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Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 04 July 2025

Content : Surface-to-Air Missiles, Armoured Vehicles: Nod for ₹1 Lakh-Cr Purchases Ministry Defers Forest Land Nod for Puri Airport, Cites Concerns Over Olive Ridley Turtles, Migratory Birds INS Tamal is Likely the Last Warship India Buys from Abroad A Counter to China: Quad to Create Critical Minerals’ Supply Chain Can the Supreme Court Halt an Act Passed by a State? Apache Combat Helicopters to Arrive in India by July 15 Endocrine Disruptors in Plastic Waste: A New Public Health Threat Surface-to-air missiles, armoured vehicles: Nod for ₹1 lakh-cr purchases Context : Total Worth: ₹1.05 lakh crore in capital acquisitions cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. All Indigenous: All 10 proposals cleared under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category — promoting Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured platforms. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security , Defence ) ,GS 2(Governance) Key Systems Cleared Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARVs) Address mobility mismatch with main battle tanks. Crucial for mechanised operations and battlefield support. Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs) Boost to India’s air defence, especially after Operation Sindoor. Builds on success of Akash MR-SAM and S-400 systems. Electronic Warfare (EW) Systems To jam/destroy enemy radars and communications. Enhances superiority of Indian UAVs and aircraft. Common Inventory Management System (Tri-services) Enables cost-effective logistics and real-time availability. Allows inter-theatre resource balancing. Naval and Maritime Modernisation Procurement of: Moored Mines, Mine Countermeasure Vessels Super Rapid Gun Mounts, Submersible Autonomous Vessels Objective: Strengthen coastal and merchant vessel defence. Operational Context & Implications  Comes after Operation Sindoor — India’s military retaliation for April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.  Reflects priority on air defence, supply chain agility, and technological self-reliance.  Reinforces India’s push for Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence and readiness for multi-domain warfare. Interlinkages with GS Topics Governance & Policy Strategic decision-making bodies (DAC, CCS) and their role in national security. Civil-Military interface in procurement policy. Security, Technology & Economy Indigenization of defence production (Atmanirbhar Bharat). EW Systems & UAVs as components of network-centric warfare. AI & unmanned platforms: part of emerging tech in India’s defence strategy. Science & Tech Role of DRDO, BEL, HAL in indigenous R&D. Integration of AI, automation, sensor fusion in EW and missile systems. Internal Security Response to terrorism (Pahalgam attack) and need for deterrent capabilities. Maritime security linked to blue economy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision. Data & Reports for Enrichment Sipri Report (2024): India is world’s largest arms importer, though imports dropped 11% due to domestic focus. DPP 2020 & DAP 2022: Emphasis on IDDM category to strengthen defence MSMEs. Lt. Gen. D.S. Hooda Committee: Recommends institutional reforms for faster acquisition and tech evaluation. Ministry defers forest land nod for Puri airport, cites concerns over Olive Ridley turtles, migratory birds Context & Background Proposal: The Odisha government sought clearance for converting 273.8 hectares of forest land in Puri’s Sipasarubali area for the construction of a Shree Jagannath International Airport. Estimated Cost: ₹3,631 crore. Approval Status: Deferred by the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) under the Environment Ministry due to ecological and biodiversity concerns. Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure ,Environment and Ecology) Environmental Concerns Raised Olive Ridley Turtles: Arribada : Odisha hosts one of the world’s largest mass nesting sites at Gahirmatha and Rushikulya. The FAC cited threats to nesting grounds, migratory behavior, and hatching success. Past nesting data: 34.5 lakh turtles were detected in Brahmagiri area (March 2025). ZSI Study recommended a site-specific wildlife conservation plan. Migratory Birds: The proposed site is close to Chilika Lake, a Ramsar site and critical bird habitat. Part of the Central Asian Flyway—used by migratory birds from Siberia to South Asia. FAC warned of disruptions to flight paths, particularly with aircraft operating at low altitudes. Dolphins & Other Wildlife: Threats to Irrawaddy dolphins and other coastal species due to increased noise and habitat disruption. Forest & Biodiversity Loss Over 13,000 trees (casuarina, cashew, acacia) to be felled — trees that naturally buffer cyclones. Potential to weaken the coastline’s resilience to extreme weather events. Regulatory & Scientific Inputs FAC directed the state to: Prepare a “climate eventuality” mitigation plan. Justify the need to use forest land despite ecological risks. The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and Forest Survey of India (FSI) were consulted for impact studies. Wildlife Institute of India (WII) asked to assess mitigation options. Operational Issues Highlighted The proposed flight path overlaps with migratory bird routes. Bird strikes and air safety risks could increase if proper safeguards are not adopted. Comparative Global Perspectives Dubai, Singapore, and Heathrow airports have eco-mitigation zones for migratory birds and nesting species. India’s proposal lacks a multi-agency ecological buffer plan, unlike international best practices. Interlinkages with Key Laws & Policies Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 Environment Protection Act, 1986 Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Rules Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980 India’s obligations under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) and Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Additional Facts Over 39,000 turtle eggs collected and 388 hatchlings released in 2025 in the Brahmagiri forest division. 1,400m boundary wall already constructed — flagged by inspection reports. Odisha is the only Indian state with three mass nesting sites for Olive Ridleys. Challenges & Policy Concerns Lack of prior biodiversity impact mapping before site finalization. Top-down infrastructure push conflicting with bottom-up ecological data. Absence of a standard protocol to reconcile development with biodiversity conservation. Way Forward Explore alternate sites with lower ecological sensitivity. Integrate multi-stakeholder Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), including local communities and independent ecologists. Develop an airport-wildlife coexistence policy, similar to UN-IATA frameworks. Promote eco-sensitive zoning and green infrastructure design. INS Tamal is likely the last warship India buys from abroad Context & Background INS Tamal, a Talwar-class frigate, was commissioned in Kaliningrad, Russia. It is the last Indian Navy warship expected to be bought from a foreign shipyard. Marks a significant shift towards complete naval indigenisation — in both design and construction. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security , Defence)   Indigenisation in Shipbuilding: Key Milestone Post-Independence, India has relied on foreign powers for most of its naval fleet. Over the years, India has moved towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing (Atmanirbhar Bharat). INS Tamal is part of Project 1135.6, involving improved versions of the Krivak/Talwar-class frigates. Built by Yantar Shipyard, Russia; the remaining Talwar-class ships are being built in Goa Shipyard Limited, India. Technical Features of INS Tamal Length: 124.8 m, Displacement: 4,035 tonnes, Top speed: 30 knots (56 km/h) Endurance: 8,500 nautical miles Armament: BrahMos supersonic cruise missile (versatile land-sea strike) Shtil-1 air defence system, torpedoes, ASW (anti-submarine warfare) rockets Barak-1 missiles, AK-630 close-in weapon system Capable of operating in blue-water missions (open ocean), includes stealth features Evolution of Frigates (Sidebar Insight) Frigates evolved from small, fast warships in the Age of Sail to multi-role vessels post-WWII. Modern frigates are equipped for: Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) Anti-surface warfare Air defence Electronic warfare (EW) Ballistic missile defence in some advanced navies Smaller than destroyers but more agile and cost-effective for escort missions and power projection. India’s Shipbuilding Shift: Strategic View India’s naval strategy focuses on: Maritime dominance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) Self-reliant production pipelines to reduce strategic dependencies. India now builds indigenous vessels like: INS Vikrant (aircraft carrier) Project 15B (Visakhapatnam-class destroyers) Project 17A (stealth frigates) Scorpene-class submarines under Make-in-India partnership. Global Comparisons & Relevance Nations like the USA, Russia, China, France already have established self-sufficient naval production. India joins the club of nations with multi-domain naval autonomy — surface, subsurface, and aerial. Policy & Institutional Linkages GS 3: Defence Technology, Indigenisation in Defence Sector Key Institutions: Ministry of Defence Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Hindustan Shipyard Ltd (HSL) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) Initiatives: Make in India Strategic Partnership Model (SPM) Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) Additional Data & Achievements India is now among the top 10 naval powers globally in terms of tonnage and capability. DEFEXPO 2024 highlighted India’s push toward becoming a net defence exporter — $5B by 2028. Indian Navy’s goal: 100% indigenous warship construction by 2030. Challenges Ahead Import dependency still exists for: Gas turbines, radars, and sensor suites Advanced combat management systems Need for skilled shipyard workforce and global-level R&D investment Long gestation periods and project cost overruns Way Forward Strengthen Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) models in naval manufacturing. Promote defence exports of light frigates, OPVs (Offshore Patrol Vessels), and weapon systems. Enhance cooperation with friendly countries for technology transfer while prioritizing indigenous design. Continue fleet modernization under Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (MCPP) A counter to China: Quad to create critical minerals’ supply chain Context & Background The QUAD alliance — India, USA, Japan, and Australia — has launched a new initiative to build an alternative supply chain for critical minerals. The move is a strategic response to: China’s dominance in rare earth and critical minerals. Risks of supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions, especially in the Indo-Pacific. The need for technology sovereignty in sectors like EVs, semiconductors, defence, and renewable energy. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) , GS 3(Critical Minerals) What Are Critical Minerals? Include: Lithium, Cobalt, Nickel, Rare Earths, Graphite, Manganese, etc. Crucial for: EV batteries Semiconductors Green energy technologies Aerospace & defence Advanced electronics These minerals are scarce, concentrated geographically, and hard to replace technologically. China’s Dominance China controls: 60–70% of rare earth processing 50%+ of lithium refining 90%+ of some rare earth minerals like Lanthanum, Neodymium, and Dysprosium China uses its dominance strategically, allegedly manipulating supply, prices, and exports. The West’s overdependence on China for rare minerals has led to supply risks and inflationary pressures in global manufacturing. Quad’s Response: A Strategic Alternative The Quad initiative aims to: Secure reliable & resilient supply chains. Reduce “coercive leverage” of any one country (read: China). Promote ethical mining, sustainable sourcing, and diversification of sources. India’s potential: Rich in bauxite, lithium, and titanium. Upcoming projects like Mandla rare earth plant (MP) and exploration in Aravalli, Satpura belts. India is also part of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP). India’s EV and Tech Industry at Stake India aims for: 30% EV penetration by 2030 Semiconductor self-reliance through initiatives like the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) Requires stable access to cobalt, lithium, rare earths Quad supply chains can reduce import dependence and fuel India’s Make-in-India vision. Global Trends & Linkages USA passed Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and CHIPS & Science Act — both promote domestic mineral sourcing. EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act seeks diversification from China. The G7’s Clean Energy Supply Chain Initiative aligns with Quad efforts. Additional Insights QUAD+ (including Korea and EU) may eventually join to broaden the supply chain security grid. India’s FAME II scheme and PLI schemes in battery, electronics, and automobile sectors depend heavily on secure mineral imports. Challenges Ahead Mining critical minerals is environmentally sensitive. India faces regulatory bottlenecks, lack of skilled mining manpower, and infrastructure gaps. Global competition may trigger a resource nationalism wave, limiting cooperative access. Way Forward Develop strategic reserves of key minerals. Expand India-Australia collaboration (Australia is rich in lithium and rare earths). Incentivize domestic exploration, R&D, and clean refining technologies. Leverage Quad as a techno-strategic platform, not just military. Can the Supreme Court halt an Act passed by a State? Background of the Case Issue: Use of Special Police Officers (SPOs) and state-supported vigilante groups like Salwa Judum and Koya Commandos in counter-Maoist operations in Chhattisgarh. Petitioner: Activist Nandini Sundar and others challenged the constitutional validity and human rights implications of arming untrained civilians. Key Legal Focus: Violation of Article 14 (Right to Equality) and Article 21 (Right to Life with dignity). Relevance : GS 2(Constitution , Polity ) , GS 3(Internal Security) 2011 Supreme Court Judgment Highlights (Original Writ Order) Dated July 5, 2011. Directed the State of Chhattisgarh to: Cease appointing and using SPOs in counter-insurgency roles. Recall all firearms issued to SPOs. Shut down operations of groups like Salwa Judum and Koya Commandos. Directed the Union of India to stop funding SPO recruitment. Held the use of inadequately trained and armed civilians in internal conflict as: Unconstitutional, violating Articles 14 & 21. An abdication of the State’s responsibility to provide professional policing. Chhattisgarh’s Legislative Response Chhattisgarh Auxiliary Armed Police Forces Act, 2011 was passed after the SC order. Created a new force to aid regular forces, but with stricter checks. Key Provisions: Recruitment only through a screening committee. SPOs must meet eligibility standards. Mandatory training of at least 6 months. Auxiliary force members not to be deployed at front-line positions. State claimed that this addressed SC’s concerns. Contempt Petition: What Was Alleged? Petitioners claimed: The new Act violated the spirit of the 2011 SC judgment. The Act was a backdoor attempt to reintroduce SPOs under a different name. Therefore, it amounted to contempt of court. Supreme Court’s 2024 Ruling on Contempt (Disposal of Petition) Held that passing a new Act by the Legislature does not amount to contempt. Contempt relief was rejected for the following reasons:  1. Doctrine of Separation of Powers Legislature is constitutionally empowered to pass new laws unless: They are beyond legislative competence, or They are violative of the Constitution. Making laws—even in response to court judgments—is not contempt, but an exercise of legislative power.  2. Judicial Review vs Contempt Courts may review the constitutionality of such laws. But until a law is declared unconstitutional, it cannot be deemed contemptuous.  3. Compliance Consideration The Court noted compliance with all directions from the 2011 order. Progress reports were submitted by the State of Chhattisgarh. Legal Doctrines & Case Linkages Separation of Powers: Courts cannot stop a legislature from passing a law unless it violates the Constitution. Indian Aluminium Co. v. State of Kerala (1996): Emphasized balance between legislature, executive, and judiciary. Judicial Review remains the only tool to test the law—not contempt jurisdiction. Apache combat helicopters to arrive in India by July 15 Context : First batch of 3 Apache AH-64E helicopters to be delivered by July 15, 2025. Second batch of 3 helicopters expected by November 2025. These helicopters are part of the Army Aviation Corps’ first dedicated Apache squadron, headquartered in Jodhpur. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security, Defence)   Background & Strategic Relevance Apache helicopters are among the most advanced multi-role combat helicopters globally: Equipped with Hellfire missiles, night vision systems, and precision strike capability. Enhances air-to-ground offensive capability of Indian Army, especially in Western and Northern frontiers. Delay: The squadron was raised over 15 months ago, but lacked the actual aircraft. Defence Ministerial Talks: Rajnath Singh & Pete Hegseth Held a telephonic conversation to review and accelerate defence cooperation. Rajnath Singh: Thanked the U.S. for support during Operation Sindoor. Reiterated India’s right to pre-emptively defend itself against cross-border terrorism. Urged timely delivery of: Apache helicopters. GE engines for Tejas Mk1A (Light Combat Aircraft). Requested production setup of GE engines in India as part of Make in India. Pete Hegseth: Assured timely deliveries. Committed to setting up a jet engine manufacturing unit in India. Jet Engine Collaboration: GE & HAL GE–HAL collaboration is crucial to India’s indigenous LCA Tejas Mk1A programme. Engine: Likely to be F414-GE-INS6 model. Part of the broader Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) between India–U.S. Signals movement toward technology transfer, co-development, and co-production. Strategic and Geopolitical Implications Reflects deepening India–U.S. defence industrial partnership, especially amid: Rising Indo-Pacific tensions. Cross-border security threats. Boosts Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence through localized manufacturing. Strengthens deterrence posture via enhanced Army air power. Endocrine disruptors in plastic waste: a new public health threat Microplastics: An Invisible, Bioactive Threat Definition: Microplastics are plastic fragments <5 mm in size; once considered inert, now recognized as biologically active pollutants. Alarming Presence in Human Body: Found in blood (89% of Indian samples), lungs, heart, semen, placenta, ovarian follicular fluid, and breast milk. Indian men’s testicular tissue had 3x more microplastics than dogs. Urban exposure (e.g., Mumbai): 382–2012 microplastic particles/day via air, water, and food. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology-Pollution) Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) in Plastics Common EDCs: BPA & BPS – found in bottles, containers. Phthalates (DEHP, DBP) – used in cosmetics, toys, IV tubing. PFAS (Forever Chemicals) – in packaging, non-stick cookware. Mechanisms of Harm: Mimic/block hormones like estrogen, testosterone, cortisol, thyroid. Interfere with receptor binding, alter gene expression, induce oxidative stress & apoptosis. Reproductive & Developmental Disruption Male Fertility: Microplastics reduce sperm count, motility, and morphology. Testosterone disruption, elevated LH levels – signs of endocrine imbalance. Female Fertility: Microplastics in ovarian fluid linked to: Lower egg quality Reduced estradiol levels Higher miscarriage risk Linked to PCOS, endometriosis, spontaneous abortions. Cancer & Chronic Disease Link Carcinogenic Risk: IARC classifies several plastic additives as probable carcinogens. DEHP linked to 3x higher risk of breast cancer in Indian women. Also linked to prostate, testicular, and uterine cancers. Metabolic Disorders: EDCs mimic cortisol, alter insulin sensitivity → obesity, type 2 diabetes. PFAS linked to cardiovascular disease, thyroid dysfunction, metabolic syndrome. India’s Alarming Plastic Footprint Plastic Waste: India generates 9.3 million tonnes/year: 5.8 million tonnes incinerated (releases toxins) 3.5 million tonnes pollute the environment Poorest communities (near landfills/recycling sector) worst hit by exposure. Public Health Costs & Governance Gaps Economic Burden: India: ₹25,000+ crore/year due to health costs and productivity loss. Global (U.S.): $250 billion/year, as per Endocrine Society. Policy Gaps: Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016, 2022, 2024) exist but enforcement is weak. Current laws don’t address low-dose EDC effects or vulnerable populations (e.g., pregnant women, children). Emerging Science: Ageing & Bio-Monitoring (BHARAT Project) BHARAT Study (IISc): Tracks biomarkers of healthy ageing in Indians. Aims to build India-specific health indicators due to genetic, environmental, lifestyle differences. Uses AI/ML models to interpret complex data and simulate interventions. Recommendations & Systemic Solutions Short-Term Enforce existing rules, plug regulatory gaps. Ban or restrict hazardous additives (BPA, phthalates, PFAS). Educate public on EDC exposure (e.g., microwaving plastic). Promote safe alternatives – glass, stainless steel, EDC-free packaging. Medium-Term Fund longitudinal studies, national EDC biomonitoring. Build India-specific threshold levels for EDCs and ageing biomarkers. Prioritise waste segregation, safe disposal, and recycling infrastructure. Long-Term Incentivize biodegradable materials, circular economy models. Invest in microplastic filtration for water treatment. Integrate plastic pollution into national health policy.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 03 July 2025

Content : Ten Years of Digital Progress Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) Ten Years of Digital Progress Context : Digital India has transformed governance, service delivery, and citizen empowerment—bridging the digital divide across rural and urban India. In 10 years, India has built one of the world’s fastest-growing digital economies, backed by strong infrastructure, fintech inclusion, AI advancement, and public digital platforms. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Digital Economy) Connectivity & Infrastructure Internet Connections grew from 25.15 Cr (2014) to 96.96 Cr (2024) — ~285% increase. 4.74 lakh 5G towers installed; coverage in 99.6% districts. BharatNet: Connected 2.18 lakh Gram Panchayats, laid 6.92 lakh km fibre. Tele-density rose from 75.23% (2014) to 84.49% (2024). Digital Economy & Growth Digital economy’s GDP share: 11.74% (2022–23) → 13.42% (2024–25). India now ranks 3rd globally in digitalisation (ICRIER Report). By 2030, projected to contribute ~20% to GDP. Affordable Internet Access Data cost: ₹308/GB (2014) → ₹9.34/GB (2022). 4G in ~96% villages; 5G scaled in 22 months, fastest globally. Digital Public Platforms & Inclusion UPI: 1867.7 Cr transactions worth ₹24.77 lakh Cr (Apr 2025); used in 7+ countries. DigiLocker: 53.92 Cr users; started with 9.98 lakh (2015). UMANG App: 8.34 Cr users, 2300+ services in 23 languages. e-Governance & Service Delivery DBT savings: ₹3.48 lakh Cr saved; ₹44 lakh Cr transferred. GeM (Govt e-Marketplace): ₹4.09 lakh Cr GMV in FY25 (first 10 months). ONDC: Over 7.64 lakh sellers, operating in 616+ cities. Karmayogi Bharat: 1.21 Cr officials trained; 3.24 Cr certificates issued. Strategic Tech Push IndiaAI Mission (₹10,371 Cr) Crossed 34,000 GPUs compute power. AI innovation, compute capacity, ethics, skills, and startups under one mission. AIKosh, IndiaAI FutureSkills, and Application Development rolled out. India Semiconductor Mission (₹76,000 Cr) 6 projects worth ₹1.55 lakh Cr approved; 5 fabs under construction. HCL–Foxconn JV display unit near Jewar Airport, UP. SEMICON India 2025: Global chip supply chain partnership push. Inclusivity & Language Access BHASHINI: Supports 35+ languages, integrated in IRCTC, NPCI IVRS, police records. 8.5 lakh+ downloads; 1600 AI models developed for multilingual access. Additional Dimensions : Global Digital Leadership UPI adopted in 7+ countries; Aadhaar model studied abroad.  projected as DPI leader during G20 Presidency 2023. Source: MEITY, NITI Aayog, G20 India Docs Cybersecurity & Data Protection Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 enacted. CERT-In, NCCC monitor threats. Source: MEITY, PIB Environmental Sustainability Reduced carbon from digital governance, but data centres demand energy. Green Data Centre Policy under consideration. Source: MoEFCC, MEITY Start-up Ecosystem & MSMEs Over 1.25 lakh startups leverage DPI (Aadhaar, UPI, ONDC). ONDC active in 600+ cities. Source: DPIIT, ONDC Portal Digital Literacy & Skilling PMGDISHA trained ~6 Cr rural citizens. IndiaAI FutureSkills, DIKSHA, SWAYAM expanding reach. Source: PMGDISHA, MoE, MEITY Social Sector Integration eSanjeevani: 16+ Cr teleconsultations. DIKSHA: Digital content in 35+ languages. AgriStack for data-driven agriculture. Source: MoHFW, MoE, MoA Legal & Regulatory Framework IT Rules 2021 regulate digital platforms. Aadhaar upheld in Puttaswamy judgment (2017). Source: MIB, SC Judgments Bridging Digital Divide Urban-rural internet gap; only 30% women access internet. Source: NFHS-5, IAMAI Reports Pandemic Resilience CoWIN, Aarogya Setu, UPI ensured continuity of services. Source: MoHFW, MEITY Challenges & Way Forward Digital divide, low-end device access, digital literacy gaps persist. Need to address deepfakes, AI regulation, algorithmic transparency. Focus on open-source, federated AI, inclusive design, and last-mile connectivity. Facts Sheet : Internet users: 96.96 Cr (2024) | Growth: +285% since 2014 UPI (April 2025): 1867.7 Cr transactions, worth ₹24.77 lakh Cr DigiLocker: 53.92 Cr users | UMANG: 2,300 services in 23 languages Digital economy contribution: 11.74% (2022–23) → projected 13.42% (2024–25) Data cost: ₹308/GB (2014) → ₹9.34/GB (2022) BharatNet: 2.18 lakh GPs connected, 6.92 lakh km fibre laid DBT savings: ₹3.48 lakh Cr | Transfers: ₹44 lakh Cr Schemes Sheet: Digital India Mission (2015): Umbrella programme for digital transformation BharatNet: Rural broadband infrastructure IndiaAI Mission (2024): ₹10,371 Cr initiative for AI ecosystem India Semiconductor Mission (ISM): ₹76,000 Cr for chip ecosystem DigiLocker & UMANG: E-governance tools for citizen services BHASHINI: Multilingual digital access using AI Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Welfare leakage plug Government e-Marketplace (GeM): Transparent govt procurement Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC): Democratizing e-commerce Mission Karmayogi + iGOT: Civil services capacity building Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI)  Context & Significance Landmark step in preventing cyber-enabled financial frauds via real-time telecom–banking integration. FRI integration advisory (30 June 2025) by RBI is a major inter-agency move towards digital financial security under Digital India. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) ,GS 3(Cyber Security)  What is FRI? Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI): A risk-based metric classifying mobile numbers into Medium, High, or Very High fraud risk. Developed by DoT’s Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU); launched in May 2025. Based on inputs from: I4C’s Cybercrime Portal (NCRP) Chakshu Platform Banks’ internal fraud alerts Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) by DIU  How It Helps Banks Prevent Cyber Frauds Real-time API integration with DoT systems allows: Declining suspicious transactions Alerting customers proactively Delaying high-risk transactions for verification Banks like HDFC, PNB, ICICI, Paytm, PhonePe, IPPB are already using FRI. Enables risk scoring of phone numbers linked to fraud attempts.  Relevance for UPI & Digital Payments Crucial for safeguarding UPI ecosystem (India’s most used payment system). Enhances user confidence in digital payments and supports financial inclusion by reducing fraud vulnerability.  Relevant Schemes & Frameworks Digital India Mission National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) DIP (Digital Intelligence Platform) – DoT’s fraud intelligence backbone RBI’s Cyber Security Framework (2016+) Syllabus Interlinkages: GS Paper II – Governance Government policies for transparency and accountability Inter-ministerial coordination (DoT + RBI + I4C) Role of institutions in securing citizens’ rights (cybersecurity as a citizen service) GS Paper III – Internal Security & Technology Challenges to internal security through communication networks Cybersecurity and digital fraud prevention Role of technology in financial fraud detection Use of ICT in governance and public service delivery Additional Relevant Data Data Point Figure/Insight Source Cybercrime Complaints in India Over 13.2 lakh complaints in 2023 I4C, MHA Financial Cybercrime Cases Over 68,000 cases in 2023 involving digital payments NCRB 2023 UPI Fraud Incidents ~85,000 complaints reported in 2023 NPCI (via RTI reports) Digital Payment Volume 13,462 crore transactions (FY 2023–24) RBI Annual Report 2024 Loss due to bank frauds (including cyber) ₹13,930 crore (FY23) RBI Financial Stability Report 2023 India’s internet user base 96.96 crore (2024) TRAI Rise in mobile-based financial frauds >40% rise between 2020–2023 CERT-In, I4C estimates Challenges & Criticism Privacy Concerns Real-time data sharing may raise surveillance fears. No clear rules on user consent or redressal if wrongly flagged. Wrong Flags = Service Denial Genuine users may face blocked transactions due to errors (e.g., SIM misuse). No transparent system to challenge or fix false alerts. Data Reliability Issues FRI depends on timely, accurate inputs from portals like NCRP and Chakshu. Underreporting of fraud weakens its accuracy. Risk of Exclusion Low-tech users may be unfairly blocked or unable to appeal decisions. Could deepen the digital divide. Uneven Adoption Not all banks or fintechs may implement it equally. Non-RBI players are not yet covered. Turf Clashes Possible Overlap in roles may between DoT and RBI delay quick action.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 03 July 2025

Content : Rephasing global development finance Integrating compassion, prioritising palliative care Rephasing global development finance Context India’s Global Outreach: India’s development aid to the Global South has nearly doubled—from ~$3 bn (2010–11) to ~$7 bn (2023–24)—primarily through Lines of Credit under its IDEAS programme. Evolving Strategy: With rising debt burdens in partner countries and shrinking global ODA, India is shifting focus from credit-heavy models to a more balanced mix of grants, grants, capacity building, and triangular cooperation. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) Practice Question : “India’s development cooperation strategy with the Global South is undergoing a strategic recalibration from concessional credit to collaborative models like Triangular Cooperation. Discuss the rationale behind this shift and examine its implications for India’s foreign policy and global leadership.”(250 words) Why It’s in the News Triangular Cooperation Rising: India is increasingly partnering with Global North donors like Germany and the UK for co-funded projects in third countries such as Ghana, Cameroon, Malawi, and Peru. TrC investments are now estimated at $670 mn–$1.1 bn, highlighting a shift toward shared, co-created development solutions. G20 Platform for TrC: During its G20 presidency (2023), India leveraged global platforms to promote TrC, expanding collaborations that span grants to investment-driven initiatives (e.g., Global Innovation Partnership with the UK). Trends & Modalities India’s development assistance increased from $3 bn (2010–11) to $7 bn (2023–24). IDEAS scheme is the main vehicle through Lines of Credit (LoC). Five modalities of engagement: Capacity building Technology transfer Market access Grants Concessional finance Policy Shift (2025–26 Budget) MoF red-flagged LoC-heavy model due to rising global debt risks. PM Modi proposed Global Development Compact (VoGS 2024) – promotes a balanced approach to engagement. Global Context & Development Finance Crisis ODA shrinking: From $214 bn (2023) to ~$97 bn (projected) – 45% drop (OECD-DAC). Rising SDG financing gap: From $2.5 tn (2015) to $4+ tn (2024). Rising borrowing costs + weak repayment capacity in Global South. Collapse of agencies like USAID, FCDO reflects donor fatigue. Triangular Cooperation (TrC): An Emerging Alternative What is TrC? Partnership model between: One Global North donor One pivotal Global South country (e.g., India, Brazil, Indonesia) One partner country (recipient from Global South) Why TrC Matters? Promotes co-creation, shared learning, and context-specific solutions. TrC funding (2022 est.): $670 mn – $1.1 bn. Expands India’s global footprint through strategic partnerships. India’s TrC Examples India–Germany Joint Declaration (2022): TrC projects in Africa & Latin America (e.g., Ghana, Cameroon, Malawi, Peru). Global Innovation Partnership (GIP) with the U.K. G20 2023: India expanded TrC discussions with US, UK, EU, France. Challenges in India’s Traditional Approach LoC model unsustainable in a debt-distressed world. Rising risk of non-performing LoCs and capital market unpredictability. Global South borrowers face low creditworthiness, high exposure. Way Forward Refocus on grant-based, capacity-focused cooperation over debt-heavy LoCs. Embrace TrC as a core pillar: fosters resilience, builds global legitimacy. Leverage India’s soft power in technology, digital public goods, training, health, and energy access. Quick Data Sheet Indicator Value India’s Dev. Aid (2010–11) ~$3 billion India’s Dev. Aid (2023–24) ~$7 billion ODA (2023) $214 billion Projected ODA (2024–25) ~$97 billion SDG Financing Need (2024) > $4 trillion TrC Estimated Funding (2022) $670 million – $1.1 billion Additional Information : Historical Evolution Nehru’s Afro-Asian solidarity, ITEC programme (1964), IBSA & BRICS cooperation. Shift from ideological non-alignment to pragmatic economic engagement post-1990s. Comparative Global Models Compare India’s approach with: China’s BRI (infrastructure, debt-heavy) USA’s Millennium Challenge Corp (MCC) (grant-based, selective) OECD-DAC traditional aid (conditional and donor-driven) India’s Unique Model (Development Compact) Highlight India’s emphasis on partnership, not patronage. Demand-driven, transparent, respecting sovereignty. Soft Power & Capacity Building ITEC, ICCR scholarships, Pan-African e-Network, yoga diplomacy. India as a knowledge and digital public goods provider (like UPI, CoWIN, DIKSHA exports). Strategic Geography India’s cooperation focus in: Africa (East, West, Horn of Africa) Indian Ocean Region Latin America CARICOM and Pacific Island countries Institutional Mechanisms EXIM Bank, Ministry of External Affairs (DPA–Development Partnership Administration), RIS (Research & Information System for Developing Countries). Trilateral working groups (e.g., India-Germany-Africa model). Private Sector & Philanthropy Role Role of Indian corporates (L&T, TATA, Bharti) in Africa/ASEAN infrastructure and training. Involvement of Indian NGOs in social sector aid. Digital Public Infrastructure as Aid India offering DPI stack (UPI, DigiLocker, Aadhaar) to developing countries under Digital Public Goods Alliance. G20 endorsement of DPI in Global South. Climate Finance & Green Development India’s potential to lead in green tech transfer, solar energy (ISA), biofuels, EVs, and climate-resilient infra. Link with SDG 13 (climate action) and SDG financing gap. TrC Potential in Multilateral Diplomacy TrC as a tool to: Gain influence in G77, G20, BRICS+. Build issue-based coalitions in WTO, UNSC reform, etc. Act as bridge between Global North & South. Integrating compassion, prioritising palliative care Context: Rising Need, Poor Access: Over 7–10 million Indians need palliative care annually, yet only 1–2% receive it, highlighting a massive access gap.(Who 2024) Growing NCD Burden: Rising cases of cancer, diabetes, and chronic illnesses necessitate integration of palliative care into mainstream health services to ensure dignity in terminal care. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Social Issues) Practice Question : “Despite being essential for ensuring dignity in illness, palliative care remains marginalised in India’s healthcare system. Examine the challenges in expanding access to palliative care and suggest measures for its effective integration into public health policy.”(250 words) What is Palliative Care? Palliative care is specialised medical care that focuses on relieving pain, stress, and other symptoms of serious or terminal illnesses—improving quality of life for patients and their families. It addresses physical, emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual needs, and is applicable at any stage of illness, not just end-of-life care. Why in News ? India’s underfunded and underutilised palliative care system has come under scrutiny due to its limited access, especially for rural and disadvantaged populations. Health experts advocate integrating palliative care into MBBS curriculum, Ayushman Bharat, and expanding it through task-shifting and nursing capacity to address systemic gaps. Achievements / Positive Developments Included in National Health Policy (2017). ICMR & AIIMS have pilot projects on pain and palliative care. WHO-recognised palliative care centres exist in Kerala (community model). India’s doctor-population ratio (1:834) is better than WHO norm (1:1000). Challenges Only 1–2% access despite 7M+ need (WHO, 2024). Lack of trained professionals and inadequate curriculum coverage. Uneven access — rural and poor patients most excluded. Low funding, weak insurance integration, and lack of infrastructure. Poor public awareness, stigma, and confusion with hospice/end-of-life care. Recommendations Curriculum Integration: Add palliative care to MBBS & allied health training. Task-Shifting: Leverage India’s 34.3 lakh nurses and 13 lakh allied health workers. Insurance Inclusion: Expand Ayushman Bharat to cover palliative services. Public Awareness Campaigns: To redefine palliative care beyond end-of-life. NGO + Private Sector Partnerships for last-mile delivery. Data Sheet Indicator Data Indians needing palliative care (annually) 7–10 million (WHO, 2024) Access to palliative care Only 1–2% India doctor-population ratio 1:834 Registered nurses in India 34.33 lakh Registered allied health professionals 13 lakh WHO global stat 40 million need palliative care; 78% in LMICs Global access gap Only 14% receive care (WHO, 2024) Global Best Practice U.S. Model: Strong palliative ecosystem with insurance-backed hospice care, early intervention, and end-of-life funding mechanisms — a model India can adapt considering cost and cultural context. Additional Information Curriculum Integration: Pallium India guided the draft MD Palliative Medicine through MCI—boosting professional training . Community Delivery: Community Medicine and ASHAs are now trained in rural palliative outreach through Ayushman Arogya Mandir sub-centres . Urban Infrastructure Boost: Delhi’s rollout of 33 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs includes palliative care in primary health facilities . Elderly-Focused Models: Kerala’s Vayomithram provides mobile palliative clinics for seniors at municipal level . Policy & Insurance Gains: Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) offers palliative care packages; linked with NCD control program . Key Takeaways India’s palliative care access remains critically low at under 4% — a sharp contrast to global need. Though policies exist (NPPC, NDPS reform, NHP 2017), implementation remains patchy, especially beyond Kerala and urban centres. Integration under Ayushman Bharat and training via ASHAs and community health workers can significantly bridge rural-urban and knowledge gaps. NGO-led initiatives—Pallium India, CanSupport—play a pivotal role in training, advocacy, and service delivery. Continued policy reform, funding, and curriculum integration are essential to transform palliative care into an accessible, equitable health service.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 03 July 2025

Content : AI & Copyright Law HCES 2023–24 Saturday classes, home lessons: Mizoram road to ‘first fully literate state’ AI in India: strategy must precede mission Are gig workers a part of India’s labour data? AI & Copyright Law Core Issue At the heart of the debate: Are generative AI models built on copyrighted works? Two major US copyright lawsuits (Writers vs. Anthropic & Authors vs. Meta) question whether AI training violates copyright law. Source : The Indian Express Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) ,Gs 3(IPR , Technology) Court Verdicts So Far 1. Writers vs. Anthropic (Aug 2023, US) Authors including Michael Chabon, George R.R. Martin filed case. Accused Anthropic of copying copyrighted texts for training Claude AI. Court’s response: Did not rule on copyright infringement directly; stated the AI model does not “transform” texts enough to qualify as fair use. 2. Authors vs. Meta Authors sued Meta for training LLaMA models using their copyrighted books. Judge dismissed part of the complaint on procedural grounds. However: Meta could still be held liable if models “memorise and regurgitate” copyrighted content. Key Legal Concepts Fair Use: Permits limited use of copyrighted work without permission if it transforms the content (e.g. parody, research). Transformative Use: AI must add new expression or meaning to qualify. The Case Against OpenAI in India In 2024, ANI and the Indian Music Industry (IMI) accused OpenAI of: Training models on copyrighted Indian content. Violating Section 65A of Indian Copyright Act (on circumvention of tech protections). No judgment yet. Jurisdiction under question. Challenges in India OpenAI operates in India, but: No clarity on how training data is sourced. AI firms claim only “public” data is used. Lack of explicit Indian law on AI & copyright. Why It Matters India’s creative industry (books, music, cinema) is at risk of unauthorised AI replication. Worries about AI models “memorising and regurgitating” original work. Raises ethical & legal questions around ownership and consent. Global Implications Courts have not yet conclusively ruled if using copyrighted work for AI training is legal. Verdicts will set precedents for AI governance globally, affecting OpenAI, Meta, Google, Anthropic, etc. Significance of Rulings So far, courts have favoured tech companies but have not shut the door on future liability. If plaintiffs prove “verbatim memorisation” by models, it could trigger compensation or licensing models. Key UPSC-Relevant Facts from the Article Fact UPSC Relevance Over 7 million pirated books allegedly used to train Anthropic’s Claude AI Raises ethical and legal concerns over copyright violations US Courts ruled that using books for AI training can qualify as “transformative fair use” Insight into evolving jurisprudence in digital IPR – may influence Indian legal reforms Meta’s case dismissed for lack of proof of harm, not because AI use is legal Illustrates complexities in proving “economic harm” in copyright law In India, OpenAI has no direct data center or formal license for copyright-covered models Reflects gaps in India’s digital regulatory framework for GenAI models India-Germany Joint Declaration (2022) on Triangular Cooperation (TrC) Related to India’s role in shaping global tech governance (GS II/IR angle) India has no settled law on AI and copyright yet Opportunity for reform under Digital India Act or IPR amendments Key Dimensions: Legal Gaps in India No AI-specific copyright law. Copyright Act, 1957 doesn’t define AI authorship or fair use for training data. Ethical Concerns Use of creative content without consent or credit. Undermines originality and creator rights. Economic Impact Threat to livelihoods of artists, authors, musicians. Monetization of pirated or public content by AI companies. Technology vs Regulation Balance between fostering innovation and protecting IP. Ambiguity over “transformative use” of copyrighted material. Global Comparisons US: “Fair use” doctrine allows AI training. EU: Tight opt-outs under TDM rules. Japan: Broad AI training exemptions. Regulatory Vacuum No guidelines under IT Act or DPDP Act for AI training data. Digital India Act still pending. Privacy and Consent Training data may include personal content without consent. Conflicts with data protection principles. Creator Rights & Royalties Lack of collective bargaining tools (e.g., CMOs for AI usage). No attribution mechanism for original creators. AI Liability & Accountability Who is responsible for AI-generated infringements — developer or deployer? No legal clarity yet. Public Good vs Private Profit Use of public domain data for private AI profit. Debate over open-source mandates for public-trained models. HCES 2023–24 What is HCES? HCES = Household Consumption and Expenditure Survey Conducted periodically by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). It captures detailed data on household consumption patterns, income, and living standards across rural and urban India. Source : The Indian Express Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues) What does the HCES 2023–24 show? Reports per capita daily calorie, fat, and protein intake. Provides insights into nutritional status, consumption inequality, and shifts in food habits. Compares data across different income deciles, helping track changes among the top 5% vs bottom 5%. First such release after over a decade (since 2011–12 round), delayed due to COVID-19 disruptions. Key Findings from HCES 2023–24 (Nutritional Intake Data) Indicator 2011–12 2022–23 Change Daily Calorie Intake (Rural) 2,233 kcal 2,212 kcal ↓ 0.94% Daily Calorie Intake (Urban) 2,240 kcal 2,230 kcal ↓ 0.4% Protein Intake (Rural) 61.9 g 61.8 g ~Stable Protein Intake (Urban) 63.2 g 63.4 g ↑ Slight Fat Intake (Rural) 59.7 g 60.4 g ↑ 1.17% Fat Intake (Urban) 70.5 g 69.8 g ↓ 1.0% Bottom 5% Calorie Intake (Rural) 1,607 kcal 1,688 kcal ↑ 5% Top 5% Calorie Intake (Rural) 3,116 kcal 2,941 kcal ↓ 5.6% Bottom 5% Calorie Intake (Urban) 1,623 kcal 1,696 kcal ↑ 4.5% Top 5% Calorie Intake (Urban) 3,478 kcal 3,092 kcal ↓ 11% Insights & Relevance for UPSC Calorie Inequality Down: Significant narrowing between top 5% and bottom 5% across rural and urban areas. Slight Calorie Dip: Overall calorie intake down marginally but protein remains stable—indicating changing food preferences. Policy Relevance: Targets for schemes like POSHAN Abhiyaan, NFSA, Mid-Day Meal, and PM Garib Kalyan Yojana. Evidence for SDG-2 (“Zero Hunger”) progress. Health Implication: Drop in fat intake among richer groups suggests growing health awareness. Additional Dimensions to Cover 1. Link to SDGs SDG 2: End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition. The narrowing gap supports Target 2.1 (access to food) and 2.2 (end all forms of malnutrition). 2. Inequality & Welfare Economics Reflects reduced nutritional inequality, possibly due to schemes like NFSA, POSHAN Abhiyaan, and PM-GKAY. Suggests improved welfare targeting of subsidies and rations. 3. Urban-Rural Nutrition Divide Urban nutrition is more stable; rural decline in calorie intake needs further analysis — is it due to underconsumption or dietary transition? 4. Food Security vs. Nutrition Security India is shifting from calorie sufficiency to nutritional adequacy. Calorie intake decline might mask hidden hunger (micronutrient deficiency). 5. Behavioural & Cultural Shifts Decline in fat intake and calorie-rich foods by the top 5% indicates rising health awareness, lifestyle diseases focus, and shift to balanced diets. 6. Role of Inflation and Food Prices Rising food prices (especially pulses, oils, proteins) may have reduced consumption among poor, even if calorie inequality narrowed. 7. Data Limitations HCES data may underreport consumption of processed foods or dining out. Calorie data doesn’t capture micronutrient adequacy or meal diversity. 8. Gender and Age-Based Access No disaggregated data provided — intra-household disparities (e.g., women, elderly, children) still a concern. Saturday classes, home lessons: Mizoram road to ‘first fully literate state’ Context & Milestone Mizoram has become India’s first fully literate state under the ULLAS (Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram). Achieved 98.2% literacy for population aged 7+ (PLFS 2023–24); surpasses Kerala (96.2%). Relevance : GS 2(Education, Governance) What is ULLAS? Union Government’s flagship adult literacy mission launched in 2022. Targets non-literate people aged 15+ with a 5-year timeline. Aims at foundational literacy, numeracy, and digital & financial literacy. Key Drivers of Mizoram’s Success Community-driven efforts and strong volunteer participation. Adult learners (like 94-year-old Latinkimi) attend classes before/after farming. Localised teaching materials developed historically by missionaries (Mizo language primers, textbooks). Historical Literacy Trends 1991: Kerala declared ‘totally literate’ with 90% adult literacy (NLM norms). 2011 Census: Kerala – 93.91%, Mizoram – 91.58%. PLFS 2023–24: Mizoram – 98.2% (7+ years), Kerala – 96.2%. Why It Matters Sets a national benchmark in grassroots adult literacy. Aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and India’s broader Digital and Inclusive Education goals. Emphasises lifelong learning, not just school-based literacy. Historical & Comparative Data Indicator Value India’s adult illiterate (15+) ~15 crore (MoE, 2022) National Literacy Rate ~77.7% (PLFS 2022–23) 1991 Kerala Adult Literacy 90% (declared ‘total literacy’ by NLM norms) 2011 Census Mizoram: 91.58% India’s Literacy Rates – Census 2011 Category Literacy Rate (%) Overall (National Average) 74.04% Male 82.14% Female 65.46% Urban Areas 84.11% Rural Areas 67.77% AI in India: strategy must precede mission Context & Why in News India aspires to be a global leader in AI governance, positioning itself as a voice for the Global South. However, it lacks a comprehensive, democratically anchored National AI Strategy, risking technocratic and opaque governance. Relevance : GS 3(Technology ) ,GS 2(Governance) Key Issues Identified No National AI Strategy: Current approach via IndiaAI Mission is implementation-focused, not strategic. Lack of National Priorities: Unclear values, governance structures, and sectoral priorities. Opaque Governance: Centralisation without parliamentary oversight or civil society input. Technological Dependency: Absence of indigenous strategy may lead to strategic reliance on foreign AI systems. Major Risks & Gaps Strategic Autonomy: AI used in defence/intelligence makes sovereignty critical. Employment Disruption: 65,000 IT jobs lost in 2024 (TCS, Infosys, Wipro). IMF: 26% of India’s workforce exposed to GenAI, 12% at risk of displacement. No plan for reskilling, labour transition, or social protection. Environmental Cost: AI’s energy needs rising. Data centres stress power & water in cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad. Social Impact Unaddressed: AI in health, welfare, policing may amplify bias, hurt accountability. No inclusive policy on AI ethics, equity, or digital rights. What Should Be Done? (Recommendations) Publish a National AI Strategy endorsed by the Cabinet and table it in Parliament. Form a Standing Parliamentary Committee on AI & Emerging Tech. Commission AI Employment Impact Study: Granular insights on job loss by sector, region, demographic. Build institutional architecture via public consultations and democratic dialogue. Align AI with national security, economic resilience, equity, and sustainability. Global Implications Without internal coherence, India’s global leadership in AI forums like Global Partnership on AI will lack credibility. India must model democratic AI governance for the developing world. Data & Statistics Data Point Figure Context / Source IndiaAI Mission budget ₹10,371 crore Announced in Union Budget 2024–25 Job losses (2024) ~65,000 jobs Lost across TCS, Infosys, Wipro,etc IMF Estimate – Workforce at risk 26% of Indian workforce exposed to GenAI 12% of jobs at risk of displacement Energy demand forecast (Global) Will double by 2030 Source: International Energy Agency Water stress 11 out of India’s top 20 cities AI hubs like Bengaluru & Hyderabad face severe groundwater decline Adult literacy needed for ‘total literacy’ under NLM (for earlier reference) 90% aged 15–35 For comparison: Kerala achieved this in 1991 Key Institutional Mentions IndiaAI Mission: Implemented under Section 8 company of MeitY. Global Partnership on AI (GPAI): India has leadership role. Future of India Foundation: Publisher of the source report, “Governing AI in India: Why Strategy Must Precede Mission”. Are gig workers a part of India’s labour data? Context & Why in News Union Budget 2025 formally recognised gig & platform workers and extended some welfare benefits. But the PLFS 2025 (Periodic Labour Force Survey) fails to statistically identify gig/platform workers, undermining data-driven policymaking. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Labour Welfare) Gaps in Labour Classification Gig workers defined in the Code on Social Security, 2020, but ambiguously. PLFS still classifies them under ‘self-employed’, ‘casual labour’, or ‘own-account worker’ — masking their unique conditions. Algorithmic work, multi-platform juggling, no job security, and app-based tasking ≠ traditional employment. Consequences of Statistical Invisibility Gig workers lack social security representation despite legal recognition. Policy efforts (e-Shram portal, AB-PMJAY, digital ID cards) lack strong data support. Welfare boards rely on PLFS data — flawed classification → exclusionary access to schemes. Why Gig Work Is Different No stable contract or control over work → cannot be equated with self-employment. Shaped by algorithms, task-based pay, platform switching. Employment volatility, digital reach dependence, and zero benefits not reflected in PLFS. Policy & Data Disconnect MoSPI response in Rajya Sabha: Gig workers are included under ‘economic activity’ — but not separately identified. PLFS 2025 changes: More rural representation, monthly estimates — but no changes to capture gig-specific variables. Way Forward Update PLFS classification codes to include gig/platform categories. Introduce special survey modules to assess: Number of platforms worked on Nature of algorithmic control Work hours, contracts, pay volatility Institutionalise National Social Security Fund (Clause 141) and Welfare Boards (Section 6 of Code) with gig-specific inputs. Relevant Data Points 23.5 million gig workers projected by 2029–30 (NITI Aayog 2022). Despite inclusion in Code on Social Security, gig workers remain invisible in core labour statistics. Additional Dimensions 1. Legal and Policy Recognition Code on Social Security, 2020: Defines gig and platform workers but lacks operational clarity. No corresponding rules/guidelines yet framed to implement social security benefits. 2. Statistical Gaps PLFS 2025: Fails to create a distinct category for gig workers. Gig workers merged into ‘self-employed’, ‘casual labour’, causing data invisibility. 3. Economic and Social Security Issues No written contracts, volatile incomes, no maternity benefits, or insurance by default. e-Shram portal (~30 Cr+ registrations) lacks granularity for gig-specific insights. 4. Algorithmic Control and Digital Governance Gig work is governed by platform algorithms, which determine work allocation, pay, and reviews — often without transparency. Raises issues of digital rights, data privacy, and worker surveillance. 5. Labour Rights and Unionisation Gig workers are not covered under Trade Union Act, limiting collective bargaining. Attempts at forming informal unions (e.g., Swiggy delivery agents’ strikes). 6. Gender and Gig Economy Low female participation in platform work due to safety, tech access, and lack of flexibility. Women gig workers face wage gaps and higher care burden. 7. International Comparisons EU passed legislation mandating algorithmic transparency for platform workers. UK Supreme Court (2021): Ruled Uber drivers are ‘workers’, not self-employed. Additional Data and Facts: Indicator Data Point Source Projected gig workforce 23.5 million by 2029–30 NITI Aayog Report (2022) Current estimate 7.7 million (as of 2020–21) NITI Aayog Women in gig economy ~10% of gig workforce NITI Aayog e-Shram registrations 30 crore+ Ministry of Labour & Employment PLFS 2022-23 gig data Not separately identified MoSPI response in Parliament Informal sector coverage 92.4% of total workforce (2022) PLFS 2022-23 Workers without written contract Over 70% of informal workers PLFS & ISLE Other angles to explore: Urbanisation and gig clustering (metro-centric platforms). Impact of AI & automation on gig jobs (task elimination, micro-tasking). Sustainability concerns — frequent travel by delivery/rideshare gig workers. Social audits & grievance redressal in gig platforms — almost non-existent. Need for a Unified Labour Market Framework inclusive of informal and gig workers.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 02 July 2025

Content : National Sports Policy 2025 Cabinet Approves Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme National Sports Policy 2025 Overview Approved by the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi. Replaces the National Sports Policy, 2001. Aims to make India a global sporting powerhouse and strong Olympic contender by 2036. Formulated through extensive stakeholder consultations (Ministries, NITI Aayog, States, NSFs, athletes, experts, and public). Core Pillars of NSP 2025 Excellence on the Global Stage Early talent identification & nurturing from grassroots to elite. Establish competitive leagues & boost sports infrastructure. Promote world-class training, sports science, and athlete support systems. Strengthen governance of National Sports Federations. Develop high-quality human resources (coaches, officials, support staff). Sports for Economic Development Promote sports tourism and host global events. Boost sports manufacturing and startups. Encourage PPP, CSR, and innovative funding models. Sports for Social Development Focus on inclusion: women, marginalized groups, tribals, PwDs. Promote indigenous & traditional games. Integrate sports with education and career opportunities. Engage the Indian diaspora through sports outreach. Sports as a People’s Movement Launch mass campaigns for fitness and sports culture. Implement fitness indices for institutions. Ensure universal access to sports facilities. Integration with Education (NEP 2020) Embed sports into school curricula. Train educators & PE teachers to promote sports education. Strategic Implementation Framework Governance: Legal and regulatory reforms for better sports governance. Private Sector: Emphasis on PPP, CSR, and new financing models. Technology: Use of AI, data analytics, and digital tools for performance & program delivery. Monitoring: National KPIs, benchmarks, and time-bound targets. Model for States: Encourages States/UTs to align their policies with NSP 2025. Whole-of-Government Approach: All ministries to integrate sports promotion in their schemes. Vision and Impact Holistic development of citizens through sports. Positions India for global sporting excellence. Catalyzes economic, social, and educational transformation via sports. Linked Themes & Facts NEP 2020 NSP integrates sports in school curricula. Fact: Only 42.1% of schools had playgrounds (UDISE+ 2021). Khelo India NSP scales grassroots talent programs. Fact: ₹1,045 crore allocated in Budget 2024–25; over 3,200 athletes identified. Olympic Vision (2036) Goal: Top-10 Olympic finish. Fact: India won 7 medals in Tokyo 2020; ranked 55th. Sports Economy Boosts sports manufacturing, tourism, startups. Fact: Sports goods exports: ₹2,894 crore (2022–23). SDG Alignment Focus on inclusion: women, tribals, PwDs. Fact: Female participation in sports < 30% in many states. Digital India Uses AI, data analytics for training & tracking. Aligned with India’s tech-driven governance model. Cabinet Approves Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme Overview Approved by Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi. Aims to generate 3.5 crore jobs in 2 years (Aug 2025–July 2027). Focus on first-time employees, job creation, and formalization across sectors, especially manufacturing. Total outlay: ₹99,446 crore, part of the larger ₹2 lakh crore employment package for 4.1 crore youth (Budget 2024–25). Relevance : Part A: Incentives for First-Time Employees Targets 1.92 crore first-time EPFO-registered employees. Incentive: One month’s EPF wage (up to ₹15,000) in two installments: 1st after 6 months of continuous employment. 2nd after 12 months + completion of financial literacy program. Eligibility: Employees with salary up to ₹1 lakh/month. Partial amount kept in deposit/savings account to promote savings habit. Part B: Incentives for Employers Applicable across all sectors, with extended benefits for manufacturing. Employers must hire: Min. 2 employees (if workforce < 50), Min. 5 employees (if workforce ≥ 50), Employment must be sustained for at least 6 months. Incentive Structure (per employee per month): EPF Wage Slab Incentive to Employer Up to ₹10,000 Up to ₹1,000 ₹10,001 to ₹20,000 ₹ 2,000 ₹20,001 to ₹1,00,000 ₹ 3,000 Tenure of Incentive: 2 years for all sectors. 4 years for manufacturing sector. Expected to benefit around 2.6 crore additional employees. Payment Mechanism Part A (Employees): Paid via DBT using Aadhaar Bridge Payment System (ABPS). Part B (Employers): Paid into PAN-linked business accounts. Expected Outcomes 3.5 crore jobs over 2 years. 1.92 crore youth to receive direct benefit as first-timers. Boost to formal employment and social security coverage. Strong push to manufacturing and private sector hiring. ELI Scheme Budget 2024–25: Part of ₹2 lakh crore youth employment package targeting 4.1 crore beneficiaries. Atmanirbhar Bharat: Incentivizes manufacturing jobs—4-year support to boost domestic industry. EPFO & Formalization: Promotes formal jobs with EPF coverage—aligns with Social Security Code 2020. Digital India: Uses Aadhaar-based DBT and ABPS for transparent, real-time payments. Skill India: Links incentives to financial literacy—integrates soft skills with job entry. Unemployment Solution: Tackles youth joblessness—targets 3.5 crore new jobs by 2027. PM Gati Shakti: Boosts job growth in industrial corridors and manufacturing clusters. Women in Workforce: Opens scope for targeted hiring to raise female labour participation (~25%).

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 02 July 2025

Content : Costly lapses A triangular dynamic in South Asia’s power politics Costly lapses Incident Summary Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC), though chemically inert and safe for human use, led to a deadly accident during its manufacturing at Sigachi Industries in Hyderabad. The death toll reached 36, mostly comprising poor, young, migrant workers from northern and eastern India. Relevance : GS 3(Disaster Management ) Practice Question : Despite being a global hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing, India continues to witness frequent industrial accidents in this sector. Critically examine the causes behind such incidents and suggest a roadmap for integrating industrial growth with a robust safety culture.(250 Words) Safe Product, Hazardous Process MCC is widely used in pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics for its physical properties like binding and texturising. Despite its safe nature, the manufacturing process involves hazardous steps that require strict safety protocols. Probable Cause and Pattern The explosion likely resulted from equipment malfunction due to poor maintenance. Repeated accidents in pharma plants (e.g., Anakapalli and Hyderabad earlier) highlight a disturbing pattern of industrial negligence. Safety Protocol Failures Inadequate implementation of HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study). Lack of real-time integration of operational data for abnormality detection. Insufficient training and safety awareness among operational staff. Importance of Safety Culture Beyond compliance, there is a need for a high level of safety culture within pharma manufacturing units. Workers, operators, and management must internalise safety as a continuous priority, not just a regulatory obligation. Social and Governance Concerns Most victims lacked social and institutional support due to their migrant status. Telangana government announced ₹1 crore as ex gratia, but effective and timely delivery remains crucial. Global Repercussions India’s pharma sector is a significant contributor to exports and foreign exchange. Frequent industrial mishaps can damage global reputation and investor confidence in Indian manufacturing standards. Key Facts & Data : 1. Industrial Accidents in India 6,800+ deaths in industrial accidents (2014–2021) – Labour Ministry 240+ major incidents in 2024 (across manufacturing, mining, energy). Resulted in 400+ deaths and 850+ serious injuries. Chemical & pharma sector alone: 110+ incidents, 220+ deaths, 550+ injuries. 2. Pharma Sector Significance India: 3rd largest pharma producer, exports worth $27.9 billion (2023–24) Hyderabad: Bulk Drug Capital of India 3. Recent Pharma Accidents Sigachi Industries (2025): 36 dead Anakapalli (2023) and Hyderabad (2024): Similar chemical blasts 4. Regulatory Gaps Laws: Factories Act, 1948, EP Act, 1986, Chemical Accidents Rules, 1996 Issues: Weak enforcement, rare inspections, outdated HAZOPs 5. Worker Vulnerability 75% industrial workforce informal – Labour Bureau 25% are migrant workers – NSSO 2017–18 Limited safety training, no social security cover 6. Broader Concerns Frequent mishaps erode investor confidence Undermine India’s image as a global pharma hub A triangular dynamic in South Asia’s power politics Realignment in U.S. Foreign Policy A notable shift in the U.S. posture under President Trump is evident, with greater outreach to Pakistan. High-profile engagement with Pakistan’s military (e.g., lunch with Field Marshal Asim Munir) signals symbolic and strategic overtures. Reopening of security aid (e.g., $397 million for F-16s) marks reversal from previous U.S. policy critical of Pakistan’s dual game in counterterrorism. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) Practice Question : Examine the evolving triangular relationship between the United States, India, and Pakistan in light of recent strategic shifts. How does the recalibration of U.S. policy towards Pakistan affect India’s foreign policy objectives and regional security calculus? (250 Words) Strategic Transactionalism U.S. diplomacy now prioritises short-term strategic utility and deal-making over doctrinal consistency. Praising Pakistan’s intelligence capability vis-à-vis Iran reveals a shift toward using Pakistan as a regional asset, especially in West Asia. Implications for India-U.S. Partnership This recalibration strains the strategic trust built on counterterrorism cooperation and China containment. India views the U.S. as a partner in upholding a liberal international order; re-engagement with Pakistan undermines this principle-based framework. India’s Assertive Response After the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, reflecting a doctrinal shift from strategic restraint to punitive deterrence. PM Modi’s declaration of a “new normal” illustrates India’s willingness to raise the cost of cross-border terrorism and diplomatically isolate Pakistan. Pakistan’s Dual-Track Strategy Pakistan blends military assertiveness with diplomatic engagement, using its geographic and strategic position to regain U.S. attention. Promotion of Asim Munir to Field Marshal reflects military dominance over civilian authority, consolidating a “hard state” doctrine. U.S. Ambivalence and Trade-Centric Focus Washington appears increasingly preoccupied with trade and transactional diplomacy, deprioritising India’s Indo-Pacific role. Despite holding the Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting, focus on tariffs suggests a drift from strategic vision to tactical deal-making. Kashmir and Third-Party Mediation India firmly rejects any third-party mediation on Kashmir, asserting sovereign control. Pakistan attempts to internationalise Kashmir, seeing U.S. involvement as a lever to offset India’s global ascent. Geographic and Diplomatic Leverage of Pakistan Pakistan’s location at the crossroads of South, Central, and West Asia lends it enduring strategic relevance. Personal diplomacy and historical utility in U.S. operations (Afghanistan, Iran) continue to grant Pakistan disproportionate influence. Strategic Risk for the U.S. U.S. risks hyphenating India and Pakistan again — a model India has long resisted in its pursuit of great power status. Washington must balance idealism, realism, and strategic necessity in a region marked by nuclear rivalries and alliance entanglements.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 02 July 2025

Content : Cabinet nod to job-linked incentive scheme Using tech to empower women and children A look at India’s sports policy journey Indo-French Army exercise ‘Shakti 2025’ concludes Navy inducts second indigenous stealth frigate in record time Cabinet nod to job-linked incentive scheme Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Employment ) Highlights Total Outlay: ₹99,446 crore over 4 years. Primary Goal: Boost employment generation, especially in the manufacturing sector. Target Beneficiaries: 3.5 crore youth to gain jobs. 1.92 crore first-time employees to be directly benefited. Employee Benefit: First-time workers to receive 1 month’s wage up to ₹15,000. Employer Incentives: Up to ₹3,000/month per employee for 2 years. For manufacturing sector, extended benefits for 3rd and 4th years. Applies to new employees with salaries up to ₹1 lakh/month and minimum 6 months’ tenure. Implementation Window: Jobs created between August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2027 are eligible. Part of a Larger Plan: One of 5 schemes under a ₹2 lakh crore youth employment and skilling package in Budget 2024–25. Union Concerns: CITU criticized it as a transfer of public funds to employers under the guise of job creation. Interlinkages & Implications Slower GST growth could impact revenue-based fiscal space for new schemes like ELI. ELI may stimulate hiring, potentially leading to improved GST collections from increased economic activity. Union-government conflict could shape future labour reforms and political messaging. Using tech to empower women and children Vision & Approach Empowerment = Access to rights, services, protection, and opportunity. Aligned with Viksit Bharat@2047 and Amrit Kaal goals. Focus on technology integration, real-time governance, and last-mile delivery. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues) Key Transformative Initiatives Saksham Anganwadi Upgrading 2 lakh Anganwadi centres with smart infrastructure and digital tools. Enhances nutrition, preschool education, and healthcare delivery. Poshan Tracker Real-time data for 14 lakh Anganwadi centres. Over 10.14 crore beneficiaries (pregnant women, lactating mothers, children, adolescent girls). Recognised with the PM’s Award for Excellence (2025). Enables “Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi” through Anganwadi worker training modules. Supplementary Nutrition Programme Facial recognition technology to reduce leakages and ensure benefit targeting. Women’s Safety and Support SHe-Box Portal Single-window platform for complaints under the Sexual Harassment Act (2013). Enables online filing and redressal tracking. Mission Shakti App/Dashboard Real-time support to women in distress. One-stop centres functional in nearly all districts. Maternal Welfare: PMMVY ₹5,000 for 1st child, ₹6,000 if 2nd child is a girl (positive gender reinforcement). ₹19,000 crore disbursed to over 4 crore women. Fully paperless DBT system, Aadhaar-authenticated, mobile-based, with grievance redressal. Tangible Outcomes Sex Ratio at Birth improved: 918 (2014–15) → 930 (2023–24). Maternal Mortality Rate declined: 130 → 97 per 1,000 live births. Child Protection & Welfare CARINGS Portal Strengthened adoption ecosystem with transparent & digital process. Digital Child Rights Monitoring Platforms by NCPCR track child rights violations. Mission Vatsalya dashboard enhances inter-agency convergence for child welfare. Conclusion Digital tools have redefined governance as inclusive, transparent, and efficient. The Ministry has become a model of purpose-driven digital transformation in social sectors. A look at India’s sports policy journey Post-1947: Early Years of Nation-Building Focus post-Independence: poverty, health, education — sports not a priority. 1951: Hosted 1st Asian Games — soft power assertion. 1954: Set up All-India Council of Sports (AICS) for policy and funding advice. Funding was limited; many athletes missed global events due to lack of support. Despite this, Indian men’s hockey team dominated (1920–1980); notable athletes emerged (e.g., Milkha Singh, Kamaljeet Sandhu). Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Turning Point: 1982 Asian Games Hosted in Delhi — boosted awareness and infrastructure. Led to creation of: NSP 1984 – India’s first National Sports Policy, focused on infrastructure, mass participation & education integration. 1986 NEP integrated sports into education. SAI (Sports Authority of India) founded to implement policy and develop talent. 1990s to Early 2000s: Liberalisation and Cultural Shift Economic reforms (1991) and cable TV raised sports visibility and aspirations. 1997 Draft NSP suggested Union–State division of sports responsibilities; never finalized. 2000: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) formed. 2001: Revised NSP launched for mass participation and elite performance. Recent Reforms & Schemes NSDC 2011: Sports Development Code – aimed at regulating sports bodies (governance, anti-doping, age fraud, gender equality); poor implementation. Major schemes: TOPS (2014): Elite athlete support (coaching, nutrition, training). Khelo India (2017): Grassroots youth talent identification. Fit India Movement (2019): Promoted fitness as public health goal. Olympic Performance (2000–2020s) 2004: Rajyavardhan Rathore (silver), 2008: Abhinav Bindra (gold), 2008 & 2012: Boxing bronzes – Vijender Singh, Mary Kom. Still limited Olympic medal tally despite potential. India at Tokyo 2020 – Highlights Total Medals: 7 🥇1 Gold, 🥈2 Silver, 🥉4 Bronze → India’s best-ever Olympic medal haul Latest Momentum & Future Goals 2036 Olympics Bid: India expresses intent to host, sparking reform push. 2024: Draft National Sports Policy & Governance Bill released. 2025: NSP 2025 (Khelo Bharat Niti) unveiled — aligns with Olympic aspirations. Urgent Issues: India tops WADA global doping list – reforms needed. Delayed governance reforms (e.g., 2017 Draft Good Governance Code). Challenges Sports is a State subject – leads to fragmented implementation. Policies often lack execution and accountability. Weak market & societal engagement until recently. Need for investment in: Scientific coaching Physical literacy Sports-integrated education Conclusion India’s sports ecosystem has moved from neglect to reform. A sporting nation requires consistent policy, grassroots inclusion, and elite excellence. Long-term success lies in institutional integrity, mass participation, and scientific systems. Indo-French Army exercise ‘Shakti 2025’ concludes Overview Exercise Name: Shakti 2025 Edition: 8th Duration: June 18 – concluded on July 2, 2025 Location: France Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security , Defence ) Participants France: Over 500 personnel Units involved: French Army Foreign Legion French Air & Space Force French Navy India: 90 personnel Primarily from Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Also included members from other Indian military services Significance Enhances interoperability between Indian and French forces Focus on joint operational preparedness in multi-domain scenarios Reinforces the Indo-French strategic defence partnership Promotes exchange of tactical knowledge, cultural understanding, and professional military practices Strategic Relevance Part of broader Indo-Pacific cooperation framework Aligns with India’s emphasis on bilateral defence diplomacy Complements naval (Varuna) and air (Garuda) exercises between the two nations Conclusion Exercise Shakti 2025 reflects growing military synergy and trust between India and France Supports India’s goal of being a net security provider in the region Adds momentum to India’s Make in India–Defence goals through deeper cooperation with European allies Major Bilateral Exercises Shakti 2025 (India–France): Army exercise in France (June); focused on joint operations; involved J&K Rifles. Varuna 2025 (India–France): Naval drill in Arabian Sea (March); featured INS Vikrant & Charles de Gaulle. Tiger Triumph 2025 (India–US): Tri-service exercise off Andhra coast (April); joint HADR & amphibious ops. Dharma Guardian 2025 (India–Japan): Army drill near Mt. Fuji (Feb–Mar); enhanced counter-terror coordination. Cyclone 2025 (India–Egypt): Special forces training in Rajasthan (Feb); desert warfare and tactical ops. Nomadic Elephant 2025 (India–Mongolia): Jungle and urban ops. Navy inducts second indigenous stealth frigate in record time Context : India has strengthened its naval power with the induction of INS Udaygiri, a Project 17A stealth frigate, and INS Tamal, an Indo-Russian built warship. These reflect India’s growing indigenous defence capabilities and strategic maritime partnerships. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security , Defence) INS Udaygiri – Project 17A Stealth Frigate Delivered to Indian Navy in record 37 months from launch. Part of Project 17A, a successor to the Shivalik-class (Project 17) frigates. Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDSL) in Mumbai. Second of seven stealth frigates under construction; all to be delivered by end-2026. Features: Multi-mission ‘blue water’ warship for deep-sea operations. Equipped with: Supersonic surface-to-surface missiles Medium-range surface-to-air missiles 76 mm naval gun 30 mm + 12.7 mm CIWS (close-in weapon systems) Significant upgrade in stealth, sensors, and weapons over P-17 class. Designed by Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau – reflects self-reliance in defence production. Named after and modern version of erstwhile INS Udaygiri, decommissioned in 2007 after 31 years. INS Tamal – Indo-Russian Collaboration Represents 51st Indo-Russian ship in a 65-year partnership. Commissioned with Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh present. Fully combat-ready for: Air, surface, sub-surface, and electronic warfare. Features: Armed with dual-role BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles. Highlights India–Russia strategic defence ties and maritime modernisation. Strategic Significance Both ships reinforce India’s ‘blue water navy’ ambition. Project 17A and Indo-Russian builds mark Make in India progress in naval shipbuilding. Enhances maritime deterrence, combat-readiness, and force projection in the Indian Ocean Region. Railways launches RailOne app to ease ticket booking, travel services What is RailOne? Launched by: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw (July 2025, New Delhi). Developed by: CRIS (Centre for Railway Information Systems), a PSU under Indian Railways. Aimed at streamlining and unifying all passenger services via a single platform. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Key Features All-in-one app: Combines services of IRCTC, UTS, Rail Connect, etc. Services included: Booking of unreserved tickets (with 3% discount) Live train tracking, platform tickets E-catering, porter, tourism, last-mile taxi, and grievance redressal Single sign-on: mPIN/biometric login; integrates UTS and RailConnect credentials. Advantages No need for multiple railway apps — saves device space. Authorised by IRCTC for commercial services (except reserved ticketing). User-friendly design for a better passenger interface. Future-Ready Ticketing Railways is also upgrading its Passenger Reservation System (PRS): Multilingual, scalable system under development. Will support 1.5 lakh bookings/min and 40 lakh enquiries/min. Significance Part of Railways’ digital transformation and passenger-centric governance. Reinforces India’s push for integrated, real-time, and contactless mobility solutions.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 01 July 2025

Content : Bihar SIR: 2003 Electoral Rolls Uploaded on ECI Website Duality discovered in magnetic material could revolutionize design of electronic devices Bihar SIR: 2003 Electoral Rolls Uploaded on ECI Website Why 2003 Roll? 2003 is being used as a reference point for lineage and legacy proof, especially in states like Bihar where documentation is patchy. This addresses documentation challenges in rural/low-literacy populations and migrant families. Who Benefits? Individuals with ancestral voter presence in 2003, especially those without birth certificates or identity proofs, can use parent details from that roll. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Elections -Reforms) Key Highlights Historic Roll Uploaded: ECI uploaded the 2003 Bihar Electoral Roll on voters.eci.gov.in, covering 4.96 crore electors. Document Exemption: These 4.96 crore electors are exempted from submitting any documents during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR)—they only need to verify and submit the Enumeration Form. Benefit to Descendants: Children of these electors can also use the 2003 roll as proof of parentage, needing no additional documents for their mother/father. For New Names: If someone’s name is not in the 2003 roll, they can still use their parent’s entry from 2003 as proof and submit documents only for themselves. Facilitation for BLOs: Hard copies and online versions of the roll have been provided to Booth Level Officers (BLOs) to ensure accessibility and ease during enumeration. Legal & Procedural Basis Mandatory Roll Revision: As per Section 21(2)(a) of the Representation of People Act, 1950 and Rule 25 of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, revision before every election is legally required. Ongoing Revision Practice: ECI has conducted annual revisions (summary & intensive) for 75 years, reflecting the dynamic nature of electoral rolls. Eligibility & Rationale Why Revision?: Rolls change due to deaths, migration, marriage, education, new voters, etc., necessitating regular updates. Elector Criteria: Under Article 326 of the Constitution, an Indian citizen aged 18+ and an ordinary resident of a constituency is eligible to be registered. Policy Perspective Angle Promotes inclusiveness, ease of voter registration, and supports digitization of electoral processes. Balances documentation rigor with accessibility, especially in socio-economically backward regions. Related concepts: Types of Roll Revision: Summary Revision: Annual exercise, usually done between October–January. Intensive Revision: Involves house-to-house verification; done every few years or when required. What is an Electoral Roll? It’s a list of eligible voters in a constituency, maintained by the ECI. Without registration, one cannot vote. Broader Governance Themes Good Governance Transparency & Accessibility: Free public access to the 2003 electoral roll enhances transparency, empowering citizens to verify and claim voter rights. Administrative Efficiency: Reduces workload for electoral officers and simplifies citizen compliance, aligning with Minimum Government, Maximum Governance. Electoral Reforms Ease of Registration: Eases the voter registration process by reducing document burden—an important step in streamlining electoral bureaucracy. Use of Legacy Data: Smart use of historical electoral data reflects an adaptive and data-driven electoral reform model. Inclusive Democracy Reduces Documentation Barrier: Crucial for the marginalized, migrants, and women, many of whom struggle with identity documentation. Inter-generational Inclusion: Allows new voters to register using parent data, strengthening family-linked voter continuity, especially in rural setups. Addressing Potential Criticisms & Challenges 1. Accuracy of 2003 Roll Challenge: The 2003 roll may contain outdated or erroneous entries due to migration, deaths, or duplications. ECI Response: Verification through Enumeration Forms and BLO-level checks can act as a filter to update records and prevent misuse. 2. Digital Divide Challenge: Rural and elderly populations may lack access to the website or digital literacy. ECI Response: Hard copies of the roll are also being distributed to BLOs, ensuring offline accessibility. 3. Privacy & Data Use Concerns Challenge: Publishing legacy rolls online might raise privacy or misuse concerns. ECI Safeguards: Data is limited to essential identifiers, and public access aligns with legal norms for voter transparency. 4. Potential for Political Misuse Challenge: Selective referencing of older rolls might invite allegations of exclusion or manipulation. Safeguard: Uniform access to all, and the right to submit fresh documentation if name not found, maintains fairness. Duality discovered in magnetic material could revolutionize design of electronic devices Scientific Breakthrough: CrSb in Altermagnets What Are Altermagnets? Altermagnets are a newly discovered class of magnetic materials combining the best of: Ferromagnets: Strong, external magnetism (e.g., fridge magnets). Antiferromagnets: Internally magnetic but with no net external magnetism due to cancellation. Unique Trait: Altermagnets appear non-magnetic on the outside but show powerful internal spin behaviors — ideal for advanced applications like spintronics. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology)   Why Chromium Antimonide (CrSb) Is Special Metallic Nature: CrSb conducts electricity like metals. High-Temperature Magnetic Order: Works well above 60°C (more than 2× room temperature) — vital for real-world use. Record-High Spin Splitting: Exhibits 30× room temperature spin-splitting, making it ideal for spintronic manipulation. Spintronic manipulation means controlling the spin direction of electrons to store, process, or transfer data — like turning a tiny compass needle up or down to mean 1 or 0. Newly Discovered Phenomenon: Direction-Dependent Conduction Polarity (DDCP) What’s New? CrSb shows different charge carriers depending on the direction of electric flow: Along layers (in-plane): Conducts via electrons (n-type behavior). Across layers (out-of-plane): Conducts via holes (p-type behavior). Why It’s Rare: Most materials are either n-type or p-type. CrSb is both, depending on direction — a very rare and significant feature. Implication: DDCP challenges traditional semiconductor classification and enables new design paradigms. Practical Applications & Technological Impact Device Simplification Current Approach: Devices like solar cells or thermoelectrics need two materials (n-type & p-type), or complex doping techniques. CrSb’s Advantage: Offers both conduction types in one single crystal — no doping, no heterostructure needed. Doping means adding a small amount of another element(Impurities) to a pure material (like silicon) to change how it conducts electricity. A heterostructure is when you join two or more different materials together, each with different properties. Result: Simplified, more compact, and efficient device design. Next-Gen Spintronics CrSb’s strong spin-splitting makes it ideal for spin-based electronics, which aim to replace charge-based logic. Potential for faster, low-power devices using electron spin rather than electric current. Environmental Benefit Composed of earth-abundant, non-toxic elements — good for sustainable tech and clean electronics manufacturing. Broader Relevance: Science, Policy, and Innovation For Science and Material Research Opens a new field of exploration: materials with intrinsic p/n-type duality. Could inspire the search for other materials with DDCP. For Industry and Technology Could revolutionize semiconductors and thermoelectric materials by reducing dependency on material blending. Promotes cost-effective and scalable manufacturing. For Policy and Governance Aligns with India’s goals in indigenous R&D, Make in India, and green technology. Strengthens India’s leadership in cutting-edge materials science. Challenges & Future Directions Reproducibility & Scalability: Industrial synthesis of high-quality single-crystals like CrSb needs optimization. Integration into Devices: Requires engineering solutions to incorporate direction-sensitive conduction into chip design. Material Stability: Long-term behavior under varying environmental conditions must be studied.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 01 July 2025

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

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 01 July 2025

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

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