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Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 30 June 2025

Content : Ahead of Census, States asked to lock changes in boundaries before Dec. 31 The forced sterilisations of Emergency Why is the ECI de-listing political parties? Why did Axiom-4 need 28 hours to reach the ISS? Airlines are not reporting misconduct of passengers, says aviation watchdog At ISS, Shukla takes up experiment on skeletal muscle degradation in space Noble rot, the alchemist of wines, is setting fungal biology abuzz Ahead of Census, States asked to lock changes in boundaries before Dec. 31 Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Census 2027 Phase 1 – Key Details Timeline & Scope: Phase 1, i.e., House Listing & Housing Census, is tentatively scheduled to begin April 1, 2026. It will cover all States and UTs in a phased manner, ideally between April and September. Digital Census – First Ever: This will be India’s first digital Census. Enumerators will use mobile apps/tablets instead of traditional paper-based forms, aiming for real-time, geo-tagged data collection. Coordination & Human Resources: The Registrar General of India (RGI) is coordinating closely with State governments. 1.3 lakh Census functionaries will be deployed for the House Listing and Housing Schedule. Use of 2021 Enumeration Blocks (EBs): 24 lakh Enumeration Blocks (EBs), originally finalized for the postponed 2021 Census, will be reused. Each EB typically covers 150–180 households or 650–800 individuals. What is Done in House Listing Phase: Each house/building/public space is assigned a unique census number. Information collected includes: Building type and material Drinking water source Sanitation facility Electricity availability Use of the building (residential, commercial, vacant, etc.) Observations and Challenges Delayed but Digitally Upgraded Census: Originally slated for 2021, Census was delayed due to COVID-19. 2027 Census marks a transformational shift in methodology through digitization. Advantages of Going Digital: Faster data processing and dissemination. Reduction in manual errors and paper waste. Facilitates geo-tagging and real-time supervision. Challenges Ahead: Training over 1 lakh functionaries in using digital tools may be resource- and time-intensive. Digital divide and technological readiness in remote/rural areas could be a hurdle. Data privacy and security concerns will need to be addressed robustly. Reuse of 2021 EBs – Efficient but Risky: Ensures continuity and saves preparatory time. But urban expansion, migration, and demographic shifts since 2021 may render some EBs outdated, affecting accuracy. Census in India: Background Legal Basis: Conducted under the Census Act of 1948, which provides the framework for population enumeration and protects the confidentiality of individual data. Conducting Authority: Managed by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India under the Ministry of Home Affairs. First Census: The first synchronous census of India was conducted in 1881 during British rule under W.C. Plowden. Decennial Exercise: Held every 10 years, with the most recent completed in 2011. The 2021 Census has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other administrative reasons. Two Phases: House-listing & Housing Census: Collects information about buildings, amenities, and households. Population Enumeration: Collects demographic, social, and economic data on individuals. Digital Transition: The upcoming Census (2027, with first phase in 2026) will be conducted digitally for the first time using mobile apps and real-time data entry. Enumerators: Data is collected by over 1.3 lakh trained census functionaries, often drawn from the local government workforce like teachers. The forced sterilisations of Emergency Background and Policy Origins The campaign occurred during the National Emergency (1975–77), under India’s broader population control efforts. It was part of India’s National Family Planning Programme, which had historically supported voluntary sterilisation as a method of birth control. The policy was influenced by global support for population control, including from organizations such as the Ford Foundation, World Bank, and IMF. Relevance : GS 1(Post Independence) Scale and Statistics A significant increase in sterilisation numbers was recorded: 1975: Approx. 1.3 million vasectomies 1976: Approx. 2.6 million 1977: Total sterilisation procedures rose to approx. 8.3 million (both male and female) The highest concentration of procedures occurred in northern Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. Many enumerated figures were documented in studies by researchers such as Pai Panandiker and K.G. Jolly. Implementation and Methods Enumeration and sterilisation drives were conducted across urban and rural areas. Field-level functionaries — including local officials, teachers, health workers, and law enforcement — were involved in implementation. Measures to encourage participation included: Incentives: monetary compensation, food grains, or job-related benefits. Administrative pressure: In some areas, compliance became linked to access to government schemes and services. Reported Outcomes According to the Shah Commission of Inquiry: 1,778 deaths were reported due to sterilisation procedures. Instances of coercion and procedural irregularities were noted. In some areas, public protests and legal actions were recorded in response to specific incidents. Comparative Global Context India was not alone; other countries also implemented population control policies during the 20th century: United States: ~60,000 people sterilised under state eugenics laws (1907–1979). Sweden: ~63,000 sterilised under public health policies (1935–1976). Germany: ~400,000 sterilisations under the 1933 law on “genetic health”. Peru (1990s): ~3,00,000 people, mostly rural women, sterilised under family planning drives. China: Under the One-Child Policy, sterilisation was widely practiced to control population growth. Public Memory and Long-Term Impact In India, the 1975–77 sterilisation drive became a notable event in the history of public health administration and governance during the Emergency. It is often discussed in relation to: The evolution of health rights The balance between population control and individual consent The need for procedural safeguards in public health interventions. Why is the ECI de-listing political parties? Legal and Functional Framework Right to Form Parties: Forming political associations is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(c) of the Indian Constitution. Registration Process (Section 29A, RP Act, 1951): Parties must submit a memorandum/constitution within 30 days of formation. Must affirm allegiance to the Constitution of India, socialism, secularism, democracy, and national unity and integrity. ECI verifies provisions for internal democracy, including periodic elections for office bearers, before granting registration. Definition of RUPPs: Parties that are registered with ECI but not recognised as State or National Parties due to non-fulfilment of performance criteria (votes/seats). Relevance : GS 2(Polity, Elections) Current Status of RUPPs (as of May 2025) Total RUPPs: Over 2,800. Contested in 2024 General Elections: Approx. 750. De-listed and Inactive (by ECI): 281 de-listed RUPPs 217 marked inactive (no updated office bearer data since 2014) Recent ECI Action (2024–2025) De-listing 345 RUPPs: These parties have not contested any election since 2019. Their offices were found to be non-existent or untraceable. ECI has instructed Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to issue show-cause notices before final action. Objective: Prevent misuse of benefits such as income tax exemption, common election symbols, and star campaigner status. Statutory Obligations and Benefits of RUPPs Under Representation of the People Act (RP Act), 1951: RUPPs must submit details of donors contributing above ₹20,000 annually. Must maintain transparency in internal elections and financial disclosures. Under Income Tax Act, 1961: Tax exemptions under Section 13A. Donations above ₹2,000 must be via banking channels (no cash). Failure to file returns or donor lists may result in loss of tax benefits. Operational Advantages: Eligibility for common electoral symbol. Can nominate 20 star campaigners during elections. Legal Limitations & Reform Suggestions Supreme Court Ruling (2002): In Indian National Congress v. Institute of Social Welfare, the Court held that ECI cannot de-register a party unless: Registration was obtained by fraud. Party has ceased allegiance to the Indian Constitution. Party is declared unlawful by the Government. Pending Reform Proposals: Law Commission Report (255th, 2015): Suggests de-registration of parties inactive for 10 consecutive years. ECI’s Electoral Reform Memo (2016): Recommends amendments to RP Act to empower de-registration for non-compliance or inactivity. Issue of Inner-Party Democracy: Many parties do not conduct regular internal elections. Law Commission (170th & 255th reports) advocates legal provisions to enforce inner-party democracy. Broader Context and Implications “Letter Pad Parties”: Term used for parties that exist only on paper but do not engage in electoral activity. Risks: misuse of legal and financial privileges, opaque donations, and regulatory burden on ECI. Significance of Current Exercise: Enhances transparency, reduces compliance gaps, and supports genuine political participation. May serve as a precursor to long-term legislative reforms to streamline political party accountability. Why did Axiom-4 need 28 hours to reach the ISS? Context : Mission Overview: Axiom-4 is a private crewed space mission to the International Space Station (ISS), organized by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and using SpaceX’s Dragon crew capsule. Launched on June 25 from NASA’s Florida spaceport aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. Relevance : GS 3(Space , Technology) Indian Representation: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force officer, is part of the crew — marking his first spaceflight and a significant milestone for India’s global space presence.   Orbit and Pre-Docking Sequence Initial Orbit and Speed: After separation from the Falcon 9, Dragon entered a low elliptical parking orbit ~200 km above Earth, traveling at approx. 27,000 km/h. This orbit allowed the capsule to gradually phase and align with the ISS, which orbits ~400 km above Earth. Orbital Mechanics: Rather than flying “upward,” Dragon had to match the ISS’s orbit both in altitude and horizontal velocity. Like two cars merging on a curved highway, Dragon needed precise speed and timing adjustments. Docking Profile and Safety Protocols Duration & Orbits: The docking approach followed a 28-hour profile, completing ~18 orbits before docking. Step-by-Step Docking Process: Dragon aligned into a designated approach ‘corridor’ when ~30 km from the ISS. Docking involved progressive slowing, with mandatory hold points at: 400 m, 220 m, 20 m, and 1 m. At each point, the crew (including Group Capt. Shukla, the designated mission pilot) performed: Go/no-go checks LIDAR system verifications Abort Protocols: A single faulty sensor or system alert would have required Dragon to abort and retreat safely via a pre-set escape path. Deliberate Pacing: These safety steps intentionally extended the final approach time, prioritizing crew and ISS safety. Operational Advantages and Crew Readiness Use of SpaceX’s Dragon Capsule: Known for reliability, automated navigation, and reusability. Allowed for a conservative, fuel-rich approach profile, enhancing mission safety and flexibility. Crew Well-being: The slower approach gave the crew time for: System check-outs Rest and meals Final mission prep before docking Broader Significance Technical Excellence: Demonstrates advanced international cooperation in human spaceflight. Highlights the growing role of private aerospace firms in low-Earth orbit missions. India’s Emerging Role: Group Capt. Shukla’s inclusion reflects India’s deepening engagement with global human spaceflight programs. Airlines are not reporting misconduct of passengers, says aviation watchdog Core Concern The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) observed that many airlines: Delayed reporting incidents of unruly passenger behaviour. In some cases, did not report such incidents at all. Unruly behaviour is being flagged as a growing safety concern for passengers, crew, and overall flight operations. Relevance : GS 2( Governance, Policy, and Administration) Revised Reporting Guidelines Airlines must: Report incidents via email within 12 hours to the Chief of Flight Safety or Director of Cabin Safety. Submit detailed information within 24 hours of flight landing to DGCA. Applicable to: All scheduled and non-scheduled operators, including those with cabin crew on board. Operational Responsibility Pilots, cabin crew, and in-flight service directors are reminded of obligations under: Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) relating to unruly passengers. Earlier circulars emphasized vigilance and timely action in handling in-flight misconduct. Nature of Incidents Reported The advisory follows several types of serious onboard incidents, including: Alcohol-induced aggression Passenger scuffles after verbal disputes Sexual harassment of co-passengers Actions compromising flight safety Regulatory and Legal Measures As per DGCA guidelines (2017): Airlines must refer complaints to an Internal Committee. The committee must: Complete its review within 30 days. Decide on ban duration for the offending passenger. While the inquiry is pending, the airline can impose a temporary ban. Repeat offences: Penalty duration will be twice that of the previous ban. Legal Enforcement For cognisable offences (e.g., assault, harassment), law enforcement agencies are empowered to initiate legal action in parallel. Airlines are expected to coordinate with authorities when incidents meet criminal thresholds. Significance of the Advisory Reinforces the need for: Timely and transparent reporting Safety-first culture in air travel Aims to: Deter misconduct Maintain discipline and accountability Protect both crew welfare and passenger experience At ISS, Shukla takes up experiment on skeletal muscle degradation in space Mission Update: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla at the ISS Group Captain Shukla, known by his mission call sign “Shux”, has begun research activities aboard the ISS following successful adaptation to orbital conditions. As per Axiom Space, the crew has transitioned from arrival protocols to full-scale scientific work. Relevance : GS 3(Space , Research) Key Research Areas Myogenesis Experiment Conducted inside the Life Sciences Glovebox (LSG). Objective: Understand skeletal muscle degradation in microgravity. Potential outcomes: Develop therapies for astronauts to prevent muscle loss during space missions. Advance treatment for muscle-degenerative diseases on Earth. Proposed by: Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem), Bengaluru. Part of ISRO’s microgravity experiment initiative. Cerebral Hemodynamics Study Focuses on blood flow in the brain under microgravity. Tools: Uses ultrasound technology and real-time monitoring software. Significance: Enhances understanding of cardiovascular changes in space. May improve medical insights into conditions like stroke and hypertension on Earth. ISRO’s Role and Scientific Goals ISRO has selected seven microgravity experiments for Shukla to conduct during his 14-day stay. Aim: Build a sustainable microgravity research ecosystem in India. Long-term goal: Integrate such experiments into future Indian space missions. International Scientific Collaboration India-NASA Collaboration: Includes five joint science investigations. Also includes two STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) outreach experiments. Axiom-4 Mission Scope: Involves ~60 scientific studies. Represents contributions from 31 countries, including: India, U.S., Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and various European nations. Significance and Broader Impact Enhances India’s profile in human space research, especially in life sciences and biomedicine. Strengthens India’s collaboration with international space agencies and private players. Provides dual benefit: Supports astronaut health and mission sustainability. Contributes to Earth-based healthcare advancements. Noble rot, the alchemist of wines, is setting fungal biology abuzz Agricultural & Economic Significance Botrytis cinerea, known as noble rot, infects grape berries, causing water loss and concentrating sugars—crucial for high-end sweet wine production. Used in making Sauternes (France), Tokaji Aszú (Hungary), and Trockenbeerenauslese (Germany/Austria). Infection is selective; grapes must be hand-picked, making the process labour-intensive and economically valuable. Under uncontrolled conditions, the fungus may become agriculturally destructive, affecting crops adversely. Relevance : GS 3(Economy , Agriculture) Scientific Breakthrough in Cell Biology Research published in Science revealed that Botrytis and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum possess incomplete chromosome sets per nucleus — a first-of-its-kind discovery. Chromosomes are distributed across multiple nuclei, with no single nucleus holding a full genome — unprecedented in fungi, animals, or plants. Implications for Cloning & Genetics These fungi cannot be cloned like normal eukaryotes due to partial genomes in individual nuclei. Raises key questions about: Chromosome segregation Nuclear division Genetic integrity maintenance Experimental Origin of the Discovery The anomaly surfaced during UV mutation experiments on S. sclerotiorum. Researchers found all cells mutated—contrary to expectations—prompting deeper analysis using molecular chromosome probes. Confirmed that nuclei had non-overlapping chromosome sets. Fungal Reproduction Context Both fungi belong to the ascomycetes class, producing spores (ascospores) inside an ascus. Typically, these spores have genetically identical nuclei, but in these fungi, nuclear diversity was observed. Open Research Questions How are chromosomes split between nuclei? How is genetic stability ensured during cell division? What evolutionary or biological benefit does this nuclear organization offer? Wider Biological Significance Challenges foundational principles in nuclear and chromosome biology. Could redefine our understanding of multinucleate cells. Puts fungi at the forefront of genetic and cellular research, with implications for biotechnology, evolution, and genome engineering.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 28 June 2025

Content: India Flags Off First Consignment of Rose-Scented Litchi from Pathankot to Qatar Scientists uncovers an exciting use of Teak leaf which offers a natural, biodegradable laser shield towards protecting delicate optical devices and human eyes from high-power laser radiation India Flags Off First Consignment of Rose-Scented Litchi from Pathankot to Qatar Strategic Export Milestone First-ever consignment of rose-scented litchi from Pathankot, Punjab to Qatar and UAE (Dubai) flagged off. Boosts India’s presence in high-value, fresh fruit export markets of the Middle East. Relevance : GS 3(Economy , Agriculture, Export) Institutional Collaboration & Support Facilitated by APEDA (under Ministry of Commerce & Industry) in collaboration with: Department of Horticulture, Punjab Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Lulu Group and local progressive farmers . Horticultural Potential of Punjab Punjab contributed 12.39% of India’s litchi production in FY 2023–24. Pathankot’s favorable agro-climatic conditions make it an emerging export-oriented hub. National yield: 71,490 MT from 4,327 ha (avg. 16.5 MT/ha). Export & Economic Impact Twin exports: 1 MT to Qatar and 0.5 MT to UAE mark diversification of India’s fruit basket. FY 2024–25 (Apr–Mar): Fruit & veg exports stood at USD 3.87 billion, up 5.67% YoY. Litchi joins mango, banana, grape, orange as global exports, along with niche fruits like cherry, jamun. Farmer Empowerment & Policy Implications Enables market access and income boost for farmers via high-value global chains. Aligned with India’s agri-export policy and vision of turning farmers into export entrepreneurs. APEDA playing a pivotal role in linking FPOs, FPCs, and individual growers to international markets. Litchi: Type: Perennial, subtropical fruit crop from the Sapindaceae family. Botanical Name: Litchi chinensis Origin: Native to South China, but widely cultivated in India, especially in Bihar, West Bengal, UP, Punjab. Agro-Climatic Requirements Climate: Requires warm, humid climate with short dry winters. Temperature: Ideal range: 20–35°C; Sensitive to frost and extreme cold. Rainfall: Annual rainfall of 1000–2000 mm, but excessive rain during flowering harms fruiting. Soil Conditions Soil Type: Grows best in deep, well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter. pH Range: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–7.0). Avoid: Saline, alkaline, and waterlogged soils. Crop Cycle Planting Time: July–August or February–March (depending on region). Fruit Bearing: Starts from 4th–5th year, with economic yield after 8–10 years. Harvest Season: May to July (varies by region). Economic Importance High market demand for fresh consumption and processing (juices, pulps, canned fruit). India is 2nd largest producer globally after China. Pros of Litchi Nutrient-Rich: Excellent source of Vitamin C, antioxidants, flavonoids, and potassium. Boosts Immunity: High antioxidant content helps fight free radicals and infections. Hydrating Fruit: High water content makes it ideal for summer consumption. Export Potential: High demand in Gulf & Southeast Asian markets due to aroma, taste, and shelf life. Agro-Climatic Advantage: Grows well in regions like Bihar, Punjab, West Bengal, and Tripura. Cons of Litchi Highly Perishable: Short shelf life; requires cold-chain logistics for exports. Seasonal Availability: Limited to a short harvesting window (May–June). Potential Health Risk: Unripe litchis linked to acute encephalitis (Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain) cases in malnourished children (due to hypoglycin A). Price Volatility: Farmers often face fluctuating returns due to lack of processing infrastructure. Scientists uncovers an exciting use of Teak leaf which offers a natural, biodegradable laser shield towards protecting delicate optical devices and human eyes from high-power laser radiation Innovative Use of Natural Waste Scientists at Raman Research Institute (RRI) discovered teak leaf extract as a natural laser shield. Utilizes agricultural waste rich in anthocyanins—natural pigments with nonlinear optical (NLO) properties. Relevance : GS 3(Science , Technology ,Environment) Scientific Breakthrough Nonlinear optics observed: Teak dye shows Reverse Saturable Absorption (RSA) — absorbs more light as intensity increases. Techniques used: Z-scan and Spatial Self-Phase Modulation (SSPM) experiments confirmed suitability for optical power limiting. Applications in Laser Safety Can protect human eyes, sensors, and delicate optical devices from high-power laser radiation. Relevant for medical equipment, military lasers, and industrial applications.   Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Alternative Replaces synthetic optical limiters (graphene, fullerenes, metal nanoparticles) which are toxic and costly. Teak dye is biodegradable, compostable, low-cost, and environmentally safe. Potential for Commercial Use Could lead to eco-friendly products like: Laser safety goggles Sensor shields Coatings for optical equipment Promotes green photonic technologies in the long term. Women-Led Innovation Research led by Dr. Beryl C, DST Women Scientist, promoting both scientific innovation and gender representation in STEM. Teak: Tree Profile Type: Hardwood deciduous tree, primarily grown for timber. Botanical Name: Tectona grandis Family: Lamiaceae (formerly Verbenaceae) Native to: India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos Commercial Use: Known for durable, termite-resistant wood used in furniture, shipbuilding, construction. Agro-Climatic Requirements Climate: Tropical climate, with moderate to high temperatures (25–35°C). Rainfall: Ideal annual rainfall: 1200–2500 mm. Sunlight: Requires full sunlight; sensitive to frost.  Soil Conditions Soil Type: Thrives in deep, well-drained alluvial or loamy soils. pH Range: 6.5 to 7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic). Avoids waterlogged or saline soils. Growth & Harvesting Rotation Period: Harvestable in 20–25 years, though longer cycles (50+ years) yield premium timber. Height: Can grow up to 30–40 meters. Leaves: Large, papery, and shed annually (deciduous). Ecological & Industrial Significance Leaves are generally waste, but rich in anthocyanins (as per recent research). Teak plantations aid in carbon sequestration and soil conservation. A high-value export timber species for India.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 28 June 2025

Content : Missed Opportunity: India’s Withdrawal from SCO Defence Ministers’ Communiqué No Time to Rest: India’s Progress and Gaps in the SDG Rankings Practising Equality in Constitutional Courts: The Jitender Judgment and the Legal Oligarchy A China-led Trilateral Nexus: Strategic Challenge for India in South Asia Missed opportunity Concerns Raised at SCO Defence Ministers’ Meet No joint communiqué due to lack of consensus on mentioning terrorism. India withdrew support as terrorism (esp. cross-border) was omitted, allegedly due to Pakistan’s objection. India expected support post-Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : “India’s position in multilateral forums is often constrained by strategic divergence with member states.” Examine this statement in the context of India’s recent experience at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting.(250Words) Contradictions Within SCO SCO’s founding charter (2002) emphasizes combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism. Yet, the current outcome avoided these terms — even considered including “Balochistan disturbances” (Pakistan’s line). Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) was present, making omission more striking. China’s Role as Chair Disappoints China didn’t support India’s concerns, despite recent signs of improved ties. Both China and Russia leaned towards maintaining neutrality, avoiding contentious issues. India’s Diplomatic Misses No parliamentary outreach to SCO nations post-Operation Sindoor, despite delegations to 32 other countries. India’s disassociation from SCO statement on Iran-Israel conflict further isolated its stance. Skipping the in-person SCO Summit during India’s presidency in 2023 may have reduced diplomatic capital. Strategic Takeaways Unlike SAARC, India has less sway in SCO, which is dominated by founders China, Russia, and Central Asian states. Walking away from SCO weakens India’s regional voice and gives space to Pakistan. India must actively engage members and diplomatically build consensus for counter-terrorism cooperation. Way Forward Focus on convincing SCO members that combating terrorism aligns with collective regional interests. Reinforce India’s three-pronged “new normal” post-Sindoor with clear messaging and strategic outreach. Ensure a strong presence at the upcoming SCO Foreign Ministers’ and Summit meetings. SCO: Established: 2001 (evolved from the Shanghai Five, 1996) Headquarters: Beijing, China Members (9): China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Objectives Promote regional security, stability, and economic cooperation Combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism Strengthen mutual trust among member states Key Bodies SCO Secretariat – Administrative arm (Beijing) RATS (Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure) – Based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, focuses on security and counter-terrorism 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. No time to rest Progress in SDG Rankings India ranked 99th out of 167 countries in the 2024 Sustainable Development Report — its first time in the top 100. In 2016, India was 110th out of 157, indicating steady but slow progress over 8 years. The SDSN report is published by an independent UN-affiliated body and closely tracked by global policymakers. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations , Governance) Practice Question : India’s entry into the top 100 of the Sustainable Development Goals Index reflects progress in development indicators but highlights persistent governance deficits. Discuss.(250 Words) Successes SDG 1 (No Poverty): Strong gains in poverty reduction, with poverty halving from 22% (2012) to 12% (2023, World Bank est.). SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): Near-universal household electrification; India is now 4th globally in renewable capacity (esp. solar & wind). SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure): Significant growth in mobile penetration and digital finance (e.g., UPI adoption). Challenges Data Gaps: No official consumption expenditure data since 2018; outdated poverty lines weaken measurement accuracy. SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Malnutrition persists — 35.5% stunted, 19.3% wasted (NFHS-5); slow improvement since 2015-16. Obesity rising among urban rich; coexists with undernutrition, reflecting inequality in diet and healthcare access. Urban-Rural Disparities Electricity & Internet Access: Universal access claimed, but quality and duration of power varies regionally. COVID-19 exposed deep digital divides affecting education (SDG 4) and service delivery. Lagging in Governance (SDG 16) Rule of law, press freedom, and institutional independence remain areas of concern throughout recent years. Despite development gains, governance-related indicators continue to drag down India’s overall SDG performance. Way Forward Need for timely, transparent data and updated poverty benchmarks. Address nutritional inequality, digital gaps, and quality of services, not just access. Strengthen democratic institutions and governance metrics to achieve balanced progress across all SDGs. SDG report Published annually by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) since 2016. Tracks global progress on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the UN in 2015. Uses a composite SDG Index to rank countries based on goal-wise performance. Coverage 2024 Report ranks 167 countries. Evaluates indicators like poverty, health, education, inequality, environment, and governance. Countries scored on a scale from 0 (worst) to 100 (goal achieved). Notable Global Trends No country is currently on track to achieve all SDGs by 2030. SDG progress slowed or reversed during COVID-19, especially in education and inequality. Calls for stronger international cooperation and local implementation. 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. Practising equality in constitutional courts Background In Jitender @ Kalla vs State (2025), the Supreme Court revisited its 2017 and 2023 judgments in Indira Jaising vs Supreme Court. Directed High Courts to frame new rules for designating senior advocates. Public largely overlooked the case, wrongly seeing it as a judiciary-internal matter. Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary) Practice Question: The continuing hierarchical classification of lawyers by constitutional courts contradicts India’s commitment to equality before law. Critically evaluate in light of the 2025 Jitender judgment.(250Words) Core Issues Highlighted Legal profession has a public character; inequality within affects judicial and political democracy. Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961 legally entrenches a hierarchy — senior advocates vs. others. This legal oligarchy fosters elitism and potentially undermines justice delivery. Systemic Concerns The senior designation system reinforces elitism, gender imbalance, and exclusion of marginalised lawyers. Court’s own acknowledgment: the point-based system is subjective and flawed, yet it chose not to strike it down. Key constitutional questions on equality (Article 14) and rationality of classification remain unaddressed. U.S. Parallel In the U.S., a tiny elite of corporate lawyers dominate Supreme Court litigation. A Reuters report (2014) found <1% lawyers handled 43% of SC appeals. India risks drifting towards similar legal plutocracy if disparities continue. Contradictions in the Judgment 2025 ruling admits flaws in existing norms, yet upholds the same classification without deeper scrutiny. Did not refer constitutional challenges to a larger bench despite compelling arguments. Cited foreign practices (e.g., Nigeria, Australia) without contextualising India’s constitutional vision of egalitarianism. Scholarly Critique F.S. Nariman: India has created a “caste system among lawyers.” Academic critique: “Homo-social morphing” — designations reflect judges’ personal biases and networks. Results in exclusion of women, rural, and non-English-speaking advocates. Key Implications Judicial diversity suffers — elite “star lawyers” dominate litigation space, leaving thousands of capable lawyers invisible. Democratization of legal representation is hindered. Litigation becomes the privilege of the rich, undermining the constitutional mandate of access to justice for all. What Needs to Change Rethink or abolish hierarchical classifications within the Bar. Ensure objective, transparent, and equitable mechanisms for recognition. Uphold the spirit of constitutional equality (Articles 14–16) in professional practice. Embrace historical context — legal profession as a tool of social justice, not privilege. Value addition What is a Senior Advocate? A designation given under Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961. Conferred by the Supreme Court or High Courts based on an advocate’s ability, standing at the Bar, and special knowledge/experience in law. Senior advocates follow specific court etiquettes (e.g., can’t file vakalatnamas or directly interact with clients; must act through a junior). Section 16 – Advocates Act, 1961 Classifies advocates into two categories: Senior advocates – designated by constitutional courts. Other advocates – regular practicing lawyers. Controversial for allegedly institutionalizing inequality among equals in the legal profession. Indira Jaising Case (2017) A seminal case where SC laid down guidelines for the designation of senior advocates: Point-based system (publications, pro bono work, interviews, etc.). Transparent procedure involving a Permanent Committee in each court. Later criticized as being subjective and prone to bias. 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. A China-led trilateral nexus as India’s new challenge Strategic Context China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh held their first trilateral meeting in Kunming, June 2025. Follows a similar China–Pakistan–Afghanistan trilateral in May, signaling a new regional outreach pattern by Beijing. Aims: Extend CPEC, deepen strategic cooperation, and counterbalance India’s rising regional stature. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : The China–Pakistan–Plus-One trilateral format signals a strategic shift in South Asia’s regional order. How should India recalibrate its neighbourhood policy in response?(150Words) China’s Strategic Objectives Make Pakistan regionally relevant despite its economic and diplomatic decline. Preoccupy India with regional tensions and security threats to curb its influence. Reinforce China’s leadership role in South Asia, using trilateral diplomacy as a tool. The China–Pakistan Nexus 1962 war laid the foundation of China–Pakistan alignment to contain India. China provides economic lifelines and arms to Pakistan: ~$29 billion in loans (by 2024), ~80% of Pakistan’s arms imports. In forums like the UNSC, China shields Pakistan from terror-related sanctions. Recent Developments Operation Sindoor (May 2025): India’s response to Pahalgam terror attack, backed by intelligence pointing to Pakistan. China called India’s response “regrettable”, echoing Pakistan’s narrative. Pakistan deployed Chinese-origin weaponry, showing tight military links. Geopolitical Echoes Strategy resembles 1965 attempt by Pakistan to encircle India using East Pakistan, China, and Nepal. China–Pakistan–Plus-One diplomacy is resurfacing amid: India’s assertive diplomacy and economic rise, Growing defence assertiveness (e.g., Doklam, Galwan), Isolation of Pakistan through diplomatic and economic measures. Regional Responses and Limits to China Maldives: Initially anti-India, now turned to India due to economic woes. Nepal: BRI progress is slow; funding and implementation issues persist. Sri Lanka: President Dissanayake is prioritizing ties with India over China. Bangladesh and Afghanistan: Once aligned with India; recent regime changes have opened doors to China–Pakistan engagement. Emerging Concerns for India China’s use of trilaterals could: Increase terror and security risks via Pakistan’s expanded influence. Disrupt India’s neighborhood-first policy. Facilitate BRI expansion through political entry points. Afghanistan and Bangladesh could become platforms for proxy influence if India’s outreach weakens. India’s Strategic Response Continue assertive redline diplomacy to deter misadventures. Deepen engagement with neighbours via economic aid, infrastructure, and energy diplomacy. Promote regional counter-terrorism efforts and push back against China-backed narratives. Bottom Line China’s trilateral strategy aims to reshape South Asia’s power dynamics. India must sustain pressure on Pakistan, reinforce its neighborhood ties, and guard against encirclement via multilateral counterbalances and regional coalitions. Value additions What is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)? Flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Runs from Gwadar Port (Pakistan) to Xinjiang (China). India opposes CPEC as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), infringing sovereignty. Estimated cost: ~$60 billion; currently facing delays and security issues. Bangladesh’s Strategic Importance Geographic proximity to India’s vulnerable “Chicken’s Neck” (Siliguri Corridor). Critical to India’s Act East Policy, transit connectivity, and maritime strategy. Strong historical ties with India, but recent strained relations (border killings, NRC/CAA concerns) are being exploited by China-Pak. Afghanistan’s New Dynamics Post-2021 Taliban regime: Pakistan’s influence has waned due to Taliban’s assertiveness. India maintains quiet diplomatic engagement — opened a technical mission in Kabul (2022). China aims to link Afghanistan with BRI through Pakistan, potentially bypassing India. Trilateral Diplomacy: What Does It Mean? China-led “2+1 format” seen as a geopolitical maneuver to: Undermine India’s bilateral influence. Promote BRI projects. Build alternate coalitions within South Asia. Strategic Tools India is Using Neighborhood First + SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). Infrastructure Diplomacy (e.g., Kaladan Project, Chabahar Port). Energy Cooperation (e.g., BBIN Grid, Trilateral Energy Trade). Military Diplomacy (e.g., joint exercises with Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh). 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 28 June 2025

Content : India rejects ‘supplemental award’ on Kishenganga, Ratle hydropower projects Tax, securities norm changes make buybacks less attractive Modern tech to keep an eye on NH traffic ALL ABOUT THE PROPOSED GLOBAL POTATO RESEARCH CENTRE IN AGRA How India ‘added’ more than 3,500 km to its coastline, 7 new islands Current account in $13.5-bn surplus India rejects ‘supplemental award’ on Kishenganga, Ratle hydropower projects India’s Position Total Rejection: India “categorically rejected” the Court of Arbitration’s supplemental award. Legal Standpoint: Maintains that it never recognized the Court’s legal standing—calls it “illegal” and “per se void”. Violation of Treaty: Considers the constitution of the arbitral body itself a “serious breach” of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), 1960. Treaty in Abeyance: Post-April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, India has placed the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, citing Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) , GS 3(Infrastructure) Project Dispute Background Projects in Question: Kishenganga and Ratle hydropower projects located in Jammu & Kashmir. Pakistan’s Objections: Raised concerns over design features—initiated arbitration in 2016 after failed bilateral talks. Unilateral Move: India views Pakistan’s approach to the World Bank for arbitration as a unilateral violation of dispute resolution procedures under the IWT. On the Court of Arbitration “So-Called” Tribunal: India deems the Court of Arbitration as non-existent in law and lacking jurisdiction. Supplemental Award: Recent award dismissed by India as a “charade” orchestrated at Pakistan’s behest. Strategic Implications Sovereign Action: India asserts its sovereign right to suspend treaty obligations in light of terrorism. No Binding Obligation: States that while the treaty is suspended, it is not bound to fulfill its terms, nor can any arbitral forum assess its actions. Broader Context Geopolitical Signal: Strong assertion of sovereignty linking hydro-diplomacy with national security. Evolving India-Pakistan Water Dynamics: Marks a shift in India’s traditionally restrained approach to the IWT amid escalating terror concerns. Value addition : Rare Invocation of Treaty Suspension: India placing the Indus Waters Treaty “in abeyance” is a rare case of linking transboundary water cooperation with cross-border terrorism. Violation of Article IX of IWT: India argues that Pakistan unilaterally approached the Court of Arbitration, bypassing prescribed stages (Neutral Expert first), thus breaching the treaty. Sovereign Right Cited Under VCLT: India’s action can be seen under Article 60 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, which allows suspension in case of material breach. Strategic Shift from Restraint: India’s move marks a shift from “treaty obligation compliance” to “conditionality-based engagement”, elevating water sharing to national security domain. Energy Security in J&K: Kishenganga (330 MW) and Ratle (850 MW) are vital for regional power supply, reducing dependence and boosting infrastructure in a sensitive border region. World Bank’s Dual Decision Controversy: The World Bank controversially allowed both Neutral Expert and Court of Arbitration in parallel, weakening its neutral facilitator role. Lawfare by Pakistan: Pakistan’s move reflects a strategy of lawfare—using international legal institutions to constrain India’s sovereign development rights. No Jurisdiction Without Consent: India asserts that no arbitral tribunal has jurisdiction without mutual consent, a key principle in international arbitration law. Transboundary Water Precedent: Acceptance of the Court’s award could undermine India’s rights over western rivers and create restrictive precedents for future hydro projects. China–Pakistan–Water Axis: Emerging alignment over water and infrastructure (e.g., CPEC, Chinese dams on Indus tributaries) adds a geostrategic layer to the water dispute. Tax, securities norm changes make buybacks less attractive Trend Overview Steep Decline: Only 4 share buybacks worth ₹186 crore occurred till June 26, 2025—a drastic drop from 38 buybacks worth ₹8,000+ crore in 2024. Pre-emptive Action: Many companies may have accelerated buybacks before September 2024, anticipating upcoming tax changes. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy) Taxation Changes New Tax Regime (Oct 1, 2024): Tax burden shifted from companies (20% buyback tax earlier) to shareholders, aligning it with dividend income taxation. Impact on Shareholders: Shareholders now pay capital gains tax on buyback proceeds, reducing the post-tax attractiveness of buybacks. Buybacks vs. Dividends: The new rule removes the tax advantage of buybacks over dividends, changing corporate payout strategies. Regulatory Changes by SEBI Phasing Out of Open Market Buybacks: SEBI has eliminated the open market buyback route, forcing companies to use only the tender offer method. Reduced Flexibility: Open market buybacks allowed greater flexibility and discretion, now removed under SEBI’s stricter framework. Merchant Banker Impact: Investment banks may be less active or adapting due to reduced business from buyback facilitation. Market Conditions Bear Market Unusual Behavior: Typically, buybacks increase in bearish markets as companies support stock prices—not seen this time, due to tax and regulatory deterrents. Implications Shift in Capital Allocation: Firms may now prefer dividends, acquisitions, or capex over buybacks. Policy Trade-off: The government’s attempt to curb tax arbitrage may have inadvertently reduced capital return options for investors. Corporate Governance Angle: Reduced buybacks could dampen investor confidence and affect perceived shareholder-friendliness of firms. Additional Info: What is a Share Buyback? A buyback is when a company repurchases its own shares from the market, reducing the number of shares in circulation. This often boosts earnings per share (EPS) and signals that the company believes its stock is undervalued. Why Do Companies Do Buybacks? Buybacks are used to return surplus cash to shareholders, improve valuation metrics, support share prices during market downturns, and sometimes deter hostile takeovers. What is a Bear Market? A bear market refers to a market condition where prices of securities fall by 20% or more from recent highs. It is often marked by pessimism, low investor confidence, and reduced buying interest. Buybacks vs. Dividends Both are ways of returning money to shareholders. While dividends are regular cash payouts, buybacks reduce share count, potentially increasing share value. Buybacks were often preferred due to lower tax incidence—a benefit now removed. Tender Offer vs. Open Market Buyback Open Market Buyback: Company buys shares from the stock exchange gradually and anonymously. Tender Offer: Company invites shareholders to sell a specific number of shares at a fixed price. SEBI now allows only tender offers, reducing flexibility for companies. Modern tech to keep an eye on NH traffic Core Analysis of the ATMS Rollout Nationwide Implementation: NHAI will implement Advanced Traffic Management Systems (ATMS) across 30,000 km of 4-lane+ national highways over the next 2–3 years. Real-time Enforcement: The new ATMS will allow for real-time tracking of traffic violations and instant e-challan generation, improving accountability and deterrence. Pilot Project: The Dwarka Expressway (56.46 km) is the first highway to be equipped under the revised ATMS policy (Oct 2023), serving as a model corridor. Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure ,Transport) Enhanced Enforcement Features 14 Violation Categories: Includes common violations like helmetless riding, triple riding, seatbelt non-use, wrong-way driving, and animal or pedestrian presence. Police Integration: Unlike earlier systems where NHAI was the end user, now traffic enforcement agencies are directly integrated to act on violations. Additional Information & Value Additions What is ATMS? An Advanced Traffic Management System uses sensors, Automatic Number Plate Recognition(ANPR) cameras, AI, and command centres to monitor traffic flow, detect violations, and manage incidents in real time. Why Is This Needed? India has the highest number of road deaths globally. Automated enforcement helps reduce human discretion, bribery, and enforcement gaps on highways. Policy Shift Since 2023: The revised October 2023 ATMS policy shifts focus from passive surveillance to proactive enforcement, with integrated software and hardware architecture. Global Parallels: Countries like the UK, UAE, and Singapore already use AI-driven highway enforcement systems. India’s move aligns with global best practices for smart road infrastructure. Traffic Safety Goals: Contributes to India’s target to reduce road fatalities by 50% by 2030, aligning with the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety. Tech-Infra Integration: Project reflects increasing use of AI, IoT, and edge computing in governance, part of the larger Digital India and Smart Mobility vision. Key Data for ATMS & Road Safety Road Fatalities: India recorded 1.68 lakh road deaths in 2022—highest globally (MoRTH). Highway Share: National highways form 2% of total roads but carry 40% of traffic. Blackspots: Hundreds of high-fatality zones identified on highways lack enforcement. Pilot Impact: ATMS pilot projects showed a 15–25% drop in traffic violations (NHAI data). Digital Expansion Goal: NHAI targets 30,000 km of highways under ATMS by 2027. ALL ABOUT THE PROPOSED GLOBAL POTATO RESEARCH CENTRE IN AGRA About the Proposal The Union Cabinet approved the CIP–South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC) at Singna, Agra—a regional arm of the Peru-based International Potato Center (CIP). Total cost: ₹171 crore (India: ₹115 crore; CIP: remainder). Land: 10 hectares provided by Uttar Pradesh government. Relevance : GS 3(Agriculture ,Infrastructure) About CIP (International Potato Center) Founded: 1971; HQ: Lima, Peru. Focus: Research on potato, sweet potato, and Andean root crops. Historical Link: Potato is native to the Peruvian-Bolivian Andes and introduced to India in the 17th century. Key Objectives of CSARC Boost food and nutrition security and farmers’ income. Develop climate-resilient, disease-free, processing-friendly potato & sweet potato varieties. Enhance post-harvest management and value addition. Support domestic seed production and reduce dependence on seed imports. Significance for India India is the world’s 2nd largest potato producer (2020: ~51.3 million tonnes); China is 1st (~78.2 million tonnes). Average potato yield in India: 25 t/ha vs. potential 50+ t/ha. Sweet potato yield: 11.5 t/ha vs. potential 30 t/ha. Access to CIP’s germplasm bank will help develop better, high-yielding seeds. Broader Impacts Will aid local food processing industries and job creation. Improves scope for exports of seed and processed products. Strengthens ICAR–CIP collaboration (ongoing since 1975). How India ‘added’ more than 3,500 km to its coastline, 7 new islands Key Findings from the New Measurement India’s coastline increased by ~48%: From 7,516 km (1970s data) to 11,098km (new measurement), due to higher-resolution data and modern GIS tools. No new territory added: The increase reflects more precise mapping, not geographic change or land acquisition. Resolution impact: Measurement scale improved from 1:5,000,000 to 1:250,000, enabling better capture of natural curves, bends, and offshore islands. Technology shift: Manual calculations replaced by modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for greater accuracy. Relevance : GS 1(Geography ),GS 3(Internal Security) Changes in Island Count Updated island count: Now 1,389 islands (1,298 offshore + 91 inshore) after reconciling data and resolving classification ambiguities. Earlier discrepancies: In 2016, estimates varied (e.g., Surveyor General: 1,382; other agencies: 1,334) due to tide-based ambiguities and varied definitions. Understanding the ‘Coastline Paradox’ Coastline paradox: The more detailed the measurement (finer the scale), the longer the coastline appears due to capturing more irregularities. A coastline has no fixed length—like rivers or mountain ranges, it changes depending on measurement resolution. Implications of the Change Administrative: Could affect CRZ (Coastal Regulation Zone) boundaries, land use classification, and planning zones. Developmental: Better mapping aids coastal infrastructure, tourism planning, and port development. Security: Accurate data enhances maritime surveillance, naval operations, and disaster risk planning. Climate resilience: Helps track erosion, plan coastal defenses, and improve climate vulnerability assessments. Global Context & Policy Measures Other nations also routinely re-measure coastlines to update maps and respond to natural or manmade changes (e.g., coastal erosion, land reclamation). India now mandates a coastline reassessment every 10 years for dynamic updating of data. Current account in $13.5-bn surplus Headline Trends Current Account Surplus (Q4 FY25): Surplus of $13.5 billion (1.3% of GDP), compared to a $4.6 billion surplus (0.5% of GDP) in Q4 FY24. Contrast with Previous Quarter: Q3 FY25 had a deficit of $11.3 billion, showing a strong quarterly reversal. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy – Current Account ) Annual Trends (FY25 vs. FY24) Full-Year CAD FY25: $23.3 billion (0.6% of GDP), down from $26 billion (0.7% of GDP) in FY24. Reason for Improvement: Largely driven by higher net invisible receipts (services + remittances + investment income). Trade & Services Performance Merchandise Trade Deficit (Q4 FY25): $59.5 billion, higher than Q4 FY24 ($52 bn) but lower than Q3 FY25 ($79.3 bn). Services Exports Surge: Net services receipts jumped to $53.3 billion from $42.7 billion in Q4 FY24, led by business and computer services. Financial Account Movements FDI Inflows (Q4 FY25): $0.4 billion, down from $2.3 billion in Q4 FY24. Full-Year FDI (FY25): Only $1 billion, sharply lower than $10.2 billion in FY24, indicating investment headwinds. Explanatory Additions What is Current Account? It tracks exports and imports of goods, services, income, and transfers. A surplus implies more inflows than outflows, while a deficit is the reverse. Why Does It Matter? A surplus indicates strong external performance, reduces reliance on foreign capital, and can support currency stability. Insights & Implications Surplus Due to Invisibles, Not Goods Trade: Despite a large trade deficit, the services and remittances cushion was strong enough to generate a net surplus. Seasonal Spike, Not a Structural Surplus: Analysts term this surplus seasonal, aided by temporary factors like lower primary income outflows. FDI Weakness is a Concern: A sharp fall in FDI inflows could impact medium-term growth and rupee stability.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 27 June 2025

Content : Sarbananda Sonowal Inaugurates India’s First Maritime NBFC — Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) MoHUA Rolls Out Mega Monsoon Swachhata Campaign Sarbananda Sonowal Inaugurates India’s First Maritime NBFC — Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) Highlights Inaugurated by: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. Date of RBI NBFC registration: June 19, 2025. Occasion: Marks transformation of Sagarmala Development Company Ltd. into an NBFC. Category: Mini Ratna, Category-I CPSE (Central Public Sector Enterprise). Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure , Banking) Purpose & Significance First NBFC dedicated to maritime sector in India. Aims to bridge financial gaps in maritime infrastructure and logistics. Supports Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and the goal of Viksit Bharat. Responds to a long-standing industry demand for tailored financial instruments. Strategic Roles & Functions Offers customized financial solutions: Short-term, medium-term, and long-term funding. Target stakeholders: Port authorities Shipping companies MSMEs, startups Maritime education institutions Enables investments in: Shipbuilding Renewable energy Cruise tourism Maritime skilling & education Impact on Maritime Sector Provides a sector-specific financial ecosystem. Expected to accelerate innovation, investment, and inclusive development. Enhances logistics efficiency and sustainable development in the maritime domain. Leaders’ Comments Sarbananda Sonowal: Called it a “major milestone in India’s maritime journey.” Emphasized alignment with PM Modi’s vision and the Amrit Kaal goals. Shantanu Thakur: Highlighted SMFCL’s role in fostering a dedicated financial ecosystem. Conclusion SMFCL positions India to become a global maritime power by providing structured, targeted financing to a crucial but underserved sector. MoHUA Rolls Out Mega Monsoon Swachhata Campaign Campaign Overview Name: Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao (SABB). Duration: 1st – 31st July 2025. Launched by: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) under Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban (SBM-U). Tagline: “Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao” Objective: Health-centric sanitation to prevent water-borne and vector-borne diseases during the monsoon. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Health) Key Focus Areas Preventive drain cleaning and garbage hotspot reduction. Avoiding water stagnation to prevent diseases like Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya. Ensuring access to sanitation and safe drinking water in vulnerable areas. Cleanliness drives in public/community toilets, schools, and slums. The 6 Swachhata Mantras Clean Hands Clean Homes Clean Neighbourhood Clean Toilets Clean Drains & Waterbodies Clean Public Spaces Behavioral & Community Interventions Citizen mobilization through behavioural nudges for hygiene and waste management. School campaigns promoting handwashing and child hygiene. Encouragement of RWA, NGO, and citizen participation. Use of the Swachhata App for grievance redressal. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) Responsibilities Identify high-risk areas and conduct targeted sanitation action. Ensure daily waste collection, toilet maintenance, and public space cleanliness. Report all campaign activities on the Swachhatam Portal. Special Initiatives Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) in 100 Smart Cities to clean markets, food streets, heritage areas. Use of Integrated Command and Control Centres for innovation and monitoring. Focus on SafaiMitras’ welfare, clean water access, and hygiene. Inter-Ministerial Coordination Aligned with efforts of: MoHFW DDWS MoRD MoWCD Department of School Education and Literacy Conclusion The SABB campaign reinforces a preventive, participatory, and inter-agency approach to urban sanitation during monsoon, aiming for cleaner, healthier cities.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 27 June 2025

Content : Vaccinating India Fathoming America’s plan to manage AI proliferation Vaccinating India Global Context Vaccine coverage for six major diseases (e.g., measles, polio, TB) has doubled globally (1980–2023). Zero-dose children (those who haven’t received even the first DTP vaccine dose) dropped sharply to 75% globally during this period. The number of zero-dose children is seen as a key indicator of health inequality and immunisation system performance. Relevance : GS 2(Health) Practice Question : Despite significant progress in immunisation coverage, the high number of zero-dose children in India reflects persistent socio-economic and geographic inequities. Critically examine the factors behind this trend and suggest measures to meet India’s commitments under the WHO’s Immunization Agenda 2030. (15 marks, 250 words) India’s Position India had 1.44 million zero-dose children in 2023 — 2nd highest globally. India is among 8 countries that account for over 50% of global zero-dose children (~16 million). India’s large birth cohort: 23 million babies born in 2023, the highest in the world. Historical Trends Zero-dose rate in India declined from 33.4% (1992) → 10.1% (2016). Numbers fluctuated recently: 2019: 1.4 million 2021 (post-COVID disruption): 2.7 million 2022: 1.1 million 2023: 1.44 million In percentage terms, 2023 zero-dose rate is 6.2% of total births — a relatively low share given the absolute size. Regional Distribution High-burden states: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat. High tribal/Northeast prevalence: Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh. Demographic Inequities Disparities based on gender, caste, and rural-urban divide have narrowed. However, high prevalence persists among: Poor households Low maternal education Scheduled Tribes Muslim communities Key Challenges Not due to conflict or fragile systems (unlike many high-burden countries). Barriers: Vaccine hesitancy in specific communities Access in tribal belts and urban slums Migrant populations with low service outreach Forward India must halve zero-dose numbers by 2030 (relative to 2019 baseline of 1.4 million) to meet WHO’s IA2030 goals. Requires sustained, targeted efforts: Community outreach Awareness campaigns Urban-slum and tribal area immunisation drives Fathoming America’s plan to manage AI proliferation Backdrop: The AI Diffusion Framework The AI Diffusion Framework was introduced by the Biden administration to regulate AI chip exports and model weights. It treated AI similarly to nuclear technology, aiming to prevent adversaries (like China, Russia) from accessing high-end compute power, a key driver of AI capabilities. Goal: Preserve U.S. AI leadership by limiting global access to compute-intensive hardware. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) , GS 3(Technology) Practice Question : The rescission of the U.S. AI Diffusion Framework signals a tactical recalibration, not a strategic shift in its AI control policy. Discuss the implications of such evolving technology-driven controls on global cooperation, innovation, and India’s strategic autonomy in the AI domain. (15 marks, 250 words) Why the Framework Was Withdrawn Rescinded by the Trump administration (2025), seen as a tactical rollback, not a strategic shift. Key flaws of the Framework: Undermined technological collaboration, even with allies. Created trust deficits by signaling U.S. dominance in setting rules. Treated civilian-origin AI tech as a purely military asset. Encouraged workarounds like China’s DeepSeek R1, which achieved high performance using low compute, negating U.S. controls. Global Reactions and Strategic Shifts Allies began pursuing technological sovereignty, investing in alternative ecosystems to avoid overdependence on U.S. AI infrastructure. For India, which wasn’t favoured under the framework, the withdrawal is a welcome development. The global AI race continues; the U.S. is still intent on denying China access to cutting-edge AI technology. Evolving U.S. Strategy: New Forms of Control Post-framework, U.S. focus has shifted to tech-enabled enforcement, not broad trade bans. Recent actions: Expanded export controls (March 2025). More companies added to the entity list (blacklist). New legislation introduced: On-chip surveillance features. Location tracking to prevent diversion of AI chips to adversaries. Emerging Concerns with Tech-Driven Controls Risks: Privacy, ownership, and surveillance issues. Reduced autonomy of buyers and users of AI hardware. Potential inhibition of legitimate civilian use. Could replicate the same trust and sovereignty issues as the original framework. Conclusion: Strategic Continuity, Tactical Change Withdrawal of the framework is not a change in intent, but a change in approach. U.S. AI control strategy persists in new, possibly subtler, forms. Failure to learn from the past risks undermining U.S. AI leadership, alienating allies, and accelerating global decoupling in AI development.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 27 June 2025

Content: Ax-4 docking successful, Shukla sets foot in ISS Is voter registration being subject to fraud? What sparked the Keeladi controversy? What are the most commonly used cancer drugs? Schools can take time to use mother tongue as medium’ Staggered polls cannot be considered an immutable feature of Constitution: ex-CJI Additional demand behind delay in Jal Jeevan Mission’ At Bangkok event, a commitment to count every birth and death Ax-4 docking successful, Shukla sets foot in ISS India’s Historic Entry to the ISS Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian to enter the International Space Station (ISS). He was part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), a commercial space mission organized by Axiom Space. Onboard SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, the crew docked with the ISS on June 27, 2025, at 4:01 p.m. IST, over the North Atlantic Ocean. Relevance : GS 3(Space ) Mission Highlights Mr. Shukla served as the mission pilot, reflecting India’s growing capabilities in human spaceflight. He greeted the nation with a “Namaskar from space” as the capsule orbited Earth before docking. This marks a milestone for India’s space ambitions, bridging global cooperation and national goals. Link to Gaganyaan Mission Mr. Shukla is one of the four astronaut designates for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. Fellow astronaut Prasanth Nair was part of the Ax-4 backup crew, also designated for Gaganyaan. ISRO paid ₹500+ crore to Axiom Space to secure training and flight participation for Indian astronauts. Scientific and Strategic Objectives The Ax-4 crew will spend two weeks at the ISS, conducting scientific experiments, including eight from ISRO. The mission also serves as a training ground for space operations and life support readiness before Gaganyaan’s launch (expected no earlier than 2026). Global Collaboration Axiom Space is a private U.S. company facilitating commercial missions to the ISS, supported by NASA and SpaceX. The Ax-4 launch was initially planned for May 29, 2025, but faced multiple delays before successful liftoff on June 26 (IST). National Significance The mission is being celebrated as a landmark in India’s space history, enhancing India’s role in international human spaceflight. Union Minister of State for Space, Jitendra Singh, hailed the moment as one watched “with excitement and expectation”. Conclusion Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s successful arrival at the ISS through the Ax-4 mission marks a symbolic and operational leap in India’s space journey, strengthening the country’s preparedness for Gaganyaan and fostering international partnerships in space exploration. Is voter registration being subject to fraud? Context: Electoral Roll Concerns in Maharashtra A sudden increase of 40 lakh voters in Maharashtra between the 2024 Lok Sabha and Assembly elections raised questions. By comparison, only 32 lakh voters were added over the previous five years in the state. This pattern appeared statistically inconsistent with past trends and population growth rates, especially considering declining fertility rates. Relevance : GS 2(Elections -Reforms) Key Arguments by Analysts Praveen Chakravarty (data expert): The spike in new voters over a few months exceeds typical demographic trends. Questions the process of verification and documentation for newly enrolled voters. Argues that voter list data should be provided in machine-readable formats to enable better scrutiny. Also called for CCTV footage post-5 p.m. on polling days due to observed surges in turnout. R. Rangarajan (public policy expert): Acknowledges that a 40 lakh increase is unusual, but notes similar short-term increases occurred in previous election years. Points out that changes like quarterly cut-off dates for enrolment could partially explain the spike. Emphasises that both wrongful inclusions and exclusions need attention. Stresses the importance of transparency and political party participation in maintaining robust rolls. Election Commission of India’s (ECI) Position Maintains that tampering with voter rolls is nearly impossible due to existing checks. Called for a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of rolls in Bihar and other states to improve accuracy and transparency. Suggested political parties could have used the existing appeals process if they found anomalies. Broader Electoral Roll Issues Discrepancies may arise from: Delays or inefficiencies in field verification. Shifts in enrolment cut-off dates. Issues with documentation and data processing. There is growing demand for: Digital and accessible voter roll formats. Better tracking of voter additions and deletions. Enhanced mechanisms to reduce duplicates without wrongful exclusions. Ongoing Efforts and Recommendations The upcoming Special Intensive Revisions (SIRs) aim to: Ensure that all eligible citizens are included. Remove ineligible or duplicate entries. Introduce more transparency in voter list management. Experts suggest: Independent audits of electoral rolls. Public awareness and participation in revision processes. Stronger coordination between the ECI and all political stakeholders to ensure accuracy. Conclusion The discussion highlights the importance of accurate and trustworthy electoral rolls. While questions have been raised about recent trends, experts agree that solutions lie in data transparency, procedural reforms, and collaborative oversight, not just in reactive allegations. What sparked the Keeladi controversy? Background of the Keeladi Excavation The Keeladi excavation site is located near the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu. Initiated in 2014 by archaeologist K. Amarnath Ramakrishna, the site has yielded over 7,500 artifacts, including brick structures, wells, and drainage systems. Findings suggest the presence of a well-planned urban settlement dating back to around the 2nd century BCE, aligning with the Sangam period. Relevance : GS 1(Culture ,Heritage) Scientific Significance of the Findings Carbon dating and stratigraphy techniques were used to estimate the age of the site. The absence of religious symbols suggested a civic and secular lifestyle in the ancient settlement. The findings contributed to the understanding of urbanisation and literacy in ancient South India. Submission of the Report In 2021, Mr. Ramakrishna submitted a 982-page report based on the first two phases of excavation (2014–2016). The report detailed the site’s chronology and the scientific methods used to date the artifacts. ASI’s Request for Revision After reviewing the report for over two years, the ASI requested revisions in early 2024. The ASI raised questions regarding the dating and depth of the artifacts, seeking further scientific validation. Mr. Ramakrishna declined to revise the report, stating that it adhered to established archaeological standards, including Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) and stratigraphic sequencing. Administrative Developments Mr. Ramakrishna was transferred to a different role in June 2024, moving from his previous post in Delhi to Greater Noida. His new position is within the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities (NMMA). Ongoing Work and Public Interest Since 2019, the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology has continued further excavation and published its own findings. A museum dedicated to Keeladi has been established to display artifacts and educate the public. The site continues to attract attention from researchers, students, and visitors interested in ancient history. Conclusion The Keeladi excavation has made a significant contribution to the understanding of early urban life in South India. Scientific discussions about dating methods and interpretation are part of the natural process of archaeological review and validation. The ongoing research aims to further uncover and preserve the historical and cultural insights offered by this important site. What are the most commonly used cancer drugs? Key Finding: Global Quality Concerns A major investigation found that widely used cancer drugs, shipped to over 100 countries, had failed quality tests. Raises urgent concerns about the safety and effectiveness of cancer treatment worldwide. Relevance : GS 2(Health ,Governance) ,GS 3(Science) Understanding Chemotherapy Cancer is caused by uncontrolled cell growth due to gene mutations. Chemotherapy drugs work by disrupting DNA synthesis or function, inhibiting cancer cell replication. Goal: Target cancer cells while minimizing harm to normal cells. Common Chemotherapy Drugs and Their Profiles 1. Cisplatin Mechanism: Binds to and damages DNA in cancer cells. Used for: Testicular, ovarian, bladder, and lung cancers. Side Effects: Kidney damage Nausea Hearing loss Immune suppression 2. Oxaliplatin Similar to: Cisplatin (also platinum-based). Used for: Advanced colorectal cancer, especially post-surgery. Side Effects: Comparable to cisplatin (kidney, immune system issues). 3. Cyclophosphamide Used for: Breast cancer, leukemia, sarcoma, lymphoma. Mechanism: Disrupts DNA and suppresses immune system. Side Effects: Drop in white blood cells Bladder inflammation Increased infection risk 4. Doxorubicin Derived from Streptomyces bacteria; originally studied as an antibiotic. Used for: Breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, sarcoma. Mechanism: Interferes with DNA replication. Side Effects: Heart damage Hair loss Increased infection risk 5. Methotrexate Used for: Leukemia, lymphoma, solid tumors. Mechanism: Inhibits DNA synthesis by blocking folate metabolism. Side Effects: Bone marrow suppression Requires leucovorin rescue therapy to protect healthy cells 6. Leucovorin (Folinic Acid) Not a chemo drug, but a supportive agent used to: Reduce toxicity of methotrexate Enhance effects of other chemotherapy regimens Common Severe Side Effects Across Drugs Kidney and heart damage Immune system suppression Hair loss, skin changes Bladder irritation, hearing loss Increased vulnerability to infection Conclusion Chemotherapy drugs are life-saving but highly toxic, requiring strict quality control. The investigation exposes a critical gap in global pharmaceutical regulation. Emphasizes the need for strengthened drug safety standards and better oversight, especially in low- and middle-income countries where these drugs are widely distributed. ‘Schools can take time to use mother tongue as medium’ Policy Background NEP 2020 recommends teaching in mother tongue/local language up to Class 5 to enhance conceptual understanding and inclusivity. CBSE recently released language implementation guidelines to aid this transition. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) ,GS 2(Education ) Challenges in Metro Schools Metropolitan CBSE schools (approx. 800–900 institutions) face practical issues due to: Linguistic diversity among students from varied backgrounds. Lack of a single dominant mother tongue in many classrooms. Switching medium of instruction could be confusing or impractical in such multilingual settings. No Immediate Mandate CBSE clarified: No school is being forced to implement mother tongue instruction immediately. No penalties or disaffiliation for non-compliance at this stage. The goal is to ease into implementation, not enforce abruptly. Implementation Strategy Schools asked to conduct a language-mapping exercise to identify students’ language preferences. A potential strategy: section-wise division of classes based on mother tongue to allow targeted instruction. CBSE is organizing webinars and workshops to build capacity and awareness among school administrators and teachers. Key Takeaway While CBSE supports NEP 2020’s mother tongue-based pedagogy, it acknowledges the practical difficulties in metros. The approach remains flexible, consultative, and gradual, with an emphasis on training, adaptation, and localized solutions. Staggered polls cannot be considered an immutable feature of Constitution: ex-CJI Constitutional Standpoint Free and fair elections are a basic feature of the Constitution. The Constitution does not mandate that elections must be non-simultaneous to ensure fairness. Staggered elections are not an immutable feature of the Constitution. Relevance : GS 2(Elections , Constitution) Voter Autonomy & Maturity The argument that simultaneous polls manipulate voters assumes that the Indian electorate is naive. This, Chandrachud argues, this undermines the spirit of universal adult franchise, which has been a core value since 1950. On Tiered Governance The fear that simultaneous elections would blur lines between Centre and State issues is not constitutionally grounded, per Chandrachud. Voters are capable of distinguishing between national and regional concerns even if elections are held together. Smaller/Regional Parties Chandrachud acknowledges concerns that simultaneous polls may disadvantage smaller/regional parties. But argues that these challenges exist independent of the timing of elections and are not created by simultaneous elections per se. Parliamentary Review Context Chandrachud will formally present his views on July 11 to the Joint Committee reviewing: Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024 Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 Former CJI J.S. Khehar has also been invited. Other ex-CJIs have flagged infirmities in the draft legislation during earlier consultations. Conclusion Chandrachud’s submission appears to support the constitutional feasibility of simultaneous elections. He challenges the presumptions against voter maturity and the rigidity of staggered elections. However, he also acknowledges the need to address political and practical concerns, especially for regional representation. Additional demand behind delay in Jal Jeevan Mission’ Jal Jeevan Mission: Overview & Targets Launched in 2019 to provide functional household tap connections (FHTCs) to all rural households by 2024. Initial target: 19.3 crore rural households; only 16% (3.2 crore) had tap connections in 2019. Aim: 55 litres per capita per day (LPCD) of potable water, conforming to BIS:10500 standards. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance) Current Progress & Expansion As of March 2024: On track with 80% (15.6 crore) coverage. Post-March 2024: Target expanded due to the discovery of 4 crore additional households needing connections. Minister acknowledged the initial estimate of 19.3 crore households remains unchanged on the official site, causing a data mismatch. Implementation Challenges Groundwater insufficiency in many regions necessitated shift to surface water sources, increasing infrastructure demands. Contractor errors and technical issues further delayed implementation. Surface water infrastructure is costlier and slower to build. Funding and Utilisation Total expenditure so far: ₹3.6 lakh crore since 2019. Budgeted outlay: 2023–24: ₹69,992 crore 2024–25: ₹70,000 crore 2025–26 (projected): ₹67,000 crore As of Feb 2025: Only ₹22,694 crore spent out of ₹70,000 crore – indicating underutilisation of ~₹50,000 crore. Timeline Extension Mission deadline extended to 2028 (announced in Union Budget 2024–25) due to expanded scope and infrastructural challenges. Despite extension, the original target data hasn’t been revised, affecting transparency. Key Issues Going Forward Ground vs surface water dependency: Need for sustainable water sourcing strategies. Infrastructure bottlenecks, especially in remote and arid regions. Data transparency and dynamic target updating remain gaps. Budget underutilisation may reflect delays in procurement, execution, or reporting. At Bangkok event, a commitment to count every birth and death Regional Commitments and Progress Governments across Asia-Pacific signed a landmark declaration to ensure universal birth and death registration by 2030. The decision is part of extending the “CRVS Decade” (2015–2024) initiative led by UN-ESCAP to “get everyone in the picture”. Birth and death registrations are seen as foundational to legal identity and access to rights/services. Vital events include births, deaths, marriages, divorces, and causes of death. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations , Governance) Statistical Gains (2012–2022) Children under 5 without birth registration dropped from 135 million to 51 million (60% decline). 29 countries have achieved over 90% birth registration; 30 countries for death registration. Improved quality of cause of death reporting noted. Yet, 14 million children remain unregistered at birth each year, and 6.9 million deaths go unrecorded annually. Why CRVS Matters Birth registration enables access to education, health, protection from trafficking and child marriage. Death certificates help with inheritance, insurance, and closure of identity. Tied to SDG 16.9: “Legal identity for all, including birth registration”. India’s Efforts Birth registration rate rose from 86% to 96% during the CRVS decade. Digital transformation enabled by amendments to the RBD Act (1969): Online registration Use of DigiLocker Recognition of surrogate, adopted, abandoned, and single-parent children. New central CRVS portal launched; cause-of-death reporting made mandatory for medical institutions. Support from UNICEF for digitising old records. Voices from the Conference Children’s advocacy highlighted: “Bureaucracy shouldn’t be the reason we remain invisible.” ESCAP’s Armida Alisjahbana praised political will, digital innovation, and regional cooperation. Fiji’s Justice Minister emphasized shared commitment: “Together we can ensure everyone is seen, heard, and counted.” Challenges and Future Actions Remaining gaps due to: Bureaucracy and lack of awareness Weak inter-departmental coordination Low prioritisation at state/local levels Focus areas till 2030: Inclusive service delivery Digital transformation Legal strengthening and privacy safeguards Gender equity in registration

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 26 June 2025

Content Government to celebrate International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on 26th June, 2025 ECINET Operations started in Bye-polls Government to celebrate International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on 26th June, 2025 Context & Occasion Observed on: 26th June annually as International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. Organiser: Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE). Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues ,Governance) Nodal Ministry & Policy Framework Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) is the nodal ministry for drug demand reduction. Key mandate: Prevention, assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and public awareness. Framework: National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR). Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) Highlights Launched: As a nationwide awareness movement. Scope: Operational in all districts. Target groups: Youth, students (HEIs/schools), and communities. Key Achievements People sensitized: 15.78+ crore, including: 5.26+ crore youth 3.31+ crore women Educational institutions involved: 4.31+ lakh. Master Volunteers (MVs): 20,000+ trained. Pledge Campaign: 1.67+ crore students from 99,595 institutions pledged to stay drug-free. Digital & Outreach Tools NMBA App: Live on Google Play Store; real-time data tracking at district/state/national levels. NMBA Website: Offers dashboard, discussion forum, and e-pledge. Social Media: Active campaigns via Twitter, Facebook, Instagram. Community Engagement Events Organized: Nashe se Azaadi – Youth Interaction Naya Bharat, Nasha Mukt Bharat NMBA Interaction with NCC Partnerships: MoUs signed with major spiritual/social service orgs (Art of Living, ISKCON, etc.) for awareness drives. Institutional Support All de-addiction facilities geo-tagged for public accessibility. NGOs/VOs supported under NAPDDR mobilized for outreach from 1st–26th June 2025. Public Health Perspective Drug dependence seen as psycho-social-medical issue. Leads to: Neuro-psychiatric disorders Cardiovascular diseases Social disruptions (accidents, violence, suicides). Way Forward Jan Andolan approach emphasized to involve masses. Calls for multi-stakeholder participation to sustain awareness and prevention at grassroots level. Data and Facts : National Survey on Extent & Pattern of Substance Use in India (2019) (MoSJE, released 2019; age group 10-75 yrs unless noted) Alcohol 16 crore current users ≈ 14.6 % of population surveyed 5.2 % of all adults (≈ 5.8 crore) are alcohol-dependent Cannabis 3.1 crore users ≈ 2.8 % prevalence 72 lakh people ( 0.66 %) have cannabis-related disorders Opioids Overall use 2.06 % (≈ 2.3 crore people) 0.55 % (≈ 60 lakh) urgently need treatment/health services Sedatives (non-medical use) 1.18 crore users ≈ 1.08 % Inhalants Children & adolescents: 1.7 % users (≈ 22 lakh) Adults: 0.58 % users 18 lakh minors need intervention for inhalant abuse Injecting Drug Users (IDU / PWID) ≈ 8.5 lakh people actively inject psychoactive substances ECINET Operations started in Bye-polls Context & Background Event: Successful implementation of ECINET in bye-elections. States involved: Kerala, Gujarat, Punjab, and West Bengal. Bye-elections held in 5 Assembly Constituencies. ECINET was announced earlier on 4th May 2025 as a one-stop digital platform integrating 40+ ECI applications. Relevance : GS 2(Elections , Reforms) About ECINET Developed by Election Commission of India (ECI). Aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and real-time access to election data. Designed under the leadership of CEC Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi. Key Outcomes in Bye-Elections VTR Trends (Voter Turnout Reports): Uploaded directly by Presiding Officers (PROs) at polling stations. Replaced earlier manual reporting, reducing time lag and enhancing accuracy. Enabled real-time public access to approximate voter turnout data. Index Card Generation: Published within 72 hours of result declaration — a major speed improvement. Earlier: Took days to months due to manual data entry and verification. Now: Most fields are auto-filled via ECINET inputs. About Index Cards Non-statutory post-election statistical reports, introduced in the late 1980s. Purpose: Promote data transparency and accessibility at the constituency level. Contents include: Candidates and party-wise vote share Elector demographics and turnout Gender-based voting patterns Regional variations and party performance Audience: Useful for academics, policymakers, media, researchers, and the public. Access via: https://www.eci.gov.in/statistical-reports → Bye-elections tab. Significance of ECINET Enhances digital governance in the electoral process. Fosters data-driven election analysis. Reduces bureaucratic delay and human error in election reporting. Builds greater public trust in the election process through transparency.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 26 June 2025

Content : Qualified cheer A lofty concept, a Governor and unwanted controversy The ‘Axis of Upheaval’ in the West Asia conflict Qualified Cheer Historic Achievement Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the first Indian to reach ISS and first in orbital space since Rakesh Sharma (1984). Launched aboard Axiom-4 (commercial mission) from NASA’s Florida spaceport on June 25, 2025. Mission includes eight experiments from ISRO and is expected to last two weeks. Relevance : GS 3(Space ) Practice Question : “India’s participation in commercial space missions marks a strategic shift in its human spaceflight programme.” Critically examine the significance of Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 mission for India’s Gaganyaan programme and broader space ambitions. (250 words) Significance for Indian Space Programme Marks a major milestone in preparing for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight (planned for 2027). Provides firsthand data and experience in human spaceflight operations, crucial before launching indigenous missions. Cost: ₹548 crore for the seat and advanced training (alongside backup astronaut Prasanth Nair). Scientific & Strategic Value Facilitates human systems testing in microgravity, crew coordination, and experiment management. Exposure to global space standards (NASA, SpaceX, Axiom protocols) enhances ISRO’s readiness. Could strengthen US-India collaboration in space technology (NASA, Blue Origin show interest in Gaganyaan tech). Concerns & Gaps Lack of transparency: The Department of Space has not clarified the cost-benefit rationale of the paid mission. Raises questions amid ₹20,200 crore Gaganyaan budget and limited communication from ISRO. Geopolitical & Commercial Landscape Axiom is a private firm, highlighting growing commercialisation of space. Uncertainty in U.S. space access (e.g., SpaceX’s political dynamics under Trump) adds instability to future collaborations. ISS decommissioning by 2030 adds urgency for India to define its post-ISS strategy. The Way Forward India must: Communicate more transparently on mission goals, costs, and strategic intent. Invest in private space sector with more tangible policy and funding. Maintain strategic autonomy while leveraging global partnerships. ISRO’s next big challenge post-mission: sustaining public trust and meeting rising expectations. A lofty concept, a Governor and unwanted controversy Context of the Issue A painting of Bharat Mata was displayed at official events at Raj Bhavan, Kerala. The image featured a woman holding a saffron flag, with a lion in the background and the map of India. The Governor of Kerala has been offering floral tributes to the image before official functions. The state government raised concerns, stating this image is not part of officially recognised national symbols. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Federalism ) Practice Question : “In a federal democracy, public symbolism must adhere to constitutional decorum.”Discuss the constitutional and legal framework governing the use of symbols in official spaces, in the context of the recent Kerala Raj Bhavan episode. (250 words)   Constitutional and Legal Perspective India recognises specific national symbols: the flag, anthem, emblem, etc., under the Constitution or statutory provisions. No specific visual representation of Bharat Mata has been officially adopted as a national symbol. In public functions, especially those held in government venues, symbols are usually guided by official protocols and approvals. Role of the Governor As per constitutional norms, the Governor acts on the advice of the elected state government in matters of governance. Supreme Court rulings and Constituent Assembly debates (including views of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar) have emphasized that the Governor does not act independently in executive matters. Placement of portraits or symbols in official spaces typically follows guidelines set by the state administration. Understanding the Bharat Mata Concept The concept of Bharat Mata originated in the late 19th century. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay introduced a mother figure as Banga Mata in Anandamath. The first visual depiction was by Abanindranath Tagore in 1905; the image was later popularised by Sister Nivedita as Bharat Mata. Jawaharlal Nehru, in The Discovery of India, interpreted Bharat Mata as representing the people of India, rather than a specific image. Symbolism in Public Spaces In a diverse and plural society like India, the use of imagery in official settings is approached with sensitivity and inclusiveness. Public institutions often follow a secular and neutral framework for official ceremonies to reflect the country’s constitutional values. Institutional Coordination Raj Bhavan, while being the Governor’s residence, is also a public institution that hosts official state functions. Decisions regarding visual displays at such venues are generally made in consultation with the government, ensuring alignment with established norms and public expectations. Way Forward Coordination between constitutional authorities helps maintain the smooth functioning of governance. Public institutions can benefit from clear communication and adherence to constitutional protocols in organising official events. Discussions on national identity and symbolism can be approached with respect, balance, and institutional consensus. 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 ‘Axis of Upheaval’ in the West Asia conflict Backdrop of the Conflict A ceasefire followed the escalation between Israel and Iran, including U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The incident challenges the idea of the world being divided into Cold War-like blocs, as key partners like Russia and China did not intervene militarily in support of Iran. Iran faces significant political and military setbacks, creating questions around the depth and reliability of its strategic alignments. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : “The so-called ‘Axis of Upheaval’ reflects geopolitical fluidity rather than a formal power bloc.” Analyze how the recent West Asia conflict exposes the limits of informal strategic alignments among Iran, Russia, and China. (250 words) Understanding the ‘Axis of Upheaval’ Term coined to describe a perceived counter-West alliance of Russia, China, and Iran. These partnerships are not bound by formal military treaties, making collective defense actions unlikely. Shared goals include: De-dollarisation of the global economy. Alternatives to SWIFT (global payment system). Strengthening groupings like BRICS and SCO. Promoting multipolar global governance. Iran’s Strategic Position Iran has provided drones to Russia in the Ukraine war and cooperated with Russia in Syria. China remains a key oil buyer, helping sustain Iran’s economy despite sanctions. Strategic partnerships with Russia (2025) and China (2021) are mainly economic, not defense-oriented. Russia’s Constraints Russia’s resources are largely committed to the Ukraine conflict, limiting its ability to support Iran militarily. With Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s exit and shift in Syria’s foreign policy, Russia’s military presence in West Asia has weakened. Moscow’s support remains diplomatic; offers to mediate the Iran-Israel conflict were declined. China’s Position China has condemned Israeli strikes and urged restraint but refrains from military engagement. Strategic tension in West Asia may serve Chinese interests by: Diverting U.S. focus away from the Indo-Pacific. Providing space for China to strengthen regional positions. Implications of U.S. Involvement The U.S.–Iran conflict may affect U.S. capacity to manage other global theatres (e.g., Ukraine, Indo-Pacific). A U.S.-backed ceasefire is currently in place but remains fragile. Challenges for Iran Iran’s regional allies (e.g., Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis) are currently weakened. Lacks military backing from its larger strategic partners. The experience may reinforce Tehran’s belief in the strategic value of nuclear deterrence. Key Takeaway The idea of an anti-West bloc appears more rhetorical than operational. While Russia and China align with Iran economically and politically, the absence of formal defense pacts limits coordinated action. The episode highlights asymmetries in global alliances and evolving power dynamics in West Asia.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 26 June 2025

Content: Indian astronaut in space after 41-year gap, on mission to ISS Enabling voting rights for migrants State- and sex-wise liver disease data hint at underlying factors Should the method of counting caste change? Chemotherapy drugs made by Indian firms fail quality tests, shows study New platform helped with faster update of turnout trends: EC When cities have trees that don’t belong, the birds notice Indian astronaut in space after 41-year gap, on mission to ISS Mission Overview: Axiom-4 Launch Historic Milestone: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the first Indian to reach space since Rakesh Sharma (1984), and first Indian to board the ISS. Launch Details: Launched on June 26, 2025 (IST) from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Florida. Vehicle: SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Spacecraft: Dragon crew capsule (commercial, reusable). Duration & Activities: Total mission span: 14 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Crew Composition: Astronauts from India, U.S., Poland, and Hungary. Objectives include scientific research (60+ activities), STEM outreach, and commercial engagements. Relevance : GS 3(Space , Science) Significance for India’s Space Programme Symbolic Launch of India’s Human Spaceflight Era: Shukla called this “the start of India’s human space programme”—signalling a formal operational step toward the indigenous Gaganyaan mission (planned 2027). Skill & Knowledge Transfer: Provides critical insights on life support, crew management, microgravity research, and ISS-standard procedures—vital for designing Gaganyaan’s crew module, mission control systems, and astronaut training protocols. Scientific & Technological Value Participation in Global Science: Ax-4 mission includes 60 experiments across 31 countries, many of which involve life sciences, material sciences, and human physiology—a collaborative platform for India. ISRO’s Role: 8 experiments contributed by ISRO and Indian academic institutions—potential validation of Indian payloads in microgravity. Microgravity Research: The data from Ax-4 could feed into human adaptation models, crucial for long-term crewed missions (e.g., Moon, Mars). Strategic & Diplomatic Implications Space Diplomacy: First instance of India joining a multilateral crewed space mission, strengthening ties with NASA, SpaceX, and the Axiom Space ecosystem. Enhances India’s standing in global space partnerships, especially with countries seeking alternatives to China-led collaborations. Bilateral Cooperation Potential: May open avenues for U.S.-India collaboration on future missions—e.g., NASA offering support in Gaganyaan, or co-developing tech with SpaceX or Blue Origin. Cost & Policy Dimensions ₹548 crore investment for the seat and advanced training (includes backup astronaut Prasanth Nair). Falls within India’s broader ₹20,200 crore Gaganyaan budget, but raises questions on: Transparency in cost-benefit analysis. The need for clearer public communication on strategic rationale by ISRO/Department of Space. Commercial Space Trend: Part of India’s move toward leveraging private space platforms—a step toward ISRO-private sector synergies. Forward Trajectory for ISRO Key Learnings for Gaganyaan: Operations, safety standards, mission readiness, crew psychological management. Institutional Expectations: Greater transparency, public engagement, and long-term visioning expected from ISRO. Urgency Post-ISS Era: ISS likely to be decommissioned by 2030. India must develop independent or collaborative space station capabilities (e.g., Bharatiya Antariksha Station announced for 2035). Conclusion The Ax-4 mission marks a symbolic and strategic inflection point in India’s space journey. Beyond technological validation, it tests India’s readiness for global space leadership, requiring policy clarity, institutional coordination, and private-public synergy in the coming decade. Enabling voting rights for migrants Context: Bihar, Migration, and Low Turnout Bihar’s Out-Migration Profile: One of the highest out-migration states in India. Over 50% of households experience migration, mostly for work. Voter Turnout Concerns: Bihar’s voter turnout in 2024 Lok Sabha elections was 56%, significantly below the national average of 66%. Migration is cited as a key factor reducing electoral participation. Relevance : GS 2(Elections ,Social Issues) Patterns and Complexity of Migration India-wide Migration Stats (2021): 28.9% overall migration rate. Majority of women migrate for marriage, while 10% migrate for work, especially in Bihar and eastern India. Types of Migrants: Intra-State Migrants (≈85%): Often in informal sectors and travel within state boundaries. Inter-State Migrants: Harder to reach due to geographic and logistical barriers. Challenges in Voting Access for Migrants Disenfranchisement Risks: Migrants often can’t travel home during elections due to distance, cost, or employment conditions. Lack of suitable voting mechanisms effectively denies many their right to vote. Proposed Mechanisms and Their Prospects Statutory Holiday + Transport for Intra-State Migrants Mechanism: Enforce paid holiday on polling day + arrange special buses. Benefit: Enables short-distance travel to home constituencies. Challenge: Needs coordination with employers, especially in the informal sector. Postal Ballot System Inspired by: Armed forces voting system. Mechanism: Migrants pre-register, ECI issues and collects ballots. Benefit: Could be efficient for inter-state migrants if managed well. Challenge: Requires extensive advance planning and bureaucratic capacity. Shifting Constituencies Mechanism: Long-term migrants register at place of current residence. Benefit: Empowers migrants as local political stakeholders. Challenge: May face local opposition; needs clear proof of residence. Remote Voting Machines (RVMs) ECI pilot (2023): RVMs capable of handling votes for up to 72 constituencies. Political Concerns: Transparency and credibility issues raised. Code of Conduct enforcement where migrants reside remains a grey area. Operational Difficulty: ECI would need to install multiple RVMs per city, especially for states like Bihar with 243 Assembly constituencies. Data collection and coordination must begin months in advance. Women Migrants: A Special Case Women migrating after marriage often don’t re-register in new constituencies. Targeted voter awareness and registration drives needed to include them in local electoral rolls. Why a Mixed Approach is Needed Heterogeneity of migrants demands multi-pronged solutions. Temporary vs permanent, intra- vs inter-state, skilled vs unskilled. No one-size-fits-all mechanism; ECI needs to combine: Postal ballots RVMs (long-term solution with fine-tuning) Transport/logistical support Flexible re-registration norms Policy Implications & the Way Forward Strengthen migrant inclusivity to uphold democratic ideals. Empower migrant workers politically, helping demand better living/work conditions. More research and pilot studies needed on: Voting behaviours of migrants Feasibility of tech-based interventions (RVMs, e-postal ballots) Build stakeholder consensus — ECI, political parties, civil society, and employers — to implement any voting reform successfully. State- and sex-wise liver disease data hint at underlying factors Rising Burden of Liver Disease in India Liver diseases have emerged as a major public health concern in India. In 2022, liver diseases made digestive system illnesses the 8th leading cause of death, a jump from previous years. This marks a notable epidemiological shift, highlighting changing lifestyle and health patterns. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance) Sex-Based Trends Men are disproportionately affected: Male deaths from digestive diseases in 2022 were 3.5 times higher than female deaths. This male-to-female mortality ratio is the highest since 2016. Liver disease’s share among digestive deaths: 75% of male digestive deaths were liver-related. For women, it was 57.5%, with the figure remaining between 52–57% from 2012–2022. Implication: Indicates possible sex-linked behavioural or biological risk factors. Age-Wise Distribution (2022) Men: Liver disease mortality peaks in the 35–54 age group. Suggests early onset of risk factors like alcohol and lifestyle issues. Women: 30% of female deaths from digestive diseases occurred in the 65+ age group. Likely indicates age-related liver complications rather than lifestyle-induced disease. State-Level Insights Sikkim has the highest proportion of certified deaths from digestive diseases (~20%). North-Eastern states show a distinct trend: Five states record >10% deaths due to digestive diseases — the highest regional cluster. No other Indian region shows such high percentages. Insight: Strong regional variation demands targeted public health responses. Behavioural Risk Factors Alcohol Consumption: Only 1% of women vs. 19% of men consume alcohol in India (NFHS data). Aligns with high male liver disease burden in middle age. Meat Consumption: Excessive intake is also linked to liver disease. Combined alcohol + meat consumption is highest in North-East India, potentially explaining regional spikes. Inference: Strong correlation (not causation) between diet/lifestyle and liver disease trends. Need for More Research While patterns are clear, the evidence is correlational. There is no established causation between alcohol/meat and liver disease mortality yet. Call to Action: Invest in epidemiological studies. Map risk factors by age, sex, and region for policy design. Policy & Health System Implications Early detection and awareness programmes targeting middle-aged men are crucial. Region-specific interventions (especially in North-East) are needed. Health infrastructure must be adapted to deal with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like liver disorders. Behaviour change communication (BCC) on alcohol and meat consumption should be tailored to demographics and regions. Should the method of counting caste change? Structure of the Upcoming Census (2026–27) Two-phase process: House-listing phase (2026): Lists all dwellings, housing quality, amenities, and assets. Population enumeration phase (2027): Collects demographic and socio-economic information — including caste data (for the first time since 1941). First caste enumeration since 1941: 1941 data couldn’t be processed due to WWII. The 1931 Census remains the last usable caste data set. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues) Why Caste Enumeration? PM Modi has stated it is meant to bring marginalised communities into the mainstream. Aims to identify disparities across castes to inform inclusive policy-making. However, current Census design may not support this goal without restructuring. Key Gaps in Existing Census Design Questionnaire Limitations: Earlier caste questions limited to Scheduled Castes (SCs). No questions on OBCs or other castes in prior censuses. Proposed changes for 2027: Extend caste questions to all non-ST populations. Update digital data collection software and enumerator instructions. Data Quality & Interpretation Issues Unemployment data flawed: Based on vague, year-long reference to “seeking/available for work”. Poor conceptual clarity and execution since 1981. Childbirth and survival data: Quality concerns; better captured by NFHS surveys. Not useful for reliable caste-wise analysis. Migration data weak: Many migrants undercounted or not identified as migrants. Weakens analysis of caste-mobility dynamics. Household Linkage Problem Current phase gap (6–9 months) between house-listing and population enumeration: Linking housing data with personal details (like caste) becomes error-prone. Especially affects urban poor and smaller communities. Solution proposed: Transfer housing, amenities, and asset questions from house-listing to population enumeration. Enables better integration and analysis of socio-economic data by caste. Missed Analytical Opportunities Without restructuring, Census cannot answer key policy questions: E.g., literacy rates of persons in kutcha houses by caste. Workforce patterns among urban poor across castes. Restructuring needed to allow such disaggregated, caste-wise insights. Need to Make Census Leaner Remove redundant questions to enhance accuracy and focus: Ownership of mobiles/computers and bank accounts may no longer be vital. A shorter questionnaire: Improves efficiency and quality of responses. Reduces enumerator fatigue and respondent confusion. Way Forward for Policy Use Past caste-wise data on socio-economic indicators underutilized. Upcoming caste data should: Be used for identifying Most Backward Castes/Tribes. Go beyond reservation quotas — inform targeted welfare policies. Despite practical limitations, Census remains the best tool for comprehensive nationwide caste data. Chemotherapy drugs made by Indian firms fail quality tests, shows study Key Findings from the Study A University of Notre Dame study tested 189 chemotherapy drug samples across countries. ~20% of samples failed quality checks — posing risks of ineffective treatment or toxic side effects. 16 of 17 failed drug manufacturers were India-based. Failed drugs were exported to over 100 countries, including Nepal, Ethiopia, U.S., U.K., and Saudi Arabia. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance ) Drugs & Manufacturers Under Scrutiny Venus Remedies: All 8 samples of its cyclophosphamide failed. Claimed test results were not “scientifically plausible”. Blamed storage conditions, denied receiving complaints. Zuvius Lifesciences, GLS Pharma, and Zee Laboratories: Supplied poor-quality drugs to 40+ countries. Did not respond to repeated requests for comment. Deviation from international testing standards was alleged by manufacturers, but: Study leader Marya Lieberman defended the methodology. Testing was peer-reviewed and followed standard practices.   Types of Drug Failures Too little active ingredient: Rendered the medicine ineffective. Too much active ingredient: Posed risk of organ damage or death. Case evidence: Doctors noted patients becoming unresponsive to treatment or suffering extreme side effects. Some were forced to discontinue chemotherapy due to toxicity. Global Regulatory Gaps More than two-thirds of countries cannot assure medicine quality. Nepal: One of the largest importers of the failed drugs. No capacity to test cancer drugs. Has never recalled any cancer drug despite external evidence. Patients have no visibility on drug quality; no accountability mechanisms in place. India: Major Supplier, Questionable Oversight India is the world’s largest generic drug manufacturer. Activists like Dinesh Thakur allege: Indian drug regulation protects industry more than patients. Enforcement is inconsistent and weak. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO): Claims failing drugs are recalled, and legal action is taken. Lacks transparency on actual recall data or prosecutions. High Stakes for Patients In low-income countries (e.g., Ethiopia), patients save for months or years to afford treatment. Receiving a faulty drug can be financially and emotionally devastating. Chemotherapy is already physically taxing; substandard drugs worsen outcomes. Larger Implications Highlights failure of international drug surveillance systems, including the WHO. Raises concerns over reliance on generic exports from countries with poor regulatory capacity. Calls for: Stronger cross-border pharmacovigilance. International accountability mechanisms. Investment in regulatory infrastructure in importing countries. New platform helped with faster update of turnout trends: EC What Is ECINET? ECINET is a new digital platform developed by the Election Commission (EC). Aimed at speeding up data entry, verification, and dissemination during and after elections. First piloted in by-elections across four States earlier this month. Relevance : GS (Elections -Reforms) Key Functional Improvements Voter turnout trends were uploaded directly by presiding officers. Replaced the manual paper-based process, leading to real-time updates. Index Cards — summaries of election results per constituency — were published within 72 hours. Earlier, this process took several days due to manual data verification. Impact of ECINET Faster and more transparent dissemination of election data. Reduces bureaucratic delay and potential for human error in tabulation. Enhances accountability, especially in the publication of post-election statistics. Broader Significance ECINET is part of the digitisation push by the EC to modernise election operations. If successful, it could: Become the standard model for future Assembly and General Elections. Lead to digitised electoral roll verification, faster result auditing, and increased transparency. However, political parties still demand more accountability tools, indicating digital tech alone isn’t enough to assure electoral fairness. When cities have trees that don’t belong, the birds notice Urban Heat and Biodiversity Decline Climate change + urbanisation is leading to rising temperatures and declining green cover in Indian cities, notably Bengaluru. Heat islands (urban zones hotter than surroundings) show significantly lower bird diversity. Biodiversity is clustered in areas with more tree cover and less heat, showing strong correlation between microclimate and species richness. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Bird Diversity Findings from the Study Study by IIHS researchers used eBird data and satellite heat models. Bengaluru, with over 350 bird species, sees sharp drops in diversity where tree cover declines or heat increases. Not all birds benefit from more trees — some open habitat species thrive where tree density is lower. Tree Cover: Quality Matters More Than Quantity Mere increase in tree cover doesn’t guarantee more biodiversity. 77% of Bengaluru’s tree cover is exotic, not supporting native fauna. Invasive ornamental trees (e.g., Jacaranda, Tabebuia) are visually appealing but harm local ecosystems and can exacerbate allergies and reduce insect biodiversity. Problems with Tree Plantation Drives Many afforestation efforts ignore local ecological history and plant non-native species. Cities like Pune originally had savannahs, grasslands, and wetlands, now replaced by tree plantations. Simplistic “tree = green = good” logic is flawed — restoration needs native diversity, not just tree count. What Should Urban Biodiversity Planning Involve? Move away from one-size-fits-all tree planting; consider historical land-use and local ecosystem types. Include native grasses, herbs, shrubs, and wetland species alongside trees. Mixed approach needed: small gardens, isolated trees, green corridors, wetlands, and large parks. Ecological & Social Equity Poor and marginalised communities are most affected by heat stress and lack of green spaces. Urban biodiversity planning must serve both ecology and equity. Increasing access to green spaces is vital — some public parks restrict entry, worsening inequity. Key Takeaways for Policy & Practice Tree planting must be strategic and ecologically informed. City biodiversity plans should have clear goals, zonal strategies, and native species focus. Heat mitigation and biodiversity conservation can be aligned — if done wisely

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