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Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 29 November 2025

Content India posts 8.2% Q2 GDP growth, tops six quarters Kerala’s population to rise till 2041, then fall: report NISAR earth observation satellite enters final science phase WHO calls on countries to make fertility care safer and affordable CPCB reports heavy metal contamination in Delhi’s groundwater Bharat NCAP 2.0 draft released by MoRTH India posts 8.2% Q2 GDP growth, tops six quarters Why is this in News? India’s GDP grew 8.2% in Q2 (July–September) FY26, the highest in six quarters. Growth higher than Q1 FY26 (7.8%) and Q2 FY25 (5.6%). Released by MOSPI. Comes days after the IMF graded India’s national accounts ‘C’, citing methodology and data quality concerns. Nominal GDP grew only 8.7%, much lower than the 10.1% assumed in Budget → fiscal consolidation challenge. Relevance GS 3 – Economy • Real vs nominal GDP, GDP deflator, inflation trends and interpretation. • Fiscal policy: implications of low nominal GDP on fiscal deficit. • Investment trends: GFCF, PLI incentives, public vs private capex. • External sector: exports (manufacturing & services), global demand dynamics. • Monetary policy: RBI decisions in context of low inflation and high real growth. • Data quality & methodology: IMF Article IV concerns, outdated base year, WPI-heavy deflator. GS 2 – Governance / Policy Implementation • Policy evaluation: effectiveness of manufacturing incentives (PLI) and public capex. • Implications for fiscal planning and administrative decision-making. Basics Real GDP Adjusts for inflation. Indicates actual increase in production. India’s real GDP = 8.2%. Nominal GDP Measured at current prices, includes inflation. India’s nominal GDP = 8.7%. Indicates tepid inflation + weaker pricing power. GDP Deflator Ratio of nominal to real GDP. Current deflator very low due to fall in commodity & manufacturing prices. IMF & economists argue: WPI-heavy deflator undervalues service inflation → inflates real GDP artificially. What Drove the 8.2% Growth? Manufacturing Strong rebound due to: Lower input costs. PLI-led expansions. Electronics, pharmaceuticals, auto components growth. Services IT, financial services, real estate, logistics driving expansion. Consumption linked services show steady recovery. Investment GFCF up, indicating strong capex. Public capital expenditure continues to dominate; private capex recovery modest but improving. Agriculture Weak due to erratic monsoon & El Niño legacy effects. What Are the Concerns? Low Nominal GDP (8.7%) When real GDP > nominal GDP, deflator becomes abnormally low. Scholars argue: Real growth appears overstated, actual economic activity “subdued”. Manufacturing disinflation artificially boosts real growth. Fiscal Deficit Pressure Designed around 10.1% nominal GDP increase. Lower nominal growth → higher deficit-to-GDP ratio risk. Data Quality Issues IMF’s ‘C’ grade — second-lowest category. Issues flagged: Outdated base year (2011-12). Discrepancies between production and expenditure GDP. WPI-heavy deflator inappropriate for a services-dominant economy. Uneven Recovery Consumption weak for lower-income households. Rural distress visible in FMCG, diesel demand, MGNREGA reliance. Credit growth slowing in MSMEs. Scholarly Views Upasna Bhardwaj (Kotak) High real growth → “deflator effect”. Nominal GDP suggests underlying weakness in economic momentum. Madan Sabnavis (Bank of Baroda) Low nominal growth complicates achieving 4.4% fiscal deficit target. IMF Assessment (Article IV) Data quality issues hamper surveillance. Urges new base year, service price indices. Government Position PM: Growth reflects pro-growth reforms, capex push, and resilience. Points to broad-based expansion in manufacturing + services. Structural Factors Behind Strong Real GDP Corporate profits-to-GDP at record high → productivity gains. Formal sector expansion. PLI incentives boosting manufacturing. Public capex multiplier sustaining investment cycle. Digital public infrastructure reducing transaction costs. Broader Macroeconomic Implications Monetary Policy Low inflation + high real growth complicate RBI decisions. Real vs nominal divergence challenges interpretation. External Sector Booming services exports. Manufacturing exports slowed due to global uncertain demand. Labour Market PLFS urban unemployment: improving. Rural labour stress persists. First-Half FY26 Outlook H1 FY26 growth = 8%. India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy. Kerala’s population to rise till 2041, then fall: report Why is this in News? A new national-level demographic report “Unravelling India’s Demographic Future (2021–2051)” has been released by: International Institute of Migration and Development (IIMAD), Thiruvananthapuram Population Foundation of India (PFI) Principal investigators: Prof. S. Irudaya Rajan, J. Retnakumar. The report highlights that Kerala will remain India’s oldest State till 2051, with rapid ageing, sub-replacement fertility, and extraordinary urbanisation. Provides low, medium, high variant projections for all major States using the Cohort Component Method. Relevance GS 1 – Society / Demographics • Ageing population, median age, old-age dependency ratio. • Fertility trends (TFR), life expectancy, demographic transition phases. • Urbanisation: rural–urban migration, urban planning challenges. GS 2 – Governance / Social Policy • Elderly care policies, healthcare infrastructure, pension systems. • Labour force planning, skill development, automation/AI adaptation. • Migration and workforce integration policies. Key Demographic Concepts Total Fertility Rate (TFR) Average number of children per woman. Replacement level in India ≈ 2.1. Kerala projected to hit TFR = 1.4 (floor level) by 2051 → irreversible ageing. Life Expectancy Expected years of life at birth. Kerala increases from 75.1 years (2026) → 82.9 years (2051). Median Age Age that divides the population into two equal halves. Kerala → rises from 37 years (2026) to 47 years (2051) → advanced ageing. Old-Age Dependency Ratio Ratio of elderly (60+) to working-age population. Kerala’s high ageing → rising dependency burden. Cohort Component Method Gold-standard projection technique using: Fertility Mortality Migration Applied to 22 States with >6 million population (based on Census 2011).  Kerala’s Population Trend (2021–2051) Growth Trajectory 2011: 3.34 crore 2026: 3.58 crore 2041: 3.62 crore (peak) 2051: 3.55 crore (decline begins) Core Insight Kerala’s population peaks by 2041 → then declines → enters Phase 3 Demographic Transition (post-mature society). Ageing Profile: India’s Oldest State 60+ Population Share 2026: 18.6% 2051: 30.6% (nearly 1 in 3 Keralites will be elderly) 80+ Oldest-Old 2021: ~2% 2051: 6.4% (highest in India) Next: Tamil Nadu at 5.2% Children (0–14 years) 2021: 19.3% (lowest in India) 2051: declines further → sustained low birth rates. Comparison with Other States Bihar Will remain India’s youngest State. Child share in 2051: 22.6% (highest) Kerala: 12.8% (lowest) Demographic Divergence Kerala → ageing, shrinking workforce, high life expectancy. Bihar → youthful population, delayed demographic transition. Urbanisation Trend Urban-Rural Ratio 2011: Urban 47.7%, Rural 52.3% 2051: Urban 91.1%, Rural 8.9% Interpretation Kerala shifts from mixed to almost fully urban State. Urbanisation driven by: Declining rural fertility Out-migration Reclassification of settlements Service-sector concentrated growth Data Sources Used Census of India (2011) Sample Registration System (SRS) National Family Health Survey (NFHS) Civil Registration System (CRS) National Sample Survey (NSS) Factors Behind Kerala’s Demographic Structure Low Fertility (TFR → 1.4) High female literacy. Women’s workforce participation in services. High cost of child upbringing. Norm of small families. High Life Expectancy Public health success (Arogya Kerala model). High health spending, low IMR, high institutional births. Out-migration Large-scale Gulf migration. Decline in young working-age cohorts. Challenges Emerging from Kerala’s Demographic Future Economic Challenges Shrinking workforce → lower economic dynamism. Rising pension burden. Healthcare cost explosion (geriatrics, NCDs). Skill shortages in labour-intensive sectors. Social Challenges Elderly care infrastructure shortages. Increase in single-person elderly households. Feminisation of ageing (women live longer). Fiscal Challenges Social security spending to rise sharply. Health insurance costs escalate. Need for migrant labour → integration issues. Opportunities Silver economy: healthcare, assistive tech, geriatric services. High human capital base → knowledge economy growth. Automation and high-skilled sectors offset workforce decline. Policy Recommendations  Short- to Medium-Term Strengthen elderly care ecosystem. Expand palliative care and home-based services. Incentivise higher female workforce participation. Promote healthy ageing programmes. Long-term Structural Immigration policy (regulated influx of migrant workers). Urban infrastructure expansion for 90%+ urban population. Productivity enhancement via automation and AI. Scholars like Irudaya Rajan, P.V. Sukhatme, and Dyson & Visaria emphasise that Kerala is moving towards European-style ageing but without European-style economic buffers, making policy innovation crucial. NISAR earth observation satellite enters final science phase Why Is This in News? ISRO announced that NISAR, launched in July 2025, has now entered the Science Phase of its mission. During this phase: The satellite begins full-scale science operations, regular orbit maintenance, and calibration–validation activities. ISRO confirmed that the S-Band SAR is already regularly imaging the Indian landmass, while the 12-metre antenna reflector is fully deployed. NISAR is also in news as TTD former chairman Y.V. Subba Reddy appeared before CID in a separate case, but the ISRO update is about mission progress. Relevance GS 3 – Science & Technology • Satellite tech: dual-frequency SAR, L-band & S-band, 12m antenna deployment. • Space applications: Earth observation, disaster management, agriculture, forestry, water resources. • Climate & environment: glacier monitoring, sea-level rise, Himalayan hydrology. GS 2 – International Relations / Science Diplomacy • India–US collaboration: strategic technology partnership, global Earth observation leadership. What is NISAR? Definition NISAR = NASA–ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar Mission World’s first dual-frequency SAR Earth Observation satellite (L-band + S-band). Lead Agencies Jointly developed by: ISRO (India) → S-Band SAR NASA (US) → L-Band SAR Launch 30 July 2025, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. Orbit Near-polar sun-synchronous orbit (~747 km). Mission Life 5 years (science phase extends till end of mission). Technical Architecture Dual-Frequency SAR L-Band (NASA): penetrates vegetation, soil, ice. S-Band (ISRO): surface deformation, crop monitoring, infrastructure. 12-metre deployable antenna reflector One of the largest radar antennas ever flown. Enables high spatial resolution and wide swath imaging. All-weather, day-night capability Microwave radar → can image through: Clouds Smoke Rain Darkness Imaging Revisit Time High-frequency monitoring, enabling global landmass coverage every 12 days. Mission Phases (ISRO Classification) 1. Launch Phase Liftoff, orbit insertion. 2. Deployment Phase Deployment of the 12-m reflector. Activation of payloads. 3. Commissioning Phase Sensor checks, calibration, orbit tuning. 4. Science Phase (Now Started) Full operational data acquisition. Regular manoeuvres to maintain science orbit. Intensive calibration/validation with global sites. Applications (High UPSC Relevance) A. Climate and Earth System Monitoring Ice-sheet movement (Greenland, Antarctica). Glacier mass balance → crucial for Himalayan hydrology. Sea-level rise predictions. B. Disaster Management Earthquakes → crustal deformation mapping. Landslides → early detection. Flood mapping → all-weather real-time imaging. Cyclone damage assessment. C. Agriculture Crop type mapping. Soil moisture. Pest/drought early warning. Crop insurance verification. D. Forests & Carbon Cycle Biomass estimation. Deforestation tracking. REDD+ compliance monitoring. E. Infrastructure Monitoring Detecting land subsidence. Monitoring roads, dams, mines. Urban expansion mapping. F. Water Resources Wetland mapping. River morphology changes (erosion/deposition). Significance for India Strategic High-quality indigenous Earth observation dataset. Reduces dependence on foreign satellites for disaster response. Scientific Enhances global models for: Climate change Plate tectonics Cryosphere studies Economic Improves crop yield forecasting. Enables precision agriculture. Helps insurance, infrastructure planning. Diplomatic / Technology Partnership One of the largest NASA–ISRO collaborations since the 1970s. Enhances India’s leadership in Earth observation. ISRO’s Progress Update (From News Context) S-Band SAR: Already imaging Indian landmass and major global calibration sites. Reflector: Fully deployed and operational. Orbit maintenance: Ongoing during science phase. Next steps: Large-scale global data distribution and joint NASA–ISRO science campaigns. WHO calls on countries to make fertility care safer and affordable  Why Is This in News? WHO released its first-ever global guideline on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility. It provides 40 evidence-based recommendations aimed at making fertility care: safer equitable affordable integrated into national health systems WHO highlighted that global demand for infertility care is increasing, but access remains severely limited and expensive. Relevance GS 2 – Health Governance • Public health: infertility as a health condition, integration into national health systems. • Health policy: financial protection, universal access, low-cost infertility care. • Regulatory framework: ART Act 2021, Surrogacy Act 2021. GS 1 – Society / Social Issues • Gender equity: reducing stigma, psychosocial support for couples. • Social impact: awareness, education, equitable access to fertility care. What Is Infertility? WHO definition Failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Prevalence Global prevalence: 1 in 6 individuals (WHO 2023 estimate). Affects both men and women. Types Primary infertility: never conceived. Secondary infertility: difficulty conceiving after a previous pregnancy. Why WHO Released the Guideline? (Context) A. Rising burden Demand for infertility services rising due to: delayed marriage lifestyle changes declining fertility rates higher prevalence of STIs environmental exposures B. Extreme financial burden In many countries, infertility care is out-of-pocket. WHO notes: A single IVF cycle can cost twice the average annual household income in some regions. C. Lack of standardised protocols Large variation in: diagnosis treatment safety standards ethical regulation D. Mental health impact Infertility often causes: depression anxiety stigma Key Features of WHO’s Global Guideline (i) Prevention Address major risk factors: untreated STIs tobacco use obesity and sedentary lifestyle Lifestyle interventions recommended: balanced diet physical activity tobacco cessation Promote fertility education: Schools Primary healthcare Reproductive health facilities (ii) Diagnosis Encourage cost-effective diagnostic tools: basic semen analysis ovulation testing ultrasound STI screening Strengthen referral pathways and documentation. (iii) Treatment Progressive, stepwise approach: simple interventions first then intrauterine insemination (IUI) then IVF/ICSI if necessary Ensure: safety quality control evidence-based protocols (iv) Financial Protection Integrate infertility care into: national health strategies insurance schemes public health financing (v) Psychosocial Support Continuous mental health support for: individuals couples Recognise emotional, social, and marital stress. (vi) Country Adaptation Countries urged to: localise guidelines monitor implementation address resource constraints Global Barriers Highlighted by WHO A. Cost Infertility treatment = catastrophic expenditure for most households. B. Limited availability Fertility services concentrated in urban private facilities. C. Gender bias Women face disproportionate blame. D. Regulatory gaps Many countries lack: ART regulation quality standards ethical oversight Significance of the Guidelines For Public Health Recognises infertility as a health condition, not a lifestyle choice. Strengthens universal access to reproductive healthcare. For Gender Equity Reduces stigma and blame assigned mainly to women. For Economy Financial protection prevents: debt traps catastrophic health spending For LMICs Offers low-cost, scalable models for fertility care. For Sustainable Development Goals Supports: SDG 3 (Health & Well-being) SDG 5 (Gender Equality) Indian Context Burden Estimated 27.5 million infertile couples (ICMR). Obesity, PCOS, diabetes, late marriages → rising infertility. Access ART (Assisted Reproductive Technologies) expensive: IVF cost: 1.25–2.5 lakh per cycle Mostly urban-centric Insurance coverage minimal Regulatory Framework ART Act, 2021 Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 Gaps Absence of: affordable public-sector ART standardised counselling infertility awareness in primary care Benefit of WHO Guidelines to India Can help expand: public fertility clinics insurance-based ART packages standardised, ethical protocols CPCB reporting heavy metal contamination in Delhi’s groundwater. Why is this in News? The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) released its 2024 groundwater assessment, revealing: Delhi has the 3rd highest uranium contamination in India. Heavy metals and salinity indicators (EC, fluoride, nitrate, arsenic, iron, lead) exceed permissible limits in a large share of samples. High-risk zones include areas dependent on borewells and handpumps. The findings indicate major drinking water safety concerns, with serious public health implications. Relevance GS 3 – Environment • Groundwater contamination: uranium, fluoride, arsenic, lead, EC, SAR, RSC. • Impact on soil and agriculture: irrigation suitability, soil salinisation, crop productivity. • Climate & hydrology: urban aquifer depletion, reduced natural recharge. GS 2 – Governance / Public Health Policy • Regulatory oversight: CPCB monitoring, drinking water safety standards. • Urban management: sewage treatment, industrial effluent control, safe borewell practices. What is Groundwater Contamination? Groundwater contamination occurs when chemicals, heavy metals, salts, or pathogens seep into aquifers. Key contamination sources: Natural geogenic leaching (e.g., uranium, arsenic from rock formations) Anthropogenic pollution: industrial effluents, fertilizers, sewage, landfills. Measured through: Electrical Conductivity (EC) – salinity indicator. SAR & RSC – irrigation water quality. Heavy metals – arsenic, uranium, lead, iron, fluoride, nitrate. Key Findings (CPCB 2024) 1. Uranium contamination Limit: 0.03 mg/L Delhi sample exceedance: 12.4% Delhi = 3rd highest in India (after Assam and Rajasthan). Uranium contamination is rising in the Yamuna floodplain and Najafgarh belt. 2. Electrical Conductivity (EC) Limit: 3000 µS/cm Delhi exceedance: 33.3% Indicates high salinity in groundwater. 3. SAR (Sodium Adsorption Ratio) Delhi showed one of the worst values in India. 178.9 SAR reported at some locations. 48.3% of samples exceeded limits. 4. RSC (Residual Sodium Carbonate) 51.1% of Delhi samples exceeded limits. Highest in the country. 5. Heavy Metals Fluoride exceedance: 17.8% Iron exceedance: 8.9% Lead exceedance: 3.7% Nitrate exceedance: 4.4% Arsenic → detected but lower exceedance. Why is Delhi’s Groundwater Contaminated? Over-extraction leading to saline intrusion. Urban sewage and industrial discharge infiltrating aquifers. Geogenic factors — natural uranium-bearing granites. Land use change & concretisation → reduced natural recharge. Use of fertilizers in peri-urban agriculture (nitrate pathways). Public Health Risks Uranium Kidney toxicity Higher cancer risk Neurological impairment Nitrate Blue Baby Syndrome (methemoglobinemia) Gastrointestinal distress Fluoride Dental and skeletal fluorosis Lead Cognitive impairment in children Hypertension Iron Promotes harmful bacteria growth Taste & odor issues High EC / Salinity Cardiovascular issues Water unfit for drinking or irrigation High SAR / RSC Soil degradation Crop productivity collapse Environmental & Agricultural Implications Irrigation unsuitability: Delhi among worst for SAR & RSC. Soil salinisation threatens peri-urban agriculture. Reduced crop yields due to sodic soils. Aquifer degradation may become irreversible. Bharat NCAP 2.0. Why is this in News? The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has released a revised draft of Bharat NCAP 2.0. It significantly expands safety assessment, introduces new mandatory tests, revises test protocols, and alters scoring weightages. It aims to improve passenger, child, and pedestrian safety in line with global crash-test standards. The update is crucial because over 20% of road accident deaths in India involve pedestrians. Relevance GS 3 – Infrastructure / Transport • Road safety: vehicle crashworthiness, pedestrian & child safety, post-crash protection. • Technology standards: ATDs, ADAS, crash-test protocols, global NCAP alignment. GS 2 – Governance / Policy Implementation • Regulatory policy: voluntary vs mandatory adoption, incentive structures for manufacturers. • Consumer awareness: informed decision-making, public safety promotion. What is Bharat NCAP? Bharat NCAP = India’s voluntary crash-test and safety rating system, launched in 2023. Objective: Provide India-specific safety ratings for cars. Encourage manufacturers to improve safety. Help consumers make informed choices. Cars receive ratings based on crashworthiness (not general roadworthiness). Conducted by Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT, Pune). Ratings displayed voluntarily by manufacturers for marketing & consumer awareness. How Are Vehicles Tested? (Old System – 2023) Cars were assessed on three key verticals: Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) Child Occupant Protection (COP) Safety Assist Technologies (SAT) Crash tests included: 64 km/h frontal impact against deformable barrier 50 km/h side impact 29 km/h pole (oblique) impact What Changes in Bharat NCAP 2.0? 1. Scope significantly expanded New system proposes five assessment areas: Safe Driving – 10% weightage Accident Avoidance – 10% Crash Protection – 55% Vulnerable Road User (VRU) Protection – 20% Post-Crash Safety – 5% 2. Mandatory crash tests increased Earlier mandatory tests: 3 Now expanded to 5: 64 km/h frontal impact 50 km/h lateral impact 32 km/h mobile deformable barrier test 32 km/h oblique side impact (rigid pole) 50 km/h frontal impact with full-width rigid barrier 3. Introduction of new assessment areas New 2025 draft adds three safety domains that were absent earlier: More comprehensive Safety Assist Technologies Fully structured Pedestrian & VRU Protection Vertical (20% weight) A structured Post-Crash Protection vertical 4. Revised weightage 5-star: now requires at least 65 points (earlier 70) 4-star: now 60 points (earlier 60–70) AOP score must be ≥55% of Crash Protection Vertical For 1-star → 30 points, 2-star/3-star → 40/50 points 5. New dummies Tests will now use advanced “Anthropomorphic Test Devices” (ATDs) for: rear-seat passengers child occupants 6. VRU (Pedestrian) Safety Added India has one of the world’s highest pedestrian fatalities (20%+ road deaths). Bharat NCAP 2.0 brings: pedestrian headform impact tests leg, upper leg impact tests bonnet & bumper energy absorption tests Why Bharat NCAP 2.0 Matters? 1. Enhances vehicle safety Compels manufacturers to add: stronger structure more airbags ADAS features safer child restraint systems 2. Improves pedestrian safety Pedestrian impact tests push automakers to redesign: bonnet geometry bumper absorption external crumple zones 3. Market push toward safer cars Indian consumers increasingly look for crash-test ratings. Manufacturers will upgrade vehicles to display better Bharat NCAP stars. 4. Regulatory alignment with global norms Moves India closer to: Global NCAP Euro NCAP ASEAN NCAP Potential Issues / Challenges Voluntary nature → not applicable to all models. Additional costs for manufacturers. Rating visibility only when automakers opt-in. Some small car segments may face price pressure.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 28 November 2025

Content From Growth Engine to Global Edge: Supercharging India’s Logistics Tex-RAMPS From Growth Engine to Global Edge: Supercharging India’s Logistics What Is Logistics? Movement, storage, and flow of goods from producer to consumer. Includes transport, warehousing, cold chain, inventory mgmt, and information systems. Efficiency of logistics directly affects GDP, export competitiveness, supply chain resilience, and cost of doing business. Relevance GS2 – Governance Centre–State coordination under GatiShakti. Institutional reforms: DPIIT, MOSPI, GSTN data integration. Regulatory clarity through HSN mapping. Urban governance for freight mobility under SMILE. GS3 – Economy / Infrastructure Logistics cost reduction → competitiveness. Multimodal transport, freight corridors. Industrial parks & EoDB improvements. Green corridors, sustainability metrics. Impact on exports, FDI, value chains. Global benchmarks: Logistics cost for advanced economies: 7–8% of GDP. For India, old estimates: 13–14% (unscientific); new estimate: 7.97% of GDP (2023–24). Big Picture: Why Logistics Is a Strategic Sector for India Determines India’s competitiveness in global value chains. Critical for Make in India, manufacturing exports, agri-produce movement, and e-commerce. Logistics reforms can increase GDP by 5–7% (World Bank estimates). India targets being a global logistics hub under National Logistics Policy + PM GatiShakti. Key Data & Findings (PIB 2025) Logistics cost: 7.97% of GDP, 9.09% of non-services output. Total cost: ₹24.01 lakh crore. Study by DPIIT + NCAER using hybrid methodology (3,500+ firms + MOSPI + RBI + GSTN). Smaller firms incur disproportionately higher logistics costs → competitiveness gap. Cost-saving lever: Multimodal integration + last-mile improvements. Structural Transformation Underway Shift from fragmented ecosystem → integrated, multimodal, digital logistics. Removal of frictions: GST, e-Way Bill, FASTag, digital freight platforms. Dedicated freight corridors, revitalized waterways, modern warehousing clusters. Plug-and-play industrial parks → lower entry barriers, faster setup. Digital Backbone of India’s Logistics ULIP: integrates 30+ departments; single API interface for logistics data. LDB 2.0: real-time multimodal shipment visibility (road/rail/sea/high seas). HSN Code Mapping: 12,167 codes → 31 ministries → accountability, trade precision. National Master Plan dashboards → evidence-based infrastructure planning. Multimodal Logistics along the Gangetic Plain (Case Study) Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (EDFC): Turnaround time of wagons: 15–16 days → 2–3 days. Long-haul transit time: 60+ hours → 35–38 hours. Digital command centre at Prayagraj. Cargo shift to rail = lower cost + lower emissions + reduced congestion. Linked to Ganga Waterway at Varanasi → multimodal synergy. Investments: WB funding: $1.96 bn (EDFC + Rail Logistics) + $375 mn (Ganga Waterway). Impacts: Efficient movement to Haldia, Kolkata ports. New warehousing clusters → jobs + better inventory management. Lower carbon footprint; enhanced eastern India competitiveness. National Level Reform Pillars (2025) A. PM GatiShakti: Integrated Infrastructure Planning District Master Plans in 112 aspirational districts. PM GatiShakti Offshore → geospatial integration for wind farms, marine infra. PM GatiShakti Public: access to 230 datasets for industry + researchers. National Master Plan dashboard + decentralized data uploading → transparency. B. SMILE: City-Level Logistics Planning Pilot in 8 cities + 8 states, ADB-supported. State level → links hubs to corridors. City level → integrates freight with master plans and mobility policies. Targets: urban decongestion, low/no-emission freight, automated processes. Outcomes: National model for coordinated urban freight. Cleaner cities, faster movement, lower logistics cost, more jobs. C. LEADS 2025: Ranking States on Logistics Mix of perception + objective data (32.5% objective share, rising). Tracks 5–7 major corridors. APIs capture truck speeds, delays, bottlenecks. Drives competitive federalism in logistics reforms. D. LDB 2.0: Real-Time Visibility Syncs with ULIP APIs. Tracks via container number, vehicle number, rail FNR. Live heatmap → identify delay zones. Benefits MSMEs + exporters with predictable supply chains. E. IPRS 3.0: Rating Industrial Parks Grades: Leader, Challenger, Aspirer. Indicators: connectivity, digital readiness, green infra, skills, tenant satisfaction. 20 plug-and-play NICDC parks: 4 completed, 4 under construction. F. HSN Guidebook 12,167 codes mapped to 31 ministries. Improves regulatory clarity, sector-specific oversight, negotiation leverage. Why Logistics Matters More Than Ever ?(Strategic Lens) Accurate cost data → targeted policy → global credibility. Multimodal shift reduces dependence on trucking (currently ~70% freight share). Green logistics aligns with global carbon-neutral supply chain norms. Better logistics → lower inflation (supply-side efficiencies). Direct impact on export competitiveness (cost-to-export). Strengths of India’s Emerging Logistics Architecture Unified digital stack unmatched globally (ULIP + LDB + e-Waybill). Multimodal infrastructure, especially rail + waterways synergy. Competitive federalism via LEADS + IPRS. Evidence-based planning under PM GatiShakti. Urban freight mainstreamed through SMILE. Challenges That Still Need Addressing High variability of logistics efficiency across states. MSMEs disproportionately affected by high logistics costs. Skill gaps in supply-chain management, digital freight ops, cold chain. First-mile (farm/industry clusters) and last-mile (urban) still weak. Need for green truck fleets, EV freight, and clean inland container movement. Limited multimodal transport adoption by small firms. Tex-RAMPS What Is Tex-RAMPS? Full form: Textiles-Focused Research, Assessment, Monitoring, Planning & Start-up Scheme. Central Sector Scheme — fully funded by Ministry of Textiles. Outlay: ₹305 crore (FY 2025-26 to FY 2030-31). Aligned with next Finance Commission cycle — ensures continuity of funding and planning. Designed to future-proof India’s Textiles & Apparel (T&A) sector. Relevance   GS3 – Economy / Manufacturing / Infrastructure Strengthens competitiveness of a major industrial sector contributing ~12% of manufacturing GVA. Drives industrial upgrading: smart textiles, technical textiles, circularity, digital manufacturing. Enhances export competitiveness through higher quality, sustainability, and innovation capacity. Boosts MSME productivity via data systems, diagnostics, and state-level capacity building. Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India 2.0, and integration into global value chains. Enables evidence-based economic policymaking through ITSS, supply chain mapping, employment datasets. Complementary to PLI, PM MITRA, National Technical Textiles Mission → builds a 360° ecosystem. Why Was Tex-RAMPS Needed? (Structural Gaps + Global Context) India’s textile sector contributes ~2.3% of GDP, ~12% of manufacturing GVA, and is a top forex earner. Sector suffers from: Low R&D spending (<1% of sectoral output). Fragmented data systems → weak policymaking, inaccurate employment estimates. Limited innovation in high-value segments: smart textiles, technical textiles, sustainable fibres. Weak academia–industry collaboration. Low start-up penetration in textile tech (compared to China, EU, Vietnam). Global shift toward sustainable, traceable, circular textiles → India must upgrade to remain competitive. Tex-RAMPS responds to these by building a research–data–innovation tripod. Key Components (PIB + Policy Significance) A. Research & Innovation Funds advanced research in: Smart textiles, wearable tech. Sustainability & circularity. High-performance fibres (geo-textiles, agro-textiles, medical textiles). Process efficiency (zero-discharge dyeing, digital printing). Aim: Move India up the value chain from low-cost producer → technology-intensive leader. B. Data, Analytics & Diagnostics Creates robust national datasets: Employment census, supply chain mapping, cluster diagnostics. India-Size study → industry standard body-size database (benefits apparel fit, exports). Supports evidence-based policymaking, correcting long-standing data deficits. C. Integrated Textiles Statistical System (ITSS) Real-time data + analytics platform for: Monitoring prices, production, logistics. Tracking global trends and domestic supply-demand gaps. Enables predictive modelling, risk alerts, and better export planning. D. Capacity Development & Knowledge Ecosystem Strengthens State-level planning, cluster management, and skill systems. Creates a pipeline of: Best practices, planning templates, case studies. Workshops, summits, policy dialogues. Helps align state textile missions with national goals. E. Start-up & Innovation Support Grants for: Incubators, accelerators, hackathons. Academia–industry R&D projects. High-value tech start-ups (AI in fashion, traceability tech, recycling). Builds an innovation pipeline akin to PM MITRA parks. Expected Outcomes Global competitiveness: Boost in productivity, quality, sustainability → improved export share. R&D ecosystem strengthening: More patents, prototypes, industry-academia projects. Data-driven policymaking: Reduced information asymmetry; better cluster-level interventions. Employment creation: Especially in high-value, innovation-driven segments. Stronger federal collaboration: Centre–state alignment; national standardization of metrics. How Tex-RAMPS Fits Into India’s Larger Textile Strategy ? Complements existing flagship interventions: PM MITRA Parks (infrastructure). PLI for Textiles (production & scale). National Technical Textiles Mission (high-value segments). SAMARTH (skill development). Tex-RAMPS fills the missing pillar: R&D + Data + Innovation. Together, they build a 360-degree textile modernisation ecosystem. Economy & Manufacturing Moves India toward higher-value exports (technical textiles), reducing reliance on commodity apparel. Supports India’s goals under: Sustainable fashion, circular economy, Net-zero pathways, Global supply chain integration. Strengthens India’s pitch in trade negotiations through better data, standards, traceability. Aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India 2.0. Comparison with Global Best Practices EU: Circularity mandates + green tech standards China: State-funded textile R&D institutes + digital manufacturing US: Industry–university fibre innovation hubs Tex-RAMPS brings India closer to these models by: Funding R&D, Creating integrated data systems, Linking research to markets.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 28 November 2025

Content The Kamalesan case Enabling a modern and future-ready labour ecosystem The Kamalesan case Why the Case Matters ? Involves the collision of two legitimate constitutional values: religious conscience vs military cohesion and discipline. Raises questions about the scope of Article 25, the limits imposed by Article 33, and the meaning of reasonable accommodation inside uniformed services. Touches concerns of minority confidence, institutional inclusivity, and the judiciary’s deference to the armed forces. Relevance GS2 – Constitution & Rights • Article 25 (freedom of conscience) vs Article 33 (restrictions for armed forces). • Judicial doctrine of proportionality and reasonable accommodation. • Minority confidence, inclusivity in institutions, secular character of State. GS2 – Judiciary • Pattern of judicial restraint in military matters. • Constitutional balancing: individual liberty vs institutional discipline. • Comparative rights jurisprudence on conscientious objection. GS3 – Internal Security / Defence • Cohesion and discipline in fixed-class regiments. • Role of rituals in unit bonding, morale, command acceptance. • Ethical frameworks in military decision-making. Practice Question In the Kamalesan case, courts prioritised institutional cohesion over individual conscience. Critically analyse whether such prioritisation meets the proportionality standard expected in constitutional adjudication.(250 Words) Constitutional Dimensions Article 25 – Freedom of Religion Protects belief and the right to abstain from practices that conflict with personal doctrine, as long as public order or duties are not affected. Article 33 – Restrictions for Armed Forces Permits Parliament to curtail rights to maintain discipline and operational effectiveness. Curtailment must remain reasonable, purpose-linked, and proportionate, not absolute. Core Constitutional Question Could discipline have been protected without extinguishing the officer’s religious line, given that his conduct was respectful, narrow, and did not compromise duties? Court’s Approach High Court Classified refusal as disobedience of a lawful command. Accepted Army’s view that sanctum entry is integral to maintaining troop confidence in a fixed-class regiment. Treated the matter as disciplinary, not as a religious rights claim. Supreme Court Declined to interfere, reaffirming long-standing judicial restraint in military internal matters. Pattern of Judicial Reasoning Courts typically defer in discipline-related cases. They intervene only when larger equality/discrimination principles are at stake (e.g., women officers’ rulings). Military Perspective Cohesion in Fixed-Class Regiments Ritual participation is a tool of identity formation, morale, and mutual trust. A commanding officer must be “seen as one with the regiment”. Any exception may be interpreted as distance or non-alignment, even if unintended. Operational Rationale Unit bonding is considered crucial for performance in combat, counter-insurgency, and high-stress deployments. Rituals—though religious in origin—serve organisational ends. The Officer’s Position Sincerity & Narrowness Attended all parades. Removed shoes, tied turban, stood respectfully with troops. Only objection: entering the sanctum during ritual worship, which Protestant doctrine considers impermissible. Nature of Refusal No disobedience affecting operational duty. No disruption, no challenge to command. Closely aligns with the principle of respectful non-participation seen in landmark religious freedom jurisprudence. Key Analytical Tension Value A: Institutional Cohesion Discipline and unity are essential for operational readiness. Ritual uniformity sustains shared identity. Value B: Individual Conscience Religious freedom protects both action and restrained abstention. Respectful abstention is generally treated as a legitimate claim unless it undermines core organisational functions. This case falls precisely at the intersection of these two values. The Accommodation Question Was a Less Restrictive Alternative Possible? Standing outside the sanctum—visible and respectful—may have served the same purpose without violating conscience. No evidence that a small deviation would have harmed morale or command acceptance. Several global militaries accommodate narrow faith-based requests without loss of discipline. Proportionality Insight Restricting a right is justified only if: legitimate purpose exists, restriction relates to that purpose, no equally effective but less restrictive option is available. This last step was not substantively examined. Broader Implications For Institutional Trust Uniformed forces thrive when individuals from all communities feel equally respected. A perception that conscience lines are irrelevant could affect confidence among minority personnel. For Constitutional Culture Indian tradition emphasises tolerance and reasonable accommodation, not forced uniformity. A rigid approach risks moving from ritual to rigidity, and then, gradually, to exclusion. For Civil–Military Balance Decision shows judiciary’s instinct for non-interference. Yet, previous rulings demonstrate that courts can reshape norms when fundamental values demand it. Ethical Dimensions Conflict of Duties Duty to obey orders Duty to remain true to conscience and personal integrity Relevant Values Respect Empathy Inclusivity Responsibility Justice Institutional wisdom Ethical Insight Discipline is strongest when combined with fairness; institutions gain, not lose, by accommodating sincere belief where operational impact is minimal. Conclusion The Kamalesan case highlights the tension between religious conscience and military cohesion. Courts upheld the Army’s disciplinary view under Article 33, prioritising unity in fixed-class regiments over an officer’s narrow religious objection. His respectful non-participation fit established principles of tolerance, raising questions about missed proportionality and accommodation. The episode signals the need for institutions to distinguish between discipline-essential uniformity and avoidable rigidity. The larger implication concerns trust and inclusivity within the armed forces—both vital elements of national strength. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes. Enabling a modern and future-ready labour ecosystem  Why This Was in the News ? 21 November 2025: Government notified the long-pending Four Labour Codes, bringing them into effect nationwide. Marks the biggest overhaul of India’s labour regulatory architecture since Independence. Expected to influence formalisation, competitiveness, ease of doing business, worker protection, and India’s trajectory towards a “Viksit Bharat”. Relevance GS3 – Economy • Formalisation of 643-million workforce. • Reduction of compliance burden: single registration, unified definitions. • Competitiveness & EoDB improvements; alignment with global value chains. • Investment, productivity gains, MSME benefits, digital compliance. GS3 – Employment & Labour • Universal minimum wages, national floor wage, working-hour clarity. • Safety, health and working conditions (OSH Code). • First framework recognising gig and platform workers. • Female labour force participation: night work, maternity protections. GS2 – Governance • Consolidation of 29 laws into four codes; major structural reform post-GST. • Cooperative federalism challenges: State rule-making, harmonisation. • Transparency in enforcement: algorithm-based inspections, decriminalisation. GS2 – Welfare / Social Security • Universal ESIC coverage, simplified EPF, National Social Security Fund. • Extending benefits to unorganised, construction, gig/platform workers. Practice Question The Four Labour Codes aim to balance worker protection with enterprise flexibility. Evaluate this claim in light of recent trends in India’s labour market, formalisation efforts, and future-of-work transitions.(250 Words) Background Basics What existed earlier 29+ labour laws enacted across different decades, covering wages, safety, industrial disputes, social security, contract labour, etc. Fragmentation caused: Multiple registrations Complex compliance Overlapping definitions Frequent litigation Weak coverage for informal workers Reform pathway Second National Commission on Labour (2002) → recommended consolidation into 4 codes. Extensive stakeholder consultations (2015–2019). Codes enacted 2019–2020; implementation delayed due to COVID-19 and State rules. The Four Labour Codes: Core Pillars 1) Code on Wages (2019) Universal minimum wages across all sectors. National Floor Wage introduced. Mandatory appointment letters. Time-bound payment of wages. 2) Industrial Relations Code (2020) Clear rules for trade unions, standing orders, and industrial disputes. Faster dispute resolution mechanisms. Balances flexibility and worker safeguards. 3) Social Security Code (2020) Universal ESIC coverage — no geographic limits. Simplified EPF processes. National Social Security Fund for unorganised, gig, platform workers. Streamlined cess for construction workers. 4) OSH (Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions) Code (2020) Unified safety, health, working conditions framework. Safety committees, periodic health check-ups, clearer norms on working hours. 48-hour work week clarified. Why the Reform Was Needed ? Structural reasons 643 million workers: one of the largest young workforces globally. High informalisation → need to extend protection. Changing nature of enterprises (MSMEs, gig economy, digital work). Complex labour compliance → deterred investment. Recent labour market data (2017–18 to 2023–24) 16.83 crore jobs created. Unemployment rate fell 6% → 3.2%. Formal sector expanded (EPFO, ESIC enrolment growth). Key Provisions & Their Impact A. Worker Protection Strengthened Universal minimum wage and floor wage reduce exploitation. Mandatory appointment letters improve transparency. 48-hour week and clearer shift/work-hour rules enhance predictability. OSH Code elevates workplace safety, especially in hazardous sectors. B. Social Security Expansion Extends ESIC and EPF to wider categories including unorganised sector. National Social Security Fund → centralised support mechanism. Benefits for construction workers simplified via digital cess payment. C. Compliance Simplification Single registration, licence, and return → lowers compliance burden. Uniform definition of “wages” → major predictability gain. Decriminalisation of minor offences → industry confidence. Algorithm-based inspections → reduces inspector-raj. D. Preparing for the Future of Work Recognises gig and platform workers for the first time ever. Workforce projected to grow from 1 crore (2024–25) → 2.35 crore (2029–30). Aligns with flexible, digital, platform-based labour ecosystems. E. Boost to Women’s Workforce Participation Current female LFPR: 32.8% (ILO 2024). Labour Codes support women through: Equal remuneration Maternity benefits Night work (with safeguards) Broader social security coverage Expected to raise participation in manufacturing, logistics, gig work. Strategic Economic Implications Formalisation Push Clearer definitions and digital compliance encourage MSMEs to formalise. Higher formalisation → better productivity and access to credit. Ease of Doing Business One of the most significant reforms after GST. Reduces litigation and administrative friction. Competitiveness in Global Value Chains Predictable labour regime is essential for: Manufacturing Electronics Textiles Global supply chain integration Simplified industrial relations reduce disruptions. Investment & Employment Generation Lower compliance burden + better predictability → attracts domestic and foreign investment. High-quality jobs expected in formal sector, logistics, manufacturing. Implementation Challenges & Considerations A. State-Level Harmonisation Labour is a Concurrent List subject. Successful roll-out requires States to align rules and thresholds. Variation across states may dilute uniformity. B. MSME Preparedness Smaller enterprises may need capacity-building for digital compliance. C. Gig Worker Social Security Funding model: employer contribution? aggregator levy? government support? Implementation needs clarity and robust digital platforms. D. Enforcement Architecture Algorithm-based inspections must avoid opacity. States require trained manpower for ESIC/EPF expansion. E. Worker Awareness Large workforce lacks knowledge about rights; outreach crucial. Analytical Assessment Strengths Long-awaited simplification of a fragmented system. Strong push toward balanced labour ecosystem: protection + flexibility. First framework in India recognising gig workforce. Supports national goals of formalisation and industrial expansion. Weaknesses / Risks State-level readiness uneven. Risk of over-centralisation → flexibility needed for local contexts. Gig/platform social security needs financial clarity. Some trade unions fear diluted worker bargaining power in IR Code. Opportunities Integrate workers into formal economy at unprecedented scale. Make India competitive for global manufacturing shifts (“China+1”). Expand female workforce participation. Threats If States lag, dual regulatory regimes will persist. Poor enforcement will weaken protections and confidence. Gig workers may remain uncovered if funding architecture fails. Conclusion The Four Labour Codes notified on 21 November 2025 constitute India’s most significant labour reform in decades, replacing 29 laws with a unified framework. They strengthen worker protections through universal minimum wages, safety norms and wider social security while simplifying compliance via single registration, unified definitions and decriminalisation. The inclusion of gig and platform workers addresses the evolving nature of work. With India’s 643-million workforce and rising formalisation, these codes aim to balance protection with competitiveness, promote investment and improve women’s participation. Effective state-level implementation remains the decisive challenge for realising full benefits.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 28 November 2025

Content IMF gives ‘C’ grade for India’s national accounts statistics Are the labour codes labour-friendly? Why India struggles to clear its air India’s food colouring woes and steps being taken to combat recurring issue International Astronomical Union approves seven new Indian names for Martian features Doppler Weather Radar: Enhancing India’s weather forecasting network IMF gives ‘C’ grade for India’s national accounts statistics WHY IS THIS IN NEWS? IMF’s Article IV Consultation (2025) assessed India’s national accounts and gave a Grade ‘C’ for the quality of GDP data. Grade ‘C’ = “shortcomings that hamper surveillance” → second-lowest level. IMF highlighted: Periodic sizeable discrepancies between production and expenditure GDP estimates. Use of an outdated base year (2011–12). Over-reliance on Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for deflating nominal values. Need to expand expenditure-side data and informal sector coverage. Assessment is significant because India is expected to release Q2 FY2025–26 GDP numbers, and concerns affect global investor confidence. Relevance GS3 – Economy / Growth Measurement • Quality of GDP estimation under MOSPI/NSO scrutiny. • Discrepancies between production vs expenditure GDP. • Outdated base year (2011–12) and need for rebasing. • Deflator issues (WPI–CPI divergence). • Statistical system reforms: MCA-21 data, GSTN integration. GS2 – Governance / Institutions • Role of IMF’s Article IV surveillance. • Credibility of official statistics as a governance issue. • Transparency norms and reforms in data architecture. • Centre–State coordination for data collection (industries, services, informal sector). • Strengthening statistical autonomy & capacity. HOW GDP IS MEASURED ? Three Approaches Production Approach (GVA method) Sum of value added by agriculture, industry, and services. Income Approach Sum of wages, profits, rents, and mixed income. Expenditure Approach GDP = C + I + G + (X – M). Should converge with production-side figures. Ideal Condition All three approaches should produce near-identical results. Persistent divergence = data quality problem, structural inconsistencies. WHAT EXACTLY IMF FLAGGED ? A. “Sizeable Discrepancies” Between GDP Approaches Large, recurrent differences between: Production-side GDP (GVA-based) Expenditure-side GDP (C+I+G+X−M) Economists flagged this over the past 5 years: Private consumption growth often inconsistent with household survey indicators. Investment (GFCF) estimates occasionally contradict credit data & corporate filings. IMF classifies this as a methodological weakness affecting reliability. B. Base Year Too Old (2011–12) Structural shifts in 13 years: Digitisation, GST rollout, UPI-led formalisation. E-commerce, gig economy, platform work. Deflation of manufacturing due to global price changes. Outdated base year → wrong weights → distorted GDP. C. Over-Reliance on Wholesale Price Indices WPI used to deflate: Manufacturing GVA, Nominal capital formation, Some components of GFCF and inventories. Issues: WPI excludes services (57% of GDP). Highly sensitive to commodities, making real GDP volatile and inaccurate. CPI-based deflators are more reflective of consumer reality. D. Limited Expenditure-Side Data India primarily uses Income Approach for GDP. Expenditure estimates (C, I, G, NX) rely on: Sparse household surveys, Small-sample enterprise surveys, Rough extrapolations. IMF wants expenditure-side to be strengthened and independently robust. E. Informal Sector Under-Coverage Informal sector = ~45–50% of employment (varies by survey). GDP estimation largely model-based: Uses outdated NSS data. Limited real-time surveys post-2011–12. IMF says this reduces reliability and timeliness. IMF’s GRADING SYSTEM Grade Meaning A High-quality data; internationally comparable B Broadly adequate; minor weaknesses C Shortcomings hamper surveillance (India gets this for National Accounts) D Severe deficiencies India’s Overall Score Overall: Grade B (across all data categories) National Accounts: Grade C → primary area of weakness. IMPLICATIONS OF THE ‘C’ GRADE A. Policy-Making Impact If GDP reliability is weak: Monetary policy signals (RBI) become less precise. Fiscal policy targeting becomes less credible. B. Investor Confidence Foreign investors use GDP data for: Valuation of Indian markets, Assessment of macro stability, Pre-investment risk modelling. ‘C’ grade may raise caution, particularly among sovereign funds. C. International Comparability Issues Difficulty comparing India with: OECD economies, Asian peers (Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines), China (despite opacity). D. Domestic Credibility Economists have long critiqued: Back-series revisions, Post-2017 manufacturing volatility, Divergence between GDP and ground-level indicators (PLFS, ASI, credit data). GOVERNMENT’S POSITION India argues: GVA-based method is robust and widely used. Discrepancies normal in developing economies with large informal sectors. Revised base year planned after new household surveys (2022–23, 2023–24). Transition to supply-use tables (SUTs) is ongoing. STRUCTURAL CAUSES OF GDP DISCREPANCIES A. Informal Sector Dominance Difficult to track productivity and incomes in real time. B. Data Gaps Large gaps in: Household consumption, Unincorporated enterprises, Self-employment earnings, Small manufacturing units. C. Outdated Surveys Key datasets: NSS 2011–12 consumption survey, Unincorporated enterprise surveys, ASI and IIP with limited representativeness. D. Weak Price Deflation Mechanism Correct deflation = accurate real GDP. WPI-based deflation induces errors. REFORMS IMF EXPECTS Update base year to 2017–18 or 2020–21 (debate ongoing). Increase frequency of: Household consumption surveys, Enterprise surveys, Service sector surveys. Expand use of: GST data, Corporate filings (MCA-21), Digital payments data. Strengthen expenditure-side GDP with more granular monthly/quarterly data. Are the labour codes labour-friendly? Why is this in news? 21 November: Union Labour Ministry announced the implementation of all four labour codes — Wages (2019), Industrial Relations (2020), Social Security (2020), OSHWC (2020). Trade unions across the spectrum (CTUs, sectoral federations) have opposed the notification, demanding withdrawal. The opposition centres on hire-and-fire, dilution of collective bargaining, weakening of social security, and higher thresholds that exclude workers. Relevance GS2 – Governance • Major governance reform: consolidation of 29+ labour laws into 4 unified Codes. • Centre–State friction: centralisation of powers (floor wage, licensing thresholds). • Weak tripartism: minimal consultation with trade unions; no Indian Labour Conference since 2015. • Regulatory overhaul: single registration, digital compliance, inspector-cum-facilitator model. • Collective bargaining diluted: restrictive strike provisions, unclear union recognition. GS2 – Social Justice • Impact on 93% informal workforce due to raised thresholds in OSHWC. • Limited social security expansion; current coverage only ~7%. • First statutory recognition of gig/platform workers but thin protections. • Precarity from fixed-term employment; women’s night-shift permissions with safety concerns.  What are the Four Labour Codes? Code on Wages, 2019: Merges 4 laws (Minimum Wages Act, Payment of Wages Act, Bonus Act, Equal Remuneration Act). Industrial Relations Code, 2020: Combines Industrial Disputes Act, Trade Unions Act, Industrial Employment (SO) Act. Code on Social Security, 2020: Merges 9 social security laws (EPF, ESI, Maternity Benefit Act etc.). OSHWC Code, 2020: Combines 13 safety & working condition laws. Why did the Government Propose Codification? Argument by R. Mukundan (industry perspective) Fragmentation of 40+ central laws, 100+ State laws → compliance burden, duplication. Outdated legislation dating to 1940s–50s; workforce structure transformed (gig/platform, logistics, e-commerce). Need for uniformity: definitions, thresholds, inspection systems. Objective: Job creation, ease of doing business, attracting global supply chains (comparison with Vietnam, S. Korea). Simplification + digitisation of compliance = predictability and reduction in disputes. Formalisation push: extending minimum wages + social security to new categories (gig/platform workers). Labour market flexibility (fixed-term employment, higher retrenchment threshold, women in all shifts) aligned with global trends. Why Are Trade Unions Opposed? Labour Union perspective Loss of historical rights gained through workers’ struggles (hours, wages, safety, collective bargaining). Centralisation of powers: States lose authority; Centre can fix floor wages and override minimum wage structure. Fixed-term employment → legalised hire & fire; weakens job security and unionisation. Higher thresholds in OSHWC Code: Factory license threshold increased from 10→20 workers with power, 20→40 without power → excludes many MSME workers. Social security dilution: Only ~7% of workforce currently covered (EPFO/ESIC). Codes won’t realistically cover 93% informal workforce, only selectively gig/platform. Lack of consultation: PM assured in 2015 Indian Labour Conference that no labour law would be amended without unions. Codes passed in Parliament without full debate or union participation. Collective bargaining diluted: Stricter strike notice, recognition of unions unresolved, and bargaining councils absent. Fear of industrial unrest due to unilateral reforms.  Core Contestations   A. Minimum Wages and Floor Wage Industry view : Principle agreed; issue is methodology and implementation, not the idea. Wages must reflect regional cost of living, sectoral differences, inflation adjustment, productivity link. Union view : Floor wage fixed by Centre may become ceiling for States → dilution of States’ power. Codes weaken the concept of living wage (ILO upheld). By increasing thresholds, millions fall outside minimum wage protection. B. Social Security Expansion Industry view : Codes aim to cover 40 crore workers, including informal, gig/platform, fixed-term employees. Organised sector prepared; MSMEs need handholding. Union view : Ambitious but unrealistic: Current coverage ≈ 7%; infrastructure cannot handle a dramatic jump. Gig/platform workers are only a small subset of informal workers. Existing EPF/ESI/Maternity Benefit frameworks being dumped into new structure without clarity. No universal social protection architecture; budgetary support absent. C. Industrial Relations, Strikes, and Hiring/Firing Industry view : Reforms necessary for competitiveness; industries undergoing tech disruption (AI, automation). Enhancements in: Notice period Retrenchment compensation Reskilling fund for displaced workers. Union view : Hire & fire legitimised: Retrenchment threshold raised from 100 → 300 workers (State can even increase further). Right to strike restricted: 60-day notice, 14-day pre-strike period; wider essential services interpretation. Recognition of trade unions unclear → weak collective bargaining. D. Occupational Safety and Working Conditions Industry view: Harmonised standards + modernised safety norms + women in all shifts = modern workforce policies. Union view: Higher thresholds → millions excluded from OSH, health checks, crèche facilities. Informal workers remain unprotected. E. Investment Attraction Industry view: Predictability + uniformity → positive signal to investors. Global competition demands flexible labour systems. Labour reforms only one part of larger investment ecosystem (infrastructure, taxation). Union view: Unrest + weakened worker protections diminish productivity and stability. FDI did not significantly rise even after liberalisation of insurance, defence, etc. Risk of neo-colonial dependency via investment-driven negotiations (India–US bilateral treaty concerns).  Structural Assessment: Are the Labour Codes Labour-Friendly? Strengths Simplification of 40+ laws → improved clarity. Digital compliance, fewer inspections → reduces harassment. Formalisation intent: inclusion of gig/platform workers for first time. Women’s labour force participation may benefit (night shift permissions with safeguards). Potential ease of doing business → job creation argument (contested). Weaknesses Exclusion of large workforce through raised thresholds. Weak collective bargaining → industrial harmony claim questionable. Fixed-term employment → precarious work; high turnover; unionisation decline. Floor wage may become de facto maximum. Universal social security goal remains largely aspirational without fiscal commitment. Democratic deficit in drafting: no Indian Labour Conference since 2015. Evaluation Labour-friendly elements Extends formal recognition to gig/platform workers. Aims to reduce compliance burden → possible employment growth. Harmonisation across States → clarity for firms + workers. Safety code modernises standards (though coverage limited). Not labour-friendly elements Threshold increases exclude millions from protection. Hire & fire flexibility without strong social security backup = risk of insecurity. Dilution of right to strike and collective bargaining. Limited coverage expansion, despite claims of 40 crore; administrative machinery inadequate. Minimal consultation undermines tripartism (key ILO principle).  Final Verdict The codes are employer-friendly in structure but worker-friendly in stated intention. They aim for flexibility-first, protection-second, whereas global best models (Nordic, EU) rely on protection-first, flexibility-with-security. Without: universal minimum wage enforcement budget-backed social security strong unions/collective bargaining the reforms risk creating a dual labour market — formal sector flexibility without adequate safety nets. Why India struggles to clear its air  Why Is It in News? Delhi’s annual winter pollution cycle has returned, with air quality dropping to ‘Severe’, triggering cloud seeding, smog towers, sprinkling, odd-even rules, and festival crackdowns. A pattern of repetitive, ineffective measures dominates, while deeper governance breakdowns persist. Recent public protests near India Gate (Nov 24) against air pollution led to police detentions despite peaceful demonstrations. Raises questions on air-quality governance, institutional design, regulatory authority, and political incentives. Relevance GS3 – Environment / Pollution • National air pollution control architecture: CAQM, CPCB, SPCBs. • Sectoral sources: biomass, transport, industry, construction dust. • Meteorology–inversion dynamics in Indo-Gangetic Plain. • Failure of “end-of-pipe” measures; need for structural interventions. • Health impacts → DALY burden, economic productivity losses. GS2 – Governance / Federal Issues • Inter-state coordination failures (Punjab–Haryana–Delhi). • Institutional fragmentation → weak compliance. • Judiciary’s role vs executive capacity (EPCA to CAQM shift). • Behavioural governance: household fuels, micro-enterprise emissions. • Urban governance deficits in monitoring, enforcement, and waste systems. Understanding the Pollution Crisis Winter inversion + local emissions trap pollutants: Construction dust Tailpipe emissions Industrial pollution Biomass burning Waste burning Regional agricultural burning Delhi’s geography aggravates stagnation, but policy failures drive the persistence. Core Diagnosis: India’s Structural Governance Flaw 1. Fragmented Responsibility Pollution management divided across: MoEFCC CPCB + SPCBs CAQM Delhi Pollution Control Committee Municipal bodies (MCD, NDMC) State departments (transport, agriculture, industries) Agencies like NHAI, PWD, DISCOMs No single institution has full mandate + accountability. 2. Uneven Enforcement State-wise variation in compliance. Weak inter-state coordination within NCR. Contradictions between court orders, Union directives, and local decisions. 3. Judicial Pressure → Short-termism Courts demand immediate action, pushing governments toward high-visibility, low-impact solutions. Why Short-Term Measures Dominate Governance Incentives Quick fixes: Show rapid action Avoid confronting powerful sectors: construction, transport, agriculture Fit within annual budgets Minimise political risk Hence, return every year: Cloud seeding Smog towers Anti-smog guns Odd-even Crackdowns on festivals Political Logic Provide visibility, not results. Keep attention cycles short. Manage headlines rather than emissions. Two Strategic Pitfalls Weakening India’s Response A. Intellectual Trap Overreliance on expert/think-tank solutions assuming: High administrative capacity Reliable enforcement Strong record-keeping Continuity across institutions Policies designed in elite spaces cannot be implemented by overstretched municipal systems. B. Western Trap Importing global “best practices” without adaptation: Assumes strong public transport Assumes low informal activity Assumes coherent regulatory systems Assumes predictable coordination European/East Asian models fail when transplanted without redesign. Result Ideas that travel well but land poorly. Pilot projects fade within months. Strategies produce documents, not transformation. Indian Constraints That Must Shape Policy Uneven municipal capacity Informal construction and labour markets Diesel-heavy freight systems Fragmented land markets Economic vulnerabilities of farmers, transporters, small industries Multiple veto points: courts, Union, States, municipal bodies Local political cycles and shifting priorities Policies ignoring these constraints fail during implementation. What India Needs (Institutional Redesign) 1. Clear Leadership & Mandates Define who leads air-quality governance across national–state–city levels. A modern Clean Air Law with explicit institutional roles. 2. Coordinating, Not Dominating, Institutions A trusted body to align: Policies Data Enforcement Inter-state NCR coordination Avoid creating yet another regulator; build coherence. 3. Multi-year Funding Move away from annual-budget firefighting. Stable funds needed for: Monitoring networks Fleet modernisation Industrial compliance Waste systems 4. Enforcement + Transparency Real-time, public access to compliance data. Predictable penalties to make rules credible. 5. Professional Science Managers Experts who can: Translate science into governance Work across ministries Anticipate political limits Adapt global ideas to Indian conditions Bridge technical analysis with administrative realism. Underlying Challenge India suffers not due to lack of ideas but due to misalignment: Between ambition and actual capacity Between expert design and municipal execution Between global models and Indian realities Until institutions match the complexity of Indian cities, pollution cycles will continue unchanged. Auramine O in Indian Food Why Is It in News? Recent inspections by State food-safety departments, academic studies, and everyday market checks have once again detected auramine O, a banned industrial dye, in Indian foods. Widely found in sweets, savouries, street foods, and spice powders, especially around festivals. Highlights failures in enforcement, chemical-market regulation, and consumer/vendor awareness. Relevance GS2 – Health / Regulation • Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 enforcement gaps. • FSSAI’s regulatory architecture: labs, surveillance, penalties. • Informal food sector compliance deficits. • Public health risk: hepatotoxicity, carcinogenicity. • Consumer safety → right to safe food (Article 21). GS3 – Science / Technology / Economy • Need for rapid detection technologies. • Chemical supply-chain regulation and monitoring. • Economic incentives driving adulteration in low-margin sectors. • Formalisation and traceability in food processing. • Strengthening quality infrastructure (NABL labs, state capacity).   What Is Auramine O? Synthetic bright yellow dye, industrial-grade. Major uses: textiles, leather, paper, printing inks, microbiological staining. Not permitted under Indian food-safety regulations. Health effects (evidence-based): Liver + kidney toxicity Splenomegaly Mutagenic effects Possible carcinogenicity (IARC: possibly carcinogenic to humans) Banned because it can mimic permitted colours (tartrazine) or natural colour sources (saffron, turmeric). Why It Persists in the Food Chain 1. Economic Drivers Extremely cheap, more vibrant than permitted food colours. Easy availability in informal chemical markets. 2. Supply-chain Weakness Informal sale of unlabelled dye packets. Lack of source-tracking mechanisms for industrial-grade chemicals. 3. Vendor Behaviour Small-scale sweet makers, halwais, street vendors use it due to: Low knowledge of regulations Desire for bright visual appeal Minimal fear of enforcement 4. Governance Constraints Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 is strong on paper, but: Enforcement varies across States Laboratory capacity is uneven Surveillance is episodic (often festive-season driven) Staffing shortages delay routine inspections Current Government Response 1. Surveillance Drives FSSAI conducts festival-season crackdowns and random sampling. States seize illegal colourants, prosecute violators, and destroy consignment stock. 2. Awareness Campaigns Target small manufacturers, sweet-makers, and street vendors. Focus on risks of synthetic dyes and permitted alternatives. 3. Strengthening Infrastructure Investment in food-testing laboratories. Push for rapid testing kits for on-field detection of industrial dyes. Deeper Structural Problems (Systemic Diagnosis) 1. Fragmented Enforcement State food-safety departments are unevenly staffed. Local-level sampling dependent on district officer discretion. Surveillance often begins only when media pressure rises. 2. Light Regulation of Chemical Markets Industrial dyes sold openly in wholesale markets. No licensing requirement for sales to food businesses. Poor record-keeping makes traceability almost impossible. 3. Informal Food Economy India’s enormous informal food sector: Sweets, snacks, street food Unregulated micro units Compliance expectations exceed their capacity. 4. Limited Consumer Power Consumers often prioritise colour appeal over safety. Awareness about synthetic dye toxicity remains very low. What India Needs (Reform Blueprint) A. Chemical-Market Regulation Mandate registration of dye sellers. Ban informal sale of unlabelled colourant powders. Create a digital record-keeping system for industrial dye transactions. B. Enforcement Reforms State-level standardisation of sampling frequency. Dedicated food-safety field units at district level. Predictable penalties for repeat offenders. C. Technology + Labs Scale rapid-detection kits for markets and street vendors. Expand accredited laboratories in Tier-2/3 cities. D. Vendor-Level Behaviour Change Community-level campaigns in sweet clusters, halwai unions, and small eateries. Incentivise use of permitted colours through subsidies or bulk procurement support. E. Consumer Education Public messaging highlighting health impacts of bright, unnaturally colourful foods. Information campaigns in schools, markets, community kitchens. Why the Problem Repeats Every Year Similar to other food-adulteration cycles (like spurious ghee, milk adulteration). A mix of regulatory weaknesses, informal markets, and demand for visibly appealing food. Seasonal spikes around Diwali, Holi, harvest festivals. Enforcement intensity collapses once festival season ends International Astronomical Union approves seven new Indian names for Martian features  WHY IN NEWS? International Astronomical Union (IAU) has approved seven new Indian names for geological features on Mars. These include names inspired by Kerala’s Periyar river, Varkala beach, Bekal fort, Vallamala, Thumba, and a crater named after geologist M.S. Krishnan. Announcement made by IAU’s Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature (Nov 24). Reflects India’s growing scientific footprint in planetary science and ISRO-linked heritage sites getting global recognition. Relevance GS3 – Space / Science & Technology • Planetary nomenclature standards set by IAU. • India’s scientific contributions through ISRO and planetary missions. • Strengthening planetary geology databases and mission planning. • Recognition of Indian scientists and heritage sites. • Space diplomacy and global scientific integration. GS2 – Governance / International Institutions • India’s role in multilateral scientific bodies. • Soft power through scientific naming. • Institutional cooperation for planetary mapping. • Enhancing India’s credibility in global space governance. • Implications for future India–IAU collaboration. BASICS What is IAU? Global authority that approves names for celestial bodies and planetary features. Ensures standardization across scientific databases (USGS Gazetteer being the key one). Names require proposals with imagery, coordinates, scientific justification. Nomenclature Rules for Mars Large craters (≥50 km): Named after deceased scientists. Small craters: Named after towns/villages with population <1 lakh. Other features (plains, valleys, ridges): Named after relevant themes (e.g., river names for valleys). DETAILS OF NEW INDIAN NAMES ON MARS 1. Krishnan Crater Diameter: 77 km Named after M.S. Krishnan, eminent Indian geologist; headed Geological Survey of India in 1951. Crater lies SE of another crater named Kircher; part of the planet’s ancient surface (~3 billion years old). 2. Krishnan Palus (Plain) ~50 km wide plain associated with the crater. Recognizes Krishnan’s contribution to Indian geology. 3. Periyar Vallis A valley-like feature (~50 km long), named after Kerala’s Periyar river. Follows the IAU’s convention of naming valleys after terrestrial rivers. 4. Varkala Geological feature named after Varkala beach/town in Kerala. 5. Bekal Named after Bekal Fort region, Kerala. 6. Thumba Named after Thumba, the birthplace of ISRO’s space programme (TERLS inaugurated in 1963). Symbolically important for India’s space heritage. 7. Vallamala Named after Vallamala, a Kerala locality, fitting the <1 lakh population rule for small features. HOW NAMES GET APPROVED ? Scientists submit a ‘Call for Proposal’ to IAU with: Scientific maps & images Coordinate data (latitude/longitude) Description of the feature Annotated / unannotated figures Proposals undergo committee-level technical scrutiny. Final approval by IAU after deliberation. SIGNIFICANCE 1. International Recognition of Indian Science Places Indian toponyms & scientists on the global planetary map. Highlights Indian geologists’ contributions to Mars research and nomenclature efforts. 2. Cultural Representation in Space Science Names from Kerala—Periyar, Varkala, Bekal, Vallamala—reflect India’s cultural geography on another planet. 3. Strengthens ISRO’s Global Standing Thumba’s inclusion underlines India’s pioneering role in launching its space programme (TERLS, sounding rockets). 4. Knowledge of Mars’ Ancient Terrain Krishnan crater (~3 billion years old) adds to understanding of Mars’ early geologic history. Doppler Weather Radar: Enhancing India’s weather forecasting network Definition: A Doppler Weather Radar is a specialized radar system that uses the Doppler effect to measure the velocity of precipitation (rain, snow, hail) in the atmosphere. Function: Detects rainfall intensity, storm motion, wind direction, and speed, which helps in real-time weather monitoring. Components: Transmitter and receiver Antenna Signal processor Output: Provides radar images showing precipitation patterns and movement, aiding in forecasting severe weather events. Relevance GS3 – Disaster Management / Environment • Early-warning systems for cyclones, thunderstorms, extreme rainfall. • IMD’s radar network expansion under modernisation drive. • Improved nowcasting accuracy through Doppler velocity data. • Reducing disaster losses under Sendai Framework. • Climate change–linked extreme weather monitoring. GS3 – Science & Technology • Working principle: Doppler shift for precipitation and wind velocity. • Integration with satellites (INSAT-3D/3DR), AWS, and mesoscale models. • Filling coverage gaps in Himalayas and coastal belts. • Data-driven forecast improvements for aviation, agriculture, and fisheries. • Upgrading computational capacity for high-resolution models. Significance of Doppler Radar in India India faces seasonal extreme weather events: cyclones, heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, hailstorms, lightning. Operational Network: India already has Doppler radars in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Goa, Thiruvananthapuram. Karnataka and Chhattisgarh joining strengthens regional forecasting capacity. Coverage: Mangalore radar: Coastal Karnataka and nearby regions. Raipur radar: Chhattisgarh and surrounding central India. Benefits: Improved early warning systems for floods, cyclones, and thunderstorms. Enhanced precision in local forecasts for agriculture, aviation, and disaster management. Faster dissemination of real-time alerts to citizens and authorities. Why It’s in the News ? New Infrastructure: First Doppler radars in these states, filling gaps in India’s meteorological coverage. Disaster Preparedness: Early detection reduces human and economic losses during extreme weather events. Supports Ministry of Earth Sciences’ initiative to strengthen climate and weather forecasting. Regional Impact: Karnataka: Coastal regions prone to heavy rainfall and cyclones from Arabian Sea. Chhattisgarh: Central India prone to thunderstorms, hail, and lightning during monsoon. Government Focus: Aligns with India’s modernization of meteorological infrastructure to improve climate resilience. Takeaway The operationalization of Doppler radars in Mangalore and Raipur marks a strategic upgrade in India’s weather monitoring network, particularly for regions previously underserved. It strengthens real-time monitoring and early warning, reducing vulnerability to extreme weather events. It reflects India’s larger focus on science-driven disaster management and regional climate resilience

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 27 November 2025

Content Traditions Passed Down for Generations Labour Codes Strengthen Modern Safety and Welfare Framework for Pharma Industry Traditions Passed Down for Generations Why is it in News? At the 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF), 2025, New Delhi, the Government showcased India’s tribal artforms under the theme Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. Over 705 tribal communities (8.6% of population) represented through arts, handicrafts, and textile traditions. Supported by Ministry of Tribal Affairs, TRIFED, State Governments, and allied institutions. Focus on tribal livelihoods, market linkages, revival of endangered artforms, and integration with India’s $5 trillion economy vision (2047). Relevance GS1 – Indian Culture Case study for preservation of intangible cultural heritage. Illustrates regional diversity and continuity of oral traditions. Showcases ancient artforms like Warli, Paitker, Bharewa. GS2 – Governance & Social Justice State support to vulnerable tribal communities. Institutional interventions for cultural security and inclusiveness. Policy relevance: TRIFED, Minimum Support Price for MFP, GI tagging, Skill India. GS3 – Economy Creative economy as a tool for rural employment. Handloom & handicraft sector’s contribution to MSME growth, exports, women-led enterprises. Alignment with $5 trillion economy goal and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Who are India’s Tribal Communities? Constitutionally recognised as Scheduled Tribes (STs). Diverse socio-cultural identities—distinct languages, crafts, folklore, livelihoods. Home to unique artistic traditions: Warli, Gond, Paitkar, Saora, Toda embroidery, Dokra metal craft, Bhil paintings, etc. India’s Tribal Arts — Key Features Natural materials: plant dyes, forest produce, bamboo, lac, metal scraps. Oral transmission across generations. Community-based production (families, clans, SHGs). Sustainability: low carbon, eco-friendly crafts. Narrative artforms: storytelling, myths, epics, folk tales. What Was Showcased at IITF 2025? Silk-based Tribal Textiles India: 2nd largest global producer of silk. Only country producing Mulberry, Tasar, Eri, Muga. Over 9.76 million workers in 52,000 villages employed. Example: Sachin Walke, Gond tribe, Nagpur: Tasar silk sarees + Warli/karvat prints. Tribal Women SHGs (Gujarat) 300-member SHG producing: Applique work Mirror work Cotton-silk textiles Benefited through national-level exposure (Aadi Mahotsav, IITF). Endangered Narrative Traditions Paitker (Pyatkar) painting, Jharkhand: One of India’s oldest narrative scroll traditions. Themes: tribal myths, dances, epics. Very few practicing families left. Metal-based Tribal Sculpture (Madhya Pradesh) Bharewa artform, Gond sub-tribe: Scrap metal → idols, jewellery, ornaments. Endangered craftsmanship, sustained through fairs. Institutional Support Mechanisms TRIFED (Ministry of Tribal Affairs) Capacity Building Skill development SHG formation Training in quality control Market Development Domestic + international marketing Aadi Mahotsav, IITF, online platforms Brand Creation “Tribes India” retail Sustainable branding of tribal products State Governments Jharkhand: Jharkhand Kala Mandir, Laghu Evam Kutir Udyam Vikas Board → revival of disappearing arts. Challenges Highlighted Market asymmetry → poor bargaining power. Limited awareness → low demand outside fairs. High production time; low returns. Endangered traditions due to: Modern mass-produced substitutes Migration of youth Lack of formal institutional support Government Interventions Needed Expansion of MSP for craft-based products. Digital marketplaces + direct-to-consumer models. Craft clusters with design institutes (NIFT, NID). Skill mapping + youth apprenticeship + scholarships. GI tagging for rare tribal artforms. Conclusion IITF 2025 acts as a national platform to mainstream tribal arts, ensuring livelihoods, cultural continuity, and economic integration. Government + community + marketplace synergy is essential for preserving fragile, heritage-rich traditions. Tribal arts embody India’s unity in diversity, and their preservation strengthens cultural identity while supporting inclusive development. Labour Codes Strengthen Modern Safety and Welfare Framework for Pharma Industry Why is it in News? The Government highlighted how the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSHWC) Code, 2020 and the Social Security Code, 2020 are strengthening modern safety and welfare standards in India’s pharmaceutical sector. The update comes as pharma shifts to high-potency, biotechnology-driven, sterile, and hazardous-process operations, requiring a unified safety framework. PIB reported implementation focus: risk-based oversight, emergency readiness, worker competency certification, ESI coverage, and a single cohesive safety governance structure replacing fragmented older laws. Relevance GS2 – Governance / Labour Reforms Labour Codes = major governance overhaul replacing 29 central laws. Reduces bureaucratic complexity; promotes cooperative federalism via unified rules. Strengthens worker rights while improving industrial efficiency. GS3 – Economy / Industry Pharma = $50+ billion industry, major export component, vaccine hub. Modernised safety → lower accidents, higher productivity, reliable supply chains. Boosts FDI and compliance with global GMP and safety standards. What Are the Labour Codes? Consolidation of 29 labour laws → 4 Labour Codes: Code on Wages, 2019 Industrial Relations Code, 2020 OSHWC Code, 2020 Social Security Code, 2020 Objectives: Simplify compliance Universalise labour protections Strengthen safety & welfare Boost EoDB (Ease of Doing Business) Pharma as a Hazardous Industry Declared hazardous under Factories Act, 1948. Legacy regime emphasised: chemical hazards, ventilation, safety audits, emergency plans. The sector has now shifted to: High-potency APIs Cytotoxic oncology drugs Recombinant DNA technologies Sterile biologics Vaccine manufacturing Biosafety Level (BSL) facilities Nano-material handling Old framework inadequate for integrated chemical–biological–process–radioactive hazards. What the OSHWC Code Changes for Pharma ? Unified & Modern Governance Merges fragmented safety laws into one consolidated Code. Provides modern definitions, updated hazard lists, and expanded scope covering: Biological agents AI-driven equipment Robotics Nano-materials Sterility-control systems Advanced Risk Management Mandatory scientific protocols: Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) Chemical safety dossiers Biosafety containment plans Exposure monitoring Environmental surveillance Digital health records Comprehensive medical examinations: Pre-employment Annual Periodic Post-incident Emergency & Compliance Architecture Single-window licensing + digitized returns → compliance ease. Risk-based inspections → transparency. Strengthened emergency readiness: On-site emergency plans Spill response units (chemical + biological) Incident command systems Occupational hygiene surveillance Competency-Based Workforce Regulation Certification for handling: Clean-rooms Isolators Fermentation bioreactors Cytotoxic compounds Pressurized reactors Mandatory safety committees Empowered safety officers Transparent accident reporting Women’s Safety & Inclusion Protections against: Mutagenic, teratogenic substance exposure Reproductive hazards Safe deployment in: Sterile zones Analytical labs Formulation units Automated clean-room systems What the Social Security Code Adds Universalised ESI coverage to all eligible pharma workers. Recognition of occupational diseases (chemical poisoning, reproductive disorders, sensitization, hepatotoxicity). Income security measures: Disability compensation Dependents’ benefits Maternity protections Strengthened safety net for temporary & contract workers Key Benefits for the Pharma Industry Higher safety → lower downtime & accidents Improved sterility assurance & GMP compliance Reduced litigation & regulatory burden Enhanced investor confidence Stronger scientific governance Better protection for contract & women workers Challenges States yet to fully notify rules (federal lag). MSME pharma units face adaptation costs. Skill gaps: need large-scale competency training. Inspectors must shift to facilitator-style oversight. Conclusion The Labour Codes—particularly the OSHWC Code and Social Security Code—mark a foundational shift from reactive, compliance-based governance to proactive, science-driven, risk-based industrial regulation in pharma. They align India’s regulatory ecosystem with global standards, safeguard workers in high-risk environments, and support India’s rise as a biotechnology powerhouse and global pharmacy.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 27 November 2025

Content China’s JUNO vs India’s INO   Fighting the fire China’s JUNO vs India’s INO   Why is it in News? China has completed construction of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) in 2025 and released its first scientific performance papers (Nov 18). Meanwhile, India’s India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) has remained stalled for over a decade, despite being conceptualised earlier than JUNO. JUNO has now begun reporting precision measurements (θ₁₂), while INO is stuck due to environmental, political and procedural hurdles. Relevance GS2 – Governance Centre–State coordination failures. Environmental clearance regime. Public communication in scientific projects. Political economy of large scientific infrastructure. GS3 – Science & Technology Indigenous high-energy physics capability. Impact of delays on global scientific standing. Role of Big Science in technology development (detectors, PMTs, computing). Practice Question Examine the reasons for the prolonged delay of the India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO). Discuss its implications for India’s scientific progress in comparison with China’s JUNO project. Suggest governance reforms necessary to execute Big Science projects in India.(250 Words) What are Neutrinos? Fundamental, charge-less subatomic particles. Three flavours: electron, muon, tau. Extremely weak interaction with matter → need massive detectors. Demonstrate neutrino oscillation, implying neutrinos have mass. Key unsolved puzzle: neutrino mass ordering (normal vs inverted hierarchy). Why big detectors? Probability of neutrino interaction ≈ 10⁻³⁸ cm² → need kiloton-scale materials and natural shielding (mountains, underground labs). INO: Original Vision Proposed: 50-kilotonne magnetised iron calorimeter detector (ICAL) in Theni, Tamil Nadu. Mountain overburden was to provide 1 km rock shielding. Science goal: determine neutrino mass hierarchy using atmospheric neutrinos. Built by a national consortium led by TIFR, IMSc, BARC, etc. Estimated cost ~ ₹1,500–1,800 crore. Why INO Stalled? A. Environmental & Local Opposition Fear of “radioactivity” due to DAE involvement. Concerns: blasting, tunnelling, impact on water aquifers, wildlife. Project misunderstood as a “nuclear waste” facility. B. Procedural lapses (documented in hindsight) Delayed environmental clearances. Inadequate early-stage local consultations. Insufficient risk communication strategy. Underestimation of political sensitivities. C. Governance & Federal Challenges Tamil Nadu govt withdrawal → land transfer issues. Litigation in Madras HC and NGT. Repeated demands for fresh EIA. D. Strategic Timing International collaborations hesitated due to uncertain timelines. Competing projects (like JUNO) moved rapidly. JUNO: China’s Rise in Big Science Key Features Location: Jiangmen, Guangdong. Liquid scintillator detector: 20,000 tonnes. Light sensors: ~18,000 large PMTs, among the world’s most advanced. Depth: ~700 m rock overburden. Budget: ~$300 million. Progress Expected completion: 2020 → delayed to 2025 but eventually built. Released two major preprints in Nov 2025: Initial performance results (detector calibration, resolution). Precision measurement of θ₁₂ (consistent with global data). Internationality Authors from ~20 countries; no Indian scientists present, despite India’s long expertise. Scientific Significance Neutrino Oscillations Measured via mixing angles: θ₁₂, θ₁₃, θ₂₃. θ₁₃ measured earlier by Daya Bay (China), Double Chooz (France), and RENO (Korea). JUNO aims to determine: Neutrino mass ordering Precision tests of 3-flavour oscillation framework Search for new physics beyond Standard Model. INO’s Niche INO’s magnetised detector would uniquely measure: Charge identification of muon neutrinos. Better sensitivity to mass hierarchy via Earth’s matter effects. Comparison INO vs JUNO Scientific Capability JUNO Strength: ultra-high energy resolution. Goal: precise θ₁₂, mass hierarchy, new physics. INO Strength: magnetic field → charge discrimination. Unique capability no other detector globally offers. Funding & Governance JUNO: Strong state backing, integrated planning, political support. INO: Multi-level approvals, state-centre friction, litigation. Stakeholder Management JUNO: Strong early community engagement. Clear communication on safety. INO: Miscommunication → public mistrust. Project framed wrongly as “nuclear”. Timelines JUNO: ~12 years (2013–2025). INO: Proposed 2005; still pending. Why India’s Absence in JUNO’s Author List Matters ? India has a historic record: 1965: India detected atmospheric neutrinos first at Kolar Gold Fields. Strong theoretical groups (IMSc, TIFR). Absence indicates: Funding instability → foreign collaborations hesitate. Administrative delays reducing India’s global credibility. Missed opportunity in two frontier areas: neutrinos & lunar samples. Key Lessons A. Big Science ≠ Only Scientists Need: Political buy-in. Local cooperation. Clearances done correctly. Strong communication strategy. Stable multi-year funding. B. Delays Reduce Strategic Leverage Frontier science moves fast. If India misses one window, the next requires much more advanced capabilities. C. “Resource constraints” often administrative, not material India invests heavily in: LIGO-India (~₹2,600 crore) SKA participation Large telescope collaborations So neutrino science didn’t fail due to money alone. Fighting the fire Why is it in News? COP30 concluded in Belém, Brazil, marking 10 years since the 2015 Paris Agreement. Global temperatures in 2024 crossed the 1.5°C threshold for the first time, raising urgency. Brazil attempted to shift the narrative from pledges → implementation. Strong focus on adaptation, just transition, and multilateral cooperation, amid geopolitical fragmentation. India participated actively but did not update its NDCs. Relevance GS2 – IR Multilateral climate diplomacy Negotiation politics North–South divide GS3 – Environment Climate science basics Paris Agreement NDC framework Adaptation vs mitigation Just transition Loss & damage finance GS1 – Geography Amazon ecosystem, global warming patterns. Practice Question COP30 attempts to shift climate negotiations from ambition to implementation. Critically analyse the opportunities and constraints for such a shift.(250 Words) What is COP? Conference of Parties (COP): Annual meeting of 198 Parties to the UNFCCC to negotiate climate action. Mandates include: Setting global climate goals Developing rules for mitigation, adaptation, finance Negotiating equity and burden-sharing. Paris Agreement (2015) — Foundations Global temperature goal: Limit rise to well below 2°C. Preferably 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Every country submits Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Principles: CBDR–RC (Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities) Progressive ambition: NDCs must be enhanced every 5 years. Climate finance obligation on developed nations. Why 2024–25 Is a Turning Point ? 2024 is the first year global temperatures breached 1.5°C (not yet the “new normal”, but a warning). Emissions trends show → world on track for ~2.5–2.9°C warming by 2100. Extreme events (heat, floods, forest fires, Amazon dieback threat) intensifying. Hardening of global climate blocs: Developed bloc: push for fossil fuel phase-out deadlines. Developing/petro-states: equity, finance, development space. Why Belém (Amazon) Matters ? Symbolic choice: Amazon = world’s largest carbon sink; experiencing severe deforestation, drought, fires. Brazil wants to position itself as leader of the Global South and Amazon protection diplomacy. What COP30 Tried to Change — “Implementation COP” Shift from promises → action After a decade of lofty pledges, real progress on ground remains poor. Brazil pushed: Implementation frameworks Accountability mechanisms Cooperative multilateralism (“mutirão”). Key Themes A. Adaptation Recognises that warming impacts are already unavoidable. Focus areas: Resilient agriculture Climate-proofing infrastructure Coastal protection Heatwave management Adaptation finance post-2025. B. Just Transition Addresses social and economic disruptions from energy shifts. Protecting: Workers Marginalised groups Indigenous communities Ensures sustainability does not worsen inequality. C. Finance Renewed push but no solid commitments. USD 100 bn/year obligation still not fully met. Developing countries asked for: Grant-based finance Loss & damage support Technology access. India’s Role Vocal leader of developing countries (G77 + China positions). Welcomed focus on equity, adaptation, just transition. Did not update its NDCs, citing: Finance uncertainty Development priorities Already overachieving several 2030 targets (renewable capacity, emissions intensity). Continues opposition to: Forced fossil fuel phase-out One-size-fits-all mitigation roadmaps. Outcomes — Gains and Shortfalls Gains Adaptation and just transition elevated. Acknowledged Amazon protection significance. Renewed commitment to multilateralism. Stronger narrative on equity. Shortfalls No consensus on fossil fuel phase-out vs phase-down. Finance gaps remain unaddressed. Absence of the U.S. diluted negotiation power on mitigation. Incremental progress compared to the scale of crisis. Broader Implications Climate denialism, pollution, deforestation rising despite COP efforts. Global stocktake suggests current policies insufficient. COP process remains slow, but still the only multilateral forum capable of collective climate action.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 27 November 2025

Content Chief Justice of India on NJAC Revival Plea How to Navigate a Complex Global Paradigm SC Panel Suggests Creation of a Goa Tiger Reserve Safran LEAP Engine MRO Facility in Hyderabad Aravalli Hills Despite Forest Survey Warning Chief Justice of India on NJAC Revival Plea Why is it in News? A fresh plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking revival of the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) and abolition of the Collegium system. The petitioner has arraigned the CJI, the Supreme Court Collegium, the Union government, and several parties as respondents. The plea terms the 2015 striking down of NJAC as a “great wrong”, arguing that it replaced the will of Parliament with the opinion of four judges. CJI Surya Kant stated the Court would consider the plea. Parallel political context: Debate over judicial transparency, “judicial primacy”, and allegations of nepotism resurfaces. Relevance GS-II: Polity & Governance Separation of powers. Judicial independence. Constitutional amendments (99th CAA). Role of Parliament vs Judiciary. Appointment procedures. Basic Structure doctrine. GS-II: Parliament & Judiciary Relations Institutional trust deficit. Checks and balances architecture. Judicial Appointments in India Constitutional Scheme Articles 124, 217: Judges of Supreme Court and High Courts appointed by the President after consultation with CJI, judges of SC, and Governor/Chief Justice of the state. Original intent: Executive had a major role; judiciary was “consulted”. Shift to Judicial Primacy (Judges Cases) First Judges Case (1981): Executive primacy. Second Judges Case (1993): Judicial primacy; Collegium created. Third Judges Case (1998): Collegium expanded to 5 (SC) and 3 (HC). Collegium System — Key Features Supreme Court Collegium: CJI + 4 senior-most SC judges. High Court Collegium: Chief Justice + 2 senior-most HC judges. Functions: Recommends appointments, elevations, transfers. Known issues: Opacity (no stated criteria; limited public disclosure). Alleged nepotism, favouritism, regional bias. Frequent executive–judiciary clashes (delays in clearance). HC vacancies persistently high (30–35% over years). 99th Constitutional Amendment (2014) + NJAC Act (2014) Composition: CJI (Chairperson) Two senior-most SC judges Law Minister Two eminent persons (selected by PM, CJI, LoP panel) Objectives Democratise appointments. Introduce checks and balances. Increase transparency. Reduce allegations of judicial monopoly. Why NJAC Was Struck Down (2015, 4:1 bench) Core Reason: Violation of Judicial Independence Presence of Law Minister + eminent persons → possible executive interference. Judicial independence recognised as part of Basic Structure (Kesavananda Bharati). Eminent persons’ veto could block judicial choices. Justice J. Chelameswar dissent Criticised Collegium as opaque and unaccountable. Strongly supported NJAC as balancing mechanism. Current Plea: Key Arguments Judgment should be declared void ab initio. Collegium = “synonym for nepotism and favouritism”. Appointments remain a “riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma” (reference to Churchill). Parliament acted using its constituent power, yet its amendment was struck down. Striking NJAC down “reduced Parliament to an inferior tribunal”. CJI’s Initial Response CJI Surya Kant said the SC “would consider the plea”, indicating judicial openness to examine the argument (though reopening a decided Constitution Bench judgment is rare and requires rigor). Constitutional & Jurisprudential Analysis A. Can a past Constitution Bench judgment be reopened? Within Court’s powers under Article 137 (Review) + Curative jurisdiction, but: Very high threshold. Time-lapse of a decade reduces probability. B. Legislature vs Judiciary: Separation of Powers Debate Legislature: Claims judicial monopoly is anti-democratic. Judiciary: Claims executive’s presence jeopardises independence. C. Basic Structure Doctrine at Core Judicial independence = non-negotiable. The test: Does NJAC dilute independence? Academic debate: scholars like Upendra Baxi, Madhav Khosla argue both sides. Policy Issues Driving Renewed Debate Persistent vacancy crisis: 450+ HC vacancies (varied over years). Case pendency: Over 5 crore cases across courts. Perception battles: From “judicial overreach” to “executive non-cooperation”. Collegium’s opaque resolutions despite partial publication. Critical Evaluation  Strengths of Collegium Shields judiciary from executive capture. Ensures judicial primacy (consistently upheld by SC). Protects constitutional adjudication. Weaknesses of Collegium Opaque and non-accountable. No institutionalised criteria for merit/representation. Alleged kinship networks. Strengths of NJAC Idea Adds democratic legitimacy. Potential for transparency reforms. Balances judiciary–executive roles. Weaknesses of NJAC (as struck down) Eminent persons’ veto could stall judiciary. Politicisation of appointments possible. Ambiguous selection of “eminent persons”. Middle Path Possibilities (Recommended by Experts) Retain judicial primacy but: Increase transparency. Codify objective criteria (merit, diversity). Create an independent secretariat for appointments. Publish reasons for rejection/selection. How to Navigate a Complex Global Paradigm  Why is it in News? Hong Kong hosted the 6th China–U.S. Exchange Foundation (CUSEF) Forum in November 2025, titled “Circles for Peace”. The forum took place amid deepening U.S.–China rivalry, declining people-to-people ties, technology-driven competition, and rising global uncertainty. The discussions highlighted that traditional engagement frameworks (like guardrails, managed competition) are no longer adequate to manage today’s strategic rivalry. Hong Kong was viewed as an “uneasy middle space” — a vantage point to explore new ideas and frameworks. Relevance GS-II: International Relations U.S.–China strategic competition Middle-power diplomacy Strategic autonomy Taiwan question Crisis prevention mechanisms GS-III: Security & Technology AI governance Dual-use technologies Space governance Technology security dilemmas U.S.–China Relations in 2025 Relationship marked by strategic rivalry + deep economic interdependence. Areas of friction: Technology (semiconductors, AI, 5G) Trade and supply chains South China Sea Taiwan Human rights Military deterrence Both powers expect “sudden shocks” due to thin trust and high militarisation. Key Themes from the Hong Kong Forum A. Shrinking Space for Nuance Domestic politics in both states have hardened narratives. Specialist-level strategic anxieties have moved into public politics. Younger generations in both countries have declining familiarity due to reduced student exchanges. B. AI and Technology as the New Global Commons AI viewed as an international public good — too consequential for one country to dominate. Forum emphasised: Equity Transparency Accountability Concern over dual-use technologies (civilian + defence). Need for: Global AI governance regime Future governance for outer space activities C. Taiwan as a Driver of Militarised Tension China warned U.S. is drifting towards a “one China, one Taiwan” posture. Risk of accidental escalation (e.g., 2001 EP-3 incident). Region lacks a durable crisis-prevention mechanism insulated from domestic politics. D. The Diplomatic Climate Strategic fatigue visible among experts. Personality-driven diplomacy insufficient in a complex multipolar world. Need for new vocabulary and mechanisms beyond Cold War models. E. Ng Eng Hen’s “Dialectic Moment” Current global order is in structural flux, driven by competing pressures. U.S., Europe, and China will shape outcomes, but rest of the world must ensure: Global commons are not collateral damage No new hegemon emerges Multiparty stewardship of the future Hong Kong’s Role as a “Middle Space” A. Why Hong Kong Matters Historically a bridge between China and the West. Despite recent political pressures, retains: Connectivity Cultural hybridity Cosmopolitan networks Transparency advantages Acts as a metaphorical vantage point to think beyond binary geopolitics. B. Middle Spaces in Global Politics Enable: Cross-border ideas Dialogue outside official channels Crisis de-escalation conversations Hong Kong demonstrates that even constrained spaces can enable meaningful engagement. Lessons for India  A. India’s Strategic Autonomy Imperative India cannot control U.S.–China rivalry, but can manage its exposure. Avoid copying U.S. rhetoric or accepting China’s narratives. Must maintain: Independent decision-making Issue-based partnerships Non-alignment in new-age geopolitical conflicts B. Build Domestic Power Technological capability Economic resilience Institutional strength Innovation ecosystems High-skill workforce C. Avoid Rigid Binaries Not “with the U.S.” or “with China”. Build flexible, sector-specific cooperation with multiple poles (EU, Japan, ASEAN, Global South). D. Strengthen People-to-People Channels Youth exchanges, academic collaborations, technology partnerships. These ties act as ballast during political shifts. E. Develop Capabilities in Emerging Domains AI governance Space governance Critical mineral security Cyber norms Supply-chain risk management Implications for the Emerging World Order A. U.S.–China rivalry will persist It will not return to pre-2016 engagement. Atmospherics remain turbulent. B. The Alternative to Managed Rivalry is Worse Cascading global risks: Climate shocks Pandemics Fragile supply chains AI weaponisation Political polarisation C. Future Order = Cooperative Stewardship Practical cooperation > ideological competition. Key sectors: Energy Health Finance AI and space governance Climate adaptation D. Strategic Middle Powers Matter More India, ASEAN, South Korea, Gulf states, EU, African states — shape global “weather”. Their choices will influence whether rivalry escalates or remains managed. SC Panel Suggests Creation of a Goa Tiger Reserve Why is it in News? A Supreme Court–appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC) has recommended the creation of a Goa Tiger Reserve in phases. The report arises from the Goa government’s challenge to a Bombay High Court (July 2023) directive ordering the notification of five protected areas as a tiger reserve within 3 months. The SC will now consider the CEC report in the next hearing. The case involves conflicting claims by the Goa government on: Human population inside sanctuaries Whether Goa has “resident” tigers or only “transient” individuals The CEC recommends linking Goa’s sanctuaries with Karnataka’s Kali Tiger Reserve, forming a 1,814 sq. km integrated landscape. Relevance GS-III: Environment & Ecology Tiger conservation Wildlife Protection Act NTCA powers Human–wildlife conflict Western Ghats ecology GS-I: Geography Western Ghats biodiversity Protected area management What is a Tiger Reserve? Legal basis: Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Sec. 38V). Components: Core area: Inviolate, highest protection, minimal human pressure. Buffer area: Lower protection, regulated human use. Declared on recommendation of NTCA (National Tiger Conservation Authority). Objective: Secure tiger populations Protect prey base & habitat Maintain contiguous corridors across states Background of the Case High Court Order (2023) Directed Goa to notify five protected areas as a tiger reserve: Mhadei WLS Bhagwan Mahavir WLS Bhagwan Mahavir NP Netravali WLS Cotigao WLS Goa Government’s Objections Initially claimed 1 lakh people would be affected; later admitted only: 1,274 households 33 villages 5,000–6,000 individuals Claimed Goa has no resident tiger population, only “transient” individuals. Earlier affidavits contradicted this — reported by The Hindu. CEC’s Intervention Asked by SC to examine scientific, ecological and socio-economic implications. Recommended a phased, minimal-displacement approach. CEC Recommendations — Phased Tiger Reserve for Goa A. Phase 1: Core + Buffer from Low-Human Habitation Areas Core Zone (296.7 sq. km) Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary 50 households Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary 41 households Reason: Directly contiguous with Karnataka’s Kali Tiger Reserve core Lowest human presence Critical landscape for tiger movement Buffer Zone (171 sq. km) Areas contiguous with Kali TR’s buffer: Northern part of Bhagwan Mahavir WLS (9 households) Bhagwan Mahavir NP (2 households) Total Phase-1 Area 468.60 sq. km Connectivity Advantage Fully contiguous with Kali Tiger Reserve (1,345 sq. km) Combined protected landscape: ~1,814 sq. km B. Phase 2: Consider Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary Later Mhadei WLS: 208 sq. km 612 households Only a limited boundary touches Kali TR buffer To be included after extensive consultations due to: Higher human habitation Complex socio-economic implications Why Phased Implementation? Minimise displacement and livelihood disruption. Address socio-political resistance in Goa. Secure ecologically critical areas first. Ensure tiger corridor continuity with Karnataka. Build local trust before expanding the reserve. Ecological Significance A. The Goa–Karnataka Western Ghats Tiger Landscape One of India’s most biodiverse tiger corridors. Adjacent Kali Tiger Reserve has: Stable resident tigers Breeding females Rich prey base B. Why Tigers in Goa Matter Presence of tigers proven by: Camera traps Scat analysis Occasional sightings Ensures genetic flow from Karnataka to Goa forests. Protecting Goa’s forests helps: Freshwater security Climate regulation Biodiversity stability Governance and Legal Context Key Institutions Supreme Court NTCA State Forest Department CEC (Supreme Court panel) Legal Precedents SC has repeatedly ruled that: Core tiger habitats must remain inviolate States must prioritise biodiversity over unverified human-impact claims Federal Dynamics Inter-state conservation challenges (Goa–Karnataka). Need for collaborative ecological governance across Western Ghats. Governance Concerns Raised Goa govt submitted contradictory affidavits on presence of resident tigers. Inflated displacement numbers weakened credibility. CEC report implies: Political reluctance Administrative inconsistency Possible resistance due to mining/lobby interests High Court order forced accountability. Implications for Goa Positive Boost to tiger conservation Strengthening eco-tourism Forest protection from mining & encroachment Improved scientific monitoring Challenges Community rehabilitation Human-wildlife conflict management Funding requirements Need for transparent community engagement Safran LEAP Engine MRO Facility in Hyderabad  Why is it in News? Prime Minister inaugurated Safran’s largest global MRO facility (Maintenance–Repair–Overhaul) for LEAP aircraft engines in Hyderabad. It is Safran’s biggest such facility worldwide and a major addition to India’s aviation manufacturing ecosystem. Marks India’s push from ‘Make in India’ → ‘Design in India’ in aerospace. Strategic for civil aviation, defence, FDI inflows, and the domestic engine ecosystem. Relevance GS3 – Economy & Infrastructure Aviation growth, foreign investment, PLI, MSMEs. GS3 – Science & Technology LEAP engine tech, 3D printing in aerospace, CMC materials. GS2 – International Relations India–France strategic partnership in defence & high tech. What is an MRO Facility? MRO = Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul of aircraft engines and components. Essential for: Flight safety and regulatory compliance. Reducing turnaround time for grounded aircraft. Lowering operating costs for airlines. India currently sends majority of engines to Singapore, UAE, France, causing higher costs. The LEAP Engine  What is the LEAP engine? LEAP = Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion. Manufactured by CFM International (joint venture of Safran, France + GE Aerospace, US). Powers modern narrow-body aircraft (single-aisle) like: Airbus A320neo family Boeing 737 MAX COMAC C919 Key Technical Features Fuel efficiency: ~15% better than previous generation (CFM56). Materials: Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) 3D-printed fuel nozzles Carbon-fibre fan blades Lower emissions: CO₂ ↓ by 15% NOx emissions ↓ 50% compared to regulatory limits Noise reduction: 15–20% lower Why LEAP matters for India? India is among the fastest-growing aviation markets globally. 70% of India’s narrow-body fleet uses LEAP engines.   Massive domestic demand ensures stable MRO business and future engine localisation. Why India wants engine design capability ? Only a few countries have full aero-engine manufacturing capability (US, UK, France, Russia, China). Engines are the highest-value component of an aircraft (25–30% of aircraft cost). Defence dependency: Indigenous fighter jets need indigenous engines (e.g., AMCA, Tejas Mk2). GE–HAL F414 manufacturing is a step, but complete design capability remains absent. Policy Framework Supporting Aerospace Manufacturing FDI liberalisation 100% FDI permitted under automatic route in most sectors. 74% FDI automatic in defence manufacturing. PLI schemes Encouraging domestic component manufacturing in: Electronics Drones Semiconductors Aerospace components Space and Aviation Reforms Private participation allowed in: Space launch services Satellite services Boosts high-tech ecosystem → spillover to aviation engines. Why This Facility is Strategically Important for India ? Economic Gains Saves India’s airlines hundreds of millions annually in overseas MRO expenses. Captures Asia’s growing MRO market (projected at $40+ billion by 2030). Geopolitical & Strategic Gains Deepening ties with France (Rafale, submarines, engines). Reduces reliance on Singapore/Middle East. Strengthens India as an aviation hub in South Asia. Technology Transfer Potential Safran’s presence could: Enable joint R&D labs. Improve supply chain localisation. Create opportunities for Indian MSMEs in engine components. Challenges & Caveats India still lacks: Core turbine design capabilities. High-temperature material manufacturing (e.g., single-crystal blades). MRO requires large certified workforce → skill gap. Regulatory harmonisation needed with FAA/EASA. Aravalli Hills Despite Forest Survey Warning Why is it in News?   Supreme Court (20 Nov 2024) accepted a Union Environment Ministry panel’s recommendation to define Aravalli Hills as only those landforms with 100 m or more elevation + local relief. This new definition excludes over 90% of Aravalli landforms, allowing potential mining and construction. A Forest Survey of India (FSI) internal analysis had warned the government that such a definition would be ecologically disastrous — this “red flag” was ignored. New data show only 1,048 of 12,081 Aravalli hills in Rajasthan (8.7%) are ≥100 m, meaning 91.3% lose protection.  Relevance GS1 – Geography Geomorphology of ancient fold mountains. Desertification & land degradation. GS2 – Governance Environmental decision-making. Regulatory bodies (MoEFCC, SC committees). GS3 – Environment & Conservation Air pollution (PM2.5, PM10). Wildlife corridors. Forest governance & definitions (critical). Mining regulation and ecological risk. Aravali Range One of the oldest fold mountains (Precambrian). Length: ~700 km (Gujarat–Rajasthan–Haryana–Delhi). Natural barrier to dust storms from Thar Desert into NCR. Key wildlife corridors (Sariska–Ranthambore, Kumbhalgarh, etc.) Major groundwater recharge zone for semi-arid regions of Haryana & Rajasthan. The “100m cut-off” Hills counted as Aravalli only if: Height ≥100 metres, AND Local relief ≥100 metres, AND Considered with slopes + adjacent land Implication: Anything <100 m elevation = not Aravalli, even if geomorphologically part of the range. FSI’s red flag   FSI analysis (reviewed by Indian Express): Only 1,048 of 12,081 hills in 15 Rajasthan districts exceed 100 m. Thus >90% Aravalli hills lose protection under the new definition. FSI emphasized importance of lower hills: Block coarse dust and slow down easterly dust flow into NCR. Act as buffers against desertification. Maintain ecological connectivity. The ministry ignored these warnings in submissions to SC. Why this matters for NCR Pollution ? Upper Aravallis obstruct fine pollutants (PM2.5). Lower Aravallis obstruct heavier dust particles. Together they create a barrier protecting Delhi from dust inflow. Removing protection accelerates: Dust-laden winds into NCR Temperature rise and heat-island effects Loss of wildlife corridors Groundwater depletion What was the earlier yardstick(FSI – 2010 onwards) FSI used a 3-degree slope method to identify Aravallis. A 2024 technical committee revised this: Slope ≥4.57° Height ≥30 m This older method covered ~40% of Aravallis, far more than the new definition. Govt’s Submission The ministry submitted: Only hills ≥100 m count as Aravalli. Confused height with slope, creating a subjective & improper definition. Ignored FSI’s scientific warnings. SC nevertheless accepted the panel’s recommendations. Environmental Impacts Mining intensification (legal + illegal). Real estate expansion, especially in Gurgaon–Faridabad–Aravali belt. Accelerated desertification of NCR and Haryana. Decline in groundwater aquifers (Aravallis as recharge zones). Collapse of wildlife corridors (leopards, hyenas, ungulates). Increased PM10/PM2.5 loads in NCR.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 26 November 2025

Content Hamara Samvidhan- Hamara Swabhiman Campaign National Milk Day Hamara Samvidhan- Hamara Swabhiman Campaign Why in News? Government launched the next phase of its nationwide constitutional outreach: “Hamara Samvidhan – Hamara Swabhiman” on 24 Jan 2025, building on the year-long 2024–25 “Hamara Samvidhan – Hamara Samman” campaign. Part of DISHA Scheme (2021–26); aims to deepen constitutional literacy, legal empowerment, and citizen engagement. Reported 1+ crore citizens, 13,700+ events, and outreach to 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats. Relevance GS2 – Governance, Polity, Social Justice Constitutional values dissemination Access to justice architecture Legal empowerment of marginalised groups Role of digital governance (MyGov, Tele-Law)   26 November – Constitution Day (Samvidhan Diwas) Marks adoption of the Constitution on 26 Nov 1949; came into force on 26 Jan 1950. Instituted in 2015 to promote constitutional literacy, duties, values. Celebrated nationwide through Preamble reading, legal awareness drives, school programmes, and MyGov campaigns. Reinforces core ideals: justice, liberty, equality, fraternity, constitutional morality, and democratic citizenship. 75th Constitution Day (2024–25) – 75 Years of Adoption   Basics Purpose Create mass awareness of Constitution & legal rights. Strengthen last-mile access to justice via DISHA (Tele-Law, Nyaya Bandhu, legal literacy). Instill pride, duty consciousness, constitutional nationalism. Timeline 24 Jan 2024: Launch of Hamara Samvidhan – Hamara Samman. 24 Jan 2025: Transition to Hamara Samvidhan – Hamara Swabhiman. Associated Scheme DISHA (2021–26): National legal empowerment framework Tele-Law Nyaya Bandhu (Pro Bono) Legal Literacy & Awareness Programmes Objectives Create permanent public memory markers for the Constitution. Deepen legal-literacy, especially among marginalised groups. Highlight Constituent Assembly’s work. Promote Panch Pran values. Build pride in India’s constitutional journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047. Major Components of the Campaign A.Sabko Nyay – Har Ghar Nyaya Aim: Grassroots access to justice. Key Elements Panch Pran Pledge Development-first mindset Removal of servile mentality Pride in heritage Unity & integrity Duty consciousness Nyaya Seva Mela Held in 25 States/UTs Tele-Law books, Voice of Beneficiaries editions, field functionaries’ felicitation Reached 84.6 lakh+ citizens Nyaya Sahayak Model Community legal messengers 14,598+ cases registered Vidhi Baithaks at village/block level Participation: Anganwadi, SHGs, SMCs, Panchayats B. Nav Bharat Nav Sankalp Aim: Youth engagement via MyGov. Activities: Pledge-taking, quizzes, contests, idea generation linked to Panch Pran & Constitution. C. Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyaan Aim: Deepening legal awareness among rural & marginalised communities. Key Initiatives Gram Vidhi Chetna Student-led village legal literacy events 10,000+ beneficiaries Vanchit Varg Samman Abhiyaan With IGNOU & Doordarshan Legal protections for: children, women, SCs, PwDs, transgender community, senior citizens Nari Bhagidari Gender rights webinars & village-level programmes (NLSIU, NLU, VIPS etc.) Focus on crimes against women, social protections Impact  1 crore+ citizens reached 13,700+ nationwide events 2.5 lakh+ Gram Panchayats involved 14,598+ cases supported via Nyaya Sahayaks 84.6 lakh+ digital outreach through Tele-Law awareness 10,000+ direct beneficiaries in Gram Vidhi Chetna Massive youth engagement through MyGov pledges/quizzes Analytical Assessment Strengths Largest constitutional outreach ever undertaken in India. Bridges gap between legal awareness & actual legal access. Digital + grassroots hybrid model ensures inclusivity. Constitutes a behavioural-change campaign—pride, duties, civic values. Strong alignment with Viksit Bharat 2047 narrative and citizen-state partnership. Challenges Sustaining momentum beyond campaign cycles. Need for institutionalisation at school/university level. Digital divide may limit remote-area engagement. Measuring quality of legal empowerment, not just participation. Opportunities Can evolve into a permanent constitutional literacy mission. Integration with NEP 2020 modules: civic education, legal literacy. Scale-up of Tele-Law/Pro Bono ecosystems. Building grassroots constitutional culture akin to civic republicanism models (US, EU). Conclusion Demonstrated India’s largest-ever constitutional outreach, embedding constitutional literacy from grassroots to digital platforms. Shifted public engagement from mere awareness to active participation, legal empowerment, and constitutional pride. National Milk Day Why is it in News? Observed annually on 26 November; 2025 marks National Milk Day with major policy pushes in dairy (GST reform, White Revolution 2.0). PIB (25 Nov 2025) released a comprehensive status report on India’s dairy sector. Announcement of Gopal Ratna Awards 2025; new infrastructure and cooperative expansions highlighted. Relevance GS3 – Economy / Agriculture Dairy as a 5% of GDP contributor; core to rural livelihoods and agri-value chains. Policy interventions: GST reform (2025), White Revolution 2.0, NPDD, RGM → productivity, processing capacity, cooperative strengthening. Importance for food security, nutrition, women-led growth, and export potential. GS2 – Governance / Welfare Delivery Cooperative federalism via NDDB, State Federations, MPOs; expansion of doorstep breeding, veterinary, AI services. Inclusion of women (70% workforce) and marginal farmers through targeted schemes. Institutional strengthening: digital databases, village labs, MAITRIs, disease eradication roadmap. Basics Celebrated on birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, architect of India’s White Revolution. Purpose: honour dairy farmers, strengthen cooperative spirit, spread awareness on nutrition and dairy-led livelihoods. India is the world’s largest milk producer (≈25% of global supply), contributing ~5% of GDP; 8 crore farmers engaged. India’s Dairy Significance Essential source of protein, calcium, micronutrients; near-complete food. Dairy = backbone of rural economy, especially for small/marginal farmers. 70% of dairy workforce are women, making it a major gender-inclusive sector. Historical Evolution 1950s–60s: Low productivity, milk deficit, import-dependent; production CAGR collapsed to 1.15%. Anand/Amul model under Sardar Patel, Tribhuvandas Patel → foundation of cooperative success. NDDB (1965) under Kurien → mission to replicate the cooperative model nationally. Operation Flood (1970–96): transformed India into a milk-surplus nation; NDDB declared Institution of National Importance (1987). Decadal Performance (2014–2025) Milk output rose from 146.3 MT (2014-15) → 239.3 MT (2023-24) (63.56% rise). Per-capita availability jumped 124 g/day → 471 g/day. Bovine population: 303.76 million; productivity up 27.39% (global avg. 13.97%). Indigenous breeds’ milk: 29 MT → 50 MT. Rise in milch animals: 86 million → 112 million. Key Drivers of Growth Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) Budget raised to ₹3,400 crore (2021–26 cycle). Focus on genetic improvement, semen stations, sex-sorted semen. 92 million animals covered, benefitting 56 million farmers. Artificial Insemination & NAIP Coverage still low (33% of breedable bovines). 14.12 crore inseminations, 9.16 crore animals reached. 22 IVF labs, 1 crore+ sex-sorted semen doses. MAITRIs 38,736 technicians deployed; doorstep breeding/veterinary services. Progeny Testing 3,747 bulls tested; 132 breed multiplication farms approved. National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD) Strengthens procurement, processing, chilling, marketing. 31,908 dairy cooperatives organised/revived. 17.63 lakh new producers added; procurement up by 120.68 lakh kg/day. 61,677 village labs, ~6,000 bulk coolers, 279 plant labs upgraded. Large new plants: Mehsana, Indore, Bhilwara, Karimnagar; Chittoor (₹219 crore). Cooperative Dairy Ecosystem 22 federations, 241 unions, 25 MPOs; coverage: 2.35 lakh villages, 1.72 crore farmers. Women: 70% workforce, 35% cooperative membership; 48,000 women-led cooperatives, 16 all-women MPOs. Shreeja MPO (AP) → global award recognition. GST Reforms (56th GST Council, 2025) Effective 22 Sep 2025. UHT milk & packaged paneer → GST 0%. Butter, ghee, cheese, condensed milk, milk beverages → 12% → 5%. Ice cream 18% → 5%. Milk cans 12% → 5%. Impact: lowers cost, boosts demand, strengthens supply chain, benefits 8 crore rural households. White Revolution 2.0 (2024–29) 75,000 new cooperatives to be created; 46,422 existing strengthened. Focus on: procurement expansion (target 1007 lakh kg/day), women’s participation, sustainability. Creation of three MSCS for feed, organic manure/circular economy, and animal by-product management. Infrastructure Expansion Sabar Dairy Plant, Rohtak (₹350 cr) India’s largest plant for curd, buttermilk, yoghurt. Supports NCR demand; empowers farmers across 9 states. Future Outlook (2025–30) India to supply 32% of global milk (2025-26). Milk output projected: 242 MT (2026). Cattle population share rising 35% → 36%. Processing capacity target: 100 million litres/day by 2028–29. FMD & Brucellosis eradication by 2030 through free vaccines. Pashudhan digital database for precise planning. Export potential expected to rise significantly. Recognition and Awards National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025 announced. Categories: Best farmers (indigenous), best cooperatives/MPOs, best AI technicians. Prizes: ₹5 lakh / ₹3 lakh / ₹2 lakh. Conclusion India’s dairy sector has evolved from scarcity to global leadership through cooperative strength, scientific breeding, and sustained reforms. National Milk Day 2025 reflects this transformation—rising productivity, strengthened infrastructure, women-led expansion, and wide-ranging fiscal reforms. The next phase (White Revolution 2.0) aims to elevate India from being the largest producer to becoming a major global dairy exporter, ensuring inclusive, resilient, and sustainable rural growth.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 26 November 2025

Content A landmark law in 2013, it needs a spine in 2025 Decoding personality rights in the age of AI A landmark law in 2013, it needs a spine in 2025 Why is it in News? Chandigarh case where a college professor was terminated after ICC inquiry under POSH Act (2013) — rare instance of decisive, time-bound action. Complaint (Sept 2024) proved sexual harassment, signalling institutional accountability but also revealing systemic gaps in POSH implementation in higher-education spaces. Case has reignited debate on consent, power imbalance, evidence standards, timelines, and institutional hesitation in POSH processes. Relevance GS2 – Governance / Social Justice Workplace dignity and gender justice as part of India’s constitutional mandate (Art. 14, 15, 21). Institutional accountability: functioning of ICC, procedural fairness, grievance redressal. Gaps in regulatory architecture: timelines, coordination, evidentiary standards. GS2 – Polity / Law Reform POSH’s statutory limitations vs. evolving forms of harassment (emotional, digital, relational manipulation). Need for clearer definitions, informed consent, multi-institution coordination, and digital forensics. Revisiting malicious complaint clause and survivorship-friendly processes. GS1 – Society Power asymmetry in academia; hierarchical vulnerabilities in mentor–student relationships. Social stigma, delayed reporting, emotional fatigue as barriers to justice. Importance of gender sensitisation and behavioural-pattern recognition. Practice Question “Despite being a progressive law, the POSH Act, 2013 remains structurally weak in addressing modern forms of workplace harassment.” Analyse with reference to recent higher-education cases.(250 Words) Basics POSH Act, 2013 enacted to prevent, prohibit, and redress sexual harassment at the workplace; mandates Internal Complaints Committees (ICC). Applies to all workplaces, including universities, colleges, research institutions. Sexual harassment definition includes unwelcome physical, verbal, non-verbal conduct, quid pro quo, hostile environment. Timeline: complaint must be filed within 3 months (extendable by ICC). Conceptual Gaps in the Law Consent vs Informed Consent Act does not recognise “informed consent”; ignores emotional manipulation, authority-based persuasion, or information asymmetry. In campuses and workplaces, earlier “consent” becomes invalid once manipulation surfaces; Act fails to capture such relational exploitation. Emotional & Psychological Harassment Law primarily recognises explicit acts; emotional coercion, grooming, betrayal, and manipulation fall outside statutory scope. Educated perpetrators exploit what leaves “no evidence,” operating in legal grey zones. Procedural Flaws Exposed by the Case Three-Month Limitation Period Survivors experiencing coercion/manipulation take longer to recognise harassment. In universities (multi-year engagement), evidence or realisation surfaces later; strict timeline empowers perpetrators. Fear of ‘Malicious Complaint’ Clause Provision meant as a safeguard ends up intimidating genuine complainants, discouraging delayed reporting. Terminology Diluting Seriousness Calling accused as “respondent” softens gravity, unlike criminal law. Same conduct outside workplace is a cognisable offence; workplace label cannot trivialise harm. Investigative and Evidentiary Challenges Vague Definitions Burden of proof shifts heavily to women. Harassment usually occurs as a pattern, not an isolated act; ICCs often dismiss cases for lack of direct evidence. Need for Behavioural Assessment Tools Anonymous student feedback, corroborative testimonies, pattern recognition essential. ICC should read circumstantial evidence, social behaviour patterns, informal networks. Digital Evidence Gap Technology allows ephemeral messages, disappearing media, encrypted chats. ICCs lack technical training; POSH lacks protocols for digital forensics, leaving cases unproven despite real digital harassment. Inter-Institutional Blind Spot No mechanism to handle misconduct across multiple campuses, collaborations, conferences, visiting faculty roles. Repeat offenders evade accountability due to institutional silos; Act silent on sharing information or joint proceedings. Institutional Barriers Procedural delays, institutional hesitation, fear of controversy, and lack of sensitisation cause secondary victimisation. Women face emotional fatigue, reputational risks, power imbalance, especially in academia where mentor-student hierarchies shape vulnerability. Needed Reforms  Extend or remove three-month limitation period. Recognise informed consent, emotional coercion, digital harassment within statutory definitions. Standardised digital evidence protocols and legal–technical training for ICC members. Enable inter-institutional coordination, especially for academia. Strengthen role clarity, confidentiality norms, survivor-centric processes. Replace chilling clauses (“malicious complaint”) with nuanced safeguards. Conclusion Chandigarh case is a rare success, but it exposes structural gaps: narrow definitions, procedural rigidity, digital blind spots, and institutional hesitancy. Without reforms, POSH remains strong on paper but weak in implementation, especially in universities where power asymmetry and delayed recognition are common. The Act needs clearer language, extended timelines, recognition of emotional/digital abuse, and stronger investigative frameworks to deliver consistent, empathetic justice. Decoding personality rights in the age of AI  Why it is in News? Actors Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have sued Google and YouTube in the Delhi High Court for hosting AI-generated deepfake videos depicting them in fabricated, often explicit scenarios. Petition alleges violation of personality rights (name, image, likeness, voice), reputational harm, commercial loss, and seeks future AI-training safeguards. Case spotlights India’s legal vacuum on AI-enabled impersonation and the rising challenge of deepfake abuse across platforms. Relevance GS2 – Governance / Regulation of Technology Rising legal vacuum in regulating AI-enabled impersonation, deepfakes, and identity misuse. Intermediary liability, safe-harbour limits, and absence of a dedicated Personality Rights framework. Constitutional dimensions under Article 21 (privacy, dignity). GS3 – Cybersecurity / Emerging Tech Deepfakes as threats to trust, authenticity, national information integrity. Need for AI watermarking, provenance logs, dataset consent, and high-risk classification. Comparative global models: EU (dignity-based), US (publicity right), China (strict synthetic content rules). GS1 – Society / Ethics Ethical issues: autonomy, consent, posthumous identity, commodification of persona. UNESCO’s rights-based framework for human-centric AI. Manipulation, misinformation, reputational harm, and psychological effects. Practice Question “The rise of deepfake technologies has exposed a critical gap between India’s constitutional guarantees of dignity and the absence of a statutory personality-rights regime.” Discuss with global comparisons.(250 Words) Personality Rights Protects control over a person’s name, image, likeness, voice, signature, gestures, persona. Origin: Common law doctrines of privacy, dignity, and unjust enrichment. Economic dimension: Prevents unauthorised commercial exploitation. Moral dimension: Upholds individual autonomy, honour, and human dignity. Enforcement mechanisms: tort law, passing off, privacy claims, IP principles (copyright/trademark analogies). Personality Rights Strain and AI era Deepfakes and generative models rapidly replicate faces/voices, making unauthorised impersonation easy and scalable. Blurs lines between authenticity vs. syntheticidentity, enabling: misinformation, harassment and explicit content, commercial misappropriation, erosion of public trust. AI models often train on scraped internet data without consent, leading to use of celebrity likeness in outputs. India’s Legal Position (Hybrid Model) 1. Constitutional Basis Personality rights derive from Article 21 (privacy, dignity); affirmed in Puttaswamy (2017). 2. Key Judicial Precedents Amitabh Bachchan v. Rajat Nagi (2022): court recognised personality rights and restrained unauthorised commercial use. Anil Kapoor v. Simply Life India (2023): prohibited AI-generated recreations of Kapoor’s face/voice and misuse of “Jhakaas”. Arijit Singh v. Codible Ventures (2024): Bombay HC restrained AI cloning of his voice. 3. Statutory Gaps No codified personality rights statute. IT Act 2000 + 2021/2024 Intermediary Guidelines → address impersonation, harmful deepfakes, takedown duties. Enforcement issues: anonymity of creators, cross-border platforms, absence of explicit liability for AI training datasets, reactive takedown rather than preventive obligations. Comparative Global Framework United States (Property–Centric Model) “Right of Publicity”: heritable, assignable property right. Haelan Labs v. Topps (1953) established monetisation of identity. Tennessee’s ELVIS Act (2024): bans unauthorised AI use of voice/likeness. Character.AI sued for bots generating harmful outputs; First Amendment defence rejected. European Union (Dignity–Centric Model) GDPR requires consent for processing biometric data. EU AI Act (2024): deepfakes labelled high-risk → mandatory transparency, watermarking. China Beijing Internet Court (2024): synthetic voices must not mislead users. Voice actor awarded damages for AI-replicated voice sold without consent. Academic Proposals Westkamp et al. (2025): expand rights to include style, persona, aesthetic signatures. Scholars propose global harmonisation, high-risk categories, and explicit prohibitions on deceptive AI impersonation. Ethical Debates AI threatens autonomy, authorship, posthumous identity. UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of AI (2021) → human-centric, rights-based approach. Concerns: use of dead artists’ voices, non-consensual explicit deepfakes, AI becoming quasi-author, risks in granting AI legal personhood (Forrest 2023: human rights dilution). Key Problems No statutory definition of personality rights. No binding obligations for AI watermarking, provenance tracking, dataset consent. Weak intermediary liability and safe-harbour loopholes. Lack of cross-border cooperation given global AI models. Way Forward Enact a Personality Rights Act: define rights, remedies, licensing, posthumous scope. Mandate: watermarking and provenance logs for all synthetic content, compulsory consent for training datasets, strict liability for deceptive deepfakes, rapid takedown + penalties. Create an AI Ombudsman + high-risk AI registry. Global alignment using UNESCO standards. Public digital literacy on AI harms.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 26 November 2025

Content China’s Global Lending Power Play Draft Seeds Bill Air Pollution Exposure in India INR Depreciation Why Did Hayli Gubbi Erupt Now? Climate Change and Assam’s Tea Crisis China’s Global Lending Power Play Why is it in News? AidData (William & Mary University) released a major dataset (2000–2023) showing China lent over $2 trillion to 80%+ of the world, revealing a strategic shift from development lending to commercial lending. Shows unexpected top beneficiaries: U.S. firms received ~$200 billion, making the U.S. the largest single-country beneficiary. Data indicates: BRI’s decline, shift to high-income economies, and greater opacity through offshore structures. Relevance:   GS2 – International Relations China’s transformation from development lender → commercial financier. Rise of parallel financial architecture challenging WB–IMF dominance. Strategic leverage through corporate lending, tech acquisition, and supply-chain influence. GS3 – Economy Global credit flows, debt sustainability, hidden debt risks. Impact on developing economies’ fiscal health and India’s external sector. Basics: What is Chinese Global Lending? State-driven external finance system led by: China Development Bank Export–Import Bank of China State-owned enterprises People’s Bank of China Two broad categories: Official Development Assistance (ODA) → concessional, development-oriented. Other Official Flows (OOF) → commercial, market-rate, strategic. Key Data & Trends (2000–2023) Scale Total global lending/grants: >$2 trillion. Recipients: 179 of 217 countries/territories. 2023 lending alone: $140 billion → makes China the world’s largest creditor. Top beneficiaries (country entities) U.S. companies: ~$200 billion (2,500 projects; 95% from Chinese state-owned institutions). Russia: $172 billion. Australia: $130 billion. EU (27 states): $161 billion. Shift in beneficiary profile High-income countries received $943 billion → ~20%+ of total Chinese lending. Only 25% of 2023 portfolio is now BRI-linked, down from 75% earlier. Decline in aid Typical annual China ODA: ~$5.7 billion. 2023 ODA plunged to $1.9 billion. Sectoral pattern Earlier: Infrastructure → energy, transport, connectivity. Now: Commercial finance → mergers, acquisitions, corporate lending. Structural Shift: From Aid Provider to Commercial Financier Earlier Model (2000–2015) Focus on: Low-income nations BRI infrastructure Strategic influence + resource access Concessional loans, long maturity, tied procurement. Current Model (2016–2023) Pivot to high-income economies for: Access to advanced technologies Financial returns Corporate stakes U.S. lending surged from $320 million (2000) → $19 billion (2023). 75% of U.S. transactions are commercial; only 7% developmental. Methods & Concerns Raised by AidData 80% success rate in overseas M&A approvals due to: Weak foreign investment screening in recipient countries. Opaque mechanisms: Use of offshore shell companies. Syndicated international banks. Complex creditor structures reducing transparency. Rising risk of hidden debt in low-income countries. Implications for Global Finance & Geopolitics For Global Financial Architecture China emerging as: Largest official creditor, surpassing World Bank + IMF individually. Parallel financial ecosystem → reduces Western institutional dominance. For Developed Economies China’s commercial lending → deeper corporate penetration. Strategic concerns around: Technology acquisition Supply chain leverage National security vulnerabilities For Developing Countries Decline in aid → widening financing gap for: Infrastructure Social development Increased exposure to: Debt distress Collateral-backed lending (ports, minerals) For BRI Downscaling but not disappearing. Prioritisation of: Quality over quantity Higher-return projects Geopolitical essentials India Angle Total Indian borrowing/aid from China (2000–2023): $11.1 billion. Sectors: Energy Banking & financial services Nature: Mix of commercial + developmental. India remains cautious due to: Strategic competition Supply chain dependencies Security concerns (FDI scrutiny after 2020) Draft Seeds Bill Entail  Why is it in News? The Union Agriculture Ministry released the draft Seeds Bill on November 12, 2025; public comments invited till December 11. Objective: update and modernise the Seeds Act, 1966 and the Seeds (Control) Order, 1983 in line with technological advances, commercial changes, and global commitments. Comes amid rising tensions between seed industry demands (modernisation) and farmers’ unions’ concerns (corporatisation & seed sovereignty). Relevance: GS2 – Governance / Policy Overhaul of Seeds Act, 1966; regulatory modernisation. Centre–State regulatory overlap, federal tensions. Alignment with PPVFR Act, CBD, ITPGRFA → treaty compliance. GS3 – Agriculture Seed quality standards → productivity, crop failure reduction. Impact on small farmers, seed sovereignty, traditional varieties. Liberalising imports → biosecurity, corporate consolidation risks. Why a Seeds Law? Seeds are the primary determinant of crop productivity (35–40% contribution). India has moved from: 1960s: Public-sector dominated seed systems 2020s: Hybrid technologies, GM traits, corporate breeding, biotech, global IPR regimes Need for: Quality assurance Traceability Regulation of producers/dealers Alignment with PPVFR Act (2001) and biodiversity conventions History & Context Seeds Act, 1966 and Seeds (Control) Order, 1983 now outdated. Seed industry demand: Law must reflect advancements in biotechnology, hybrid seeds, transgenics, R&D intensity, global trade. India’s seed requirement 2023–24: 462.31 lakh quintals Availability: 508.60 lakh quintals → 46.29 lakh quintal surplus Farmers’ unions’ position: fear of corporatisation, loss of seed sovereignty, and restriction of farmers’ traditional practices. New Provisions: What the Draft Bill Proposes Regulatory Architecture Covers import, production, processing, certification, distribution, sale of seeds. New definitions for farmer, dealer, distributor, producer. Farmers’ Rights Farmers retain right to grow, sow, re-sow, save, exchange, share, sell farm-saved seed. Restriction only when seed is sold under a brand name. Embedded link to Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPVFR) Act, 2001. Institutional Framework Central Seed Committee (27 members) → sets: Minimum standards on germination, genetic purity, physical purity, seed health, traits. State Seed Committees (15 members) → registration of: Seed producers Seed processing units Dealers/distributors Plant nurseries Seed Registration & Testing Mandatory registration of all: Seed producers Seed processing units Provision for: National Register of seed varieties Field trials for Value for Cultivation & Use (VCU) Central & State seed testing laboratories Import Liberalisation More open system for seed imports, with quality safeguards. Central Accreditation System Merit-based accreditation for companies operating in multiple States to reduce compliance burden. Enforcement Mechanism Seed inspectors empowered to search, seize, sample, and test. Framework aligned with Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Offences & Penalties: What Has Changed from 2019 Draft? Changes from 2019 Draft Earlier penalties (2019): ₹25,000–₹5 lakh, imprisonment up to 1 year. Covered largely under consumer protection laws. New Draft (2024) Penalties significantly enhanced: ₹50,000 to ₹30 lakh Imprisonment up to 3 years Categorisation into trivial, minor, major offences. Much stronger punitive framework to curb: Misbranding Spurious seed sales Fake labels Trait misrepresentation Farmers’ Concerns Key objections by All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) / Samyukt Kisan Morcha Bill will increase cost of cultivation due to: Corporate entry Potential for predatory pricing Seen as part of a centralised, corporatised regulatory architecture. Fear of: Undermining India’s seed sovereignty Weakening of farmer-centric protections Dilution of biodiversity safeguards Legal & International Commitments Farmers Invoke Must not conflict with: PPVFR Act, 2001 (farmers’ rights) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources (ITPGRFA) Major apprehensions Centralised regulation may: Reduce autonomy of States Increase dependence on corporate seed lines Marginalise traditional varieties Industry’s Position Federation of Seed Industry of India: Calls the draft timely and much-needed. Supports: Higher standards Liberalisation of imports Accreditation-based regulation Clear penalties Says it aligns India with global seed trade standards. Critical Analysis Strengths Updated quality standards → reduced spurious seeds, higher yields. Clarity on farmers’ rights → compliance with PPVFR Act. Modernised regulation → ease of doing business for legitimate players. Strong penalties → deterrence against adulteration. National Register + lab network → greater traceability and transparency. Weaknesses / Risks Centralisation risks limiting State autonomy (Key in agri-sector). Liberal import regime → risk to domestic breeders, biosecurity. Accreditation system may favour large corporations. VCU trials may increase cost and time, disadvantaging small breeders. Opportunities Harmonisation with global standards → export potential for Indian seed industry. Improved seed quality → reduced crop failures, higher productivity. Stimulates R&D, hybrid seed development, biotech innovation. Threats Corporate consolidation → increased input costs. Farmers’ distrust → protests, political backlash. Inadequate protection for traditional varieties → biodiversity loss. Air Pollution Exposure in India Core Findings 60% districts (447/749) record annual PM2.5 above NAAQS (40 µg/m³). 0 districts meet WHO guideline (5 µg/m³). Indicates year-round exposure, not only winter-linked. Relevance:   GS3 – Environment India-wide PM2.5 exposure trends; compliance gap with NAAQS/WHO standards. Seasonal divergence (winter vs monsoon) → atmospheric science relevance. Urban–rural health burden; link to climate–pollution interactions. GS2 – Governance Air quality regulation, monitoring deficits, federal coordination challenges. Policy gaps in Clean Air Programme, emission control, district-level planning. Geographical Pattern Major hotspots (Top 50 districts) Delhi – 11 Assam – 11 Bihar – 7 Haryana – 7 UP – 4 Tripura – 3 Rajasthan – 2 West Bengal – 2 Cleaner States (mostly within NAAQS) AP, Telangana, Kerala, Sikkim, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu Indicates North–East and North dominance vs South–Coastal cleaner belt. Seasonality Winter (Dec–Feb) 82% districts (616/749) exceed NAAQS. Reasons: stable atmosphere, low wind, increased emissions. Monsoon (Jun–Sep) 90% districts within safe limits (675/749) due to rain scavenging. Technical Notes PM2.5 = toxic chemical + organic aerosol particles. Population exposure differs from ambient readings due to population density distribution. Study by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA); not peer-reviewed. INR Depreciation  Current Status INR = worst-performing Asian currency in 2025 (Jan–Dec CYTD). Depreciation: 4.3% vs USD (CYTD); 4% CYTD as per Axis Bank estimate. Recent movement: Broke RBI’s defended 88.8 level → touched 89.66 (21 Nov 2025) → recovered to 89.22. Relevance:   GS3 – Economy Exchange-rate dynamics; comparison with Asian currencies. Drivers: strong USD, tariffs, gold imports, capital outflows. Trade deficit, external vulnerabilities, BoP pressures. Monetary policy implications; RBI intervention strategy. GS2 – International Relations Impact of U.S. tariffs on India; geopolitical trade pressures. Currency as a geo-economic tool in India–U.S. relations. Comparison with Asian Peers Indonesian Rupiah (IDR): –2.9% CYTD. Philippine Peso (PHP): –1.3% CYTD. Chinese Yuan (CNY): Appreciated due to PBOC/SAFE interventions. INR weaker vs Asia FX, especially vs current account surplus economies. Still stronger than JPY, KRW, which face domestic policy fragility. Drivers of Depreciation Strong USD (global) USD appreciated 3.6% in last two months → pressure across emerging markets. U.S. Tariffs on India (Trump administration) 50% tariff on Indian exports. Triggered record trade deficit: $41.7 bn (Oct 2025). Direct negative impact on export competitiveness. Surge in Gold Prices & Imports Massive spike in global gold prices → investors shifted to gold & Gold ETFs. Gold demand up 200% (Oct). Gold import bill = $14.72 bn (Oct) → worsened trade deficit. Capital Outflows Depreciation pressure not due to current account (benign). Due to portfolio outflows amid global risk-off and high USD yields. Adverse Geo-economic Environment Combination of tariffs, commodity price shock, and geopolitical instability affecting trade flows. Forward Outlook INR may slide to 90/USD if India–U.S. trade deal is delayed. Rupee trajectory dominated by global USD strength, not domestic fundamentals. Why did Hayli Gubbi erupt now ?  Why is it in News? Erupted on 23 November 2025 after being dormant for ~12,000 years. Produced an explosive ash-rich eruption, unusual for a shield volcano. Located in the Afar Region, a tectonically sensitive area within the East African Rift System. Eruption monitored mainly via satellite imagery due to remoteness. Relevance: GS1 – Geography Shield volcano characteristics; Afar Rift tectonics; triple-junction dynamics. Dormant volcano reactivation after millennia; magma chemistry. Rift-related volcanism → creation of future ocean basin. GS3 – Disaster Management Monitoring challenges in remote volcanic systems. Role of satellite-based early warning; preparedness gaps. What is a Shield Volcano? Broad, gently sloping volcanic structure. Formed by multiple thin, fluid basaltic lava flows. Low viscosity magma → flows long distances → “warrior’s shield” shape. Typically non-explosive eruptions due to low gas content. Location & Tectonic Setting Situated in Afar, Ethiopia, part of the Erta Ale volcanic range. Lies on the boundary of: African Plate Arabian Plate Region forms a triple junction (Afar Triple Junction). Part of the active East African Rift, where continents are pulling apart (divergent plate boundary). Geological Composition of Hayli Gubbi Dominantly basaltic lava (dark, fluid). Also contains trachyte and rhyolite (higher silica content). High-silica magma → more viscous → traps gases → explosive potential. Why Did the Eruption Occur Now After 12,000 Years? Tectonic Drivers Rifting continues → plates pulling apart. This allows hot mantle material to rise. Magma Generation Rising mantle undergoes partial melting. Fresh magma accumulates in shallow crustal chambers. Long-term Magma Buildup Over millennia: Magma slowly pressurises surrounding rocks. Gas-rich, silica-rich pockets evolve. Crustal Faulting or Cracking Rifting causes fault slippage or crustal fractures. A new pathway to the surface opens suddenly. Sudden Ascent of Gas-Rich Magma Once pathway opens: Pressurised magma rises rapidly. Dissolved gases expand into bubbles → explosive eruption. Explains why a shield volcano (usually gentle) produced ash-heavy explosive activity. Why Was It Explosive This Time? Presence of more silica-rich magmas (trachyte, rhyolite). These magmas: Viscous, slow-flowing → gas cannot escape. High gas content → explosive release when decompressed. Long dormancy → pressure buildup significant. Monitoring Challenges Region is remote, poorly instrumented. Very limited seismic stations, gas sensors, ground deformation tools. Scientists rely on: Satellites (thermal anomalies, ash plume movement). Ash chemistry samples. Infrasound and remote radar. Current assessments are provisional, pending better data. Broader Geological Significance Shows that rift-zone volcanoes can reawaken after millennia. Demonstrates mixed-magma systems in shield volcanoes. Highlights the dynamic nature of the East African Rift → one of the few places on Earth where a new ocean basin is forming. Case Study : Climate Change and Assam’s Tea Crisis Why is it in News? Persistent heat, delayed rainfall, high humidity continue into November, disrupting Assam’s traditional post-monsoon cooling. Unpredictable weather causing wilting, blackening, and irregular flush cycles, hitting productivity and quality. Climate change + stagnant prices squeezing margins of tea growers and estates. New research using 50 years’ climate data + IPCC RCP 2.6 & 4.5 models shows suitability decline by 2050, forcing tea cultivation to shift to higher altitudes. Tea tribes (a major workforce constituency) becoming a key factor ahead of Assam 2026 elections. Relevance:   GS1 – Geography Climate–crop interactions; temperature/rainfall variability. Regional vulnerability: floodplains, monsoon dependence. GS3 – Environment & Agriculture Climate impacts on productivity, quality, pest outbreaks. Modelling (RCP scenarios) → future suitability shifts to higher altitudes. Adaptation technologies: irrigation, clonal varieties, agroforestry. GS2 – Governance / Social Issues Tea tribes’ socio-economic vulnerability. Labour rights, health impacts, political relevance ahead of 2026 elections. Tea Basics — The Science of the Crop Optimal temperature: 13–28°C, best growth at 23–25°C. Optimal rainfall: 1,500–2,500 mm, evenly distributed. Soil: Acidic (pH 4.5–5.5), deep, well-drained, high organic matter. Growth pattern: Continuous but in flush cycles, driven by temperature + moisture. Quality determinants: Flavour and aroma depend on slow growth, cool nights, and predictable rainfall. What Climate Change Is Doing to Assam’s Tea Temperature Mean minimum temperature rise of 1°C over 90 years → destroys night-time cooling needed for flavour compounds. More days >35°C → nutrient absorption falls; leaves wilt. Rainfall Winter & pre-monsoon rainfall declining → poor early-season flush. Monsoon rainfall becoming erratic → flooding + soil nutrient leaching. ~200 mm annual rainfall loss over 90 years → chronic moisture stress. Seasonality Shift Heat lingering till November → mismatched harvest cycles, disease risk rises. Pests & Diseases Warmer, more humid conditions → explosion of red spider mite, tea mosquito bug, blister blight. New pest behaviour observed after night temperatures rose. Impact on Tea Quality Reduced polyphenol and flavonoid formation → weaker aroma, lower global competitiveness. Economic Stress: Weather Gets Worse, Prices Don’t Improve Tea auction price rise: only 4.8% per year for 30 years. Staples like wheat/rice: ~10% annual price rise. Real returns stagnant → growers cannot invest in new clones, irrigation, or R&D. Rising input costs: labour, energy, agrochemicals, logistics, irrigation. Ageing bushes (40–60 years old) + no funds for replantation → productivity stagnation. Why Assam Tea Is Especially Vulnerable Grown in floodplains, not hills → hydrological stress higher. Monoculture plantations → low ecosystem resilience. High labour dependence → wages rise but productivity does not. Climate-sensitive product where quality directly follows weather cycles. Social & Political Dimensions  12 lakh workers, majority women → highest climate vulnerability. Increased heat stress, mosquito-borne disease risk, water shortages. Wages stagnant, living conditions poor → climate shocks hit hardest. With elections due in 2026, tea tribes are emerging as a decisive political constituency. Issues gaining traction: Rising cost of living Poor housing & healthcare Climate-driven drop in working days Stagnant wages Adaptation Pathways — What the Industry Is Trying Agronomic Solutions Drought-resilient clonal varieties + seed-grown plants with deep roots. Mulching, cover cropping → retain soil moisture. Agroforestry → shade trees reduce heat, stabilise microclimate. Organic amendments → rebuild soil carbon. Water Management Micro-irrigation, sprinklers, drip systems. Rainwater harvesting for dry patches. Drainage redesign to handle sudden downpours. Pest Management Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Biological controls, pheromone traps, precision spraying. Supply-Chain Reform trustea (India Sustainable Tea Code) 1.4 lakh small growers verified 6.5 lakh workers covered Focus on efficient water use, safe agrochemicals, shade cover, soil health. Structural Reforms Needed Policy parity: treat tea as agriculture, not an industry only. Income diversification for estates: spices, fruits, agri-tourism, livestock, fisheries, direct-to-consumer sales. Investment in climate forecasting, early-warning systems. Subsidised replantation, drip irrigation, and disaster-compensation schemes (like MSP-linked crops). Big Picture — The Tea–Climate Paradox Assam produces 50%+ of India’s tea and drives a $10 billion economy. Climate is becoming harsher just as global tea prices stagnate. Domestic labour, logistics, compliance costs rising → margins collapse. Without decisive adaptation + policy support, India risks losing global leadership in premium tea.

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