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Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 08 July 2025

Content : Fostering a commitment to stop maternal deaths Rising seas, shifting lives and a test of democratic values Batting for prevention Fostering a commitment to stop maternal deaths The Big Picture: Maternal Mortality in India MMR (2019–21): 93 deaths per 1,00,000 live births (SRS data). Trend: Downward trajectory → 103 (2017–19) → 97 (2018–20) → 93 (2019–21). Yet, 93 maternal deaths per lakh live births remain unacceptably high for a growing economy. Definition (WHO-aligned): Maternal death is death during pregnancy or within 42 days of termination, excluding accidental/incidental causes. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Social Issues) Practice Question : Despite significant improvements, maternal mortality remains unacceptably high in many parts of India. Discuss the major reasons behind the persistence of maternal deaths. Suggest a multi-pronged strategy to achieve the SDG target of reducing Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) below 70 by 2030.(250 Words) Inter-State Disparities: India’s Fragmented Maternal Health Map Southern States (Generally Lower MMR) Kerala: 20 (Lowest in India; benchmark state) Tamil Nadu: 49 Andhra Pradesh: 46 Telangana: 45 Karnataka: 63 (Highest among Southern States) Empowered Action Group (EAG) States (High MMR) Assam: 167 (Highest in the country) Madhya Pradesh: 175 Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand: 100–151 range Jharkhand: 51 (Surprisingly lower than average for EAG) Other States Maharashtra: 38 (Performs better than some Southern states) Gujarat: 53 Punjab: 98 Haryana: 106 West Bengal: 109 The “Three Delays” Framework (Deborah Maine Model) Delay in decision to seek care Ignorance about complications → Perception of childbirth as a “natural” process. Gender bias, family neglect, or economic constraints. Illiteracy, patriarchy, and poor women’s autonomy. Solutions: ASHA–ANM networks, women’s SHGs, financial incentives (JSY), community awareness. Delay in reaching a health facility Rural remoteness: forests, islands, hamlets. Lack of public transport or unaffordable private options. Solutions: 108 ambulance service, NHM-supported emergency transport systems. Delay in receiving adequate care at facility Staff absenteeism or lack of trained personnel. Delay in blood transfusion, OT preparation, lab support. Shortage of obstetricians, anaesthetists, paediatricians. 66% specialist vacancies in CHCs; poor FRU functioning. Medical Causes of Maternal Death Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH): Most lethal; caused by uterine atony post-delivery. Severe blood loss + untreated anaemia → shock & death. Solution: Immediate transfusion, uterine artery clamp, uterotonics, suction cannula. Obstructed Labour: Small pelvis of stunted, undernourished adolescent mothers. Can lead to uterine rupture and foetal distress. Solution: Timely Caesarean section by skilled surgeons. Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy (e.g., eclampsia): Often unrecognized → convulsions, coma. Very narrow window to medically control. Unsafe Abortions & Sepsis: Caused by quack practitioners or failure of contraception. Delay in hospital admission and lack of antibiotics cause death. Infections in Home Deliveries: Puerperal sepsis, often due to untrained birth attendants. Co-morbidities in EAG States: Malaria, tuberculosis, chronic UTIs increase risk. Systemic & Infrastructure Gaps Non-functional FRUs (First Referral Units): Required: 4 per 2 million population. Out of 5,491 CHCs, 2,856 designated as FRUs — but many lack: Blood storage units Anaesthetists Round-the-clock OTs Emergency obstetric care Human Resource Crisis: 66% vacancy rate of specialists across CHCs. Inadequate Antenatal Coverage: Missed anaemia detection, nutritional deficiencies go untreated. Late Detection of High-Risk Pregnancies: No routine high-risk pregnancy flagging system in many districts. Best Practices: The Kerala Model MMR of 20 → India’s best performer. Confidential Review of Maternal Deaths: Developed by Dr. V.P. Paily. Data-rich, analytical, and leads to action points. Innovative Practices: Uterine artery clamps, suction cannula for uterine atony. Surveillance for rare causes: amniotic fluid embolism, DIC, hepatic failure. Routine mental health screening for antenatal depression & postpartum psychosis. Comprehensive Audit Culture: Each death studied → individual and systemic learning. Policy Interventions & Missions Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY): Cash incentive scheme to promote institutional deliveries. National Health Mission (NHM): 108 Ambulance, maternal death audits, ASHA training. LaQshya (Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative): Improving safety and hygiene in labour rooms. PM POSHAN & Anemia Mukt Bharat: Tackle nutritional deficiencies among adolescent girls. Midwifery Initiative: Introducing trained nurse-midwives for low-risk deliveries. What States Must Prioritise EAG States: Focus on basic institutional care first. Fill vacancies in CHCs/FRUs. Expand access in tribal and underserved regions. Improve antenatal outreach and anaemia control. Southern + Progressive States (e.g., Maharashtra, Gujarat, Jharkhand): Enhance quality of emergency care (C-section, ICU). Introduce maternal mental health care. Shift from reactive to proactive risk detection. All States: Mandatory maternal death audits with accountability. Local recruitment of specialists via state cadre services. Strengthen referral chains: PHC → CHC → District Hospitals. Way Forward: Zero Preventable Maternal Deaths Maternal death is often preventable, not inevitable. India must treat every maternal death as a public health failure. With political will, community awareness, skilled care, and accountability: India can reduce MMR to <70 by 2030 (SDG 3.1 Target). The goal should not be just safe delivery, but safe motherhood. Rising seas, shifting lives and a test of democratic values Context : Sea-level rise, saline intrusion, and erosion are displacing entire coastal communities. Coastal India faces a dual crisis: ecological destruction + socio-economic dislocation. Displacement hotspots include: Satabhaya (Odisha): Submerged under rising seas; villagers resettled with inadequate livelihood options. Honnavar (Karnataka): Fishing communities uprooted by port and tourism projects. Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu), Kutch (Gujarat), lowlands of Kerala — facing escalating climate threats. Relevance : GS 3(Climate Change ) , GS 2(Social Justice) Practice Question : Rising seas are not only an ecological crisis but also a humanitarian and democratic challenge. Examine the implications of climate-induced displacement on coastal communities in India. How can a rights-based and resilient framework address the emerging socio-economic vulnerabilities?(250 Words) ROOT CAUSES: Development vs Ecology Ecological Degradation by Human Activity Sagarmala Programme, energy corridors, commercial aquaculture accelerating habitat loss. Mangroves, wetlands, dunes — natural buffers against storms and floods — are being cleared. Cumulative environmental impacts are ignored in fragmented project-level assessments. CRZ Notification 2019: A Regulatory Setback Diluted zoning norms allow ports, hotels, and industries in ecologically fragile zones. Environmental clearance regime prioritises “ease of doing business” over environmental justice. Local communities are often excluded from decision-making despite legal rights to consultation. DISPLACEMENT → URBAN VULNERABILITY Displacement Patterns Forced migration to cities like Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad. Migrants absorbed into informal economy: construction sites, domestic work, brick kilns. Vulnerabilities in Cities Lack of legal protection under labour laws (e.g., BOCW Act rarely enforced). Debt bondage due to wage advances. Gendered exploitation: Displaced women face abuse, trafficking risks in domestic work. Absence of social security nets, identity documentation, or urban inclusion. LEGAL AND POLICY GAPS No Legal Recognition of Climate Migrants No specific law addresses slow-onset climate displacement. Article 21 (Right to life and dignity) exists, but no statutory enforcement mechanism for climate-induced displacement. Existing Laws Inadequate Disaster Management Act (2005): Focused on sudden events, not slow-onset sea-level rise. Environment Protection Act (1986), CRZ rules: Limited to conservation, not human displacement. NAPCC/SAPCCs: Recognise vulnerability but lack rehabilitation strategies. Labour Codes: Silent on migrants displaced due to climate change. SUPREME COURT JURISPRUDENCE: RIGHTS + ENVIRONMENT Landmark cases: M.C. Mehta vs Union of India (1987): Environmental protection part of right to life. Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action (1996): Polluters must be held accountable. But… jurisprudence has not translated into community-centric legal frameworks for climate displacement. GRASSROOTS RESISTANCE AND RESILIENCE Community Movements Ennore Creek (Tamil Nadu): Fisherfolk protest Adani port expansion. Save Satabhaya (Odisha): Fight for livelihood and relocation rights. Pattuvam Mangrove Protection (Kerala): Resistance against ecological destruction. Challenges to Environmental Defenders Intimidation, criminalisation, surveillance of activists. Violation of constitutional rights to protest (Article 19(1)(a), 19(1)(b)). MISSING PIECES: What Needs Urgent Attention Recognise Climate-Induced Displacement in Law Amend migration and disaster policies to classify climate migrants. Integrate climate displacement in urban planning and housing policies. Build Legal Protections for Migrant Workers Extend labour law coverage (e.g., BOCW Act, Domestic Workers’ Welfare schemes) to displaced workers. Enforce minimum wage, identity cards, portability of entitlements. Inclusive Coastal Zone Governance Revoke dilution of CRZ norms that exclude communities. Institutionalise prior informed consent and participatory coastal planning. STRUCTURAL STRATEGIES: Way Forward Reimagine Development Along the Coast Shift from port/tourism-centric growth to resilience-based planning. Promote eco-sensitive livelihoods (sustainable fishing, eco-tourism, mangrove protection). Link Climate Action with Labour Rights Align with SDG 8.7: Eliminate forced labour and promote decent work. Integrate climate resilience into skilling missions, especially for displaced youth and women. Strengthen Institutional Capacity Create dedicated cells on climate migration in MoEFCC, MoRD, and MoLE. Ensure climate-sensitive infrastructure in resettlement colonies. GLOBAL PARALLELS & RESPONSIBILITY India must acknowledge climate displacement as a domestic human rights issue. Draw from UN Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement. Lead by example in Global South for rights-based climate adaptation. CONSTITUTIONAL AND DEMOCRATIC TEST Climate displacement is not just an environmental issue — it is a human dignity issue. It tests the soul of Indian democracy: Can the Constitution protect the voiceless? Can development be inclusive and equitable? Protecting displaced coastal communities is a litmus test for India’s commitment to both climate justice and constitutional morality. Batting for prevention Context : Nipah Virus outbreak in Kerala (July 2025) Two confirmed cases in Kerala: Malappuram: Adolescent girl — fatal Palakkad: 38-year-old woman — critical 425 contacts traced across 3 districts: Malappuram: 228 (12 under treatment, 5 in ICU) Palakkad: 110 (1 isolated) Kozhikode: 87 140+ health workers under surveillance Contact tracing, isolation, containment, and treatment are underway; lab results awaited for remaining suspected cases. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance) Practice Question : The recurrence of the Nipah virus outbreak in India underscores the urgent need to institutionalise a “One Health” approach. Critically examine the systemic and ecological gaps that allow zoonotic diseases to emerge. Suggest a comprehensive strategy to prevent such spillovers in the future.(250 Words) WHY NIPAH TRIGGERS HIGH ALERT Extremely high case fatality rate: 40%–75% No vaccine or definitive treatment as of 2025. Airborne and contact transmission potential among humans. History of deadly outbreaks in: West Bengal (2001): 45 deaths out of 66 infections Kerala (2018): 17 deaths out of 19 cases Recurring outbreaks since then THE ZOONOTIC NATURE OF NIPAH Reservoir host: Fruit bats (Pteropus genus) Transmission pathways: Direct contact with bat-contaminated fruits (licked or bitten) Animal-to-human via intermediate hosts (e.g., pigs in Malaysia, 1998) Human-to-human via droplets, contact with body fluids CLIMATE CHANGE & ECOSYSTEM DEGRADATION: ROOT CAUSES Deforestation and habitat destruction → bats migrate closer to human settlements. Urban expansion into forested areas increases human-wildlife contact. Climate change alters bat feeding and migration patterns → changes virus shedding behaviour. Fruit trees near human habitation act as bridges for zoonotic spillover. SYSTEMIC GAPS IN PREVENTION Lack of a centralised, integrated One Health framework. Inadequate public awareness about zoonotic risks from bats. Poor enforcement of wildlife habitat protection laws. Limited disease surveillance in animal populations. Fragmented coordination between health, veterinary, forestry, agriculture departments. THE ONE HEALTH APPROACH: A National Imperative One Health = Integration of human, animal, and environmental health India’s draft National One Health Mission (2021) still lacks full rollout. A robust One Health policy must: Create multi-sectoral task forces at central and state levels. Enable joint surveillance of pathogens in wildlife, livestock, and humans. Institutionalise wildlife–livestock–human interface studies. Promote early warning systems for zoonotic outbreaks. SCIENTIFIC & PUBLIC HEALTH ACTION PLAN A. Surveillance & Preparedness Continuous virus surveillance in bat colonies, livestock, and high-risk regions. Monitor ecological disturbances around human settlements. Develop early detection kits and set up regional genomic surveillance labs. B. Community Awareness Public education on avoiding bat-bitten fruits or partially eaten produce. Training farmers, tribal communities, and children in zoonotic disease prevention. Introduce school-level One Health education modules. C. Biosecurity & Food Safety Regulate fruit markets and pig farming practices in bat-dense areas. Promote safe agricultural practices and discourage bat roosting in residential zones. Surveillance in wet markets and commercial animal chains. LEGAL & POLICY INTERVENTIONS NEEDED Strengthen enforcement of Wildlife Protection Act to preserve bat habitats. Revise Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) rules to include zoonotic risk evaluation. Enact a Zoonotic Diseases Act that mandates: Multi-departmental risk audits Mandatory ecological assessments before land conversion Integrate climate adaptation policies with pandemic preparedness plans. GLOBAL PARALLELS & Scientific Collaboration Learn from Bangladesh (recurrent Nipah outbreaks) — use of bamboo netting over date palm sap. Collaborate with WHO, FAO, OIE to build zoonotic surveillance systems. Fund Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for Nipah-specific antivirals and vaccine R&D. TOWARDS A RESILIENT FUTURE Long-Term Strategy to Prevent Zoonotic Spillover: Institutionalise One Health from panchayat to national level. Invest in research, field epidemiology, and wildlife monitoring. Mainstream zoonotic prevention into climate and development planning. Strengthen health systems to respond to high-fatality emerging diseases. “Preventing the next pandemic begins not in the ICU, but in the forests, fields, and farms of India.”

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 08 July 2025

Content: Women MSMEs still struggle for credit despite schemes Deadly Trail: Tiger Attacks and Shifting Behaviour Myanmar ethnic crisis drives 4,000 Chin people to Mizoram The free fall of moral leadership Record-breaking Heat in Kashmir Women MSMEs still struggle for credit despite schemes Context: Persistent Credit Gaps for Women Entrepreneurs Despite growth in women-led enterprises, access to formal credit remains limited. Women face a ~35% credit gap (SIDBI), higher than the ~20% faced by men. This undermines India’s goal of inclusive and sustainable MSME development. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues) ,GS 3( Banking ,Entrepreneurship ) Disparities in Financial Access In 2024, women held 64% of all PMMY loan accounts, but received only 41% of the sanctioned amount. Reflects a stark disparity between loan access and actual fund disbursement. Women are seen as risky borrowers due to lack of: Collateral/property ownership Credit history Formal business registration Credit Gap & Its Impacts Credit gap = difference between credit sought and credit received. Women entrepreneurs face: 26% affected by inadequate funds High competition Perception bias from formal lenders Leads many to depend on informal sources (riskier, costly). Women in the MSME Sector: Contribution vs Returns Women-led MSMEs = 20% of all MSMEs in India. But: Contribute only 10% of sectoral turnover Receive 11–15% of total investment Reveals low financial efficiency and underutilisation of women’s entrepreneurial potential. Policy Interventions – Mixed Outcomes Successes: PM MUDRA Yojana: Collateral-free loans 4.2 crore+ women accounts in 2024 Udyam Assist Portal: Helped formalise 1.86 crore IMEs, 70.5% women-owned Empowers informal enterprises for priority sector lending Gaps: Women need 4+ bank visits on average vs 2 for men to get a loan. Most schemes fail at implementation stage due to: Lack of awareness Weak support from banks/local agencies Low financial literacy among first-gen rural women entrepreneurs Systemic & Structural Barriers Lack of legal documents, land titles, and credit history locks women out of formal finance. Traditional institutions don’t invest enough in outreach or handholding. Formal lenders prefer asset-backed lending, which women often can’t fulfil. Monetary Policy Leverage RBI’s repo rate cut to 5.50% and CRR reduction infused greater liquidity into the system. Aimed to stimulate credit flow to under-served sectors, but trickle-down to women-led businesses remains weak. IMEs as an Opportunity Informal Micro Enterprises (IMEs), often excluded from formal credit, are women-dominated. Recent formalisation push via Udyam Assist Portal is promising — a gateway to credit inclusion. Needs follow-up with training, awareness, and lender engagement. Policy Recommendations Digitally streamline loan processing for women MSMEs. Incentivise banks to meet gender-specific lending targets. Mandatory reporting on credit disbursed to women-led units under schemes like PMMY. Expand credit guarantee mechanisms specifically for women entrepreneurs. Financial literacy & credit readiness training in Tier 2–3 towns and rural belts. Deadly Trail: Tiger Attacks and Shifting Behaviour Source : Down to Earth Context: Rising Tiger-Human Conflict in India 43 human deaths due to tiger attacks in Jan–June 2025 alone — consistent with 2024 trends. Notable clusters: Chandrapur (Maharashtra): 22 deaths (11 in 17 days in May) Pilibhit (UP): 5 deaths Uttarakhand: 9 deaths Ranthambore (Rajasthan): 3 deaths, incl. forest staff Pattern: Most attacks occurred within 100–500m of forest fringes, often in tiger corridors and buffer zones. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology-Man animal conflict) Are Tigers Turning into Human Predators? In at least 4 cases, partial consumption of human remains observed. Not indicative of tigers becoming habitual human-eaters: Occasional scavenging occurs when carcasses are left unattended. Some old/injured tigers attack humans due to inability to hunt regular prey. Cubs that are orphaned or exposed to human feeding may associate humans with food. Expert Perspectives Anish Andheria (Wildlife Conservation Trust): Habitual human-eating is extremely rare. Krishnendu Basak (Biologist): A tiger needs ~50 kills/year → needs 500 prey animals to survive. If tigers preferred humans, deaths would be in thousands, not dozens. Ullas Karanth: Issue is not “taste for flesh”, but loss of fear due to increased human interaction.   Ecological & Behavioural Shifts 1. Reduced Prey Base In some reserves, depleted natural prey due to habitat fragmentation or competition from livestock. 2. Habituation to Humans Live baiting practices (e.g., Ranthambore’s Arrowhead tigress and cubs) can condition tigers to associate humans with food. 3. Orphaned/Impaired Tigers Example: Arrowhead had bone cancer, couldn’t hunt, leading to unnatural feeding behaviour in her cubs. 4. Expansion of Tiger Habitat into Human Settlements Study in Science (2025): 45% of tiger-occupied areas overlap with 60 million people. Tiger range in India expanded by ~138,200 sq km in last 2 decades. Human Factors Encroachment: Expanding agriculture (e.g., sugarcane fields near reserves) brings humans closer to tiger zones. Forest-based livelihoods: People entering forests for firewood, grazing, etc., increases risk. Delayed rescue/search: Allows tigers to scavenge or revisit kills, raising concern about cannibalistic behaviour. Conservation Policy Challenges Conservation paradox: Success in increasing tiger population is leading to increased human conflict. Poor enforcement of buffer zone management. Lack of awareness among locals about tiger behaviour and safe zones. Policy Recommendations Scientific Prey Base Management: Ensure adequate herbivore populations inside reserves. Discourage dependence on cattle grazing in buffer zones. Ban/Regulate Live Baiting: Such practices can distort natural predatory behaviour in cubs. Improved Surveillance & Early Warning: Use camera traps, drones, AI models to detect tiger presence near villages. Community-Based Tiger Conflict Management: Involve local communities (Van Rakshaks, SHGs) in mitigation, compensation, and awareness drives. Create Safe Livelihood Alternatives: Reduce people’s dependence on forests for fuel/fodder. Promote eco-tourism, agro-forestry, clean energy in fringe villages. Myanmar ethnic crisis drives 4,000 Chin people to Mizoram Context: Fresh Refugee Influx from Myanmar Since July 3, 2025, a new wave of violence between ethnic armed groups in Myanmar’s Chin State has led to ~4,000 refugees crossing into Mizoram. Champhai district, especially Zokhawthar and Vaphai villages, are primary entry and shelter points. Refugees are mostly women and children, sheltering in homes, schools, and community halls. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security-Refugee Crisis), GS 2(International Relations) Trigger: Armed Clash Between Chin Factions Conflict erupted between: Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) and Chinland Defence Force-Hualngoram (CDF-H) Fighting over strategic border zones critical for cross-border trade with India. The CNDF reportedly seized all 8 CDF-H camps after intense gunfire. Broader Conflict Background Both groups are part of the People’s Defence Force (PDF) resisting Myanmar’s military junta that took power in a 2021 coup. Reflects growing fragmentation within Myanmar’s anti-junta resistance, complicating the regional security landscape. Ethnic and Cross-Border Solidarity Chins (Myanmar) and Mizos (India) belong to the wider Zo ethnic community, which also includes Kukis, Zomis, Hmars, Kuki-Chins. Shared ancestry means many refugees have relatives in Mizoram, explaining high local acceptance. Young Mizo Association (YMA) and local residents are providing basic aid, highlighting civil society’s role in humanitarian support. India’s Humanitarian Response Mizoram administration has not forced refugees to return, citing safety concerns. CM Lalduhoma’s political adviser visited the border and reportedly engaged in peace talks with armed group leaders — a rare local-level diplomatic initiative. Existing Refugee Load in Mizoram Over 30,000 refugees (from Myanmar and Bangladesh) are already residing in Mizoram before this new influx. Includes: ~2,000 Kuki-Chins from Bangladesh (since 2022) ~5,000 Kuki-Zo displaced from Manipur (since 2023 ethnic violence) This places immense pressure on local resources, infrastructure, and humanitarian mechanisms. Strategic & Security Implications 510-km India-Myanmar border remains porous, with intermittent armed clashes and transnational ethnic networks. Potential risks: Militant spillover Cross-border arms/drug trade Complications in India’s Act East Policy and border trade Highlights need for a robust Indo-Myanmar border management policy balancing security and humanitarian concerns. Broader Geopolitical Relevance Reflects Myanmar’s failing state capacity post-2021 coup. India’s approach showcases: Soft-border humanitarianism (especially in Northeast) Decentralised refugee response by state governments The delicate balance between strategic autonomy and ethnic solidarity. Policy & Governance Takeaways Need for a formal refugee policy in India (India is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention). Importance of empowering local governance and civil society in border humanitarian crises. Urgent requirement to: Enhance border surveillance Launch livelihood and relief programmes Facilitate inter-governmental coordination (Centre–Mizoram–Myanmar). The free fall of moral leadership Contextual Backdrop Article examines the crisis of moral and democratic leadership amid rising global conflicts (Ukraine war, Gaza crisis, Israel-Iran tensions). Highlights the erosion of principle-based politics, replaced by hegemonic expediency and military coercion. Asserts that the failure of democracies to produce inspiring, accountable leadership has amplified geopolitical instability. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) , GS 4(Ethics – Leadership) Global Leadership Crisis World leaders have prioritized expediency over justice, leading to ambiguity in moral positions. Injustice in West Asia (Gaza, Iran-Israel) continues due to power imbalance, with no global accountability framework. UN Charter and international law have failed to restrain aggressive state behaviour — exemplified by Iraq, Ukraine invasions. Impotence of the Rules-Based Order The illusion of a rules-based global order is shattered by frequent violations of sovereignty and human rights. International law is increasingly sidelined, reduced to a “footnote” by the unchecked ambitions of major powers. Ceasefires brokered by military superpowers, like Trump’s initiative, lack moral legitimacy and sustainability. Call for Justice-Driven Leadership Moral leadership must: Value justice over raw power Uphold international law Protect human dignity Champion the weak and voiceless Leadership should transcend military logic, focusing instead on building global consensus and ending inequalities. Democracy and Leadership: A Normative Model True democratic leadership is: Willing to walk alone for principle Driven by truth, integrity, and inclusiveness About inspiring people and optimizing human potential Firm yet empathetic; decisive yet consultative Moral vacuums breed authoritarianism and loss of public trust in institutions. Philosophical Anchors Karl Marx: Leaders make history under inherited socio-political constraints, not in a vacuum. Chateaubriand: The leader must reflect the spirit of the times, embedding public aspiration in political vision. Highlights the need to restore moral purpose to politics, beyond personal ambition or strategic dominance. India’s Unique Leadership Responsibility India’s Gandhian legacy provides a blueprint for transformative, non-violent, and moral leadership. Guided by “VasudhaivaKutumbakam” (The World is One Family), India must: Assert moral authority in international forums Promote justice-based diplomacy Balance strategic autonomy with ethical responsibility India’s economic, nuclear, and regional strength should serve not just self-interest, but global harmony.  Lessons from Mahatma Gandhi Gandhi’s leadership: Rooted in ethical imagination, not political calculation Aligned personal conduct with national aspiration Embodied the ‘will of the age’ — a moral compass for the oppressed Today’s leaders must emulate Gandhi in mobilising conscience and compassion, not just electoral arithmetic. Needed: Democratic Rejuvenation Current democratic fatigue and social fractures demand: Leaders as symbols of hope and dignity A return to collegiality, modesty, and ethical restraint Political processes that prioritize justice over power play Indian democracy must reclaim moral centrality both internally and globally, especially amidst shifting geopolitical poles. Record-breaking Heat in Kashmir Context : Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 37.8°C on June 29, 1978; July 10, 1946 remains the hottest ever at 38.3°C. Pahalgam saw its highest temperature ever recorded on July 6, 2025 at 31.6°C. June 2025 was the hottest in Kashmir in almost five decades. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology – Climate Change) Kashmir’s Climate Profile Temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summer (June–August): Used to be mild due to western disturbances. Winter (Dec–Feb): Heavy snowfall in mountains, rains in plains. Now: June temperatures have breached 36°C, which is abnormal. Emerging Climate Trends Increase in dry spells; rainfall patterns have changed. Summer temperatures rising ~3°C above normal. Maximum summer temperature hit 37.4°C in 2023, third-highest ever. Days above 35°C are more frequent and prolonged. Hydrological Impact Jhelum river drying in places—significant concern for drinking water, irrigation. Reduced availability of snow-fed water, especially due to: Low winter snowfall Early melting of snow in March Urbanisation as a Driver of Heat Urban heat islands (UHIs) in Jammu and Srinagar: cities are hotter than nearby rural areas. Causes: Loss of vegetation Rapid concretisation Increased vehicular and industrial activity Shrinking green cover and wetlands Feedback Loop of Warming Rising temperatures → more evaporation → drier soils → reduced cooling effect. Both maximum and minimum temperatures consistently high. Hottest Days in Srinagar (IMD Data) Month Top Temperatures June 37.8°C (June 29, 1978), 37.6°C (June 27, 1978) July 38.3°C (July 10, 1946), 37.7°C (July 23, 1978), 37.4°C (July 5, 2005) Key Reasons Behind Abnormal Heat Climate change—global warming raising baseline temperatures. Urban sprawl—trapping heat, reducing moisture, altering microclimates. Reduced snowfall—early melt reduces water availability and summer cooling. Fewer western disturbances—less summer rainfall, more heat accumulation. Expert Views (Faizan Arif, Mukhtar Ahmad) This is not a one-off event; pattern of consistently high temps. Reduced snow has left mountains “bare” even by March. Urban areas lack green infrastructure and thermal regulation capacity. Concerns and Implications Water stress: Early melting & reduced snow mean less water for summer. Agriculture: Higher temperatures and dry spells may reduce yield. Health: Rise in heatstroke and respiratory distress. Ecosystem disruption: Biodiversity loss due to shifting climate zones. Tourism hit: Unbearable heat affects Kashmir’s “cool retreat” appeal.  Policy Takeaways & Recommendations Urban redesign: Green buildings, reflective surfaces, increased vegetation. Water conservation: Snow capture systems, rainwater harvesting. Climate-resilient agriculture: Crop diversification, drought-resistant varieties. Monitoring: Real-time climate sensors, early warning systems. Legal zoning: Curb unregulated urbanisation in ecologically fragile zones.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 07 July 2025

Content : India’s Economic Surge India’s Story on Bridging Inequality India’s Economic Surge India’s Economic Performance (2024–25): A Bird-view Fastest growing major economy: Real GDP grew 6.5%, expected to continue into 2025–26. Global context: Growth amid global slowdown and trade uncertainties. Macro stability: Supported by robust domestic demand, easing inflation, capital market activity, and export growth. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy , Growth) Robust GDP Growth 6.5% real GDP growth in 2024–25; nominal GDP rose 9.9%. India’s GDP tripled in a decade: ₹106.57 lakh crore (2014–15) → ₹331.03 lakh crore (2024–25). Growth driven by: Rural and urban consumption revival Private investment surge High public infrastructure spending Global projections: UN (6.3–6.4%), CII (6.4–6.7%) for 2025–26. Inflation Under Control CPI inflation dropped to 2.82% in May 2025 — lowest since Feb 2019. Food inflation fell to 0.99%, with urban and rural rates nearly identical. RBI outlook: Inflation likely to stay below 4% target due to good crop output and soft global commodity prices. Market Confidence at Record Levels Retail investors: Jumped from 4.9 cr (2019) to 13.2 cr (2024). Booming IPO market: 259 IPOs between Apr–Dec 2024 (↑32.1%) Capital raised: ₹1.54 lakh crore (↑190%) India’s share in global IPOs: 30% (highest worldwide) Stock markets outperformed other emerging economies, indicating investor trust. Strengthening External Sector Foreign Direct Investment FDI inflows: USD 81.04 billion in FY 2024–25 (↑14% YoY). Top sectors: Services (19%) Software & hardware (16%) Trading (8%) Manufacturing FDI up by 18%, services FDI up 40.77%. Foreign Exchange Reserves Reserves at USD 697.9 billion (June 2025) — cover over 11 months of imports. External debt at a healthy 19.1% of GDP. Current Account Balance Q4 surplus: USD 13.5 billion (1.3% of GDP). Full-year CAD contained at 0.6% of GDP, aided by strong services exports and remittances. Manufacturing and Export Momentum Total exports at all-time high: USD 824.9 billion (↑6.01% YoY). Services exports: USD 387.5 billion (↑13.6%) Non-petroleum merchandise exports: USD 374.1 billion (↑6.0%) Strong gains in: IT, consulting, finance Machinery, chemicals, electronics, defence Manufacturing GVA: ₹15.6 lakh crore (2013–14) → ₹27.5 lakh crore (2023–24) Sector’s share stable at ~17.3% Conclusion: India’s Balanced Growth Model High growth + Low inflation = rare macroeconomic stability. Investor confidence at all-time high. Resilient external sector adds global trust. Despite external risks, India is positioned as a pillar of global economic growth with long-term sustainability and inclusive potential. India’s Story on Bridging Inequality India: Among World’s Most Equal Societies India ranks 4th globally in income equality (Gini Index: 25.5), behind Slovak Republic (24.1), Slovenia (24.3), Belarus (24.4). Extreme poverty fell to 2.3% in 2022–23 (from 16.2% in 2011–12). 171 million Indians exited extreme poverty between 2011–2023. Relevance : GS 2(Governance, Welfare)   Understanding Gini Index Measures income inequality on a scale of 0 (perfect equality) to 100 (absolute inequality). India’s 2022 Gini: 25.5, improved from 28.8 in 2011—shows consistent equity gains. Graphically derived from the Lorenz Curve, measuring deviation from perfect equality.   Global Comparison India’s inequality level is lower than China (35.7) and the USA (41.8). India scores better than all G7 & G20 countries (including UK, Germany, France, Canada, Japan). Part of the elite group of ~30 countries in the “moderately low inequality” category (Gini 25–30).   Poverty Reduction = Equality Rise Share of population under $2.15/day fell from 16.2% (2011) to 2.3% (2022–23). Under updated $3/day poverty line: India’s poverty rate stands at 5.3% (2022–23). Urban & rural poverty both sharply declined—reflecting broad-based welfare impact. Key Government Interventions Driving Equality PM Jan Dhan Yojana 55.69 crore accounts (as of June 25, 2025); drives financial inclusion and benefit access. Aadhaar Digital Identity 142 crore+ Aadhaar IDs; ensures authentic targeting of welfare and subsidies. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) ₹3.48 lakh crore in savings by March 2023; plugs leakages, speeds delivery. Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) 41.34 crore Ayushman cards, 32,000+ empanelled hospitals. Special schemes for senior citizens (Ayushman Vay Vandana). 79 crore+ digital health IDs via Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. Stand-Up India ₹62,807 crore disbursed to 2.75 lakh SC/ST & women entrepreneurs. Promotes inclusive entrepreneurship and wealth generation. PMGKAY (Free Food Scheme) 80.67 crore beneficiaries (as of Dec 2024); ensured food security during and after COVID-19. Vishwakarma Yojana 29.95 lakh artisan registrations (as of July 2025); supports traditional livelihoods through credit, training, tools. What Sets India Apart Simultaneous pursuit of economic growth and social justice. Combines digital infrastructure, targeted welfare, and inclusive credit systems. Policies reach the last mile while also empowering self-reliance. Conclusion: A Model for Inclusive Growth India’s Gini score is more than a statistic—it’s a reflection of policy-driven transformation. Equality and development are not opposites but mutually reinforcing. India is now a global benchmark for combining economic scale with social fairness.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 07 July 2025

Content : India’s diplomacy is measured, not mute The new battle challenge of China-Pakistan collusion India’s diplomacy is measured, not mute Diplomatic Response: Cautious, Consistent, Calculated India called for “restraint and de-escalation” amid the 12-day Israel-Iran conflict starting June 13, 2025. PM Modi reaffirmed: “This is not an era of war” — a phrase used previously for Ukraine and Gaza. At the UN General Assembly (2024), India voted in favor of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza — one of 153 nations to do so. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) Practice Question : “India’s diplomatic response to the Israel–Iran conflict reflects a balance between humanitarian principles, strategic autonomy, and national interest.” Critically examine this approach in light of recent developments, including Operation Sindhu and India’s multilateral positions.(250 Words) Humanitarian Evacuation & Soft Power Operation Sindhu (2025): India evacuated 312 citizens, mostly medical students and workers, from Israel and Iran. Previous evacuations: Operation Ajay (2023): 1,300 Indians from Israel. Operation Kaveri (2023): 3,862 from Sudan. Operation Ganga (2022): 22,500 from Ukraine. India’s swift evacuations build its image as a humanitarian first responder and reinforce diplomatic goodwill. India-Israel Relations: Strategic & Defence Heavy Israel is India’s 4th largest defence supplier (after Russia, France, and the US). Major defence imports: Barak-8 missiles, Heron UAVs, Spike anti-tank missiles, and surveillance tech for border areas. Annual bilateral trade: $10.1 billion (2023–24). India is Israel’s largest arms customer, accounting for 41% of Israeli defence exports between 2018–2022 (SIPRI). India-Iran Relations: Energy, Chabahar & Connectivity India imported 23.9 million tonnes of crude oil from Iran in 2018–19, before US sanctions halted trade. Chabahar Port: India has invested over $85 million, with additional $150 million line of credit. Key node in International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), connecting India to Central Asia and Russia. New agreement (2024): India to operate Chabahar for 10 years, signalling deeper strategic investment. Diaspora Considerations: Gulf Sensitivities Over 9 million Indians live in the Gulf and West Asia: UAE: ~3.5 million Saudi Arabia: ~2.6 million Kuwait, Qatar, Oman: ~2.5 million Diaspora remittances from West Asia (2023): $54 billion, over 50% of India’s total remittance inflow. Ensuring regional peace is vital to migrant safety, remittance security, and bilateral goodwill. Energy Security Impact India imports over 85% of its crude oil demand. Any regional escalation drives up Brent crude prices—recent spike to $97/barrel in June 2025 due to Israel-Iran tensions. Even a $10/barrel increase adds $15 billion annually to India’s import bill and raises domestic inflation. Stability in West Asia is thus essential for India’s macroeconomic stability. Multilateral Alignment and India’s Normative Role India balances: Condemning Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack, calling it terrorism. Expressing concern for Palestinian civilian casualties and voting for humanitarian resolutions. India adheres to: UN Charter principles Non-intervention in sovereign affairs Rules-based order, while avoiding ideological alignments. Pakistan Factor and Global Hypocrisy Recent Pahalgam terror attack (June 2025) by Pakistan-backed groups led to India’s Operation Sindoor — limited but precise cross-border retaliation. Despite FATF grey listing in past, Pakistan receives IMF loans ($3 billion, 2023) and arms support from allies due to its geo-strategic location. Western nations continue engagement with Pakistan’s unelected military elite, exposing the double standards on democracy. West Asia’s Nuclear Risks Iran is enriching uranium to 60% purity, just below weapons-grade (per IAEA reports, 2024). Israel, though undeclared, is believed to possess 80–100 nuclear warheads (FAS estimates). A nuclearised West Asia would weaken the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and embolden conflict zones in Africa, South America, and Central Asia. Connectivity & Corridor Projects at Stake India’s IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor) — launched at G20 2023 — passes through Israel and UAE. Israel-Iran instability risks the viability of IMEC, delaying India’s alternative to China’s BRI. INSTC (via Iran) remains vital for Russia-Central Asia trade, especially as India boosts non-Western trade routes post-Ukraine war. Public Opinion and Information War Social media discourse in India often polarised—selective outrage, misinformation, and ideological positioning dominate narratives. Foreign policy cannot be driven by emotion or partisan activism, especially when economic stakes and human lives are involved. Government responses remain non-partisan, fact-based, and principle-driven, resisting pressure from both Left and Right. India as a Bridge Between Blocs India enjoys access to: Israel’s high-tech and defence ecosystem Iran’s energy, ports, and Central Asian access Arab World’s trade, diaspora, and FDI inflows India is uniquely positioned to act as: A mediator or neutral voice in global South-West Asia conflicts. A trusted partner to both the West and Islamic world, due to non-aligned yet assertive foreign policy. Conclusion: Strategic Autonomy Anchored in National Interest India is navigating one of the world’s most volatile regions with clarity, restraint, and strategic focus. It balances: Values (peace, international law) Interests (energy, trade, security) Reputation (as a responsible global actor) India’s quiet diplomacy, backed by credible action and economic weight, underscores its arrival as a leading power in a multipolar world. Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed here are based on the original article published in THE HINDU and do not reflect the official stance of Legacy IAS Academy. This content is provided solely for Academic purposes. The new battle challenge of China-Pakistan collusion Context and Key Trigger Operation Sindoor (May 7–10, 2025): A four-day military confrontation between India and Pakistan in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Historic Shift: For the first time, China acted as a live collusive force, not merely a diplomatic backer of Pakistan, unlike in 1965, 1971, or 1999. Official Confirmation: Lt. Gen. Rahul R. Singh (Deputy COAS) publicly acknowledged China’s “unprecedented battlefield support” to Pakistan. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : “Operation Sindoor marks the emergence of a ‘one-front reinforced war’ scenario for India, with battlefield collusion between China and Pakistan redefining regional security calculus.” Critically analyse the implications of this evolving collusive threat and suggest strategic responses India must undertake.(250 Words) Battlefield Collusion: New-Generation Military Synergy Advanced Chinese Systems Deployed: J-10C Fighters with PL-15 BVR missiles. HQ-9 Air Defence Systems enhancing Pakistani anti-air capability. ISR Integration: China’s ISR infrastructure offered real-time surveillance to Pakistani forces. BeiDou navigation was used for missile guidance and precision targeting. Net-centric & Grey-Zone Warfare: Cyber ops, drone swarms, jamming, and psychological warfare bore the imprint of Chinese military doctrine. Chinese civilian fishing fleets helped monitor Indian naval movement – leveraging dual-use assets. Strategic Interoperability: Practised, Not Symbolic Joint Exercises: Years of Shaheen-series air exercises enabled real-time interoperability. Mixed Platform Integration: Swedish Saab 2000 AEW&C and Chinese radar networks worked in tandem. Signaled the fusion of multi-origin battlefield systems via Chinese integration protocols. Information Warfare & Perception Shaping Chinese Media & Digital Ecosystem: Amplified ISPR propaganda (e.g., false claims of Indian aircraft downing). Portrayed India’s retaliatory actions as “disproportionate”, ignoring the Pahalgam terror context. Narrative Alignment with Pakistan: UNSC Press Statement diluted — no mention of The Resistance Front. Chinese social media ecosystems mirrored Pakistan’s calls for international intervention. Diplomatic Signals and Strategic Silence China’s Diplomatic Posture: Delayed and equivocal condemnation of the Pahalgam attack. Language suggested support for Pakistan’s “security concerns”. India’s Tactical Diplomacy: No high-level outreach to China during or after Sindoor. India instead chose to engage with other UNSC members, isolating China diplomatically. Implications for India’s Strategic Landscape One-Front Reinforced War Reality Not a theoretical two-front war. Instead, a single-front conflict with Pakistan, tactically enhanced by China’s remote but real-time support. Deterrence Complexified Chinese collusion blurs thresholds of conventional escalation. India’s traditional deterrence model faces a layered adversary system. Defence Dependency of Pakistan Post-Sindoor announcements (June 6): Pakistan to acquire J-35 stealth jets, HQ-19 BMD, KJ-500 AEW&C. Cementing its role as China’s primary frontline proxy. China’s Defence Industry Validation Operation Sindoor functioned as a live-fire demonstration for Chinese platforms vs. Western systems. Success may bolster Chinese arms exports and grey-zone ambitions globally. India’s Dual-Front Challenge Eastern Sector (Ladakh): Despite October 2024 disengagement, force deployment continues. Western Sector (LoC): Ceasefire collapse post-Sindoor. India now faces two hostile, active military theatres — demanding dual-front readiness. Strategic Lessons & Required Reorientation Force Modernisation Must Accelerate Decline in defence spending (from 17.1% in 2014–15 to 13% in 2025–26) is misaligned with battlefield needs. India must: Boost ISR, drones, air defence. Invest in network-centric warfare. Enhance jointness and tri-services integration. Diplomatic Reset with China India must reassess China ties in light of collusion. Just as terror and talks can’t coexist with Pakistan, collusion and cooperation can’t coexist with China. Unpredictability in Retaliation Avoid predictable punitive strikes — reduces strategic advantage. Explore covert retaliatory levers: Economic & infrastructure disruptions. Rethink Indus Waters Treaty enforcement. Quiet escalation of SCS engagement or Taiwan signalling. Psychological Resilience & Info-Dominance Develop capacity to counter enemy narrative shaping. Leverage AI-driven counter-propaganda and digital diplomacy. Shield civilian morale from coordinated perception warfare. Conclusion: Redrawing the Strategic Map Operation Sindoor marks a paradigm shift in regional geopolitics. China’s indirect but decisive battlefield presence sets the tone for future India-Pakistan confrontations. India must move beyond reaction to structured adaptation, using Sindoor as: A case study in adversarial convergence. A catalyst for strategic overhaul in deterrence, doctrine, and diplomacy. 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 07 July 2025

Content : Declaration at BRICS summit reflects India’s concerns over terrorism, governance reforms The end of tuberculosis that wasn’t Why are Bihar’s electoral rolls being revised? Environment impact study for Nicobar project downplays earthquake risks AI-Based Warfare in the ‘Agentic’ Age: Energy as a Big Constraining Factor Declaration at BRICS summit reflects India’s concerns over terrorism, governance reforms India used the 17th BRICS Summit (2025) in Rio de Janeiro to spotlight the lack of Global South representation in key global institutions. PM Modi called for reforms in global governance and condemned cross-border terrorism, aligning BRICS with India’s core diplomatic concerns. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Global Governance Reform PM Modi highlighted that 2/3rd of humanity is not adequately represented in 20th-century global institutions. Called for inclusive and credible reforms of international institutions like the UN Security Council. BRICS Declaration reflected support from Russia and China for India and Brazil’s aspirations to join UNSC. Voice of the Global South PM Modi emphasized “double standards” faced by developing nations. Stressed that representation is not just about fairness but also about global decision-making effectiveness. BRICS Expansion Welcomed Indonesia as a new BRICS member, showing the group’s flexibility and relevance in current times. Counter-Terrorism Stand BRICS leaders strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack. Urged for the early finalization of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN level. Acknowledged the threat of cross-border terrorism, aligning with India’s long-standing concern. International Law and Conflict BRICS condemned Israel-U.S. military strikes on Iran, citing violation of international law and the UN Charter. Reaffirmed commitment to peaceful resolution of conflicts through multilateral institutions. BRICS: Basics BRICS is an acronym for five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Founded in 2009 (originally BRIC); South Africa joined in 2010. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE joined in 2024 following the 15th BRICS Summit’s expansion decision Argentina was invited in 2023 but declined membership later. Aimed at promoting multipolarity, global financial reform, and South-South cooperation. Key Focus Areas: economic development, political coordination, multilateral reform, climate change, and sustainable development. Operates via annual summits, a New Development Bank (NDB), and forums on health, education, innovation, etc. BRICS and Global South Global South refers broadly to developing countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceania. BRICS positions itself as a voice for the Global South, challenging Western-dominated institutions. Advocates for equitable global order, fair trade, technology transfer, and decolonization of development finance. Pushes for reform of the UN Security Council, IMF, and World Bank to reflect present-day geopolitical realities. Why Global South Representation Matters   Many global institutions (e.g., UNSC, IMF) were shaped post-WWII and do not reflect current power realities. The Global South houses over 70% of the world’s population but remains underrepresented in global decision-making. PM Modi: “Representation is not just about fairness, but also about the credibility and effectiveness of global institutions.” The end of tuberculosis that wasn’t Background Context By mid-20th century, TB was sharply declining in the US and Europe due to: Improved nutrition, housing, and antibiotics (1950s). Over 90% decline in TB deaths in the US by 1980s. 1972: U.S. Congress ceased direct TB funding, assuming TB was virtually eliminated. But by late 1980s–90s, TB resurfaced globally, even in rich countries. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance , Social Issues) Three Main Drivers of TB Resurgence in Developed Countries HIV/AIDS Epidemic Immunosuppression from HIV reactivated latent TB infections. 1993 US data: HIV-positive patients = 0.5% population but 50% of TB deaths. By 2000, HIV was still a major driver of TB mortality. Lesson: Comorbidity surveillance is vital; TB and HIV must be jointly managed. Drug-Resistant TB (DR-TB) Poor adherence and incomplete treatment caused Multi-Drug Resistant TB (MDR-TB). MDR-TB is costlier, longer to treat, and has a lower success rate. 1990s: TB patients not responding to standard drugs indicated rising resistance. Lesson: Early detection, drug adherence, and drug development pipelines are critical. Migration & Global Movement TB rates among immigrants in the US were 4x higher than native-born population. 1965 Immigration Act led to increased migration from high TB-burden countries. Most TB cases among immigrants were diagnosed within 5 years of arrival. Lesson: Pre-migration screening, early detection, and integration of migrant health are essential. Global Wake-Up Call 1990s data shock: 8 million new TB cases, 3 million deaths annually. Over 2x higher than WHO-reported cases due to underreporting. 1993: WHO declared TB a “Global Health Emergency”. Global health systems realized TB was not a disease of the past, but a persistent, evolving threat. Data-Driven Policy Shifts Granular data revealed patterns (HIV, resistance, migrant origins) behind TB resurgence. Timely data enabled targeted interventions, saving lives. Lesson: Real-time data collection, disease modeling, and open access health databases are indispensable in public health.  Impact Since 2000 TB deaths fell from 2.6 million (2000) → 1.3 million (2022). Major progress due to: Integrated TB-HIV programs. Expansion of DOTS and global financing (e.g., Global Fund). Drug-resistance surveillance and second-line treatment protocols. Relevance for India India remains the highest TB burden country globally. HIV-TB coinfection, DR-TB, urban slums, and internal migration mirror 1990s US conditions. Lessons India can apply: Expand TB-HIV integration across all districts. Ensure universal DST (drug susceptibility testing) for TB cases. Leverage Aadhaar-linked public health records for migrant tracking. Focus on nutrition, housing, and poverty reduction to address root causes. Increase investment in new TB vaccines, diagnostics, and treatment innovation. Policy Takeaways TB control cannot rely solely on medical treatment — it’s also a social, economic, and data governance issue. Early complacency, as seen in 1970s US, can lead to costlier health emergencies. TB requires permanent, integrated, and well-funded public health surveillance. The real enemy is underestimation and invisibility of disease patterns — not just the bacteria. Tuberculosis (TB) Cause: TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs (pulmonary TB), but can impact other organs (extrapulmonary TB). Transmission: Spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Latent vs Active TB: Many carry latent TB without symptoms; it becomes active when the immune system is weakened (e.g., HIV). Global Burden: In 2022, ~10.6 million people fell ill with TB; ~1.3 million died (WHO). India’s Share: India accounts for ~27% of global TB cases — the highest in the world. Drug-Resistant TB: MDR-TB and XDR-TB are difficult to treat due to resistance to standard antibiotics. Treatment: Standard regimen includes 6-month multi-drug therapy (e.g., isoniazid, rifampicin). WHO Goal: End TB epidemic by 2030 under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). India’s Initiative: Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan aims to eliminate TB by 2025, five years ahead of the global target. Why are Bihar’s electoral rolls being revised? Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, the Election Commission has launched a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls to ensure accuracy and eliminate ineligible entries. This comes after two decades marked by urban migration, duplications, and legal challenges over citizenship verification. Relevance : GS 2(Elections – Reforms) Electoral Rolls – Constitutional and Legal Basis Article 324: EC has powers over preparation and control of electoral rolls. Article 326: All citizens aged 18+ are eligible to be registered as electors. Representation of the People Act (RP Act), 1950: Section 16: Non-citizens disqualified. Section 19: Voter must be 18+ and ordinarily resident. Section 20: Defines “ordinarily resident” — excludes property owners not residing there but includes temporary absentees. Section 21: Empowers EC to conduct Special Revisions for valid reasons. Why the SIR in Bihar (2025)? Last SIR in Bihar: 2003. Massive changes in rolls due to urbanisation, migration, and unverified entries. EC aims to ensure only genuine citizens remain on rolls ahead of Assembly elections. Key Features of the 2025 SIR July 1, 2025 as qualifying date. Electors must submit enumeration forms to Booth Level Officers (BLOs). Pre-2003 voters need no new documents, only 2003 roll extract. Post-2003 voters must provide documents proving date & place of birth for self and parents. Major Controversies & Contentions Time and Process Burden Over 8 crore voters to submit forms; 3 crore+ to provide multiple documents. Critics call it a massive and error-prone exercise. Supporters cite 2003 SIR done in 31 days without tech; 2025 SIR has 1L BLOs, 4L volunteers, 1.5L Booth Agents. Aadhaar Exclusion EC excluded Aadhaar from valid documents citing legal disclaimer: not proof of citizenship or birth. Critics argue Aadhaar is omnibus ID for poor; exclusion creates hardship. Form 6 (as per RER 1960) includes Aadhaar, but EC’s SIR guidelines override this with stricter rules. Migrant Workers EC says only “ordinarily resident” citizens should be enrolled in a constituency. Critics argue migrants are “temporarily absent” and still qualify; many prefer voting in native constituencies. EC previously proposed remote voting for migrants (January 2023), but this remains unimplemented. Way Forward – Balanced & Inclusive Approach EC must extend timelines and adopt a phased strategy to avoid exclusion errors. Claims & objections phase should be leveraged to accommodate genuine voters lacking documentation. Aadhaar seeding (revived in March 2025) can be used to check duplicate entries, not as sole proof of eligibility. Treat exclusion of genuine voters as seriously as inclusion of ineligible ones — both harm democracy. Environment impact study for Nicobar project downplays earthquake risks The ₹72,000-crore Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project has raised serious concerns over inadequate seismic risk assessment in a highly geo-dynamic region. Experts warn that the Environmental Impact Assessment downplays the threat of future mega-earthquakes and tsunamis, despite the area’s known vulnerability. Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure , Environment and Ecology) Project Overview Cost: ₹72,000 crore Components: Transshipment port International airport Township development 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant Clearances: Environmental and preliminary forest clearances granted by the Centre. Legal Challenge: National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered a review due to ecological and tribal concerns. Core Concerns Highlighted EIA Study Limitations Conducted by Vimta Labs; based on secondary data. Downplays risk of mega earthquakes (like the 9.2 magnitude quake in 2004). Relies primarily on a 2019 IIT-Kanpur study without conducting site-specific field assessments. Omits critical warnings from the IIT study about accumulated strain and earthquake unpredictability. Seismic Vulnerability The Andaman-Sumatra fault line is known for its history of massive earthquakes. The return period estimated: Mega-quakes (≥ 9): 420–750 years. Large quakes (>7.5): 80–120 years. Earthquake recurrence is non-linear — long silent periods may precede devastating events. Expert Warnings Prof. C.P. Rajendran (NIAS, Bengaluru): GNIP is located in a “highly geo-dynamic” zone with local fault lines and unstable land elevations. Prof. Javed Malik (IIT-Kanpur): Highlights the need for site-specific studies, warning that seismic impacts may vary based on epicentre location (e.g., Nicobar vs. Banda Aceh). Sediment analysis showed 7 tsunami events in the last 8,000 years, indicating seismic volatility. Data Gaps & Omitted Evidence The EIA omits key findings from the IIT study, including: Evidence of strain accumulation. A 2,000-year gap in sediment record, adding unpredictability. No on-ground seismic studies were conducted for GNIP, raising questions about the adequacy of risk assessments. ‘Calculated Risk’ Approach by Government Ministry of Earth Sciences acknowledges the lack of site-specific studies. Admits unpredictability of seismic events. Supports a “calculated risk” model — design buildings to seismic codes but proceed with development. Ecological and Indigenous Concerns Potential for: Massive biodiversity loss. Tree-felling in pristine ecosystems. Disruption to resident indigenous tribes (e.g., Shompen). NGT ordered a reappraisal due to these environmental and social concerns. Strategic Takeaways Strategic location of Nicobar Islands must not blindside planners to environmental and geological fragility. Long-term sustainability and safety require: Robust, site-specific seismic studies. Transparent, multi-disciplinary environmental assessment. Greater involvement of independent scientists, not just private EIA consultants. Nicobar Islands Part of the Andaman & Nicobar Union Territory; located in the southeastern Bay of Bengal. Comprise 22 islands, with Great Nicobar being the largest. Home to ecologically sensitive zones and tribal reserves (e.g., the Shompen tribe). Lies along the Andaman-Sumatra subduction zone, a seismically active fault line. Rich in biodiversity, designated as part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Strategically located near the Malacca Strait, a key global maritime chokepoint. Infrastructure development is restricted due to environmental, tribal, and geological vulnerabilities. AI-Based Warfare in the ‘Agentic’ Age: Energy as a Big Constraining Factor Key Context China’s PLA is advancing rapidly in AI-driven warfare under the umbrella of “intelligentized warfare.” AI is being integrated in all levels of military operations: autonomous drones, smart surveillance, precision targeting, and strategic decision-making. The “agentic” age implies autonomous agents making independent battlefield decisions—redefining traditional command-control hierarchies. Relevance : GS 3(Technology , Internal Security) Concerns for India Technological lag: India is still catching up in autonomous AI systems, while China integrates AI across domains. Energy constraint: AI-powered warfare is data- and energy-intensive, requiring uninterrupted access to power grids and data centers. Infrastructure gap: India’s civilian infrastructure for AI (e.g., energy, data centers, cloud infrastructure) is not at par with leading powers like China or the US. Pakistan Factor: China is exporting its AI-based systems to Pakistan, which could alter the strategic balance in the region. The Nature of AI Warfare AI systems are transforming surveillance, drone warfare, ISR, robotics, and precision-strike capabilities. China’s AI efforts span: DeepSeek AI for autonomous targeting. Swarm drones for saturation attacks. Use of BeiDou for precision navigation. Integration of generative AI and autonomous feedback loops in decision-making marks a shift toward full machine-led warfare. Energy as a Limiting Factor AI systems require massive computational power, data transfer, and energy. India’s energy grid is not optimized for military-grade, 24×7 operations of such systems. Power availability will dictate the scale and sophistication of future defence AI capabilities. Volume of Data: The Real Battlefield “Volume of information to be handled will outstrip human ability.” The ability to store, process, and act on data (with minimal human intervention) is what will differentiate leading military powers. Private Sector & Tech Ecosystem AI warfare will increasingly depend on: Private data centers, energy companies. Advanced semiconductors and cloud robotics. India must invest in civil-military fusion—public-private partnerships to build dual-use infrastructure. India’s Institutional Responses DRDO-CAIR (Centre for AI and Robotics) established in 1986, now tasked with: Autonomous planning. Targeting, detection, sensor fusion. Progress remains slow and siloed. Senior officials acknowledge the need for scale, convergence, and fast-track deployment. Strategic Imperative India must: Scale up AI investments and plug energy gaps. Build AI-ready infrastructure (smart grids, modular reactors). Foster synergy between DRDO, ISRO, academia, and private tech firms. Recognize AI-energy integration as core to future national security. Conclusion Without robust energy and data infrastructure, India risks falling behind in the AI arms race. The future battlefield will be shaped not just by weapons, but by data harnessing and energy resilience. AI warfare is not just about tech superiority—but also about the logistics and ecosystem that powers it.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 05 July 2025

Content: Cooperatives: Building a Better Tomorrow Cooperatives: Building a Better Tomorrow Context & Significance UN declares 2025 as International Year of Cooperatives. Theme for International Day of Cooperatives 2025 (5th July): “Cooperatives Build a Better World”. Celebrates cooperatives as people-centric enterprises solving global challenges and driving UN SDGs. Over 3 million cooperatives globally, employing 280 million people (~10% of global workforce). Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Agriculture) India’s Cooperative Landscape 8.42 lakh cooperative societies in India across sectors: agriculture, dairy, fisheries, credit, housing, women’s welfare. India has a rich pre-colonial history of informal cooperatives like Phads, Bhishies, Chit Funds. Iconic Indian cooperatives: Amul, IFFCO, KRIBHCO, NAFED, NCDC. Key National Highlight Tribhuvan Sahkari University (TSU) foundation stone to be laid by Amit Shah in Anand, Gujarat. India’s first national-level cooperative university. Named after Tribhuvandas Patel, a pioneer of India’s cooperative movement. Major Government Initiatives PACs Reform & Digitalization 67,930 PACS approved for computerization; ₹918.69 cr allocated (States + NABARD). 54,150 PACS onboarded ERP, 43,658 live. Model Bye-Laws adopted by 32 States/UTs. 18,183 new multipurpose societies (Dairy/Fisheries/PACS) registered till Mar 2025. White Revolution 2.0 Launched Dec 2024; targets 50% rise in milk procurement over 5 years. 9,695 Dairy Cooperative Societies registered in 27 States/UTs. Banking Empowerment 32.1 lakh RuPay KCCs issued under cooperative umbrella. 6,446 micro-ATMs distributed; 9,200 dairy PACS made Bank Mitras. UCBs now allowed branch expansion & doorstep banking. RBI approved NUCFDC for UCBs & SSE under NABARD for Rural Co-ops. FPOs & Organics 1,867 FPOs & 70 FFPOs formed under cooperative model. NCOL: 5,185 PACS members; 21 organic products launched under “Bharat Organics”. Fuel & Ethanol Push 188 PACS petrol pumps approved; 59 functional. ₹10,000 cr scheme for sugar mills; 63 ethanol plants to convert to multi-feed (from sugarcane to maize). Financial & Tax Reforms MAT reduced to 15% (from 18.5%) for cooperative societies. IT surcharge cut (from 12% to 7%) for ₹1–10 Cr income range. TDS withdrawal limit raised to ₹3 Cr/year. Cash deposit/loan limit per member raised to ₹2 lakh. ₹46,524 cr tax relief to sugar mills; GST on molasses cut from 28% to 5%. Global & National Milestones National Cooperative Database (NCD): 8.42 lakh societies mapped. National Cooperation Policy 2025 ready, aligns with Viksit Bharat 2047. ICA Global Cooperative Conference 2024 held in Delhi: 3,000+ cooperators participated. NCDC Performance FY 2023–24: ₹60,618.47 cr disbursed (48% growth). FY 2024–25: ₹95,000 cr disbursed (~58% growth). Target: ₹1 lakh cr loan disbursal in next 3 years. ₹2,000 cr bond issuance approved for sector development. Comparative Global Insights Japan: Strong agri-coops integrating production, marketing, and insurance. Kenya: SACCOs dominate credit access for low-income groups. France: Worker cooperatives are central to SME structure. India: World’s largest number of cooperatives, but faces governance and productivity issues. Comparative Metric: India has more co-ops but lower per-unit impact efficiency than some OECD nations. Challenges in India’s Cooperative Sector Political interference in cooperative elections and management. Poor financial literacy and limited tech capacity at grassroots. Weak auditing and transparency in many PACS. Uneven growth across regions — Maharashtra & Gujarat lead, NE and Eastern states lag. Women underrepresented in co-op leadership positions. Success Stories & Case Studies Amul: Global dairy success driven by village-level women cooperatives. SEWA: Women-run coops for health, banking, and garment production in Gujarat. Matsyafed (Kerala): Fishermen cooperatives transforming coastal livelihoods. Sikkim Organic Co-ops: Managing certified organic produce with premium export value. Youth & Start-up Linkages Cooperatives can act as rural incubators for startups in agri-tech, fishery-tech, fintech. Scope for “Youth-led cooperatives” for climate tech, digital skilling, etc. TSU (Tribhuvan Sahkari University) can train next-gen cooperative leaders. Co-op + Startup = scalable, inclusive business models for Tier 2/3 India. Climate & Sustainability Angle Community-led water conservation co-ops in drought-prone regions. Agroforestry cooperatives can earn carbon credits via reforestation. Dairy coops promoting methane-reducing feeding practices. Role in decentralized solar power and renewable energy cooperatives. Digital & Tech Innovations Use of ERP software for PACS digitization. Blockchain for milk and grain supply chain traceability. AI-powered forecasting in farmer coops for price trends and pest control. Cooperative CRMs and e-commerce portals to sell directly to consumers. Policy Asks / Needed Reforms National Cooperative Tribunal for quick dispute resolution. More autonomy in cooperative banking under RBI/NABARD framework. Credit rating system for coops to access institutional finance. Dedicated startup fund for cooperative innovation. Linkages with UN SDGs SDG 1 (No Poverty): Micro-credit & self-help coops. SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Women’s dairy, weaving & finance coops. SDG 8 (Decent Work): Employment via agro-processing and retail. SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities): Housing cooperatives in urban areas. SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption): Organic farming and agro-coops. Impact Measurement Framework Need for impact metrics: e.g., % increase in farmer income, % reduction in loan defaults. Use of NCD portal to develop data-driven policy dashboards. Annual cooperative “report cards” by NITI Aayog or Ministry of Cooperation. Public Awareness & Civic Participation Awareness campaigns needed to promote cooperative values among youth. Mandatory social audits and community reporting for PACS. More visual identity and branding of cooperative products (like Amul model). Use of school curriculums to teach cooperative principles and governance. Conclusion Cooperatives represent a grassroots development model, balancing economic growth with social equity. Their transformation via digitalization, policy support, and diversification is key to rural prosperity. India reaffirms commitment to “Sahkar se Samriddhi” as a cornerstone of inclusive and sustainable growth.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 05 July 2025

Content: Settled semantics Two democracies and the echoes of tyranny Settled semantics Context & Trigger The RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale recently supported the removal of “Secular” and “Socialist” from the Preamble. This statement marks a mainstreaming of what was once a fringe position, giving it political salience ahead of possible constitutional debates. The demand is aimed at undoing the 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976) during the Emergency, which inserted these two terms. Relevance : GS 1(Society) ,GS 2 (Polity & Constitution),GS 4 (Ethics – Constitutional morality) Practice Question : “The real threat to the Constitution is not from the words it carries, but from the values we fail to uphold.”In light of recent calls to remove “Secular” and “Socialist” from the Preamble, critically examine their constitutional relevance and practical significance in contemporary India. (250 words) Historical Background Original Constitution (1950) did not contain the words “secular” or “socialist” in the Preamble. However, the spirit of secularism and socialism was embedded through: Fundamental Rights (Articles 14–18, 25–28), Directive Principles (Articles 38, 39, 46), Equal Citizenship (Article 15), Abolition of untouchability (Article 17). 42nd Amendment, 1976: Indira Gandhi government inserted “Secular” and “Socialist” to explicitly reaffirm these ideals amid rising political and identity-based tensions. Passed during Emergency — often criticized for lack of parliamentary debate and opposition participation. Indian Secularism: Unique Features Not “anti–religion” but equidistant from all religions. Upholds “Sarva Dharma Sambhava” — equal respect to all faiths, rooted in India’s civilisational ethos. Constitutional Practice: No state religion. State can intervene in religious practices to uphold reform (e.g. Sabarimala, Shirur Mutt). Article 25–28 grant freedom of religion with reasonable restrictions. Constitutional Basis: Spirit Over Semantics Constituent Assembly Debates (CAD): K.T. Shah proposed inclusion of these terms; rejected as already implicit. B.R. Ambedkar: Emphasized religious liberty and socio-economic equity through Articles 25–28, and DPSPs. S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994): Supreme Court declared secularism a Basic Structure of the Constitution. Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): The Preamble is amendable, but basic features are non-negotiable. Socialism in Indian Context Not classical Marxism — rather Gandhian + Nehruvian socialism. Indian socialism is “democratic socialism” — aiming for economic justice with democratic freedoms. Implied in DPSPs — Article 39(b): Equitable distribution of wealth and resources. Key Interventions: Public Sector Development post-Independence. Land Reforms and Abolition of Zamindari. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) – a socialistic safety net. Right to Education, Food Security, Health Missions – part of India’s socialist welfare model. Legal & Ethical Concerns in Removing These Terms Basic Structure Doctrine (Keshavananda Bharati Case, 1973) prohibits tampering with core constitutional ideals like: Rule of law Equality Secularism Federalism Removing the words may not change the spirit, but symbolically erode constitutional clarity and national consensus. Ethically: Prioritising divisive semantic debates over actual governance issues like poverty, discrimination, and inequality will not solve nation’s real challenges. Motivation & Criticism of the Debate Debate possibly aimed to: Create political polarisation around national identity. Distract from substantive issues: unemployment, social justice, caste discrimination. Even the Janata Party government (1977), despite opposing the Emergency, did not remove these words. India’s Real Challenges: India’s challenge isn’t two words in the Preamble. It’s the poverty, inequality, discrimination, and identity-based exclusion we haven’t yet defeated. Poverty: 228.9 million Indians below multidimensional poverty line (NITI Aayog 2023). Caste Disparities: SC/STs have 2–3x lower access to higher education, jobs. Unemployment: Youth unemployment remains ~45% in urban India (CMIE, 2024). Wealth Inequality: Top 1% owns 40.1% of India’s wealth (Oxfam, 2024). Comparative Perspective Country Preamble Status Notes  France Liberty, Equality, Fraternity Never removed  USA “We the People…” Symbolically stable  China Removed socialism during reform Part of regime overhaul  India Democratic continuity No regime change; only ideological debate Conclusion: Why the Words Matter These terms act as moral compasses, reminding us of India’s aspirational ideals. Debate around their removal is a semantic distraction, not a legal necessity or policy priority. Real service to the Constitution lies in upholding the spirit of secularism and socialism through action, not erasing symbolic words from the Preamble. India’s unity and prosperity demand inclusive governance, not divisive semantics. 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. Two democracies and the echoes of tyranny Context: Why Now? July 4 is U.S. Independence Day — a moment for reflection on the strength of democratic systems. Judge J. Michael Luttig reminded Americans that liberty must be protected not just by laws, but by people. This global reflection offers a moment to revisit India’s Emergency of 1975–77. Relevance : GS 1 ( Post Indian Independence ), GS 2(Polity and Governance) Practice Question : “The Emergency (1975–77) revealed how legal mechanisms can be used to suppress civil liberties in a democracy. Discuss the constitutional, institutional, and societal lessons India must draw from this episode to strengthen democratic resilience.” (250 words) What Happened in 1975? Declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975. Invoked Article 352 of the Constitution citing “internal disturbance”. Key outcomes: Civil liberties suspended. Press censorship imposed. Preventive arrests under MISA (Maintenance of Internal Security Act). Judiciary deferred to executive decisions. Over 1,00,000 citizens detained during Emergency under MISA and other acts. Sterilisation Drive During Emergency: Key Facts 8.3 million sterilisations in 1976–77 (vs ~2.6 million in 1975–76). Over 6.2 million vasectomies, mainly targeting poor men. Sterilisation quotas assigned to districts; targets ranged from 50,000 to 1 lakh+. Incentives: ₹150 cash, radios, food grains; penalties: denied ration cards, school access. Turkman Gate protests (Delhi): 1000+ homes demolished, police firing caused deaths. Shah Commission (1978) called it a “systematic and legalised violation of civil liberties.” Institutional Lessons Institution Challenge Faced Parliament Functioned with reduced scrutiny Judiciary Upheld suspension of fundamental rights Press Operated under censorship Civil Services Implemented orders, limited space for dissent Key Warnings from the Past H.V. Kamath (1949): Warned against unchecked emergency powers. Justice H.R. Khanna (1976): The lone voice affirming the right to life during Emergency. Scholars argue: the legal path to authoritarianism is subtle — often through constitutional tools. Post-Emergency Reforms 44th Constitutional Amendment (1978): Redefined “internal disturbance” to “armed rebellion” Strengthened safeguards for rights during Emergency Ensured Right to Life (Article 21) remains protected Global Echoes Democracies across the world face pressures: Polarisation Institutional strain Misinformation The Indian experience during the Emergency is often studied globally as a case where democracy was challenged, but ultimately restored through public mandate. Core Message Democracy is more than elections — it is accountability, restraint, and active civic participation. Constitutions offer structure, but citizens, institutions, and a culture of constitutionalism must uphold its values. Vigilance is not a one-time event — it’s a generational duty. Conclusion : India’s democracy remains one of the most vibrant and resilient in the world. But its strength lies not just in documents — but in how we uphold them, every day. 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 05 July 2025

Content : PM Modi hails 35 million diaspora as India’s pride India’s $724 Million WTO Retaliation Notice Against U.S. Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Resumes (2025) Dalai Lama Succession Issue: India’s Neutrality & China’s Warning US 1% Remittance Tax: Limited Impact, But Strategic Signals PM Modi hails 35 million diaspora as India’s pride Strategic Significance of the Indian Diaspora Diaspora as a Strategic Asset: The Indian diaspora — over 35 million people in 200+ countries — is the world’s largest and contributes to India’s soft power, foreign policy, investment inflows, remittances, and cultural exports. PM Modi termed them“Rashtradoots” — ambassadors of Indian civilization. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Identity, Legacy, and Nation Branding: The speech acknowledged the role of diaspora in shaping India’s global image — from yoga and Ayurveda to democracy and technology. Celebrates diasporic success stories as collective pride and global influence tools. Girmitiyas as Civilizational Bridge: Special focus on Girmitiyas — descendants of indentured Indian labourers — as carriers of Indian heritage across the Indian Ocean world. The outreach recognises the historical injustice of indenture and seeks to rebuild ancestral ties with dignity. Major Announcements & Diplomatic Measures OCI Cards for 6th Generation Indians Until now, the OCI Card was limited up to 4th generation descendants of Indian origin. PM Modi’s announcement to grant OCI cards to 6th generation Indians in Trinidad & Tobago marks a paradigm shift in diaspora inclusion. It symbolises legal, emotional, and symbolic reconnection with historical diaspora. Mapping the Girmitiya Past India to create a comprehensive database of: Villages of origin in Bihar, Eastern UP, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, etc. Current diaspora locations (Fiji, Mauritius, Guyana, South Africa, Suriname, etc.) Oral histories, archives, and cultural practices. Plan to institutionalise World Girmitiya Conferences for cultural exchange and research. Digital Public Infrastructure Diplomacy – UPI Rollout Trinidad and Tobago becomes the first Caribbean country to adopt India’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface). Strengthens digital financial diplomacy, enabling seamless cross-border transactions. Facilitates easier remittances, financial inclusion, and builds trust in India’s tech ecosystem. Dimensions of India’s Diaspora Policy Cultural Diplomacy Promotion of Bhojpuri language, Ramleela, Indian festivals, and temples across the Caribbean and Pacific. Establishment of Indian Cultural Centres under ICCR. Celebration of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (January 9) to honour diaspora contributions. Legal & Policy Framework Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card provides: Visa-free travel, rights to own property, educational and economic opportunities (without voting or government jobs). Emigration Act reform (pending) aims to regulate and protect Indian workers abroad. Foreign Policy Leverage Diaspora serves as a foreign policy multiplier in countries like the US, UK, UAE, Canada, and Mauritius. India uses diaspora networks to influence foreign governments, lobby for policies, and deepen people-to-people links. Economic Contributions Remittances to India (2023): $125 billion (highest globally, World Bank) Diaspora investments in India (e.g., bonds, startups, philanthropy) continue to grow. Push for diaspora bond schemes, venture funds, diaspora tourism. Facts & Data Dimension Latest Data (2024–25) Total Indian diaspora 35 million+ (MEA) Remittances (FY 2023–24) $125 billion (World Bank) Top recipient states in India Kerala, UP, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra UPI Global Expansion Accepted in France, UAE, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and now Trinidad & Tobago Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2023 Theme “Diaspora: Reliable Partners for India’s Progress in Amrit Kaal” Caribbean Indian population (Trinidad & Tobago) ~550,000 (≈38% of population) Girmitiya arrivals to Caribbean First ship: Fatel Razack, 1845 to Port of Spain Critical Analysis: Beyond Symbolism Progressive Inclusion: Granting OCI status to 6th generation diaspora sets a global precedent in diaspora reconnection. Digital Diplomacy with Local Impact: UPI is not just tech export, but grassroots-level financial empowerment in T&T. Policy Shift from Remittance to Relationship: Focus is shifting from treating diaspora as economic resource to civilizational partners. Soft Power in a Multipolar World: Leveraging diaspora enhances India’s multipolar engagement, especially in Global South diplomacy. Trinidad and Tobago: Key Facts & India Connect Location: Twin-island nation in the southern Caribbean, near Venezuela. Population: ~1.5 million (2024 est.) Indian-Origin Population: ~550,000 (~38%) — one of the highest proportions in the Western Hemisphere. Language: English (official); Hindi, Bhojpuri spoken in some communities due to Indian heritage. Colonial History: Former British colony; gained independence in 1962. Girmitiya Legacy: First Indian indentured labourers arrived aboard Fatel Razack on May 30, 1845. Most came from Bihar and Eastern UP, speaking Bhojpuri. 2025 marks 180 years since first arrival. Cultural Influence: Hinduism, Ramleela, Phagwa (Holi), Indian cuisine, Bollywood are deeply embedded. Indian Arrival Day (May 30) is a national holiday. Economic Profile: High-income economy due to oil and natural gas. Regional financial hub in the Caribbean. India-T&T Relations: Friendly ties based on culture and people-to-people connect. Hosts an Indian High Commission in Port of Spain. Recently adopted India’s UPI system (first in the Caribbean). Notable Persons of Indian Descent: Kamla Persad-Bissessar – First woman PM (2010–15), of Indian origin. Prominent Indo-Trinidadians in politics, law, and culture. India’s $724 Million WTO Retaliation Notice Against U.S. What Happened? (Issue Overview) India formally notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) on July 3, 2025, that it reserves the right to levy retaliatory tariffs worth $723.75 million on U.S. products. This is in response to U.S. tariffs (25%) on Indian automobiles and parts imposed on March 26, 2025, without consultation. India claims the U.S. measures violate WTO rules (GATT 1994 & Agreement on Safeguards). Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) , GS 3(Indian Economy) Legal Basis: WTO Framework & India’s Rights General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), 1994 Governs global trade in goods. Prohibits arbitrary tariff increases. Agreement on Safeguards (AoS) Mandates consultations (Article 12.3) before invoking protectionist measures. Allows retaliation (Article 8.2) if consultations are skipped and injury is proven. India’s Stand: U.S. failed to notify and consult India under AoS before imposing tariffs. Therefore, India is lawfully invoking Article 8 to suspend equivalent trade concessions. Data-Driven Impact Analysis Metric Value U.S. tariffs target Indian exports of vehicles, light trucks, auto parts Annual Indian exports affected $2.89 billion Estimated duty impact $723.75 million India’s proposed retaliation Equivalent tariffs on U.S. goods worth $724 million Earlier 2025 retaliation proposal $1.91 billion (on U.S. steel & aluminium tariffs) Diplomatic Context: Why It Matters Now Comes at a time when India–U.S. mini trade deal is in final stages. → This action could add pressure on the U.S. or complicate finalization. Sign of India asserting its trade sovereignty more confidently post-COVID and post-Atmanirbhar Bharat era. This follows global trend of: U.S. using tariffs for industrial protection (especially against China and now selectively against allies). India and others increasingly pushing back using WTO norms. Broader Dimensions & Strategic Implications India’s Evolving Trade Strategy From reactive diplomacy to rules-based assertion at WTO. India’s use of Article 8 of AoS indicates legal and strategic maturity. India–U.S. Trade Relations Tensions Persistent irritants: U.S. GSP withdrawal (2019) India’s digital tax (Equalisation Levy) Tariffs on steel, aluminium, and now autos Yet, both nations want closer tech, defence, and services trade. India’s Global Trade Identity India positioning itself as a WTO-compliant, rule-abiding nation while defending domestic industry. Counters Global North’s selective protectionism under “security” or “safeguards” pretexts. Safeguard Measures: A Grey Area? U.S. did not notify WTO that its action is a safeguard — but India treats it as such. Raises critical question: Can powerful nations bypass WTO rules and get away with it? Updated WTO & Trade Context (2024–25) Parameter Latest Update India’s WTO rank (exports) 18th in goods, 8th in services (WTO 2024) U.S.–India bilateral trade (2024) ~$131.84 billion (India’s largest partner) WTO Dispute Cases India is involved in 24 as complainant, 33 as respondent India’s top WTO concerns in 2025 Food security, digital trade norms, subsidy rules WTO’s appellate body Still defunct (due to U.S. block), weakening enforcement Critical Evaluation India’s Stand is Legally Sound: As per WTO norms, non-notified safeguard actions can’t be used to penalise developing countries without consultation. Strategic but Calculated Retaliation: India issues notifications before actual imposition, keeping pressure on the U.S. but leaving room for resolution. Challenges WTO’s Crisis: Raises concern over WTO’s inability to enforce rules on major economies. Undermines multilateralism if such retaliations become routine. WTO Established in 1995, the WTO succeeded GATT (1947) to regulate international trade through a rules-based system. Headquartered in Geneva, it has 164 member countries, covering over 98% of global trade. India is a founding member and an active participant in negotiations, disputes, and developmental coalitions. Key WTO agreements include GATT (goods), GATS (services), TRIPS (IPR), and AoA (agriculture). The Dispute Settlement Mechanism (DSM) allows countries to resolve trade conflicts; however, its Appellate Body is non-functional since 2019 due to U.S. opposition. WTO prohibits arbitrary tariffs but allows safeguards, anti-dumping, and countervailing measures under defined rules. India champions issues like food security, MSP support, TRIPS waivers, and special treatment for developing countries. WTO faces challenges in addressing e-commerce, digital taxation, and global data flows, where consensus is lacking. Multilateralism under strain as bilateral/regional FTAs grow and major powers (e.g., U.S., China) bypass WTO norms. There is a global push for WTO reform—focusing on dispute settlement revival, subsidy rules, and inclusive digital trade frameworks Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Resumes (2025) What Happened? After a 6-year suspension, the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra resumed in 2025, with 750 pilgrims selected from 5,000 applicants via lottery. The yatra had been suspended since 2020 due to: COVID-19 pandemic, The India–China military standoff (Galwan clash, LAC tensions). Resumption follows high-level diplomacy between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping in early 2025. Relevance : GS 1(Culture , Heritage) , GS 2(International Relations) Strategic Significance: Beyond Spirituality Soft Power & Cultural Diplomacy The yatra strengthens India’s civilizational diplomacy, rooted in shared religious and cultural connections. Seen as a civil society bridge amid state-level tensions. India–China Confidence Building The resumption reflects tentative thawing of bilateral ties. Occurs amid wider efforts to restore direct flights, trade talks, and border mechanisms. Geopolitical Optics Routes pass through sensitive border areas (Nathu La, Lipulekh), making the yatra a diplomatic balancing act. Religious & Cultural Dimensions Hindus: Abode of Lord Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, Kartikeya. Lake Manasarovar believed to be formed by Lord Brahma’s mind. Buddhists: Sacred as Mount Meru, a cosmic axis. Maya Devi (Buddha’s mother) said to have visited Manasarovar. Jains: Rishabhadeva, first Tirthankara, attained salvation here. Bon Religion (pre-Buddhist Tibet): Site of cosmic power and pilgrimage. Nature Worshippers: Source of four major rivers — Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Ganga tributaries. Climate Change & Environmental Concerns Warming Tibetan Plateau threatens the region’s fragile ecology: Melting glaciers, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), Thinning permafrost due to infrastructure expansion (rail, road, military). China’s meteorological agencies have raised warnings. UNESCO heritage application (India, 2019) for Indian routes still pending; Chinese side unlikely to open for global scrutiny. Pilgrimage Logistics: Challenges & Realities Altitude: 15,000+ feet; oxygen levels 30% lower than sea level. Routes: Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) – shorter, high-altitude. Nathu La Pass (Sikkim) – longer but motorable. Pilgrims undergo: Rigorous medical tests, Acclimatization, Trek of 52 km (Parikrama/Kora). Cost: ₹3 lakh+ per pilgrim, excluding porter/pony fees (₹12k–₹29k extra). Accompanied by: 2 liaison officers, medical staff, cooks, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) teams. Positive Developments Symbolic peace gesture amid LAC stalemate. Boost to local Tibetan economies reliant on religious tourism. India–China managing “compartmentalised engagement”—cooperation in culture despite border frictions. India–China Relations Lens The yatra’s restart reflects a strategic thaw without full de-escalation. India’s insistence on resuming the yatra also asserts its cultural claims in contested areas. Diplomatic messaging: faith and people-to-people ties cannot be held hostage to geopolitical competition. Dalai Lama Succession Issue: India’s Neutrality & China’s Warning What Happened? The Dalai Lama (89) declared in Dharamshala that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue after him, and that his successor would be identified by the Gaden Phodrang Trust, not Beijing. China responded sharply, asserting that only Beijing can appoint the next Dalai Lama under the Qing-era Golden Urn system. India’s MEA issued a carefully worded neutral statement, distancing itself from earlier support voiced by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju (who later clarified he was speaking as a “devotee”). Relevance : GS 1(Culture , Heritage) ,GS 2(International Relations) India’s Official Position (MEA Statement) “India does not take any position on matters concerning beliefs and practices of religion.” Reiterated its commitment to religious freedom and the rights of communities like the Tibetans in India to practice their faith. India’s Constitutional & Strategic Rationale As a secular democracy, India cannot officially endorse succession in a religious tradition. The stance avoids escalating tensions with China, especially when India–China border disengagement and trade talks are ongoing. It also preserves autonomy for the Tibetan community in India without violating diplomatic protocols. Why Is This Issue Geopolitically Crucial? The Dalai Lama is not just a spiritual figure, but a symbol of Tibetan identity, resistance, and Soft power. China’s insistence on appointing the next Dalai Lama is part of its strategy to control Tibet’s religious institutions. A Beijing-appointed Dalai Lama would undermine the Tibetan exile movement headquartered in India. The succession issue could become a flashpoint in future India–China relations, especially if India hosts or supports an alternate successor. China’s Sensitivity: Why the Strong Reaction? For China, Tibet is a core sovereignty issue and any foreign involvement is labelled as interference in “domestic affairs”. The Dalai Lama’s global influence threatens China’s narrative control over Tibetan identity. China seeks full legitimacy over religious appointments in Tibet (including Panchen Lama). India & the Tibetan Community India has hosted the Dalai Lama in exile since 1959 and is home to over 100,000 Tibetan refugees, mostly in Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand. Dharamshala is the seat of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile (not formally recognised by any country). India allows freedom of religion and assembly, but does not recognise the government-in-exile officially. Dalai Lama Institution: Historical Context The 14th Dalai Lama (Tenzin Gyatso) is the current head of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Reincarnation-based leadership tradition, but: China kidnapped the 11th Panchen Lama and installed its own version. Similar fears exist about the next Dalai Lama being “manufactured” by Beijing. The Golden Urn system, cited by China, was historically resisted by Tibetans and applied selectively. Balancing Tightropes: India’s Diplomatic Strategy India’s Dilemma Balancing Act Host to Tibetan exiles Avoiding formal political recognition Committed to freedoms Not intervening in religious choices Countering China’s rise Avoiding overt confrontation on Tibet Domestic support base Calibrated messaging (e.g., Rijiju’s remark as “devotee”) US 1% Remittance Tax: Limited Impact, But Strategic Signals What Happened? The US Senate and House passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), introducing a 1% tax on remittances sent from the US to other countries. Effective from January 1, 2026. Aimed at non-commercial overseas transfers; primarily affects individuals sending money abroad (especially immigrants). India is among the top recipients of US remittances. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations),GS 3(Indian Economy) How Big is India’s Exposure? Metric Value Total US-India Remittances (2023–24) $32 billion India’s total remittances (2023–24) $155.5 billion Share from the US 20.6% (Biggest contributor) India’s rank among global remittance recipients 1st Impact projection by US think tank ~$500 million loss per year Why the Impact Is Limited Small tax rate (1%) compared to earlier proposals (3.5%–5%). Majority of remittances are “frontloaded” early in fiscal years, before tax kicks in (January 2026). Expat behavior may shift, reducing taxable flows via alternate channels or timings. Overall volume unlikely to drop sharply, given the deep familial and financial ties.   Global & Diaspora Context US-based remitters are largely professionals, H1B visa holders, and Indian-Americans with higher per capita income. Unlike Gulf-based blue-collar workers, the US diaspora is less price-sensitive. Top 5 remittance sources to India (2023–24):  USA – 20.6%  UAE – 19.2%  UK – 10.6%  Saudi Arabia – 6.7%  Singapore – 5.6% Strategic & Policy Dimensions Monetary Impact RBI unlikely to make major policy shifts — remittances still robust. Slight decline in inflows may occur post-2026, but can be absorbed. Legal & Compliance May push remitters to explore non-bank or informal channels, leading to higher compliance risks. India may raise concerns at bilateral or WTO-level if the measure is seen as discriminatory. Diaspora Sentiment Could sour perceptions among NRIs if remittances are penalized, especially during political campaign years. However, India’s US diaspora is economically resilient and likely to continue sending funds. Broader Implications for India–US Economic Ties Comes amid FTA talks between India and the US, though India insists “no deal on deadlines.” Adds complexity to cross-border payments, digital taxation, and diaspora welfare discussions. India may need to negotiate exemptions or compensatory arrangements bilaterally

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 04 July 2025

Content: Breaking Barriers: Gender Budgeting as a Catalyst for Inclusion Breaking Barriers: Gender Budgeting as a Catalyst for Inclusion “Budgets are never gender-neutral. Every rupee spent or not spent reflects a policy choice.” – Diane Elson Gender Budgeting is a policy strategy that integrates a gender perspective into all stages of the budgetary process to ensure public spending addresses the specific needs of women and promotes gender equity. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues ) . GS 3(Budgett ) Fiscal Commitment & Budgetary Trends Gender Budget allocation rose from ₹0.98 lakh crore (2014-15) to ₹4.49 lakh crore (2025-26). Share in total Union Budget increased from 5.46% to 8.86%, reflecting stronger policy prioritization for women. Indicates consistent government intent to embed gender equity into fiscal planning. Evolution of Gender Budgeting in India Year Milestone 2005-06 Gender Budgeting officially adopted with Statement 13 in the Union Budget. 2007 Child Budgeting institutionalized via Statement 12 for child welfare. 2008-09 Ministry of Finance issued Charter for Gender Budget Cells in all Ministries; MoWCD launched Gender Budgeting Scheme for capacity building. 2022 As part of India@75, focus sharpened on optimizing resources for women and children; push for effective GB and child budgeting across States/UTs. 2024-25 Part C introduced in Gender Budget Statement: captures schemes with <30% allocation for women, reflecting inclusive GRB tracking. Structural Framework of India’s Gender Budget  Part A: 100% women-centric schemes (e.g. maternity benefits, women shelters). Part B: Schemes with ≥30% allocation to women (e.g. rural employment, health). Part C (added in 2024-25): Schemes with <30% allocation but with indirect benefits to women. Inclusion of Part C shows move toward comprehensive gender inclusivity across all schemes. Top Ministries Allocating Over 30% to Gender Initiatives (FY 2025–26) Ministry of Women and Child Development – 81.79% Department of Rural Development – 65.76% Department of Food & Public Distribution – 50.92% 10+ ministries now allocate over 30% of their budgets to gender-responsive schemes, signaling mainstreaming of GRB across sectors.   Institutional Mechanisms and Capacity Building Gender Budget Cells set up in Ministries/Departments ensure sectoral integration. Mandatory GBS inclusion ensures transparency and accountability in fiscal documents. MoWCD leads capacity-building through manuals, toolkits, and training workshops. States’ adoption of GRB encourages contextual, decentralized solutions. Use of Technology & Knowledge Platforms Launch of the Gender Budgeting Knowledge Hub (June 2025) as a digital repository. Aims to support policy practitioners, central/state departments, and civil society. Facilitates knowledge-sharing, cross-learning, and improved policy design. Impact-Oriented Shift Focus shifting from input (funds spent) to outcome-based impact assessment. Push for sex-disaggregated data collection aids in monitoring real beneficiaries. Evaluative tools help refine schemes based on effectiveness and reach. Influence on Policy Design GRB has led to emergence of women-centric schemes (e.g. Stand-Up India, Beti Bachao). Existing schemes are being restructured with gender lenses (e.g. MGNREGA, PMAY). Encourages multi-sectoral approaches—health, education, skilling, entrepreneurship. Global Recognition and Comparative Standing Compared favorably with Bangladesh and Rwanda (ORF, 2020) in GRB institutionalization. India stands out for integration at multiple governance levels and policy rigor. However, still evolving on aspects like targeted outcome assessment and intersectional budgeting. Challenges Ahead Quality and reliability of sex-disaggregated data still uneven across ministries. Tokenism risk in low-impact Part C schemes unless accompanied by gender audits. Need for greater convergence with SDG 5 targets (Gender Equality) in planning. Inadequate focus on intra-gender disparities (rural/urban, caste, disabled women). Relevant Data & Facts 15th Finance Commission: ₹5,000 crore allocated (2021–26) for gender-based performance incentives to states. Female LFPR: Rose to 37.0% (2023-24) from 23.3% (2017-18) — reflects impact of women-focused schemes. PMMVY: Over 3.2 crore women received ₹5,000 maternity benefit since 2017. SHGs (NRLM): 9 crore women in 83+ lakh SHGs by March 2024 — key for rural empowerment. Part C Gender Tagging: New in 2024-25 — included schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission and Smart Cities. Global Gender Gap Index 2024: India ranks 127/146; major gaps in economic and political spheres. MKSP: Reached 37 lakh women farmers — integrates gender in agriculture budgeting. Rwanda: Global Best Practice in Gender Budgeting Constitutional Backing: Gender equality and budgeting are legally mandated in Rwanda’s Constitution post-1994. Mandatory Gender Budget Statements (GBS): All ministries must submit GBS alongside annual budgets. Independent Gender Monitoring Office (GMO): Monitors compliance and evaluates outcomes across sectors. Sector-Specific Gender Indicators: Each ministry uses tailored indicators (e.g. in health, education, agriculture). Gender-Responsive Guidelines: Ministry of Finance issues GRPB Guidelines to standardize practices. High Political Representation: 64% of MPs are women—world’s highest female parliamentary presence. Outcome-Driven Allocation: Over 40% of Rwanda’s budget contributes directly to gender equality outcomes. Women’s Land Ownership: Rose from 10% (2000) to 26% (2020) through gender-focused land reforms. Health Impact: Maternal mortality dropped by 70% (2000–2020) due to targeted investments. Global Model: Rwanda shows how legal mandates + monitoring + outcome tracking make GRB effective, not symbolic. Indian Case Study – Odisha & Kerala’s GRB Models Odisha was the first state to adopt a Gender Budgeting Mission (2020) with technical support from UN Women. Integrated gender budgeting in the state budget circular; departments submit Gender Budget Statements annually. Developed sector-specific Gender Budget Guidelines and linked them with outcome budgets. Kerala institutionalized GRB through its State Planning Board and local governments (Panchayats) since early 2000s. Kerala’s GRB initiatives led to women-centric micro plans in health, livelihoods, and care economy (e.g. Kudumbashree). Legal Linkages – Constitution & Gender Budgeting Article 14: Guarantees equality before law — GRB ensures equitable access to state resources. Article 15(3): Permits special provisions for women and children — the basis for targeted budgetary support. Article 39(a): Calls for equal right to adequate means of livelihood for men and women. Article 39(d): Advocates for equal pay for equal work — relevant to employment-linked schemes. Article 42: Directs the state to ensure maternity relief — implemented through schemes like PMMVY under Gender Budget. SDG Mapping – Gender Budget & Global Goals SDG 5 (Gender Equality): GRB helps achieve targets like ending discrimination (5.1) and leadership participation (5.5). SDG 1 (No Poverty): Women-focused schemes (e.g. NRLM, DBT) directly tackle feminized poverty. SDG 8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth): Supports women’s access to employment, credit, and skill training. SDG 5.a: Ensures women’s equal access to economic assets like land and finance — aligned with SHG and MKSP goals. GRB also supports cross-cutting SDGs like health (SDG 3), education (SDG 4), and water (SDG 6). Evaluation – CAG, NITI Aayog & UN Women Findings CAG (2022) noted gaps in coordination between ministries and Gender Budget Cells; suggested better monitoring. NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index includes a Gender Equality Index, which shows uneven GRB adoption across states. UN Women (2021) found that while allocations rose, impact tracking and beneficiary targeting remain weak. Studies highlight that many ministries still treat GRB as a formality, not linked to outcome budgeting. Recommendations include strengthening sex-disaggregated data and conducting regular gender audits of schemes. Way Forward Integrate GRB into mid-term expenditure frameworks (MTEF) for long-term impact. Institutionalize Gender Outcome Budgets beyond just input tracking. Use gender audits and social audits for real-time monitoring and accountability. Leverage data tools (AI/ML) for predictive analytics and scheme targeting.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 04 July 2025

Content : Socialism, secularism are the spirit of the Constitution Opening new doors for Parliament’s library service Socialism, secularism are the spirit of the Constitution The Constitution: More than a Legal Text The Indian Constitution reflects not only a legal framework but also a vision shaped by the country’s socio-political evolution. Values like justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity indicate a commitment to inclusion and pluralism. These ideals are embedded across the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles. Relevance : GS 2(Polity , Constitution , Governance) Practice Question : “Secularism and socialism are not just words in the Preamble but foundational values embedded in the Indian constitutional framework.”Critically examine this statement in the context of recent debates on their relevance. (250 words) Understanding the 42nd Amendment (1976) The terms “socialist” and “secular” were added to the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment during the Emergency period. However, the underlying principles already existed in constitutional provisions: Preamble (pre-1976): justice (social, economic, political), liberty, equality, and fraternity. Articles 14–16: Equality before law and non-discrimination. Articles 25–28: Religious freedom. Articles 38–43: Socio-economic justice under Directive Principles. Socialism as a Constitutional Principle In the Indian context, socialism implies inclusive development, equitable distribution, and a welfare-oriented state. Institutionalized through: Preamble: Justice—social, economic, and political. DPSPs: Articles 38, 39, 41–43 focus on distributive justice, right to work, education, and livelihood. Guided the formulation of welfare schemes, land reforms, and affirmative policies. Secularism: Equal Respect for All Faiths Indian secularism promotes religious freedom and equality rather than strict separation of religion and state. Enshrined in: Articles 25–28: Freedom of religion, regulation of religious institutions. Articles 29–30: Cultural and educational rights of minorities. Courts have interpreted secularism as a core constitutional value, ensuring non-discriminatory governance. Basic Structure Doctrine Established in Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973): Parliament cannot amend the Constitution in a way that alters its fundamental identity. Principles like secularism, democracy, and equality are considered part of this basic structure. Later amendments, including the 42nd, were valid to the extent that they reinforced, not altered, these foundational values. Ambedkar’s Constitutional Vision Dr. B.R. Ambedkar emphasized liberty, equality, and fraternity as essential pillars of the Indian Republic. He viewed social and economic equality as critical to democratic success. His vision aligns with the constitutional safeguards provided for both economic justice and religious freedom. Contemporary Debates and Constitutional Continuity Discussions around the relevance of terms in the Preamble (e.g., secularism, socialism) have emerged in public discourse. Any such review must consider the Constitution’s holistic character, judicial interpretations, and the continuity of core values. Provisions related to equality, religious freedom, and socio-economic justice remain unchanged and enforceable, regardless of terminological inclusion. Impact on Governance and Policy Frameworks The principles of secularism and socialism influence policy design in areas like: Public welfare (education, health, livelihoods). Religious harmony and cultural rights. Altering these core principles may affect the interpretive lens through which future laws and schemes are framed. Global Constitutional Comparisons Many democratic constitutions (e.g., South Africa, Brazil) emphasize social justice, equality, and pluralism. India’s inclusion of similar principles aligns with postcolonial constitutional developments globally. These values promote inclusive governance and rights-based frameworks. Case Law Insights Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973) Introduced the Basic Structure Doctrine — Parliament cannot amend the Constitution to alter its essential character. Although socialism and secularism were added to the Preamble later (1976), the judgment pre-validated their inclusion as part of the Constitution’s spirit. Recognized liberty, equality, and justice as non-negotiable core principles. Key Quote: “The basic structure may include supremacy of the Constitution, republican and democratic form of government, secular character, separation of powers, and federal character.” S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994) Supreme Court ruled that secularism is a part of the Constitution’s basic structure. Held that religious favoritism by the State violates the Constitution. Allowed judicial review of State actions that undermine secularism. Political parties in power are also bound to uphold secular governance. Landmark for establishing positive secularism: state must protect all religions equally, not just remain neutral. Article Linkages to Socialism & Secularism Articles 14–16: Equality and Non-discrimination Art. 14: Equality before law — core of both socialism (equal access) and secularism (equal treatment irrespective of religion). Art. 15: Prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. Art. 16: Ensures equality of opportunity in public employment — vital to socio-economic justice. Articles 25–30: Religious and Cultural Rights Art. 25: Freedom of conscience and right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion. Art. 26–28: Regulate religious institutions, ensure religious freedom without state endorsement. Art. 29–30: Minority rights — protect cultural and educational autonomy. These provisions give substance to secularism as state neutrality + positive protection. Articles 38–43: Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) Art. 38: Promote welfare of the people by securing social, economic and political justice. Art. 39: Equitable distribution of resources; prevent concentration of wealth — reflects socialist ideals. Art. 41–43: Right to work, education, public assistance, living wage — core to India’s welfare state model. Preamble: Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity Though secularism and socialism were inserted in 1976, the spirit of these values is embedded since 1950. “Justice—social, economic and political” is the clearest socialist expression. “Liberty of belief, faith and worship” reinforces secular values even before the term was added. Key Reports and Commissions Sarkaria Commission (1983–1988) Set up to review Centre-State relations. Firmly upheld secularism as a basic structure and a shared constitutional commitment. Stated that states cannot adopt policies that violate secularism, and the Centre has the power to intervene under Article 356 if communalism threatens national unity. Recommended a balanced role of Centre to prevent misuse of religion in politics. National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (NCRWC, 2002) Reaffirmed that secularism and socialism are intrinsic to the basic structure. Rejected any suggestion to remove these words from the Preamble. Advocated for greater awareness and enforcement of secular and socialist provisions. Stressed that Indian secularism is not anti-religion but pluralist and inclusive. Conclusion: Preserving Constitutional Balance The Indian Constitution is a living document that evolves through amendments, judicial interpretation, and democratic practice. The continued relevance of secularism and socialism lies in their ability to guide equitable and inclusive governance. Any change to foundational concepts must be approached with constitutional sensitivity, historical awareness, and broad societal consensus. Opening new doors for Parliament’s library service Parliament: More Than a Political Arena Parliament is not just a site of political contestation—it is the core platform for deliberation, lawmaking, and accountability. Increasing disruptions and polarization in recent years have weakened the analytical depth of debates, with many MPs relying on political aides or party-prepared talking points. Relevance : GS 2(Polity and Governance) ,GS 3(Research and Development) Practice Question : “Strengthening institutional research within Parliament is essential for informed lawmaking and democratic accountability.” Discuss the limitations of existing research support to Indian legislators and suggest measures to make LARRDIS a world-class parliamentary research service. (250 words) Current State of LARRDIS: Functional but Limited LARRDIS (Library and Reference, Research, Documentation and Information Service) has strong archival capabilities and prompt response mechanisms. Yet it remains reactive, siloed, and underutilized—MPs must requisition information, and few use its full potential. Digitisation has helped, but lack of anticipatory research and trend analysis limits impact on complex policy debates. Underutilization and Gaps Despite being one of India’s top libraries, usage is skewed—research scholars use it more than MPs. Out of 800 MPs, only 40–50 use LAMP Fellows, while others rely on aides or consultants who may lack domain expertise. Inputs are often partisan or superficial, eroding evidence-based lawmaking. Global Best Practices: Learning from Others EPRS (EU): Tracks global trends, publishes policy digests and “Cost of Non-Europe” assessments. Argentina (OCAL), France (OPECST), Mexico (INCyTU): Build science-policy bridges through collaborations with experts. Sweden’s RIFO and Egypt’s embedded scholar model facilitate long-term research-policy integration. These models combine neutrality, academic rigour, public access, and responsiveness. India’s Opportunity: From LARRDIS to a Research Powerhouse With rising complexities—AI, biotechnology, climate change—India needs legislative intelligence that’s future-ready. LARRDIS should partner with: IITs, IIMs, policy schools, think tanks for thematic studies. International bodies (UNDP, OECD, World Bank) for cross-border learning. Embedding subject experts and sectoral analysts in committees could strengthen draft legislation. Institutional Reforms Needed Define LARRDIS’s scope, services, turnaround times, and user eligibility. Establish confidentiality protocols to enable sensitive research for MPs without leaks. Formalize a structure for collaborations with academic institutions and civil society. Why It Matters: Long-Term Payoffs Investing in research capacity is not a luxury—it’s essential democratic infrastructure. A reformed LARRDIS would: Reduce information asymmetry between legislature and executive. Improve the quality and credibility of parliamentary debates. Enhance public trust in legislative outcomes. A Way Forward: Phased, Consultative, and Scalable Begin with pilot collaborations in committees (e.g. Science & Technology, Environment). Build knowledge-sharing platforms (like EPRS’s online database). Train MPs and staff in evidence-based research utilization. Parliament and the People LARRDIS’s future isn’t just about lawmakers—it can serve citizens, media, and civil society. Making some outputs public—like research briefs and explanatory notes—could democratize understanding of laws and bills. Conclusion: Research-Led Parliament is the Future As India aspires to be a knowledge-driven economy and polity, a world-class research arm for Parliament is non-negotiable. A dynamic, proactive LARRDIS can revive substantive debate, policy foresight, and informed legislation—core to the constitutional promise of “We the People.”

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