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Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 31 July 2025

Content Trump’s 25% Tariff, ‘Penalty’ to Hit India from Tomorrow India Launches NISAR Satellite Boost the Capacity of Legal Aid Systems Restoring Mangroves Can Turn the Tide on India’s Coastal Security Kamchatka Peninsula Earthquake Trump’s 25% tariff, ‘penalty’ to hit India from tomorrow Announcement by U.S. President Trump (Wednesday): 25% tariff on all Indian imports starting August 1. Includes an additional penalty (not yet specified). Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Reasons Cited by Trump: India’s high tariffs and non-monetary trade barriers. India’s continued purchase of military equipment and energy from Russia. Criticism of India’s role as a major buyer from Russia during the Ukraine war. India’s Response (Ministry of Commerce): “Studying implications” of U.S. announcement. Will take all necessary steps to protect national interest. Trade Negotiations Status: India–U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement expected by Fall 2025 (still under negotiation). A smaller “mini-deal” to reduce retaliatory tariffs has likely failed. Past Context: Trump had earlier threatened 26% tariffs on India. Current move slightly lower at 25%, but penalty adds uncertainty. U.S. Position (as per Trump on Truth Social): India is a “friend,” but trade has been low due to high Indian tariffs. Accused India of having the “most strenuous and obnoxious” trade barriers. India launches NISAR satellite Key Points Launched on: July 30, 2025 Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh Rocket used: GSLV-F16 (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) Relevance : GS 3(Space , Science and Technology) What is NISAR? Full Form: NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar Type: Earth Observation Satellite Weight: 2,392 kg Orbit: Sun-synchronous orbit Mission Life: 5 years Launch Milestone: First time GSLV launched a satellite into a sun-synchronous orbit Joint Venture Agencies Involved: NASA (USA): Built L-band SAR, radar boom, reflector, and payload ISRO (India): Developed S-band SAR, satellite bus (I3K), solar panels, and launched the mission Technical Highlights Radar Type: Dual-frequency Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) NASA’s L-band + ISRO’s S-band Unique Feature: Uses NASA’s 12-metre unfurlable mesh reflector antenna Scans Earth every 12 days, in all weather and day-night conditions Swath: 242 km, with high spatial resolution Tech: SweepSAR, detects tiny surface changes Applications Monitoring ground deformation, ice movement, vegetation dynamics Mapping soil moisture, surface water, farmlands Assisting disaster response (earthquakes, floods, landslides) Tracking sea ice, ships, shorelines, storms Mission Phases Launch Phase – Completed by GSLV-F16 Deployment Phase – Begins Day 10 post-launch; 12-metre antenna to unfold Commissioning Phase – Tests and calibrations Science Phase – Full operation begins Boost the capacity of legal aid systems Context Legal Services Institutions, under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, aim to provide free legal aid to ~80% of India’s population, but reach remains modest — only 15.5 lakh people benefited between April 2023 and March 2024 (a 28% increase from the previous year). Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary – Reforms) Infrastructure Front offices attached to courts, prisons, and juvenile justice boards provide legal help via empanelled lawyers. Legal aid clinics operate in rural areas — 1 clinic for every 163 villages (India Justice Report 2025). Funding Constraints Legal aid budget is <1% of the total justice budget (includes police, prisons, judiciary). Total allocation (2017-18 to 2022-23): States’ share rose from ₹394 cr to ₹866 cr NALSA’s share fell from ₹207 cr to ₹169 cr Utilisation of NALSA funds dropped from 75% to 59% NALSA guidelines (2023) restricted fund usage without prior approval — e.g., staff hiring, victim compensation, equipment. Per Capita Legal Aid Spending (2022–23) India average: ₹6 Highest: Haryana ₹16 Lowest: WB ₹2, Bihar ₹3, UP ₹4 Shrinking Frontline Workforce Para-legal volunteers (PLVs): Create awareness and resolve disputes. Drop by 38% (2019–2024) – now only 3.1 PLVs/lakh (WB & UP: 1 PLV/lakh). Poor honorariums: Kerala highest (₹750/day), most States pay ₹500 or less. Legal Aid Defence Counsel Scheme (LADC) Started in 2022 — dedicated legal aid to accused persons only, modeled on the public defender system. Operational in 610 of 670 districts. ₹200 cr allocation in 2023–24 (fully used), but dropped to ₹147.9 cr in 2024–25. Early potential noted, but too soon to assess long-term success. Key Challenges Underfunding, underutilization, and manpower shortage. Low trust, inconsistent service quality, and lack of accountability persist. Without resource investment, legal aid falls short of the constitutional promise of justice for all. Restoring mangroves can turn the tide on India’s coastal security Background: What Are Mangroves? Definition: Mangroves are salt-tolerant, forested wetlands found in tropical and subtropical coastal zones. Unique Feature: Survive in saline, intertidal zones with low oxygen levels through specialized roots (e.g., pneumatophores). Global Context: Mangroves are part of “blue carbon ecosystems” — sequester CO₂ in soil, roots, and biomass. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology)   Ecological & Social Significance of Mangroves in India Disaster Risk Reduction: Act as natural shields during cyclones, storm surges, and tsunamis. Example: 2004 Tsunami — areas with mangrove cover had reduced damage and mortality. Biodiversity Hotspots: Habitat for fish, crustaceans, molluscs, insects, and migratory birds. Support local food chains and aquatic biodiversity. Carbon Sequestration: Store blue carbon—far more per unit area than terrestrial forests. Key tool in India’s climate mitigation efforts under the Paris Agreement. Livelihoods & Culture: Source of livelihoods for coastal communities — e.g., honey gathering (Sundarbans), fishing, and eco-tourism. Integral to indigenous knowledge and traditional resource use. Key Threats to Mangroves Urban Expansion: Coastal infrastructure, ports, and real estate projects (e.g., Mumbai, Chennai). Aquaculture: Shrimp farming and commercial fisheries degrade soil, alter salinity. Pollution: Plastic, sewage, and industrial effluents reduce regeneration capacity. Climate Change: Rising sea levels → prolonged submergence. Changing rainfall and salinity disrupt growth cycles. IUCN Warning: Over 50% of global mangroves may collapse by 2050 without urgent action.  India’s Mangrove Landscape Total Area: ~4,900 sq. km (India State of Forest Report 2021). Major States: West Bengal (Sundarbans), Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra. Highest Coverage: Gujarat (23.6% of India’s mangrove area). State-Level Success Stories Tamil Nadu Problem: Degradation due to shrimp farming, pollution, disrupted hydrology. Progress: Mangrove cover doubled from 4,500 to 9,000 hectares (2021–2024). Green Tamil Nadu Mission: Focused restoration in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, and Cuddalore. Notable Projects: Muthupettai Estuary (2017): 115 ha restored by MSSRF + local committees. 19 canals dug, 4.3 lakh Avicennia seeds, 6,000 Rhizophora propagules planted. Chennai (Kazhipattur, 2024): 12,500 seedlings from 5 species planted. Invasive Prosopis juliflora removed to restore native vegetation. Maharashtra (Mumbai) Project: 2025 Amazon–BMC–Hasten Regeneration collaboration on Thane Creek. Funding: $1.2 million (₹10.3 crore). Features: 3.75 lakh mangroves planted, targeting flamingo habitat. Plastic cleanup: Trash booms to intercept 150 tonnes of waste. Livelihood Support: Women employed in plantation and maintenance. Gujarat Programme: Central government’s MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes). Achievements: 19,000+ hectares planted (2023–2025). Exceeded 5-year national target early. Focus Areas: Coastal Kutch and Saurashtra. Goals: Enhance climate resilience, ecotourism, and blue carbon goals. Policy and Institutional Support Green Tamil Nadu Mission: State-led restoration with scientific collaboration. MISHTI (2023): Central initiative for large-scale mangrove plantation. Emphasis on livelihood-linked restoration. Corporate Partnerships: Example: Amazon’s “Right Now Climate Fund” supports climate-smart restoration with social co-benefits. Role of Research Institutions: M.S. Swaminathan Foundation, ATREE, and other NGOs play a vital role in site assessment, community engagement, and ecological planning. Key Takeaways for Policy Mangroves = Natural Infrastructure: Should be prioritized in National Adaptation Plans and State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs). Community-led Conservation: Success hinges on involving local communities, Panchayats, and women’s groups. Nature-Based Solutions (NbS): Restoration with co-benefits for biodiversity, carbon, and livelihoods is emerging as a key approach. India’s Global Role: As a megadiverse nation, India’s success in mangrove conservation enhances its voice in UNFCCC, CBD, and blue economy platforms. Kamchatka Peninsula Earthquake Core Event Overview A massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia’s far-east on July 30, 2025. Epicenter: Approximately 500 km east of Moscow, affecting northern Pacific Ocean regions. It triggered a tsunami alert across several countries, including those on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. Tsunami waves were recorded (up to 3 meters) in some places such as: Alaska Peninsula Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky in Russia Hokkaido in Japan Minor flooding was reported but no significant damage or loss of life was initially confirmed. Relevance : GS 1(Geography) Seismic Context: Ring of Fire The epicenter lies on the Circum-Pacific Seismic Belt, famously known as the “Ring of Fire”: A horseshoe-shaped seismic belt encircling the Pacific Ocean. Accounts for ~80% of the world’s strongest earthquakes. This region experiences frequent and violent tectonic activity due to: Presence of multiple subduction zones. Convergent plate boundaries where oceanic plates sink beneath continental or other oceanic plates. Global Comparison: Top Earthquakes (Past 20 Years) The Kamchatka quake ties for 2nd place (8.8 magnitude) among the top 10 earthquakes since 2005: Strongest: Tohoku, Japan (2011) – 9.1 Other notable 8.8 quakes: Chile (2010), Sumatra (2005), Kamchatka (2025) Pattern: Most quakes in the top 10 have occurred within the Ring of Fire. Why So Active: Tectonic Process in Kamchatka Kamchatka Peninsula is one of the most active geological zones due to: Subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Okhotsk Plate. This tectonic movement causes: Build-up of seismic stress Sudden release of energy as earthquakes This region has recorded over 130 significant quakes of >7.5 magnitude since 1900. Notable event: 1952 earthquake of magnitude 9.0 in the same region. Mechanism of Subduction Quakes Process: Two plates collide, and one subducts under the other. This builds up immense stress until sudden rupture and energy release occurs. Subduction-zone quakes are: Longer in duration Often followed by tsunamis Deep-focus in nature, affecting a wider area Scientific and Risk Implications Earthquake in Kamchatka serves as a case study for: Seismic hazard preparedness. Plate tectonics and deep-focus earthquakes. Scientists warn of ripple effects across other Ring of Fire zones. Particularly vulnerable zones: Japan, Alaska, Indonesia, Chile Modern data collection helps predict aftershocks and assess tsunami risks. Human & Policy Implications Kamchatka is sparsely populated: ~362,000 residents, mostly in Petropavlovsk. Hence, damage and casualties were relatively low despite the quake’s strength. Had a similar magnitude quake occurred in a densely populated area (e.g., Nepal 2015), the human toll could be much higher. Underscores the need for: Seismic early warning systems Disaster readiness even in less populated but seismically active areas Geopolitical and Global Preparedness Lessons Events like this: Highlight the interconnected nature of seismic risks in the Pacific. Stress the importance of transnational cooperation on early warnings and mitigation. India, although not in the Ring of Fire, can learn from: Japan’s model of community drills, building codes, and real-time alerts. Conclusion: Key Takeaways The Kamchatka quake is among the top three strongest quakes of the century so far. It reaffirms that seismic unpredictability remains high in the Ring of Fire. Preparedness, awareness, and advances in tectonic science are critical to minimizing human impact. Russia’s quake is a warning signal for all nations vulnerable to tectonic movements—especially those along subduction zones.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 30 July 2025

Content DECLINE IN LEFT-WING EXTREMISM ATMANIRBHAR OIL SEEDS ABHIYAN DECLINE IN LEFT-WING EXTREMISM Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in India, once a major internal security threat, has seen a dramatic decline due to a comprehensive security-development strategy initiated under the 2015 National Policy and Action Plan. With coordinated efforts between the Centre and States, incidents of LWE violence have dropped by over 80%, and the number of affected districts has shrunk from 126 in 2013 to just 18 in 2025. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security) Policy & Strategic Framework National Policy and Action Plan (2015): A multi-pronged strategy combining security, development, and safeguarding community rights. Constitutional Context: Law & order is a State subject (Seventh Schedule), but the Centre supplements State efforts significantly. Focus Areas: Security reinforcement Development interventions Community engagement and entitlements Security Measures Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme (2014–2025): Total funds released: ₹3,357 crore To Jharkhand alone: ₹830.75 crore Covers operational costs, ex-gratia payments, and rehabilitation of surrendered cadres. Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS): Sanctioned Works: ₹1,740 crore For Jharkhand: ₹439.45 crore Covers strengthening of State Intelligence Branches, Special Forces, District Police, and 71 Fortified Police Stations (FPS). Security Outcomes: LWE-related violence incidents: Reduced by 81% since 2010. Civilian/Security force deaths: Declined by 85% till 2024. LWE-affected districts: Down from 126 (2013) to 18 (2025). Infrastructure Development Road Connectivity: Sanctioned: 17,589 km (Jharkhand: 3,168 km) Constructed: 14,902 km (Jharkhand: 2,925 km) Implemented via Road Requirement Plan (RRP) and RCPLWEA. Telecom Connectivity: Towers planned: 10,644 (Jharkhand: 1,755) Towers commissioned: 8,640 (Jharkhand: 1,589) Skill Development & Education Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs): Approved: 48 | Functional: 46 Jharkhand: 16 functional ITIs Skill Development Centres (SDCs): Approved: 61 | Functional: 49 Jharkhand: 20 operational SDCs Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Sanctioned: 258 | Functional: 179 Jharkhand: 47 operational schools Financial Inclusion Post Offices with Banking Services: Total: 5,899 | Jharkhand: 1,240 Bank Branches in LWE districts: Total: 1,007 | Jharkhand: 349 ATMs installed: Total: 937 | Jharkhand: 352 Special Central Assistance (SCA) SCA Scheme since 2017: Total funds released: ₹3,769 crore To Jharkhand: ₹1,439.33 crore Purpose: Bridge critical infrastructure gaps in Most LWE-Affected Districts. Surrender & Rehabilitation Initiatives Central Support to State Policies: Reimbursement of rehabilitation costs. Grant for surrender: ₹5 lakh for senior LWE cadre ₹2.5 lakh for lower cadre Incentives for weapon surrender Vocational training support: ₹10,000/month for 3 years Jharkhand Data (Jan 2024 – Jul 15, 2025): Violent incidents: 103 LWE cadres neutralized: 25 Arrested: 276 Surrendered: 32 Decline in Jharkhand Violent incidents: 2009: 742 incidents 2024: 69 incidents (92% decline) LWE-affected districts: Reduced from 21 (2013) to just 2 (2025) 7 districts categorized as “Legacy & Thrust” districts for ongoing attention Impact and Conclusion Violence and geographic spread of LWE have sharply contracted, with a sustained decline in affected districts and incidents. Comprehensive state-building measures—security, connectivity, education, skill-building, and inclusion—have created an enabling environment for governance and growth. The Jharkhand model, with significant decline in violence and heavy developmental investments, serves as a case study for counterinsurgency-led development. The Centre–State collaborative framework has proved effective in neutralizing extremism while strengthening institutions and uplifting vulnerable populations. ATMANIRBHAR OIL SEEDS ABHIYAN Core Objective Achieve Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in edible oil production by increasing domestic oilseed production and processing efficiency. Targeting both primary oilseed crops and secondary sources (tree-borne oilseeds, rice bran, cottonseed, etc.). Relevance : GS 3(Agriculture) Targeted Oilseed Crops Primary crops (9): Groundnut, Soybean, Mustard, Sunflower, Sesame, Safflower, Niger, Linseed, Castor. Secondary sources: Cottonseed, Coconut, Rice Bran, Tree-Borne Oilseeds (TBOs). Research & Innovation (ICAR Initiatives) 5 All India Coordinated Research Projects (AICRPs): For location-specific high-yielding varieties. 2 Flagship Projects: Focused on hybrid development and gene editing for climate-resilient varieties. ➤ Outcomes (2014–2025): 432 High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs) released: Rapeseed-Mustard: 104 Soybean: 95 Groundnut: 69 Linseed: 53 Sesame: 34 Safflower: 25 Sunflower: 24 Castor: 15 Niger: 13 Focus on Varietal Replacement Rate (VRR) and Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) to promote new varieties. Seed Supply Ecosystem Breeder Seed Production (2019–20 to 2023–24): 1,53,704 quintals of breeder seed produced. Supplied to public/private agencies for certified seed production. District-level Seed Hubs: Ensure availability of quality seeds to farmers. Cluster-Based Approach 600+ Value Chain Clusters across India. Coverage: Over 10 lakh hectares annually. Managed by: FPOs, cooperatives, private Value Chain Partners (VCPs). ➤ Support Provided to Farmers: Free high-quality seeds. Training in Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs). Weather & pest advisory services. Post-harvest infrastructure for oil extraction and recovery. Technology Transfer & Awareness Demonstration Types: Frontline Demonstrations (FLDs) – ICAR Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) – KVKs Block Demonstrations – State Agriculture Departments Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns: Promoting healthy oil consumption patterns. Insurance & Risk Management (PMFBY 2024–25) Extensive coverage of oilseed crops across 16 states/UTs under Kharif and Rabi seasons. Key crops insured: Mustard, Soybean, Groundnut, Sesame, Sunflower, Linseed, Niger, Safflower, Castor. Enables financial security for oilseed farmers. Strategic Importance India imports over 60% of its edible oil needs (~14-15 million tonnes/year). Edible oil import bill in 2023–24: USD 20 billion+. NMEO-OS aims to reduce import dependence, ensure price stability, and promote nutritional security. Challenges to Address Low productivity of oilseeds compared to global averages. Fragmented supply chains and poor oil recovery rates. Climate vulnerability impacting oilseed yield stability. Need for better infrastructure in processing and storage. Way Forward Enhance private sector participation in seed production, processing. Invest in cold-pressed oil extraction and organic oilseed farming. Integrate oilseed promotion with nutrition-focused programs (like POSHAN Abhiyan). Link clusters with e-NAM and export markets for value realization.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 30 July 2025

Content Adopt formalisation to power productivity growth Why the Gini Index is wrong about India Adopt formalisation to power productivity growth Structural Shift in Formal Manufacturing Employment Contract labour share rose from 20% (1999-2000) to 40.7% (2022-23) across industries, per Annual Survey of Industries (ASI). Indicates a doubling in informalisation within the formal sector — a core concern among academics and policymakers. Marks a structural transformation where cost-saving trumps productivity, contrary to the intended flexibility rationale. Relevance : GS 3(Economy – Labour Force) Practice Question : Plight of Contract Workers Hired via third-party contractors, contract workers are often excluded from core protections under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. No safeguards against arbitrary dismissal, retrenchment, or fair layoff procedures. Weak bargaining power and lack of union representation enable systemic exploitation. Wage Disparities (2018–19) Contract workers earned 14.47% less than regular workers. Wage gaps sharper in larger enterprises: Large firms: 31% lower Medium firms: 23% lower Small firms: 12% lower Daily labour cost for contract workers was 24% lower on average. In 9 industry segments, contract worker costs were <50% of regular worker costs; in some cases, up to 85% lower. Impact on Labour Productivity While contract labour offers operational flexibility, excessive reliance leads to: High labour turnover Reduced investment in skill development Moral hazard and worker disengagement due to principal-agent misalignment. Empirical Findings (1999–2019, plant-level ASI data) Labour productivity in Contract Labour-Intensive (CLI) enterprises is 31% lower than in Regular Labour-Intensive (RLI) units. Small firms (<100 workers): 36% productivity gap Medium firms (100–300 workers): 23% Labour-intensive sectors: 42% Negative differentials persist even after controlling for firm- and state-level factors. Positive Deviations High-skill CLI enterprises: 5% higher productivity than low-skill CLI firms. Large, high-skill CLI enterprises: 20% productivity advantage. Large, capital-intensive CLI firms: 17% productivity gain. However, these account for only ~20% of formal manufacturing; 80% suffer due to misuse of contract labour. Policy Landscape & Critique  Labour Code on Industrial Relations (2020) Aims to permit direct hiring of fixed-term workers (bypassing contractors). Mandates basic benefits (e.g., gratuity, leave). Yet to be implemented; unions fear further erosion of job security. Suggested Reforms Incentivise longer-term contracts with: Subsidies in social security contributions (e.g., EPFO/ESIC) Access to government skilling programs Could improve workforce retention, enable skill accumulation, and reduce exploitative short-termism. Revival of PMRPY Needed Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY) (2016–2022): Government paid 12% employer contribution to EPF/EPS. 1 crore+ employees benefited. Discontinuation in March 2022 stalled momentum toward formalisation. Revival could deter misuse of contract labour and incentivise formal hiring. Conclusion Contractualisation, when driven by cost-cutting, has long-term costs: low productivity, weak skills, and poor job quality. Reform should balance flexibility with fairness, aligning with long-term industrial productivity and worker dignity. Formalisation is not just a social goal—it is also a strategic economic imperative for sustained manufacturing competitiveness. Why the Gini Index is wrong about India Context – Gini Paradox: Statistical Equality vs Lived Inequality India ranked among the most equal societies globally (Gini Index: 25.5) in 2025. Contradiction: Ground-level realities expose deep structural inequalities across economic, gender, digital, and social dimensions. Raises critical questions on the methodology and representativeness of the Gini Index, especially in contexts with large informal economies. Relevance : GS 2 (Inequalities ,Poverty) Economic & Wealth Inequality Income concentration: Top 1% earned 22.6% of national income in 2022–23 (Source: Income and Wealth Inequality in India, 1922–2023). Wealth inequality under-reported due to: Informal employment dominance. Low tax base (only ~10% of adults pay income tax). Real-life contrast: A chauffeur earning ₹3 lakh/year drives a ₹30 lakh luxury car — underscores systemic income disparity. Gender Inequality Workforce participation: Women form only 35.9% of the workforce. Leadership gap: Only 12.7% of mid- and senior-level leadership roles held by women in 2024. Start-up landscape: Women-run start-ups form only 7.5% of all active ventures, despite India having the 3rd largest startup ecosystem. Social factors: Norms around inheritance, education spending on girls, and domestic roles continue to limit women’s access to opportunity. Digital Divide Despite national efforts, access to functional technology remains unequal: Only 52.7% of schools have working computers. 53.9% of schools have internet access. Broadband penetration (urban + rural households): Just 41.8%. Education in emergencies (e.g., Delhi’s air pollution shutdowns) further isolates those without digital infrastructure. Educational Inequality Students from tech-access schools gain digital fluency, reinforcing class advantages. Lack of access leads to lower-skilled employment, perpetuating intergenerational poverty. Digital infrastructure inequality severely limits upward mobility for rural and low-income youth. Inequality Is Interconnected Multilayered inequalities reinforce each other: Digital inequality  limits access to banking  restricts financial independence  aggravates gender inequality. Example: Only 25% of rural women have internet access vs 49% of rural men. Internet is a gateway to financial inclusion, education, and employment opportunities. Critique of the Gini Index Methodology Gini Index captures income distribution, but: Misses informal sector realities. Does not account for non-income-based inequality (e.g., gender, caste, digital access). India’s low Gini score masks high inequality outside the formal economic sphere. Conclusion: A Call for Grounded Equality True equality goes beyond numerical scores — requires universal access to opportunity. Without inclusive policies to address structural inequalities, rankings like the Gini Index offer a misleading sense of equity. India must invest in education, digital access, women’s empowerment, and labour formalisation to move toward real equality, not just statistical parity. Gini Index What is the Gini Index? The Gini Index is a statistical measure of income or wealth inequality within a country or group. Developed by Corrado Gini, an Italian statistician, in 1912. How does it work? Scale: Ranges from 0 to 100 (or sometimes 0 to 1 in academic texts). 0 = Perfect equality (everyone has the same income). 100 = Perfect inequality (one person has all the income, others have none). Interpretation Example Gini Score Meaning 25.5 Low inequality (as claimed for India in 2025) 35–45 Moderate inequality (common in many developing nations) 50 High inequality (often seen in Latin American and Sub-Saharan countries) How is it Calculated? Based on the Lorenz Curve, which plots: % of population (X-axis) vs % of income or wealth owned (Y-axis) Gini = Area between line of equality and Lorenz curve, divided by total area under the line of equality. Limitations Doesn’t capture non-income inequalities (e.g., gender, caste, digital access). Sensitive to data quality — especially weak in economies with large informal sectors (like India). A low Gini score doesn’t always mean a fair society.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 30 July 2025

Content: 3 Pak. terrorists behind Pahalgam killed: Centre Free bus schemes help, but rural India pays more to travel What did the ICJ say on climate obligations? Countdown on; NISAR satellite launch today Kaziranga in Assam records third-highest tiger density in India after Bandipur, Corbett Amid trade upheaval, India rethinks China blockade to further tech manufacturing 3 Pak. terrorists behind Pahalgam killed: Centre Background On April 22, 2025, a major terror attack took place at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of 26 civilians. The attack marked one of the deadliest incidents targeting civilians in the Union Territory in recent times. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security ) Recent Developments On July 29, 2025, security forces conducted a targeted operation in the Dachigam area of Srinagar, leading to the killing of three foreign terrorists believed to be responsible for the April 22 attack. Details of the Operation The terrorists were identified as: Suleman alias Faizal Jatt – Categorized as an “A-category” terrorist; also involved in the Gagangir attack (October 2024). Hamza Afghani Zibran All were Pakistani nationals and affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The operation was carried out through coordinated efforts involving: Intelligence Bureau (IB) Indian Army Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Jammu & Kashmir Police A combination of human and technical intelligence was employed to track the terrorists’ movements. Government Response The operation was confirmed by both the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister in the Lok Sabha during a debate on Operation Sindoor, a broader counter-terror framework. It was emphasized that while local recruitment into militant groups has declined, infiltration attempts by foreign terrorists continue. The operation was presented as part of a larger effort to maintain internal security in Jammu & Kashmir and to prevent cross-border terrorism. Operation Mahadev Separately, the Home Minister also referenced Operation Mahadev, under which the three terrorists involved in the Baisaran meadow killings were neutralized. The twin operations—Sindoor and Mahadev—are part of India’s ongoing security strategy to respond decisively to terrorist threats. Strategic Implications Reinforces the trend of foreign-led terror operations in Kashmir, as local support reportedly diminishes. Demonstrates increasing reliance on multi-agency coordination and intelligence integration. Underlines India’s continued focus on counter-infiltration and post-incident accountability in terror-related incidents. Free bus schemes help, but rural India pays more to travel Context A recent World Bank report noted that India lifted approximately 171 million people out of extreme poverty between 2011–12 and 2022–23. Extreme poverty, defined as living on less than $2.15 per day, has declined from 16.2% to 2.3% in this period. However, these statistics prompt further investigation into how household consumption patterns have evolved, particularly regarding expenditure priorities across rural and urban India. Relevance : GS 1(Society) , GS 2(Social Issues) Insights from the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2023–24 1. Overview of Per Capita Expenditure Rural India: ₹4,122 per capita per month Urban India: ₹6,996 per capita per month Expenditure is divided into: Food: 47% (rural), 39% (urban) Non-food: The remaining share, which includes conveyance, health, education, housing, etc. The share of food consumption has declined over time, indicating a gradual shift in expenditure priorities. 2. Conveyance as a Major Non-Food Expense Conveyance accounts for 14% of total non-food expenditure on average. Bus travel forms the largest component of conveyance costs, particularly in rural areas: Rural: 20.6% of conveyance expenditure Urban: 16.2% of conveyance expenditure Rural dependence on buses is higher due to limited access to alternative transport modes. 3. State-Wise Trends High rural bus expenditure: Tamil Nadu, Kerala (around 25% of conveyance spending) Low rural bus expenditure: Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Karnataka, Haryana (less than 20%) States offering free bus services for women as of 2025: Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir 4. Mixed Policy Impact Evidence on the impact of free bus schemes is mixed: Reduction in bus expenditure in: Delhi, Karnataka, Telangana Increase in bus expenditure in: Tamil Nadu, Kerala At a national level: Urban India saw a 4% decline in bus expenditure Rural India saw a 0.6% increase, indicating limited rural policy impact 5. Income Group and Usage Paradox Contrary to expectations, higher-income households spend a larger share of their conveyance budget on buses. Possible explanation: Lower-income households (especially in rural areas) have lower transportation needs due to engagement in agriculture. No clear link between non-agricultural employment and bus usage in urban areas, suggesting broader usage beyond commuting. Policy Recommendations Electrification of Public Transport: Transition from internal combustion engines to electric buses to reduce operational costs and ticket prices. Increase Bus Availability: Current national average: 17 buses per 1 lakh population Ministry benchmark: 60 per 1 lakh Poorly served states: Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha (fewer than 10 buses per 1 lakh people) Improve Bus Quality and Affordability: Upgrading infrastructure can reduce the economic burden on households, allowing reallocation of resources to health, education, or asset creation. Conclusion India’s declining poverty rates and shifting consumption patterns reflect socio-economic progress. However, the findings from HCES underscore persistent infrastructure deficits and uneven policy impact, especially in rural areas. Addressing conveyance costs through targeted investment and systemic improvements in public transport could significantly enhance household welfare and reduce regional disparities. What did the ICJ say on climate obligations? Context On July 23, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivered an advisory opinion on the obligations of states to reduce anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the legal consequences of failing to do so. The opinion arrives at a time when multilateral climate action faces significant challenges, especially with reduced commitments from some developed nations. Relevance : GS 3(Climate Change , Environment and Ecology ) Key Highlights of the ICJ Opinion 1. Reaffirmation of the Climate Regime’s Integrity The ICJ emphasised the continuity and cohesiveness of the entire international climate framework: UNFCCC (1992) Kyoto Protocol (1997) Paris Agreement (2015) This contrasts sharply with the view from some developed countries that the Paris Agreement is now the sole binding framework, making earlier instruments obsolete. 2. A Boost for the Global South The Court reaffirmed that developed countries (as listed in Annex I and II of the UNFCCC) have additional obligations, including: Climate finance Technology transfer Capacity building Reasserted the relevance of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR–RC) as the core guiding principle. Notably, it extended the applicability of CBDR–RC beyond climate treaties to potentially wider environmental law, such as biodiversity governance. 3. Nuanced View on Developmental Status Recognised the evolving nature of “developed” and “developing” country categories, citing the Paris Agreement’s addition of “in the light of national circumstances” to CBDR–RC. This introduces flexibility but may blur lines in future interpretations and negotiations. Contentious Interpretation of the Paris Temperature Target 1. Paris Agreement Language (Article 2.1(a)): Original Goal: Keep global temperature rise “well below 2°C”, while “pursuing efforts” for 1.5°C. ICJ’s View: Treats the 1.5°C target as the de facto obligation, based on recent UNFCCC COP decisions. 2. Issues Raised: The Court’s interpretation implies that implementation decisions can amend treaty obligations, a contentious legal stance. Ignores the reality that the 1.5°C threshold may be exceeded imminently, and offers no legal roadmap for that eventuality. Uncritical reliance on IPCC’s AR6 projections for emission cuts, which themselves do not account for equity or CBDR–RC, as acknowledged even in recent UNFCCC Bonn negotiations. Enforcement of Climate Obligations: Limited Advances While extensively reviewing obligations of conduct vs. obligations of result, the Court remains within existing international law paradigms: Obligations of conduct (e.g., mitigation efforts) are recognised, but are not enforceable as guarantees of outcome. Stronger enforcement is limited to procedural compliance, such as submission of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The opinion implies that any enforcement is case-specific and dependent on judicial forums with relevant jurisdiction. Gaps in the Opinion: A Global South Perspective 1. Developmental Constraints Ignored The opinion largely neglects the developmentalchallenges of the global South: Lack of carbon space threatens energy access and poverty eradication. Low-carbon transitions remain financially and technologically inaccessible for many developing countries. 2. Limited Recognition of Systemic Inequities Equity and CBDR–RC are acknowledged only as interpretive principles, not as sources of new obligations. Judge Xue Hanqin, in a separate opinion, highlights this omission, noting that a supportive international economic order is essential for sustainable development and climate justice. Potential for Litigation, but Limited Global Impact The opinion may serve as a catalyst for litigation at the domestic or regional level, especially by climate-vulnerable countries. It opens pathways for claims of reparation or compensation, contingent on establishing: Attribution Wrongfulness Causation However, its effect on international negotiations is expected to be modest. Existing fault lines between North and South remain unaddressed. Several judges’ separate opinions reflect concern that this was a missed opportunity for bold jurisprudence. Conclusion The ICJ advisory opinion reaffirms important principles such as CBDR–RC and the continued obligations of developed countries, offering some support to the global South. However, it falls short in terms of: Addressing developmental asymmetries Clarifying the legal consequences of exceeding climate thresholds Proposing a robust enforcement framework Its potential lies more in its symbolic value and litigation support, rather than in reshaping global climate governance. For policymakers and negotiators from the global South, the opinion is both an affirmation and a cautionary signal, underscoring the need to persist with demands for equity, climate finance, and technological justice. Countdown on; NISAR satellite launch today Launch Details: Satellite: NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) Weight: 2,392 kg Launch Vehicle: GSLV-F16 (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) Launch Site: Second Launch Pad, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota Orbit: 743-km Sun-Synchronous Orbit Launch Time: Scheduled for 5:40 p.m., Wednesday (July 30, 2025) Countdown: Began at 2:10 p.m., Tuesday (27.5-hour duration) Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology, Space) Key Features of NISAR: Joint Mission: First collaborative satellite mission between NASA and ISRO. Synthetic Aperture Radar: Carries both L-band (by NASA) and S-band (by ISRO) radar systems for dual-frequency earth observation. Observation Capacity: Global coverage every 12 days All-weather, day-night imaging High-resolution data for long-term global change monitoring. Applications: Disaster Management: Earthquakes, landslides, floods, and cyclones Agriculture & Forestry: Crop monitoring, forest biomass, and land use changes Climate Science: Glacier dynamics, sea-level rise, soil moisture Urban Planning & Infrastructure Monitoring Collaborative Dimensions: India’s Contribution: Spacecraft bus S-band radar Launch vehicle and mission operations NASA’s Contribution: L-band radar Radar reflector boom Communication subsystems, GPS, and data handling systems Institutional Collaboration: Duration: Over a decade of joint development COVID-19 Challenge: Despite the pandemic, engineers from both countries ensured continued integration and testing: ~65 ISRO engineers visited NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) ~175 NASA engineers visited ISRO facilities Strategic Significance: A model for future international collaborations in space and earth science. Broader Implications: Space Diplomacy: Enhances strategic cooperation in civilian space technology Capacity Building: Mutual learning and technology transfer Earth Science Leadership: Positions both agencies at the forefront of next-gen environmental monitoring Kaziranga in Assam records third-highest tiger density in India after Bandipur, Corbett Key Highlights: Tiger Count (2024): 148 individuals 2022 Comparison: 104 tigers Method: Phase IV monitoring using camera traps (as per NTCA protocol) Duration: 103 days (Dec 2023 – Apr 2024) Area Surveyed: 1,307.49 sq. km Camera Traps: 293 units Images Captured: 4,011 images from 242 locations Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Tiger Density Ranking (India): Kaziranga Tiger Reserve now has the third-highest tiger density in India: Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka – 19.83 tigers/100 sq. km Corbett Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand – 19.56 tigers/100 sq. km Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, Assam – 18.65 tigers/100 sq. km Reasons for Increase in Tiger Count: First-time Sampling of the Biswanath Wildlife Division (added 27 new tiger records) Core Eastern Assam Wildlife Division count increased from 104 (2022) to 115 (2024) Nagaon Wildlife Division maintained a stable count of 6 tigers Methodology: Technique Used: Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture (SECR) Considered more ecologically accurate than traditional methods Coordinating Bodies: National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) Wildlife Institute of India (WII) Assam Forest Department Conservation Context: The Kaziranga landscape includes a mix of grasslands, semi-evergreen and tropical forests, and wetlands — ideal for supporting both tigers and their prey base. Conservation in the region has improved through: Anti-poaching efforts Habitat restoration Community-based initiatives Challenges: Persistent threats include: Habitat fragmentation Human-wildlife conflict Infrastructure development pressures Climate change Agricultural encroachment Political and Administrative Response: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized Kaziranga’s dual role in tiger conservation and habitat restoration, particularly noting actions against infiltration and forest degradation. He described the tiger as the “treasure of Assam’s forests.” Tigers in India – Key Facts India hosts ~75% of the global wild tiger population. As per Status of Tigers in India, 2022 report, estimated count: 3,682 tigers. Top Tiger States (2022): Madhya Pradesh (785), Karnataka (563), Uttarakhand (560), Maharashtra (444), Tamil Nadu (306). Project Tiger (1973): Launched to conserve tigers in the wild — now administered by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under the MoEFCC. Tiger Reserves (as of 2024): 54 reserves, covering ~78,000 sq km, or 2.4% of India’s geographical area. Recent Success – Kaziranga (2024): Tiger population rose from 104 (2022) to 148 (2024). Third-highest tiger density in India: 18.65 tigers/100 sq. km. Attributed to better monitoring and inclusion of new areas like Biswanath Wildlife Division. Amid trade upheaval, India rethinks China blockade to further tech manufacturing Context and Background Post-Galwan Policy Shift (2020): Following border clashes in 2020, India imposed stricter FDI rules via Press Note 3, requiring prior government approval for investments from countries sharing land borders (mainly targeting China). Key sectors like telecom, electronics, and infrastructure were effectively blocked to Chinese firms. Strategic Recalibration (2023–25): Amid changing global dynamics and growing domestic manufacturing ambitions (e.g., Make in India, PLI schemes), India is cautiously rethinking its restrictions on Chinese firms, especially in non-strategic sectors. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Key Developments Signs of Thaw: Gradual Allowance Dixon-Loncheer Partnership: Indian firm Dixon Technologies entered a joint venture with China-based Loncheer, with approval from India’s IT Ministry. This venture focuses on manufacturing electronics, including smartphones, tablets, wearables, and automotive components. About 74% of Dixon’s components in this space will come from China. Government Softening Stance: Policy think tanks like NITI Aayog have recommended easing FDI norms for China-linked entities in specific areas to boost exports. Recent moves include inviting Chinese firms to invest in India’s new Economic Survey 2023–24, signaling calibrated acceptance. Balancing Act: Trade vs Security Continued Strategic Restrictions: Despite softening in electronics, sectors like defense, critical minerals, and core assembly remain largely off-limits. India remains wary of supply chain dependence, particularly in view of geopolitical volatility. Diplomatic Engagements: External Affairs Minister Jaishankar visited China, stressing the need for cooperation without conflict, while acknowledging persistent challenges in border resolution. Implications for India’s Manufacturing and Trade Electronics Sector Shifts Reduced Reliance? Not Yet Fully. China and Hong Kong remain dominant in electronics imports, contributing over 50% of total inputs. India’s smartphone exports to the US rose to 36% (early 2025), with China’s share in the same market dropping to 11%, indicating India’s growing role in global value chains. However, most components still come from Chinese or Chinese-backed firms. Geopolitical and Trade Realignment India’s Dual Strategy: Aims to reduce over-dependence on Chinese capital while still using Chinese expertise to bolster manufacturing. Restrictive FDI continues in strategic sectors but is selectively relaxed in high-export-potential industries. Global Trade Tensions: China has imposed restrictions on firms doing business with India and has curbed rare earth exports. These retaliatory actions affect India’s electronics and renewable energy industries, both of which are heavily reliant on critical Chinese inputs. Takeaways Strategic Autonomy vs Economic Integration: India seeks to balance national security concerns with manufacturing competitiveness, particularly under PLI schemes and global supply chain diversification. FDI Policy Evolution: Future FDI policies may adopt a sector-specific and risk-calibrated approach, allowing non-sensitive investments from Chinese entities while shielding critical infrastructure. China’s Role in Global Supply Chains: Despite geopolitical tensions, Chinese companies remain integral to electronics manufacturing. India’s long-term success depends on developing indigenous capabilities and diversified sourcing.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 29 July 2025

Content Classrooms of Change: NEP 2020 and the New Era of Schooling Higher Education under NEP 2020: Reimagining India’s Academic Landscape Classrooms of Change: NEP 2020 and the New Era of Schooling Background and Vision Launched on July 29, 2020, NEP 2020 replaces the 34-year-old National Policy on Education (1986). Anchored in SDG-4: Inclusive and Quality Education for All by 2030. Envisions a learner-centric, flexible, and inclusive education system driven by curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Integrates India’s civilizational knowledge traditions with 21st-century skills. Relevance : GS 2(Education , Schemes) Structural Reforms: 5+3+3+4 and NCFs Replaces 10+2 with 5+3+3+4 structure: 5 years: Foundational (3 pre-primary + Grades 1–2) 3 years: Preparatory (Grades 3–5) 3 years: Middle (Grades 6–8) 4 years: Secondary (Grades 9–12) Supported by: NCF-FS 2022: Play-based foundational curriculum (ages 3–8). NCF-SE 2023: Multidisciplinary, competency-based learning framework. Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) & ECCE >85% brain development occurs before age 6 – NEP prioritizes ECCE. Key programs: NIPUN Bharat (2021): Targeting FLN for all by 2026–27. Vidya Pravesh: 12-week play-based school readiness program. Balvatikas: 3 crore+ children enrolled in pre-primary. NCF-FS adopted by all 36 States/UTs. Jadui Pitara: Toys, puppets, puzzles for age-appropriate, multilingual learning. Digital push: 2,778 FLN content pieces on DIKSHA; e-Jaadui Pitara launched. Teacher capacity: 12.97 lakh teachers trained under NISHTHA. Impact: ASER 2024: Reading: 23.4% of Class III students in govt. schools read Grade II-level text (vs. 16.3% in 2022). Arithmetic: 27.6% perform subtraction (vs. 20.2% in 2022). PARAKH 2024: Rural Grade 3 students outperform urban peers in Math & Language. Universal Access and Equity Samagra Shiksha ensures seamless schooling from pre-primary to Grade 12. Gross Enrolment Ratio (2023–24): Primary: 97.8% Upper Primary: 96.57% Infrastructure improvements: Drinking water (98.4%), Girls’ toilets (97.1%), Electricity (85.1%), Ramps (85.1%). Residential Schools: 1,137 Netaji Subhash Avasiya Vidyalayas (1.15 lakh SEDG students). 5,269 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (7.58 lakh girls). NIOS: Re-integrating out-of-school children and Agniveers with flexible learning. Vidyanjali portal: 30,000+ assets contributed; 1.7 crore students impacted. Inclusion and Disability Support PRASHAST app: Early disability screening tool under RPwD Act (2016). ISL as a Subject: Indian Sign Language now taught at secondary level. 1,000+ ISL videos and talking books in 46 subjects. UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (2021) awarded to India for inclusive literacy efforts. Curriculum Reform & Competency-Based Learning Emphasis on experiential, toy-based, and integrated learning. New textbooks: Mridang (English), Sarangi (Hindi), Joyful Mathematics. Introduction of new subject: “The World Around Us” (Grades 3–5). Vocational Education: Exposure from Grade 3. CBSE + UGC notify National Credit Framework (NCrF) implementation in schools (Grades 9–12). Use of Technology DIKSHA platform: Available in 133 Indian languages. Includes QR-coded textbooks, teacher training (NISHTHA), and student resources. PM eVidya: “One Nation, One Digital Platform” with 200 DTH TV channels. Rashtriya Vidya Samiksha Kendra (RVSK): Real-time monitoring via State VSKs. Tracks KPIs for evidence-based decisions. Teacher Development and Capacity Building NEP 2020 emphasizes teachers as change agents. NISHTHA: Over 14 lakh teachers trained across ECCE and FLN. DIKSHA provides: Interactive lessons, multilingual content, career advancement modules. Reforming Assessment and School Quality Shift from rote to formative, holistic, and competency-based assessments. PARAKH: National Assessment Centre. 2024 survey covered 21.15 lakh students and 2.7 lakh teachers. Holistic Progress Cards: Cover academics, socio-emotional skills, creativity, and community engagement. SQAAF (School Quality Assessment and Assurance Framework): Quality evaluation across: Administration, Curriculum, Assessment, Infrastructure, Inclusiveness. Challenges Ahead Digital divide persists: Only 72% of schools have internet access. Teacher shortages, especially in rural and tribal regions. FLN outcomes, while improving, still lag behind global benchmarks. Balancing multilingual education with standardisation in assessments. Integration of vocational and academic pathways still nascent. Conclusion: Towards a New Paradigm NEP 2020 is a visionary step, aligning education with India’s demographic dividend and global aspirations. By fostering joyful learning, inclusion, critical thinking, and teacher empowerment, it transforms Indian classrooms from rote-centric spaces to hubs of innovation and equality. Continued investment, capacity building, and community participation will determine whether this reform becomes a revolution. Higher Education under NEP 2020: Reimagining India’s Academic Landscape Foundational Vision & Systemic Shift NEP 2020: First education policy in 34 years; adopted after 2L+ public suggestions & 5 years of consultations. Envisions a flexible, multidisciplinary, learner-centric ecosystem aligned with 21st-century skills and rooted in Indian knowledge systems. Anchored in 5 pillars: Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability, and Accountability. Relevance : GS 2(Education , Schemes) GER Target & Structural Reforms Target: 50% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2035. 4-year UG programmes with Multiple Entry & Exit (MEME) options—already adopted by 153 universities. Academic Bank of Credits (ABC): Digital academic credit repository; 97 CFIs onboarded. Biannual Admissions: Implemented to enhance student flexibility and intake capacity. Curriculum & Credit Framework (2022): Interdisciplinary, credit-based, portable, and hybrid-friendly. Inclusion & Access PM Vidya Lakshmi Scheme (2024): ₹2,358 crore loans sanctioned to 13,358 students; 8,379 loans disbursed. Collateral-free up to ₹7.5 lakh; 3% interest subvention for families below ₹8 lakh. Target: 22 lakh students annually + 7 lakh more till 2030–31. Support for Divyangjans: Inclusive pedagogy guidelines, assistive tech, personalised counselling. Standalone colleges converted to multi-disciplinary HEIs by 2040; 1 major HEI per district by 2030. Digital & Online Education Expansion SWAYAM MOOCs: 5.15+ crore enrolments, 16,530+ courses; 388 universities permit 40% credit transfer. Virtual Labs: 900+ labs, 1,200+ experiments. NDLI: 8 crore+ digital resources (video, text, audio). SWAYAM Plus (2024): Industry-aligned digital university base (AI, Data Science). Anuvadini & e-KUMBH: Multilingual education in 22 Indian languages. Equity Through Financing & Schemes PM-USHA: ₹100 crore to each of 35 public universities for research, autonomy, global linkages. Outcome-linked grants tied to NIRF & accreditation scores. HEFA (2017–2024): ₹44,449 crore sanctioned for 201 projects; benefited IITs, IIMs, NITs, CUs. NEAT & IDEA Labs: 393 EdTech partners onboarded; 1.15 lakh EWS students aided. 423 IDEA Labs established promoting STEM, AI, and experiential learning. Quality Assurance & Autonomy Higher Education Commission of India (HECI): Upcoming single regulator replacing UGC, AICTE, NAAC. Graded Autonomy: Performance-based freedom via new Autonomous College (2023) & Deemed University (2023) regulations. NAAC Revamp: Outcome-linked metrics (employment, research, community impact). NIRF 2.0: Now linked with funding; includes equity, innovation, digital access. Research, Innovation & Start-ups Anusandhan NRF (2023): ₹50,000 crore hybrid fund. PhD enrolment: 2.34 lakh (↑100%); Women ↑136%. India: 3rd globally in publications (2024); patent filings hit 92,168 (25% by HEIs). 16,051 Innovation Councils in HEIs across 28 States/8 UTs. KAPILA Scheme: 10,800 patents filed; 71,000 trained in IP literacy. Faculty & Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Malaviya Mission (MMTTP): 2.5 lakh faculty trained in AI, STEM, ethics. IKS Mission: 51 centres; 88 research projects; 5,527 internships. RDCs (Research & Development Cells): Present in 2,871 HEIs. ASMITA: 22,000 books in 22 languages by 2029. Globalization of Indian Higher Education Indian HEIs Abroad: IIT Madras–Zanzibar, IIT Delhi–Abu Dhabi, IIM Ahmedabad–Dubai. Foreign Universities in India: Deakin & Wollongong (Gift City), Southampton (Gurugram); 6 others given Letters of Approval. Study in India Campaign: 47,602 foreign students; 8,000+ courses; 600+ HEIs from 136+ countries. Twinning/Dual/Joint Degrees: 103 Indian HEIs collaborating with foreign universities. SPARC: ₹515 crore for 799 research projects, 51 patents filed. Institutional Expansion (2014–2025) Total Central HEIs rose from 115 → 157. Central Universities: 40 → 48 IITs: 16 → 23 IIMs: 13 → 21 IIITs: 9 → 25 NITs: 31 → 32 Sindhu Central University in Ladakh launched PG courses in tech & public policy. Centers of Excellence in AI: IISc (Health), IIT Kanpur (Sustainable Cities), IIT Ropar (Agri), IIT Madras (Education) — ₹1,490 crore combined outlay. International Rankings & Reputation India: Most represented in QS Asia Rankings 2025 – 163 universities out of 987. 7 Indian universities in Asia’s Top 100 (IITs, DU, IISc). QS Subject Rankings 2025: 79 Indian HEIs, 10 among global top 50. Strengthening global academic brand via dual degrees, SPARC, and Study in India. Conclusion: India’s Higher Education – Future-Ready NEP 2020 is not just a reform, but a reimagination of the Indian academic landscape: Bridging equity, inclusion, and excellence. Digital-first, industry-aligned, and research-driven. Positioned to become a global education and innovation hub by 2047.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 29 July 2025

Content India’s Culture of Risk in Mass Religious Gatherings Chola Rule: Beyond Temples, A Governance Legacy India’s Culture of Risk in Mass Religious Gatherings Trigger Events & Pattern Haridwar Stampede (July 27, 2025): 8 pilgrims died after panic from a rumour of electrocution on temple steps. Ayodhya (July 28, 2025): 2 more died as overloaded monkey-proofing mesh caused sparks, triggering a stampede. Pattern: Both stem from poor electrical safety, lack of infrastructure audit, and overcrowding without escape mechanisms. Relevance : GS 3(Disaster Management ) Practice Question : “India’s mass religious gatherings often turn into disasters waiting to happen.” In light of recent stampede incidents, critically examine the structural, legal, and administrative lapses contributing to such tragedies. Suggest robust reforms for safer pilgrimage management. (250 words) Structural & Administrative Failures Temples lack basic disaster readiness: No automatic power cutoffs. Makeshift wiring and overloaded transformers common. Absence of real-time CCTV monitoring and underground cabling. Example: Mansa Devi temple had one entry/exit route—violating NDMA norms which mandate multiple, segregated access routes. Poor Compliance with NDMA Guidelines NDMA’s crowd management protocol: Calculate carrying capacity, Stagger entry, Ensure real-time monitoring, Maintain emergency exits. Ignored across states, especially in hill temples. Systemic Governance Gaps State’s role limited to providing priests, ignoring physical planning. Despite High Court and Supreme Court orders, states fail to adopt: Tech-based surveillance, Crowd certifications, Temporary infrastructure for seasonal surges. Darshan does not require certification, unlike sports events or protests. Legal Loopholes & Risk Transfer In Uttarakhand & Uttar Pradesh, temples are exempt from NDMA norms under legal loopholes. Shrine boards often outsource management to under-trained volunteers. Victims are given compensation, but no accountability is enforced on management bodies. Data Context (Supportive of Argument) India has over 1,500 major annual religious gatherings, many drawing crowds of 1–5 million people. 2013 Kumbh Mela: over 120 million visited, but crowd planning hailed only due to military-style command control. Between 2001–2024, over 900 deaths in India from stampedes — majority during religious events. Comparative Insights Japan’s Shinto festivals cap visitors using electronic queuing systems. Mecca’s Hajj uses RFID wristbands, staggered timings, and AI heatmaps to avoid bottlenecks. Way Forward Mandatory Crowd Management Plans: Enforce NDMA’s crowd control manual across all pilgrimage sites—crowd mapping, real-time monitoring, staggered entry. Infrastructure Audit & Modernisation: Compulsory audits for electric load, wiring, transformers; auto-cutoff systems for temples. Pre-certification & Safety Clearances: Mass gatherings must require certification on safety, crowd density, emergency exits, and basic life-support systems. Volunteer & Emergency Training: States must train and certify volunteers in crowd psychology, disaster response, and evacuation protocols. Stop Routine Mass Events Without Review: Avoid routinely held, unregulated large religious events; allow only those with infrastructure readiness. Legal Enforcement for Organisers: Penalise organisers of mass events for negligence—ensure personal and institutional accountability. Conclusion India must move from ritualistic crowd gatherings to scientifically planned ones, ensuring electrical, civic, and structural audit before mass events. Crowd safety certification and NDMA compliance must be legally enforced, even at religious sites, to prevent repeat tragedies under the guise of faith. Chola Rule: Beyond Temples, A Governance Legacy Background Rajendra Chola I (reign: 1014–1044 CE) built the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple (UNESCO WHS). But Chola kings were also pioneers in governance, decentralisation, and water engineering. PM Modi’s speech (July 27, 2025) spotlighted these often-ignored aspects. Relevance : GS 1(Culture , Heritage , History) Practice Question : “The Chola legacy offers more than just temple architecture; it provides enduring models for water governance, structural resilience, and grassroots democracy.” Critically examine with reference to contemporary governance challenges in India. (15 marks, 250 words) Advanced Water Management Systems Chola-era tanks, canals, and reservoir networks still influence Tamil Nadu’s irrigation. Data: 40,000+ traditional irrigation tanks still operational in Tamil Nadu (WRD, 2024). Emphasis on community-led tank maintenance under Kudimaramathu system — a model of participatory water governance. Editorial calls for reviving local water institutions in Cauvery delta suffering from mismanagement. Earthquake-Resilient Infrastructure (Pre-modern Seismic Design) Brihadeeswara Temple (Thanjavur) and Gangaikonda Cholapuram have withstood 1000+ years, including seismic activity. Structural Engineering Institute (2023): Chola temples used interlocking stone masonry, flexible joints. Lesson: India has historic expertise in climate-resilient design; needs mainstreaming in modern public infrastructure. Deeply Rooted Local Self-Governance Uttaramerur inscriptions (c. 920 CE) document village assembly elections, audit systems, and rotational leadership — a millennium-old model of local democracy. Key features: Eligibility criteria for village office. Lottery-based selection for impartiality. Annual audit and recall mechanisms. Today’s Reality: 73rd & 74th Constitutional Amendments remain under-implemented: Only 17 states have devolved all 29 functions to Panchayats (MoPR 2023). Urban local bodies lack fiscal autonomy. Tokenism vs Real Reform While temples/statues are celebrated, Chola-era decentralisation models are ignored in policymaking. India needs: Real devolution of funds, functions, and functionaries to local governments. Learning from Chola institutional design for accountability and participatory planning. Data-Backed Policy Takeaways Theme Chola Era Benchmark Modern India Challenge Water Management Community-led tanks, canal networks Fragmented and neglected rural irrigation Infrastructure Earthquake-resilient stone structures Poor maintenance of public infrastructure Local Governance Rotational, accountable village panchayats Weak fiscal/political autonomy in PRIs/ULBs Cultural Integration Temples + Trade + Public Goods Focus on heritage but neglect of institutions Data-Driven Inferences 1000+ years: The temples have stood resilient through centuries and seismic activity. 200+ years: Archaeological record of earthquakes in southern India (temples survived). 73rd and 74th Amendments (1992): Over 30 years later, grassroots governance still suffers from poor implementation, especially in urban India. >8.44 lakh cooperatives in India: Though not mentioned in this article, comparing grassroots institutions like cooperatives (from other sources) further underscores the weakness of elected local bodies. Conclusion The Chola legacy offers not just cultural pride but actionable models for water governance, structural resilience, and grassroots democracy—urgently needed in today’s India. To honour their legacy meaningfully, modern India must revive their administrative ethos—not merely their idols.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 29 July 2025

Content Justice on hold: India’s courts are clogged What is Maharashtra’s new security Bill? How the fair use clause is being applied to generative AI Noon River Rejuvenation Initiative in Uttar Pradesh India vs Qatar: The Race to Host the 2036 Olympics Justice on hold: India’s courts are clogged Core Issue: Justice Delayed Is Justice Denied Prolonged delays in Indian courts undermine public trust and access to justice. District courts, which handle 87% of pending cases, face the worst delays — civil cases often stretch beyond 5 years. Relevance : GS 2( Judiciary , Social Justice) Data Highlights Total Pendency: Over 5 crore cases across all courts. Supreme Court: 86,700+ cases. High Courts: 63.3 lakh. District & Subordinate Courts: 4.6 crore+. Vacancy Rate: 21%–33% of sanctioned judge posts remain vacant. Only 15 judges per 10 lakh people, against Law Commission’s 50 judges per 10 lakh recommendation. Time to Disposal (Chart 2): Supreme Court Civil Cases: ~8.3 years. District Courts Civil Cases: ~5.7 years. High Court Civil Cases: ~5.3 years. Lok Adalat Potential: 22.2 crore cumulative cases resolved in last 4 years (pre-litigation + pending). Key Structural Issues Severe judge shortage at all levels → Only 79% of sanctioned strength is filled. Heavy dependence on courts for every dispute → no credible ecosystem for pre-litigation resolution. District courts overstretched with complex, voluminous caseloads and poor infrastructure. Limited use of alternative mechanisms like ADR, mediation, online dispute resolution. Inadequate digital integration at lower judiciary levels despite e-Courts push. Institutional Challenges Structural bottlenecks: outdated procedures, adjournments, lack of unified court management systems. Legal delays: frequent misuse of appeals, bail, and procedural loopholes. Inconsistent reform: judicial reforms often bypass subordinate judiciary where majority pendency lies. Way Forward Fill all judicial vacancies urgently. Implement All India Judicial Services for professional recruitment. Strengthen ADR mechanisms: mediation, conciliation, Lok Adalats, Online Dispute Resolution. Expand digitisation, especially at district court level: AI-based case triage, e-filing, virtual hearings. Enforce strict adjournment control and case management systems. Create a National Judicial Infrastructure Authority (pending proposal) to modernise courts. Promote citizen awareness about alternative resolution options to reduce court dependency. What is Maharashtra’s new security Bill? What is the Bill About? Bill Name: Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024 Objective (Govt’s Stance): Tackle ‘urban Naxalism’ and left-wing extremist (LWE) frontal organisations, particularly in urban Maharashtra. Justification: Govt claims 60+ Naxal-linked front organisations operate in the state, inadequately addressed by existing laws. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) Legislative Timeline Introduced: Monsoon Session, late 2024 Revived: December 20, 2024 (after Mahayuti’s return to power) Public Feedback: 12,500+ suggestions/objections received Changes Made: Only 3 minor amendments incorporated Passed: Voice vote, July 2025 Status: Awaiting Governor’s assent Key Provisions Expansive Definition of “Illegal Activity”: Includes gestures, expressions, or signs that may “tend to interfere with public order” or “cause concern”. No Ban Limits: Organisations can be banned indefinitely. Executive Power Expansion: Govt can unilaterally declare organisations as “unlawful”. Protection to Officials: Immunity for actions “in good faith”. Restricted Judicial Access: Lower courts barred from jurisdiction. Opaque Governance: State can withhold information “in public interest”. Criticism & Concerns Ambiguity & Overbreadth Terms like “cause concern” or “interfere with order” are vague and subjective. May criminalise peaceful protest, satire, critical expression, or civil disobedience. Democratic and Civil Rights Risks Could be misused against farmers’ protests, student groups, NGOs, and opposition voices. CPI(M) formally opposed, other parties raised concerns but abstained from voting. Critics warn of it becoming a tool for silencing dissent post-2024 elections. Comparative Context Similar State Laws: Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh have older Public Security Acts. However: These laws pre-date a strengthened UAPA. Critics argue UAPA already covers most threats the Bill addresses. Govt itself notes LWE now confined to 2 districts, questioning the need for new powers. Legal & Constitutional Implications Article 19: Potential infringement on freedom of speech, association, and expression. Article 21: Due process and fair trial standards may be undermined. Article 14: Risk of arbitrary classifications and unequal application. Curtailment of Judicial Oversight: Blocking lower courts may delay access to remedies, increasing legal costs. Future Scenarios & Impacts Legal Challenge Likely: Could face PILs in High Court or Supreme Court. Possible Domino Effect: Other states may replicate the law if upheld. Public Trust Issues: Civic backlash and legal activism may rise. Governance Risk: May fuel polarisation and erode federal and democratic norms. Core Tensions Dimension Security Justification Civil Liberties Concern Public Order Urban Naxal threat Peaceful dissent targeted Legal Framework Faster, stronger action Weak due process & oversight Executive Powers Administrative efficiency Risk of authoritarian overreach Conclusion The Bill sits at the intersection of national security and constitutional freedoms. With broad executive authority, vague definitions, and minimal judicial checks, it raises substantial concerns around misuse and erosion of democratic dissent. The Governor’s assent and ensuing judicial review will determine its constitutionality and long-term implications. How the fair use clause is being applied to generative AI Context & Relevance Access to diverse and voluminous training data (books, articles, web content) is central to improving Large Language Models (LLMs). This includes both public domain and copyrighted works—raising significant legal and ethical issues when used without permission. Relevance : GS 3(IPR , Technology) Central Legal Issue Key Question: Does using copyrighted material for LLM training—without authorisation—constitute copyright infringement? In the U.S., this hinges on whether the use qualifies as “fair use” under Section 107 of the Copyright Act. Fair Use Doctrine – Four Factors Courts evaluate fair use claims based on: Purpose & Character: Is the use transformative (e.g., generating new knowledge vs reproducing existing works)? Nature of Work: Factual works are more likely to be fair use than fictional/creative ones. Amount & Substantiality: How much of the original was used? Market Effect: Does the use harm the original’s market or potential licensing revenue? Case 1: Anthropic PBC (Claude LLM) Used copyrighted books—some legally purchased, some from questionable sources—to train its GenAI. Court ruling: Training with legally purchased books = Fair Use  (due to transformative use). Copying from illegal sources = Not fair use ; court refused to grant blanket protection. Key takeaway: Court distinguishes between transformative use and how the data was acquired. Case 2: Meta (LLaMA LLM) Sued by 13 authors for using illegally sourced books for training. Court ruling: Training = Fair Use  (highly transformative). Plaintiffs failed to prove market harm with empirical data. Court did not penalise unauthorised downloading as a separate infringement (unlike Anthropic case). Judge acknowledged “market dilution” concern but said proof of harm was lacking. Comparison: Anthropic vs Meta Factor Anthropic Meta Transformative Use Recognised Recognised Market Harm Downplayed Downplayed but noted future risks Illegal Sourcing Treated as separate infringement Not distinctly addressed Judgement Focus Data sourcing and use Final use only Precedent Case: Thomson Reuters v. Ross Intelligence Court held no fair use because AI simply retrieved legal opinions (not transformative). Also competed directly with plaintiff’s product—thus hurting the market. Emerging Legal Standards Courts seem to support transformative use in GenAI training—tilting toward fair use. But evidence of market harm will be crucial in future cases. Use of illegally sourced data may be treated as a separate violation—creating liability even if training is transformative. Challenges for Plaintiffs Hard to prove “market substitution” or “licensing market harm.” LLM outputs are often not reproductions, but generated content—making infringement indirect and difficult to establish. Implications Going Forward Unsettled legal landscape: Outcomes will vary case-by-case, based on data sourcing, model purpose, and market effects. Need for clearer copyright licensing frameworks and/or legislative clarity. Future rulings may hinge on empirical studies, including AI impact on creative economies. Noon River Rejuvenation Initiative in Uttar Pradesh Context & Background The Noon river in Kanpur district had become indistinguishable due to infestation of jal kumbhi (water hyacinth) and siltation from debris and blocked channels. Reviving the Noon is part of a state-wide river rejuvenation mission launched in June 2024 at the Saryu Mahotsav, with the motto: “One district, one river”. Uttar Pradesh has identified over 60 forgotten rivers to be revived—each district assigned one. Relevance : GS 1(Geography) ,GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Geographical Details Length of Noon River: 48.5 km Coverage: Flows through 34 gram panchayats across 3 blocks—Shivrajpur, Chaubeypur, and Bilhaur. Origin: Kanhiya Khera in Rampur Narua Endpoint: Ganges river Area Surveyed: Nearly 24 km of natural path mapped and cleared. Key Interventions Drone Mapping & GIS: Remote sensing used by Remote Sensing Centre (Lucknow) to detect dry patches, channel blocks, and water hyacinth zones. Entire stretch digitally mapped for revival planning. Community Participation: Awareness slogans like “Hum sabne milkay than lia, Noon nadi ko fir se jeevant karana hai” helped mobilize women and villagers. Villagers contributed shramdaan (voluntary labor) and input for tracing natural channels. Multi-departmental Coordination: Officials from 10 departments (forest, agriculture, irrigation, horticulture, fisheries, etc.) coordinated under district administration. Employment Generation: Works carried out under MGNREGA, creating local employment while reviving ecology.  Outcomes & Impact Hydrological Restoration: Removal of hyacinth and clearing of silt restored water flow in large sections. Monsoon overflow now properly channels into Noon, rather than damaging nearby fields. Agricultural Benefits: Fields previously waterlogged or left uncultivated have regained productivity. Cost Efficiency: Revival used minimal external funding, relying largely on community labor and existing government schemes (e.g., MGNREGA). Challenges Faced Resistance from Locals: Convincing farmers and landowners was difficult due to past failures. Required strong leadership by gram panchayat officials and continuous dialogue. Ecological Degradation: Old jal kumbhi infestation (over 10 years) had choked many sections. Replicability & Model Value Model can be scaled to: Other degraded non-perennial rivers and rivulets in the Indo-Gangetic belt. Similar efforts in Bundelkhand and eastern UP facing groundwater distress. Combines: Tech-driven mapping Employment-linked public works Decentralized governance Community-led planning Way Forward Institutionalize “One District, One River” under a mission-mode program. Create a real-time monitoring dashboard using drone & GIS tools. Launch eco-literacy campaigns for aquatic weed control & water stewardship. Link river rejuvenation with crop planning and irrigation strategy. Integrate with Namami Gange for rivers feeding into the Ganga. India vs Qatar: The Race to Host the 2036 Olympics Context & Background Both India and Qatar are competing to host the 2036 Summer Olympics. This race also includes Turkey, Indonesia, Hungary, and Germany (seeking to mark the 100th anniversary of the 1936 Berlin Olympics). The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has not yet begun the final selection process, still reviewing current rules and proposals. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Infrastructure Readiness: Qatar vs India Qatar’s edge: Claims 95% of Olympic venues are already in place and tested. Cites infrastructure legacy from: 2022 FIFA World Cup 18 world championships hosted in past 20 years Asian Games 2006, U20 Athletics (2028), and future Asian Games 2030 All key sporting complexes already built and operational. India’s status: Infrastructure building underway: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave (Ahmedabad) to be the central hub. Ahmedabad to host: 2030 Commonwealth Games (in bid stage) 2027 Volleyball World Championship 2028 U20 World Athletics Recent events: 2023 Commonwealth Weightlifting and Asian Wrestling Championships. Diplomatic & Strategic Messaging Qatar’s diplomatic pitch: Emphasizes being a “global hub of tolerance, inclusion, and peace.” Aims to mark: First Olympics & Paralympics in Middle East & North Africa (MENA) Platform for Arab youth, regional unity, and global representation. Strong emphasis on Arab soft power. India’s diplomatic pitch: Links Olympics bid to: Global South representation Transformative social-cultural impact in SAARC & South Asia A natural extension of India’s growing global diplomatic standing. Cited as “the only major economy yet to host the Games.” Vision & Narrative Framing Qatar’s Vision: “National Vision 2030” — leveraging sports infrastructure and prior mega-event experience to ensure smooth, tested execution. Targeting inclusion, youth empowerment, and regional identity. India’s Vision: “Viksit Bharat 2047” – Olympics as a transformative moment tied to national development goals. Pitch: “India reflects the types of sports and social benefits the Olympics can provide.” Data & Comparative Edge Metric Qatar India Olympic Venues 95% complete & tested Under construction Major Sports Events Hosted (20 yrs) 18+ incl. FIFA WC, Asian Games, etc. Few – recent bids and limited past events Legacy Infrastructure Strong Still developing Global Diplomatic Leverage Strong in Arab & Muslim world Strong in Global South & SAARC IOC Influence Factors Inclusivity, tested readiness Youth potential, emerging economy Challenges & Weaknesses India: Weak on tested infrastructure. Tight timelines to complete venues and host qualifying events before 2036. Qatar: Possible perception of “sportswashing” due to prior controversies (2022 WC). Needs to overcome past criticism around human rights, labor laws, and inclusivity. Outlook Qatar appears more ‘ready’ – infrastructure complete, experience strong. India brings ‘promise’ – demographic and geopolitical capital, long-term vision. Final decision will depend on: IOC’s evolving criteria (sustainability, inclusiveness) Readiness vs narrative Regional geopolitics & IOC’s outreach strategy

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 28 July 2025

Content: India–UK CETA India–UK CETA Overview Signed: July 24, 2025, by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, with PMs Narendra Modi and Keir Starmer present. Bilateral Trade: USD 56 billion (USD 23 billion merchandise, USD 33 billion services), with a goal to double by 2030. Tariff Elimination: 99% of India’s exports to the UK duty-free, covering nearly 100% of trade value; India opens 89.5% of tariff lines for 91% of UK exports. Key Sectors: Textiles, leather, marine products, gems & jewellery, toys, engineering goods, chemicals, auto components, IT/ITES, financial services, healthcare, education. Impact: Job creation, export growth, and inclusive economic development for artisans, women-led enterprises, MSMEs, and farmers. Relevance : GS 3(Economy ,Trade ) Key Features Tariff Elimination: India: Duty-free access for 99% of exports (textiles, leather, marine, gems, toys, chemicals, engineering, agri-products). UK: 89.5% of tariff lines opened, with 24.5% of exports getting immediate duty-free access. Sensitive sectors (dairy, cereals, pulses, gold, jewellery, smartphones, etc.) protected with phased liberalization (5-10 years for Make in India/PLI products). Safeguards: Bilateral measures to manage import surges. Simplified Rules of Origin: Self-certification for exporters, no origin documentation for consignments under £1,000, and Product Specific Rules (PSRs) aligned with India’s supply chains (textiles, machinery, pharma, processed food). Services and Professional Mobility: UK offers market access in 137 sub-sectors (IT, financial services, education, healthcare, telecom, etc.). Temporary entry for Indian professionals: Business Visitors (90 days), Intra-Corporate Transferees (3 years), Contractual Service Suppliers/Independent Professionals (12 months), no Economic Needs Test or numerical restrictions. Quota of 1,800 for Indian chefs, yoga instructors, and musicians annually. Double Contribution Convention (DCC): Exempts Indian workers/employers from UK social security contributions for 3 years, saving INR 4,000 crore (USD 500 million) for 75,000 workers and 900 companies. Sector-Wise Gains Agriculture & Processed Food: Tariff Lines: Agriculture (1,437, 14.8%), Food Processing (985, 10.1%). Exports: India’s global agri-exports USD 45.05 billion (2022-23); UK imports USD 37.52 billion, India’s share USD 811 million. Growth: 50% rise in agri/processed food exports in 3 years; zero-duty access for tea, mangoes, grapes, spices, marine products. Competitive Edge: Matches EU, South Africa, Canada, etc., in fresh grapes, processed foods, bakery, preserved vegetables, sauces. States: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, Northeast benefit. Marine Products: Exports: USD 8.09 billion globally (2022-23), UK imports USD 5.4 billion, India’s share 2.25%. Growth: Tariff elimination (4.2-8.5%) boosts shrimp, tuna, fishmeal; exports to double capacity utilization. States: Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Odisha. Textiles & Clothing: Tariff Lines: 1,143 (11.7%), zero-duty from 12%. Exports: India’s global exports USD 36.71 billion, UK imports USD 26.95 billion, India’s share USD 1.79 billion. Growth: Eliminates duty disadvantage vs. Bangladesh, Pakistan; boosts RMG, home textiles, carpets, handicrafts. States: Tirupur, Surat, Ludhiana, Bhadohi, Moradabad. Leather & Footwear: Exports: USD 5 billion globally, USD 440 million to UK. Growth: Zero-duty access (from 16%) to UK’s USD 8.5 billion market; exports to hit USD 900 million, 5% market share gain. States: Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Delhi NCR. Engineering Goods: Tariff Lines: 1,659 (17%). Exports: India’s global exports USD 77.79 billion, UK imports USD 193.52 billion, India’s share USD 4.28 billion. Growth: Exports to double to USD 7.5 billion by 2029-30; supports USD 300 billion target by 2030. Sectors: Electric machinery, auto parts, industrial equipment, aerospace, defense. States: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Punjab. Electronics & Software: Exports: USD 35 billion globally, USD 2 billion to UK; UK imports USD 78 billion. Growth: Zero-duty access for TVs, monitors, telecom equipment; exports to double to USD 4 billion by 2030. Software/IT services to grow 15-20% annually. States: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat. Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices: Pharma: 56 tariff lines (0.6%), India’s global exports USD 23.31 billion, UK imports USD 30 billion, India’s share USD 1 billion. Medical Devices: Exports USD 2.2 billion globally, USD 37 million to UK; UK market USD 32 billion (2024), projected USD 69 billion by 2035. Growth: Zero-duty for generics, surgical instruments, diagnostics; mutual recognition of CDSCO/ICMED certifications. Competitive Edge: Outcompetes China, Brazil, Vietnam. Chemicals & Plastics: Chemicals: 1,206 tariff lines (12.4%), UK market USD 28.35 billion; exports to rise 30-40% (USD 650-750 million in 2025-26). Plastics: India’s exports USD 0.509 billion to UK, projected to reach USD 800 million in 3 years. Competitive Edge: Outcompetes US, China, Germany, France. Gems & Jewellery: Exports: USD 941 million to UK, projected to double in 2-3 years. Growth: Zero-duty from 4%; boosts jewellery (USD 400 million). States: Rajasthan, Delhi. Services: Trade Surplus: USD 6.6 billion (exports USD 19.8 billion, imports USD 13.2 billion). UK Commitments: 137 sub-sectors (IT, financial services, education, healthcare, telecom). India Commitments: 108 sub-sectors (accounting, telecom, environmental services). Growth: IT/ITES, fintech, education, healthcare; supports GCCs, startups. Social & Economic Inclusion Farmers: Duty-free access to UK’s USD 63.4 billion agri-market; sensitive products (dairy, cereals, pulses, oils) protected. Fisherfolk: Boost to seafood exports, benefiting 28 million livelihoods. Workers: Job creation in labour-intensive sectors; labour rights protections. Women & Youth: Gender equality provisions, easier market access for startups, skill development. SMEs: 30.1% of GDP, 45.8% of exports; benefits from customs simplification, digital trade, SME contact point. State-Wise Benefits Maharashtra: Engineering, pharma, apparel. Gujarat: Pharma, chemicals, engineering, marine. Tamil Nadu: Textiles, leather, engineering. Karnataka: Engineering, electronics, pharma. Andhra Pradesh: Marine, textiles. Odisha: Marine, handicrafts. Punjab: Textiles, engineering. West Bengal: Leather, tea, processed food. Kerala: Marine, spices. Rajasthan: Handicrafts, gems. Delhi: Apparel, engineering, jewellery. Broader Impacts Supply Chains: Streamlined procedures, reduced compliance costs. Digital Trade: Paperless trade, electronic certification. Sustainability: Cooperation on clean tech, renewable energy. Skilling: Professional mobility, mutual recognition of qualifications. Inclusivity: Empowers women, youth, SMEs, and rural communities. Conclusion The India–UK CETA is a transformative agreement fostering trade, investment, and innovation while prioritizing inclusivity and sustainability. It strengthens economic resilience, enhances global value chain integration, and paves the way for inclusive growth across India’s diverse sectors and regions.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 28 July 2025

Content The Soft Sedition The need for doctor-led innovation The Soft Sedition Source : IE Core Argument Regional linguistic prejudice is manifesting as a subtle, insidious form of “soft sedition” — a sociopolitical tendency that, while not legally seditious, undermines constitutional nationalism, unity, and the federal fabric of India. Relevance : GS 2(Polity and Governance) , GS 1(Society ) Practice Question : The idea of India as a multilingual, multicultural nation is being challenged by soft forms of linguistic majoritarianism. Discuss the role of policy, politics, and civil society in countering this trend.(250 Words) Triggering Incident A shopkeeper in Mumbai was allegedly attacked for not speaking Marathi, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding regional language enforcement. The article draws parallels with past incidents involving Hindi signboards being defaced in Tamil Nadu and Hindi speakers being assaulted in Karnataka and Maharashtra. Linguistic Diversity and National Integration 22 official languages in the 8th Schedule (Eighth Schedule of the Constitution). India has 122 major languages and 1599 other languages/dialects (Census 2011). The authors argue that celebration of linguistic plurality should be seen as a source of cultural strength, not suspicion. Bilingualism is widespread: Census 2011 shows that over 26% of Indians are bilingual, and 7% are trilingual. Concept of ‘Soft Sedition’ Coined to describe actions that, while not criminal, go against the spirit of constitutional unity. Rooted in regional chauvinism, this form of sedition operates through language policing, public shaming, and exclusionary cultural nationalism. Contrasted with Section 124A IPC (colonial-era sedition law), which punishes overt acts against the State. Constitutional Provisions and Legal Context Article 19(1)(a): Right to freedom of speech and expression. Article 29(1): Right to conserve one’s language and culture. Article 51A(f): Fundamental duty to value and preserve the rich heritage of composite culture. Article 350A & 350B: Safeguard linguistic minorities in education and administration. The Supreme Court has upheld the freedom to speak any language and struck down coercive impositions (e.g., State of Karnataka vs Associated Managements of Primary and Secondary Schools, 2008). National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 & Three-Language Formula NEP encourages use of mother tongue/regional language at primary level but doesn’t mandate regional language imposition. Promotes multilingual education, recognizing India’s linguistic richness as a pedagogical asset. Authors warn against misusing NEP to justify linguistic majoritarianism. Dangers of Linguistic Vigilantism Encourages mob behaviour and xenophobia against internal migrants. Hampers economic mobility, social cohesion, and internal labour migration. Contradicts India’s aspirations of being a unified but diverse federal democracy. Politicization of language fuels electoral polarization and identity-based vote banks. Comparative Constitutional Nationalism Advocates for “constitutional nationalism” — loyalty to pluralism, federalism, and civil liberties over ethnolinguistic parochialism. Warns that regionalism, when unchecked, can become ethno-linguistic authoritarianism. Calls for legal action and civic education to uphold constitutional values. Sociopolitical Insight Language has become a cultural boundary and gatekeeping mechanism in urban spaces, especially for migrants. Urban hostility echoes nativist trends globally (e.g., anti-immigrant sentiment in Europe/USA). States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have witnessed regional identity politics interfering with national unity. Way Forward Strong legal enforcement against linguistic hate crimes. Sensitization of law enforcement and civil society. Educate youth about India’s multilingual identity through curriculum and civic platforms. Encourage interstate linguistic exposure (e.g., exchange programs, national integration camps). Political parties must resist the temptation of weaponizing language for populism. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in The Indian Express and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes. The need for doctor-led innovation Source: TH Central Argument Medical professionals, despite their central role in healthcare, remain largely uninvolved in innovation. This needs to change. Doctors must transition from being service providers to problem-solving innovators, driving healthcare breakthroughs by combining clinical insight with entrepreneurial mindset. Relevance : GS 3(Research and Development) Practice Question : “Innovation in healthcare is no longer optional; it is essential.” Critically evaluate the role of medical professionals in shaping India’s MedTech future.(250 Words) The Innovation Gap in Medicine Healthcare innovation is increasingly driven by engineers, technologists, and entrepreneurs, not medical professionals. Doctors are confined to clinical roles, despite possessing first-hand knowledge of patient pain points and systemic gaps. Why Doctor-led Innovation Matters Unique Insight: Doctors understand patient care pathways, workflow challenges, and clinical constraints. Systemic Pressure: Rising chronic illnesses, ageing populations, and overburdened systems demand disruptive solutions. Clinical Applicability: Doctor-designed products are more likely to be practically viable and patient-centered. Barriers to Medical Innovation Barrier Explanation Lack of Time Clinical workloads + admin duties leave little space for innovation. Risk Aversion Medical training emphasizes safety, not experimentation or failure. Educational Gaps No exposure to finance, product design, regulatory affairs. Cultural Mindset Innovation perceived as the domain of engineers or startups. Curricular Reforms & Institutional Support Incorporate entrepreneurship, biodesign, product innovation into medical education. Interdisciplinary collaboration: Encourage joint projects between MBBS and engineering students. Internships in biotech incubators, exposure to startups and regulatory pathways. Role of Hospitals and Professional Associations Establish Innovation Hubs within hospitals for prototype testing. Organise pitch sessions, mentorship networks, and angel investment opportunities for doctors. De-stigmatise failure in medical innovation, as is common in the startup ecosystem. India’s Innovation Ecosystem for MedTech Government Support: Startup India, Atal Innovation Mission, BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council). Make in India: Incentivizes local MedTech manufacturing (e.g., tax breaks, simplified approvals). Institutional/Incubation Support: C-CAMP, Bangalore Bioinnovation Centre, Venture Center (Pune). Academic partnerships with IITs, IISc, AIIMS, and PHFI drive research translation. Funding Mechanisms: India Health Fund (Tata Trusts): Focus on infectious diseases. CSR-linked health innovation grants from corporates and philanthropy (e.g., Wadhwani Foundation, Wellcome Trust). Global Comparison & Need for Catch-up In the US and Europe, doctors are actively involved in startups (e.g., Flatiron Health, Butterfly iQ). India lags behind in clinician-led healthtech IP generation, limiting contextualised innovation. Way Forward Short-term courses in product innovation for working doctors. National medical councils and AIIMS-type institutes should mandate innovation credits. Create a dedicated Health Innovation Fund under PM Gati Shakti or Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. Recognise and reward innovative doctors through fellowships, public awards, and fast-track grants.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 28 July 2025

Content Eight killed in stampede at temple in Haridwar How is India preparing against GLOF events? India’s emerging shield against the climate crisis Chola Democracy Before Magna Carta India’s Cheetah Diplomacy in Africa Eight killed in stampede at temple in Haridwar What Happened Date & Time: Morning of July 27, 2025, around 9 a.m. Casualties: 8 killed, 30 injured in a stampede at Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar. Cause (Preliminary): Rumour of a snapped electric wire triggered mass panic during peak footfall. Relevance : GS 3(Disaster Management) Geographic and Structural Context Location: Mansa Devi temple sits 1,770 feet above sea level in the densely forested Shivalik Hills of Uttarakhand. Access Path: Narrow stairways and barricaded routes became choke points. Weather & Terrain: Monsoon season + slippery pathways likely worsened crowd management challenges. Demographics of Victims Victims aged between 12–60 years. Pilgrims hailed from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand, indicating regional religious magnetism. Administrative Failures No Real-Time Crowd Regulation: Absence of responsive crowd control personnel during critical congestion. Lack of Redundancy: No alternate escape paths; single staircase acted as both entry and exit. Failure in Risk Communication: The rumour about electric wire went unchecked, causing chaos. Structural and Policy Dimensions Recurring Pattern: India has seen over 300 stampede deaths in religious places in the last two decades. Systemic Gaps: No unified National Religious Pilgrimage Safety Protocol. Lack of crowd simulation planning, tech-enabled footfall monitoring. Poor inter-agency coordination between local police, temple boards, and municipal authorities. Way Forward Mandatory Crowd Management SOPs for high-footfall religious sites. AI-based surveillance systems for crowd density alerts. Training of temple volunteers in disaster preparedness. Legal obligation for religious trusts to conduct structural safety audits during festival periods. Pilgrim insurance tied to temple visit registration apps (like Char Dham portals). How is India preparing against GLOF events? Recent GLOF Catastrophe in Nepal On July 8, 2025, a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) devastated Nepal’s Lende river valley, destroying a China-built bridge and disrupting the Rasuwagadhi Inland Port. Flash floods rendered four hydropower plants on the Bhote Koshi river inoperative, cutting 8% of Nepal’s electricity supply. Another GLOF occurred hours later in Mustang district; earlier GLOFs in Humla (2025) and Solukhumbu (2024) show a pattern of increasing frequency. Relevance : GS 3(Disaster Management ) Cross-Border Challenges in Early Warning The Lende river flows from Tibet to Nepal—yet no early warning was issued by China despite the lake shrinkage from 63 ha to 43 ha in a day. Nepal lacks a bilateral early-warning system with China; growing supra-glacial lakes in Tibet elevate risk further. Transboundary glacial watersheds like Lende or Bhote Koshi amplify downstream vulnerabilities and diminish proactive responses. Historical Recurrence of GLOFs in Nepal Major past events: Cirenma Co (1981), Digi Tsho (1985), Tama Pokhari (1998). Mitigation attempts at Imja Tsho and Tsho Rolpa involved manual water drawdown above 5,000m—logistically arduous. Despite past lessons, institutionalised regional protocols remain absent. India’s Exposure to GLOFs The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) spans 11 river basins with 28,000 glacial lakes, including 7,500 in India alone. Two main lake types:  Supraglacial lakes (on glacier surfaces; summer-melt prone).  Moraine-dammed lakes (held by unstable debris; high burst risk). India’s Risk Landscape Two-thirds of GLOFs arise from ice avalanches or landslides; others stem from meltwater pressure or earthquakes. Remote high-altitude locations (mostly >4,500 m) hinder direct surveys—limited to summer windows. Severe events:  Sikkim’s South Lhonak GLOF (2023): destroyed Chungthang dam (1250 MW), raised Teesta riverbed, worsened flood risk.  Kedarnath disaster (2013): Chorabari GLOF + cloudburst triggered multi-layered devastation. India’s Mitigation Strategy NDMA has adopted a risk-reduction-first model under the Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CoDRR). First national GLOF mitigation programme launched ($20 million), targeting 195 high-risk glacial lakes in four categories. Five-fold focus: Lake-specific hazard assessments Automated Weather & Water Stations (AWWS) Downstream Early Warning Systems (EWS) Physical mitigation (drawdown, retention structures) Community engagement Tech & Knowledge Gaps Leveraging SAR interferometry to detect micro-slope changes (cm-level) in unstable moraine dams—currently underutilised. Limited Indian innovation and tech investment in Himalayan cryosphere resilience. Remote sensing (surface area monitoring) remains the only scalable tool, but it’s post-facto, not predictive. Expedition Insights (Summer 2024) Multi-institutional teams visited lakes across J&K, Ladakh, HP, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal. Employed:  Bathymetry to measure water volumes.  ERT to detect hidden ice cores in moraine dams.  UAVs and slope stability surveys for terrain mapping. Installed real-time monitoring stations at two lakes in Sikkim—transmit data every 10 minutes. ITBP deployed as manual early warning buffer in the absence of automated systems. Way Forward Monsoon 2025 expeditions already being planned. 16th Finance Commission (FY2027–31) expected to scale the GLOF programme across Himalayan states. Sustained progress demands:  Institutional cross-border EWS protocols (especially with China).  Local community trust-building.  Private innovation ecosystem for climate-resilient Himalayan infrastructure. India’s emerging shield against the climate crisis Context & Urgency India faced 764 major natural disasters since 1900, nearly half after 2000 – showing accelerating climate volatility. Between 2019–2023, India lost $56 billion to weather-related disasters — the highest in South Asia, ~25% of Asia-Pacific losses. Conventional indemnity-based insurance is slow, disputed, and inadequate for sudden climate shocks. Relevance : GS 3(Disaster Management) How Parametric Insurance Works Pays automatically when pre-defined weather thresholds are breached (e.g. <300 mm rainfall, >40°C, wind speed, seismic activity). Based on independently verified datasets from IMD, NASA-MERRA, satellite systems — ensuring objectivity. Eliminates the need for damage assessment, enabling rapid liquidity in crisis. Implementation in India Nagaland (2024): First Indian state with multi-year parametric cover for landslides and extreme rainfall. Pilots in Rajasthan and U.P.: Protected women smallholder farmers against drought via water balance index. Jharkhand: Model proposed for microfinance-linked crop loan protection triggered by rainfall/temperature thresholds. Global Relevance Successfully deployed in Africa, Pacific Islands, U.K. — for droughts, floods, cyclones, even livestock farming. Covers modern sectors like solar energy, where policies trigger payouts based on irradiance levels. Infrastructure in Place India already has the climate data ecosystem, digital platforms, and State disaster mitigation funds to scale up. Early wins in agriculture, renewables, rural credit, and public disaster finance demonstrate viability. What India Must Do Next Treat parametric insurance as critical climate infrastructure, akin to UPI in payments. Expand data networks, integrate into State Disaster Response, embed in climate finance architecture. Develop a scalable national framework — pre-approved triggers, digital disbursement, and legal-enforceability. Strategic Advantages Offers speed, transparency, and resilience in an era of climate uncertainty. Helps preserve livelihoods, sustain credit cycles, and stabilize local economies during disasters. Can de-risk investments in climate-sensitive sectors and support climate adaptation finance under SDGs and Paris goals. Chola Democracy Before Magna Carta Context : PM Modi, speaking at Brihadeeswara Temple, highlighted that India had democratic traditions centuries before the Magna Carta (1215), citing Chola-era electoral practices. Uttaramerur Inscriptions (c. 920 CE): These stone inscriptions in Tamil Nadu provide one of the world’s earliest written records of an electoral system. Local Governance Framework: Sabha: Brahmin-dominated settlements. Ur: Non-Brahmin village assemblies. Both were elected councils, managing revenue, justice, public works, and temple administration. Relevance : GS 1(Culture, Heritage ,History) Kudavolai: The Ballot Pot System Procedure: Names of eligible candidates written on palm leaves. Placed in a pot (kudam). A young boy, symbolising impartiality, would draw names publicly. Eligibility Conditions: Minimum age, education, property ownership, and moral character were prerequisites. Exclusions: Women, labourers, and landless individuals — reflective of caste and gender hierarchies of the time. Decentralised Governance & Civic Autonomy Subsidiarity in Action: Empowered village assemblies and merchant guilds (e.g., Manigramam, Ayyavole) formed a bottom-up administrative model. Sustainable Administration: Cholas used civic systems to extend control, not just military might. Historian Anirudh Kanisetti noted the Cholas “engineered legitimacy through local institutions”, contrasting later centralised empires. Symbolic Statecraft & Strategic Messaging Gangajal Episode (1025 CE): Rajendra Chola brought Ganges water to his capital, GangaiKonda Cholapuram. As per copper plate grants, it was called a “liquid pillar of victory” — blending ritual piety with imperial symbolism. Military + Administrative Innovation: As Tansen Sen observed, the Cholas excelled not only in naval campaigns but also in creating proto-democratic governance that projected power through order and ritual. Beyond the Magna Carta Western lens on democracy often begins with the Magna Carta and Enlightenment; the Chola model shows alternative civilizational trajectories of governance. No modern liberalism, but the institutionalisation of accountability, procedure, and civic duty reflects enduring democratic instincts in Indian polity. Brihadeeswara Temple – Chola Architectural Marvel Built by: Raja Raja Chola I in 1010 CE at Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Part of “Great Living Chola Temples” (2004), along with Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Airavatesvara temples. Dedicated to: Lord Shiva (as Brihadeeswara or Rajarajeswaram). Dravidian Architecture: Noted for its grand scale, symmetry, and granite construction—rare for that region. Vimana (tower): Soars to 66 meters, one of the tallest temple towers in India, capped by a single 80-ton granite block. Nandi (bull statue): Carved from a single stone, among the largest monolithic Nandi statues in India. No binding agents used: Stones interlocked with precision engineering, showcasing Chola mastery in structural design. Murals & Inscriptions: Inner walls adorned with Chola frescoes, and inscriptions detail royal donations, military conquests, and temple rituals. India’s Cheetah Diplomacy in Africa Project Context and Strategic Relevance The Cheetah Reintroduction Project is the world’s first intercontinental large carnivore translocation effort, aiming to restore ecological balance by reintroducing Asiatic cheetahs (extinct in India since 1952). It serves as a soft power instrument, enhancing India’s conservation credentials and diplomatic presence in Africa. The project aligns with India’s “Act Africa” policy, expanding bilateral ties beyond trade to include biodiversity cooperation. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations), GS 3(Environment and Ecology)  Bilateral Dynamics with Key African Nations 1. South Africa – A Technically Strong But Politically Shifting Ally India signed a 5-year MoU with South Africa in 2022, facilitating the transfer of 12 cheetahs and ongoing veterinary/technical support. A post-election regime change in 2024 has led to bureaucratic reshuffling; new officials are reviewing the MoU’s scope and implementation. South African wildlife scientists remain engaged, but policy continuity has stalled, creating a diplomatic deadlock flagged in recent NTCA meetings. South Africa’s expertise in predator translocation (e.g., lions, leopards) makes it a vital partner, not just a source country. 2. Botswana – A Steady Contributor Despite Regional Volatility Botswana has formally committed to sending 4 cheetahs; timelines under discussion. With robust wildlife governance and lower political churn, it offers stability and institutional clarity. The diplomatic success here reflects India’s proactive engagement and Botswana’s confidence in India’s management of the Kuno habitat. 3. Kenya – A Long-Term Strategic Investment, Not Immediate Source No cheetahs yet; focus is on capacity-building, exchange programs, and institutional cooperation (e.g., ranger training, habitat design). An MoU expected in March 2025, but talks have remained generic and non-committal regarding cheetah numbers or timelines. Kenya’s world-leading expertise in large predator ecology (e.g., Masai Mara) makes it valuable for long-term ecosystem resilience efforts in India. 4. Tanzania and Sudan – On the Radar, but No Formal Engagement Steering Committee minutes referenced possible future ties with these nations, but NTCA later clarified no formal progress or MoUs. Sudan’s internal instability and Tanzania’s regulatory rigidity pose diplomatic and logistical hurdles. Institutional and Administrative Coordination The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is the nodal agency overseeing negotiations, backed by India’s embassies and the Ministry of Environment. Madhya Pradesh Forest Department officials have been deployed as field-level diplomats — visiting South Africa to assess protocols, address technical gaps, and pitch India’s preparedness at Gandhi Sagar (future release site). Cheetah Project Steering Committee led by Dr. Rajesh Gopal is monitoring international engagement, domestic habitat readiness, and mortality audits. On-ground Challenges and Ecological Imperatives Kuno has witnessed multiple cheetah deaths, raising questions about habitat capacity, prey base, territorial behavior, and disease control — making the need for fresh genetic stock urgent but cautious. Experts have raised concerns about carrying capacity saturation, leading to discussions on alternative sites like Gandhi Sagar and Nauradehi. Logistical complexities include quarantine protocols, air transport regulations, and veterinary clearances across jurisdictions — all dependent on tight diplomatic synchronisation. Geopolitical and Developmental Linkages The cheetah diplomacy adds to India’s development partnerships in Africa, complementing solar energy (ISA), vaccine diplomacy, and digital skilling programs. Africa’s trust in India’s conservation approach bolsters broader South-South cooperation models where biodiversity is a shared priority. India’s ability to sustain this project through political transitions abroad reflects a maturing global conservation leadership role, akin to its tiger conservation narrative under Project Tiger.

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