability: While the laser is efficient at lower temperatures, research has demonstrated continuous operation at higher temperatures (up to 120°C) for optical silicon chips, highlighting areas for further improvement. Scalability and cost-effectiveness: The monolithic fabrication process is scalable, meaning more lasers can be integrated on larger wafers at a relatively low cost, offering a potential breakthrough in chip manufacturing. Impact on Computing: The integration of lasers directly onto silicon chips could lead to faster and more energy-efficient data transmission within data centers, where speed and energy consumption are critical factors. This new photonic silicon chip technology could significantly boost computing performance, making it viable for quantum computing and other high-demand applications. Conclusion: The demonstration of monolithic laser diodes on silicon wafers represents a major milestone in the evolution of silicon photonics, opening the door to next-generation computing technologies. With the process being cost-effective and scalable, this innovation is poised to transform industries by enhancing performance and reducing the energy footprint of future computing systems. ‘Land-holding farmers doing non-farming activities helps efficiency’ Study Focus: The study explores how land-holding farmers in rural India, who engage in non-farming activities, experience improved labour efficiency on their farms. Relevance : GS 3 (Economic Development, Agriculture, and Science & Technology) Key Findings: Impact of Non-Farm Activities: Engaging in non-farming activities allows farmers to make better decisions about allocating labor between farm and non-farm tasks, leading to more efficient use of farm labor. Migration Benefits: Farmers who migrate, either within their state or outside, gain new knowledge about farming practices, which they apply to their own farms upon returning. Financial Flexibility: Larger farmers with more financial resources can hire labor during off-seasons or when they are involved in non-farm work, improving farm operations. Study Methodology: Data from the International Crop Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) was used, covering states such as Odisha, Maharashtra, Telangana, and others. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), a mathematical technique, was used to estimate labor use efficiency without getting into how exactly tasks were performed. Role of Non-Farm Activities: Business Ventures: Farmers diversify into non-farm activities such as carpentry, craftsmanship, or running small businesses. This provides income stability amid agricultural risks. Learning from Migration: Farmers who migrate for work often observe and adopt improved farming practices, contributing to more efficient farming when they return home. Challenges: Credit Constraints: Farmers often lack the capital required to start non-farm businesses, limiting their ability to diversify. Recommendations: Governments should facilitate non-farm employment opportunities and offer financial support to help farmers start businesses or diversify income sources. This can maximize positive spillover effects on farming. Structured non-farm employment opportunities should be promoted in rural areas to ensure long-term sustainability for farmers. Implications for Farming: Diversification: The study emphasizes the importance of farmers diversifying into non-farm activities to reduce the risks associated with farming, such as climatic shocks and price fluctuations. Policy Recommendations: The study suggests that policymakers should provide support to rural farmers, helping them balance farm and non-farm activities, ultimately leading to improved efficiency and sustainability. Conclusion: Non-farm activities, especially through migration or entrepreneurship, can enhance labor efficiency in farming. By diversifying into non-farming sectors, farmers can better manage risks and improve the overall productivity of their agricultural operations.

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