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Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 13 December 2025

Content Census of India 2027 Strengthening India’s Framework Against Fake News and Deepfakes Ozempic (Semaglutide) MGNREGA Likely to be Renamed ‘Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana’ Private Entry in Nuclear Sector & 100% FDI in Insurance Census of India 2027 Why is this in News? Union Cabinet approved the Scheme for Conduct of Census of India 2027 with a financial outlay of ₹11,718.24 crore (PIB, 12 Dec 2025). First fully digital census with self-enumeration, mobile apps, geospatial mapping, and real-time monitoring. First nationwide caste enumeration in independent India (as per Cabinet decision of 30 April 2025). Census postponed from 2021 due to COVID-19; 2027 becomes India’s 16th Census and 8th after Independence. No separate allocation for NPR; government stated no decision yet on NPR update. Relevance GS-I: Indian Society Caste enumeration offers updated insights into social stratification and inequalities. Data on migration, fertility, religious composition → understanding population dynamics. Housing and urbanisation data → trends in living conditions, amenities, and social change. GS-II: Governance and Social Justice Census Act, 1948 provides statutory foundation for population data governance. Enables evidence-based policy in health, education, welfare, reservations, and fiscal transfers. Digital census → higher transparency, accountability, and administrative efficiency. Strengthens cooperative federalism through joint Centre–State operations. What is the Census? World’s largest administrative and statistical exercise. Statutory basis: Census Act, 1948; Census Rules, 1990. Mandatory, confidential, and decennial. Provides granular village/ward-level datasets on: Population composition, religion SC/ST population Caste (2027 onwards) Literacy, education, fertility Economic activity, migration Housing, amenities, assets Languages and demographic transitions Structure of Census 2027 Two-phased operation Houselisting & Housing Census: April–September 2026 Population Enumeration: February 2027 Exceptions (snow-bound): Ladakh, J&K (selected areas), HP, Uttarakhand → September 2026 Scale 30 lakh field functionaries, mostly government teachers. 1.02 crore man-days of employment. Supervision structure: District Collectors → Charge Officers → Supervisors → Enumerators. Key Features and Digital Innovations Digital-first Census Mobile app (Android/iOS) for data collection. Digital identity verification and encrypted storage. Self-enumeration Households can submit data online via a secure portal. CMMS (Census Management & Monitoring System) Real-time tracker of enumerators, progress dashboards, exception flags. HLB Creator Geospatial mapping of every Houselisting Block (HLB) for high geographic precision. Census-as-a-Service (CaaS) Clean, machine-readable datasets for ministries Facilitates automated integration with dashboards Enhanced Cybersecurity Encryption, two-factor authentication, restricted access, audit trails. Nationwide Awareness Campaign Inclusion of migrants, nomadic groups, remote habitations, digital-poor regions. Caste Enumeration Integrated into Population Enumeration Schedule. First time since 1931 (except SECC 2011, which produced non-usable caste data). Administrative Process and Implementation Enumerators: Government teachers conducting survey in addition to regular duties. Detailed training modules on digital tools, GIS mapping, cybersecurity. Two questionnaires: Houselisting & Housing Schedule Population Enumeration Schedule (includes caste) Centre handles design, IT backbone, and training; States deploy field staff → cooperative federalism in execution. Benefits and Governance Significance Higher-quality, faster data Digital capture reduces human error and improves validation. Faster release of tables through automated pipelines. Micro-targeting of welfare Identification of caste groups, vulnerable households, slum populations, migrant clusters. Supports targeted schemes: education, health, nutrition, reservation calibration. Supports SDGs Better indicators on maternal health, sanitation, urbanisation, poverty, gender. Digital state capacity Infrastructure comparable to Aadhaar, UPI in administrative scale. Builds a long-term digital backbone for population statistics. Public access Dashboards, visualisation tools, and machine-readable datasets increase transparency. Comparisons Difference from Earlier Censuses First fully digital census First nationwide caste enumeration Geo-tagged houselisting Self-enumeration Real-time digital audit trails Machine-readable datasets  Policy Significance of Caste Enumeration Enables redesign of OBC reservation matrix. Helps identify intra-group inequalities (dominant vs. marginalised OBCs). Supports evidence-based social justice strategies. NPR, NRC and 2027 Census 2019 NPR budget absent in 2027 allocation. Political sensitivities lowered; technical pathway still possible under Citizenship Rules 2003. Census 2027 remains a standalone demographic exercise. Implications of Census Delay (2011 → 2027 gap) India’s key baselines (poverty, urbanisation, fertility rates, population projections) were outdated. Delimitation post-2026 will require updated population numbers. 2027 dataset will reset national planning parameters. Macro Significance Deepens digital governance capacity comparable to Aadhaar ecosystem. Caste + socio-economic + demographic data → redesign India’s welfare architecture. Strengthens cooperative federalism through joint Centre–State operations. Sparks debates on privacy, data sovereignty, access governance, and algorithmic use of population data. Challenges Digital divide in remote regions. Enumerator workload (teachers juggling dual duties). Cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Political sensitivities around caste data release. Harmonising State-level objections (e.g., to NPR earlier). Tight timelines for training and digital readiness. Strengthening India’s Framework Against Fake News and Deepfakes Why is this in News? Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw told the Rajya Sabha that India has significantly strengthened its framework to combat fake news and AI-generated deepfakes across media platforms. The Minister stated that while Article 19(1)(a) protects free speech, fake news threatens public order, democratic processes, elections, and social harmony. He highlighted the existing statutory and institutional mechanisms: Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act Press Council norms IT Rules, 2021 Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check Unit (FCU) The statement comes against a backdrop of rising AI-enabled deepfakes, misinformation during elections, and regulatory debates over digital platforms. Relevance GS II – Governance Regulation of digital platforms; IT Rules, 2021. Role of statutory bodies: PCI, PIB FCU, Programme Code. Balance between free speech (Art. 19(1)(a)) and reasonable restrictions (Art. 19(2)). Impact on elections, public order, democratic processes. GS III – Internal Security Deepfakes as emerging cyber threat. Misinformation risks to national security & communal harmony. Need for AI-governance, detection tools, cyber-regulation. What is Fake News?  False, misleading, manipulated or fabricated information presented as authentic news. Includes text, images, videos, voice clones, AI-generated content and deepfakes. Deepfakes use AI (GANs, diffusion models) to synthetically modify faces/voices, making false content appear real. Consequences Distorts democratic decision-making. Fuels polarisation, hate speech, violence. Undermines institutional trust. Manipulates markets, public health behaviour, disaster response. Data and Facts  India is among the world’s largest consumers of social media content; misinformation spreads fastest in high-trust WhatsApp ecosystems. 2023 Microsoft Threat Assessment Report called India a “global hotspot” for deepfake proliferation. 65% of Indians surveyed by LocalCircles (2023) reported receiving fake news at least once a day. 2018–2023: Police registered thousands of FIRs under IPC Sections related to misinformation, but conviction rates remain low due to tech complexity. Lok Sabha elections 2024 saw a 300–400% rise in deepfake content, including doctored political speeches. UNESCO 2023: Deepfakes globally are doubling every 6 months. These trends justify the government’s stronger regulatory posture. Constitutional Context Article 19(1)(a) → Freedom of speech and expression. Article 19(2) → Reasonable restrictions: public order, defamation, sovereignty/security of State, decency/morality. Fake news often breaches public order and defamation, framing the basis for regulatory intervention. Statutory Framework to Combat Fake News The Minister emphasised that India already has a broad legal and institutional architecture.  Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act Content must follow the Programme Code. Prohibits: obscene or defamatory content, “deliberately false” content, half-truths, suggestive innuendos, material harming public order. Three-tier grievance redressal system: Self-regulation by channel Self-regulatory bodies Oversight by government (I&B Ministry)  Press Council of India (PCI) – Print Media Norms of Journalistic Conduct prohibit fake, defamatory, misleading, or sensational reporting. PCI can: issue warnings, censure publications, conduct inquiries, examine complaints. Limited power: cannot impose monetary penalties.  IT Rules, 2021 – Digital News Platforms Code of Ethics for digital news publishers. Three-tier grievance system: Publisher Self-regulatory body Government oversight (Inter-Departmental Committee) Ensures accountability of digital newsrooms and aggregators.  Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check Unit (FCU) Fact-checks government-related news. Can flag false information on: government policies, schemes, official data, public statements. Social media intermediaries often rely on FCU flags for content moderation.  Gaps and Challenges in India’s Anti-Fake News Architecture Reactive, not preventive: FCU checks only government-related claims. Deepfakes are too advanced for current detection capacities. Enforcement asymmetry across States. Limited authentication infrastructure for AI content. High volume of misinformation during elections. Lack of uniform standards for platforms → safe harbour debates under IT Act. Societal vulnerabilities: low digital literacy, echo chambers, linguistic diversity.  Government Initiatives and Strengthening Measures Deepfake Task Force (2023–24) proposed watermarking standards, rapid-takedown protocols, AI-detection tools for law enforcement. Digital India Act (draft) aims to redefine obligations of social media platforms. Fact Check Units expanded across ministries. Awareness campaigns with MeitY, NCERT, MyGov. AI-powered detection through partnerships with IITs and CERT-In. Advisory to platforms to label synthetic media.  International Comparisons  EU Digital Services Act → strict liability for platforms, misinformation takedown timelines. US → free speech centred; limited federal regulation. Singapore POFMA → strong powers to correct/flag misinformation. China → mandatory watermarking for AI-generated content. India’s evolving framework sits between EU-style regulation and US free-speech orientation. Ozempic (semaglutide)    Why is this in News? Ozempic (semaglutide), developed by Novo Nordisk, has become officially available in India. Pricing per weekly dose: 0.25 mg → ₹2,200 0.5 mg → ₹2,542 1 mg → ₹2,794 Approved in India as a first-line therapy for Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) along with diet and exercise. The launch comes amid rising interest in GLP-1 drugs globally for diabetes control and significant weight-loss effects. Relevance GS II – Health & Social Justice Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) burden in India. Regulatory role of CDSCO; drug approvals and pricing. Accessibility and affordability of advanced therapies. Public health challenges: diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular risk. GS III – Science & Technology GLP-1 receptor agonists as modern pharmacological innovation. Biotechnology, AI-assisted drug development, clinical trials. What is Ozempic? Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA). Active molecule: semaglutide, a long-acting incretin mimetic. Administered once weekly via pre-filled injection pen. Class action: enhances physiological insulin response. How GLP-1 RAs Work? Stimulate glucose-dependent insulin secretion. Suppress glucagon release. Slow gastric emptying, flattening post-meal glucose spikes. Reduce appetite (satiety effect), contributing to weight loss. Improve cardiometabolic risk markers. Why Ozempic Matters for India ? India has ~101 million diabetics (ICMR–INDIAB 2023). Another 136 million are pre-diabetic. India accounts for 1 in 7 adults with diabetes globally. T2DM prevalence increasing rapidly in 20–45 age group. Current Challenges Poor glycaemic control: only ~28% of patients achieve target HbA1c. Obesity and metabolic syndrome rising in urban and semi-urban India. High cardiovascular risk: diabetes contributes to ~30% of heart disease deaths. Relevance of Ozempic More potent lowering of HbA1c vs. many oral agents. Reduces risk of major cardiovascular events in high-risk diabetics. Particularly useful in overweight and obese T2DM patients. Regulatory Status Approved by CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) for: Adults with Type-2 Diabetes, As first-line therapy, adjunct to diet and exercise. Not approved in India yet for obesity treatment (unlike the U.S. Wegovy version of semaglutide). Pricing and Market Impact India launch pricing places Ozempic in the premium therapy segment. Still significantly cheaper than U.S. retail price (~$900 per month). Advantages of Ozempic Large HbA1c reduction (~1.4–1.8%). Strong, consistent weight loss (~4–6 kg average in diabetes; higher in obesity trials). Proven cardiovascular risk reduction (SUSTAIN-6 trial). Once-weekly dosage improves adherence. Lower hypoglycaemia risk vs. sulfonylureas. Limitations & Concerns High cost limits access for rural and low-income patients. Gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) common initially. Requires injection; may affect acceptance. Risk of supply constraints (global Ozempic shortages 2022–2024). Cannot fully substitute insulin in advanced diabetes. Misuse risk for cosmetic weight loss without medical supervision. MGNREGA Likely to be Renamed ‘Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana’   Why is this in News? Government may rename the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to “Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana.” Government is also considering increasing guaranteed employment from 100 days to 125 days for eligible rural households. FY25 data shows average employment per household was just 50 days, far below the legally guaranteed 100 days. Only 40.70 lakh households completed 100 days of work in FY24; in FY25 so far, about 6.74 crore households have worked under the scheme. Proposal comes alongside a Finance Ministry approval process related to rebranding and scheme restructuring. A 2022 Rural Development Ministry committee had studied state performance and governance issues under MGNREGA; its report is guiding current changes. Relevance GS II – Governance Rights-based welfare legislation; MGNREGA Act, 2005. Centre–State financial relations; cooperative federalism. Policy redesign, renaming, administrative reforms. MIS, social audits, transparency, wage payments. GS III – Indian Economy Rural distress, labour markets, consumption effects. Fiscal burden, employment guarantees, poverty reduction. Impact of raising guaranteed days from 100 → 125. What is MGNREGA?  Enacted under MGNREGA Act, 2005 — a rights-based, demand-driven wage employment programme. Guarantees 100 days of unskilled work to every rural household (likely to increase to 125). Work must be given within 15 days of demand; else unemployment allowance due. Focus on: water conservation, land development, soil and moisture works, flood control, drought-proofing, rural infrastructure. Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat central to planning and implementation. India’s Rural Labour Context  FY25 average employment per household: 50 days → underutilisation of the guaranteed entitlement. Households completing full 100 days (previous year): 40.70 lakh. Total households already working in FY25: 6.74 crore. Indicates high demand but limited provision of full entitlements. Persistent mismatch between budget allocations, state delays, and actual rural distress levels. Objectives of the Scheme Provide livelihood security in rural areas. Prevent seasonal migration and income volatility. Support natural resource management and durable asset creation. Promote participatory planning through Gram Sabhas. Enhance rural women’s labour force participation; women constitute ~55% of the workforce. Why Renaming is Being Considered Aligning with Gandhian ideals of rural labour and self-reliance. Government narrative to position rural employment as productive nation-building rather than welfare. Renaming coincides with discussion on increasing guaranteed days to 125, signalling a policy shift. Finance Ministry’s involvement indicates administrative restructuring and budget recalibration. Political messaging: rural employment as core to development agenda. Legal and Administrative Implications Act name remains MGNREGA unless Parliament amends it. Scheme/operational name can be changed via executive notification. MIS, job cards, work demand registers, social audit formats must be updated. States must retrain frontline staff and modify implementation guidelines. Performance Snapshot with FY25 Updates Average days provided: 50 (FY25) → well below guarantee. Households demanding work remain high, reflecting rural distress. Low achievement of 100 days target signals: insufficient funds released on time, rationing of work by states, delays in wage payment, administrative bottlenecks. Social audits and transparency mechanisms uneven across states. Strengths of MGNREGA One of world’s largest employment programmes. Counter-cyclical economic stabiliser (proven in drought years and COVID-19). Enhances women’s earnings and rural empowerment. Builds durable assets (check-dams, ponds, contour trenches, plantations). Strong digital MIS for transparency. Persistent Issues & Governance Challenges Under-provision of work despite high demand (50 days avg.). Delayed wage payments through PFMS. Inadequate annual budget leading to states curbing demand. Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) glitches. Material-wage ratio rigidity in states with high material costs. Weak social audit compliance in many states. Political resistance to expanding fiscal outlay. Implications of Increasing Guaranteed Days to 125 Positive Higher labour absorption, better income security. Stronger rural consumption effects. Better environmental asset creation. Concerns Significant additional fiscal burden (estimated 20–25% increase). States may struggle with administrative load without capacity enhancements. Possible widening of delays if fund releases do not match demand. Private Entry in Nuclear Sector & 100% FDI in Insurance Why is this in News? The Union Cabinet has cleared private participation in India’s civil nuclear sector and approved 100% FDI in the insurance sector, marking a major reform push. Cabinet approved: A Bill to amend FDI limits in insurance from 74% → 100%. Atomic Energy Bill, 2025 under the SHANTI framework (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India), allowing private players to participate in nuclear energy activities. The SHANTI Bill aims to add 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, a transformational expansion aligned with India’s long-term energy security and decarbonisation goals. Government also announced a Nuclear Energy Mission with ₹20,000 crore outlay for development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), to be deployed by 2033. Relevance GS II – Governance & Policy Reforming strategic sectors; legislative amendments (Atomic Energy Act). Regulation of insurance sector; IRDAI reforms. Federal implications, institutional capacity. GS III – Economy, Energy & S&T Private participation in nuclear → technology, SMRs, decarbonisation. Energy security, climate commitments (100 GW by 2047). Insurance capital mobilisation, financial deepening, long-term funds. Strategic technology development under SHANTI framework. Background: India’s Nuclear Sector  Atomic Energy Act, 1962 gives the Central government exclusive control over nuclear research, production, and power generation. Private sector participation is currently limited to: Components, EPC works Fuel supply chain (non-strategic parts) Construction services Nuclear liability governed by: Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLND Act) Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC), which India joined in 2016. India aims for net-zero by 2070, requiring large-scale baseload clean energy; nuclear is crucial due to: low emissions stable load energy security Key Components of the Reform Package Private Participation in Civil Nuclear Energy SHANTI Bill allows private participants in civilian nuclear activities under regulated conditions. Targets: Add 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047 (current ~7 GW). Accelerate R&D, manufacturing, and deployment of reactors. Allows private sector roles in: reactor construction component manufacturing fuel fabrication (non-sensitive aspects) equipment maintenance operations under regulatory oversight Nuclear Energy Mission for SMRs Outlay: ₹20,000 crore. Goal: Develop at least five indigenous SMRs deployable by 2033. SMRs enable: lower cost faster installation enhanced safety suitability for remote/industrial regions 100% FDI in Insurance FDI limit raised from 74% → 100% to: attract long-term capital increase insurance penetration strengthen solvency and risk-bearing capacity Strategy aligns with expected 7% annual growth in insurance over next five years. Additional Governance Reforms Restrictions on repatriation of dividends and key management roles eased. Chairman/MD/CEO now required to be India-based for improved oversight. Nuclear liability rules may be modified to align with global investor expectations, ensuring clarity on compensation and risk-sharing. Why Private Participation in Nuclear? Current Capacity Constraints India’s nuclear capacity is stagnant at ~7 GW, far behind China (~55 GW) and U.S. (~95 GW). Large capital costs and long construction cycles have slowed expansion. Meeting Climate Targets To reach the projected clean baseload requirement for 2070 net-zero, India needs: diversification beyond solar/wind stable power for industry and grid reliability Private Sector Capabilities Strong EPC, manufacturing, and design capabilities in companies like L&T, BHEL, Tata, Reliance. Capable of reducing project delays and cost overruns. Global Precedent U.S., France, Japan, South Korea all have mixed public–private nuclear ecosystems. Private sector essential for SMRs and next-gen reactors. Expected Benefits of the Reforms For the Nuclear Sector Accelerated capacity addition (100 GW by 2047). Attracts global nuclear technology leaders. Boosts Make in India for nuclear components. Enhances safety through modern designs (SMRs, passive safety systems). Job creation in high-technology sectors. For the Insurance Sector Higher capital inflows → improved solvency norms. Greater competition → better products, digital penetration. Facilitates long-term infrastructure financing through insurance funds. Challenges and Concerns Nuclear Sector Requires amendments to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. Liability concerns under CLND Act may deter private players. Need for strong regulatory oversight (AERB → possible independent regulator proposed). Public perception and safety concerns persist. High capital cost unless tariff arrangements stabilised. Insurance Sector Total foreign ownership may raise concerns of: capital flight data security prioritisation of shareholder interests over policyholders Need for robust IRDAI oversight. Governance, Federal and Institutional Implications Nuclear policy is Union List – restructuring requires central legislative action. Independent safety tribunal proposed for nuclear sector. Tariff-setting may shift to an independent regulator (like CERC model). For insurance, IRDAI will need strengthened surveillance and consumer protection mechanisms. Macro Significance Reform package marks India’s transition to a high-investment, technology-driven energy future. Positions India competitively in global SMR development. Enhances foreign confidence in India’s financial and strategic sectors. Enables long-term decarbonisation, energy independence, and capital mobilisation.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 12 December 2025

Content Revival of Traditional Lakes, Ponds, and Reservoirs Conservation of Snow Leopards Revival of Traditional Lakes, Ponds, and Reservoirs Why Is It in News? PIB released updated details on Central Government schemes, funding flows, technological measures, and community-PPP models for reviving traditional water bodies. Highlights include: Rs. 545.35 crore central assistance released under PMKSY–HKKP (RRR of Water Bodies) till March 2025. 1.97 crore water-related works completed under Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch The Rain (2025). 3031 projects worth Rs. 6270.51 crore approved under AMRUT 2.0 for water body rejuvenation. Push for GIS mapping, geo-tagging, unique coding and PPP/community participation. Relevance GS1 – Geography / Society Traditional water bodies as part of India’s ecological heritage and rural socio-cultural systems. Changing land use, urbanisation, and demographic pressures degrading local hydrological systems. GS3 – Environment, Conservation, Agriculture Critical for groundwater recharge, climate resilience, drought mitigation. Boosts irrigation efficiency and reduces stress on major irrigation systems. Technological interventions (GIS, geo-tagging, unique codes) → evidence-based policymaking. Supports Jal Shakti Abhiyan, AMRUT 2.0, PMKSY-HKKP goals on water security. What Are Traditional Water Bodies? Man-made or natural storage structures: tanks, lakes, ponds, step-wells, johads, talabs, cheruvus, ooranis, ahars-pynes, etc. Ecological & socio-economic functions: Local irrigation + groundwater recharge Drinking & livestock water Flood buffer + micro-climate regulation Biodiversity habitats Support traditional livelihoods (fisheries, agriculture)   Why Revival Is Critical? India’s water stress: 18% population, 4% freshwater. CGWB: 1,034 blocks over-exploited. NITI Aayog: ~75% households face water scarcity; 21 cities to hit zero groundwater. Traditional water bodies historically contributed: 10–15% irrigation in many regions (pre-Green Revolution). 30–40% recharge in semi-arid belts. Degradation drivers: Encroachments, urbanisation, siltation Catchment degradation Weak local governance post-abolition of local customary systems (e.g., Kudimaramathu decline, temple tank neglect)  Current Government Framework A. Federal Context Water = State Subject → States identify, plan, implement rejuvenation. Centre provides policy direction, financial assistance, technology tools, monitoring frameworks. Major Schemes (1) PMKSY–HKKP (Har Khet Ko Pani) – RRR of Water Bodies Objective: Restore storage capacity, improve command area irrigation, groundwater recharge. States may propose individual or cluster water bodies, including transient-storage structures. GIS-based census → unique code + geo-tagging for every approved water body. Funding: Rs. 545.35 crore CA released till 31 March 2025. Components: Desiltation Catchment treatment Bund/sluice strengthening Irrigation canal repair Command area development (2) Irrigation Census Scheme (Minor Irrigation Statistics Wing) 100% centrally sponsored. Creates national database on: MI structures Major/medium irrigation Water bodies & springs Basis for planning & PMKSY approvals. (3) Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch The Rain (JSA: CTR) – 2025 Theme: “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari: Jan Jagrukta ki Or”. Focus: 148 groundwater-stressed districts. Outcomes till 09.12.2025: 1.97 crore water-related works (desilting, recharge pits, tank repairs). 712 Jal Shakti Kendras established. Focus areas: Renovation of traditional tanks Encroachment removal Inventory creation Community awareness & behavioural change (4) AMRUT & AMRUT 2.0 Urban water security mission. Water body rejuvenation is a core component. 3031 projects approved; Rs. 6270.51 crore sanctioned. PPP provisioning: 10% of funds for water body rejuvenation projects in million-plus cities can be executed in PPP mode. AMRUT Mitra Initiative: Engaging women SHGs for water quality monitoring, demand management. Technological Interventions Geo-tagging of each water body under PMKSY. GIS mapping to assess catchment, inflow pathways, encroachment boundaries. Unique Code System for uniform identification. Scientific desiltation: Sediment analysis Capacity computation Hydrological modelling: Outflow–inflow modelling Flood cushioning behaviour Digital dashboards: Real-time monitoring (CWC, State Water Resources Departments). Best Practices (National & International) Hydrological & Structural Assessment before restoration. Catchment Area Treatment → vegetation revival, erosion control. Silt reuse protocols → for agriculture, brick making (as per sediment quality). Strengthening bunds, sluices & spillways. Integrated watershed approach (sub-basin scale). Nature-based solutions: Wetlands as bio-filters Floating wetlands for nutrient removal International templates: Japan: community-managed satoyama ponds. Spain: ancient acequia systems revived through participatory irrigation communities. Community & PPP Models Water User Associations (WUAs): planning + O&M. Panchayati Raj Institutions: ownership and monitoring. Local NGOs: technical/social mobilization support. Women SHGs (AMRUT Mitra): water testing and demand management. PPP involvement: Up to 10% fund utilization in AMRUT cities. Potential models: lakefront development + ecological restoration. Major Challenges Fragmented ownership (Revenue, WRD, Urban Local Bodies). Chronic encroachments and weak enforcement. Urban sewerage inflow into traditional lakes. Climate variability reducing inflows. Over-focus on beautification vs. hydrological restoration. Lack of post-restoration maintenance funds. Conservation of Snow Leopards Why Is It in News? Parliament reply (11 Dec 2025) detailed India’s first nationwide Snow Leopard Census (SPAI), population estimates, methodology, and follow-up conservation strategy. SPAI 2.0 launched in Wildlife Week 2025. Updated actions under NSLEP, Project Snow Leopard, and SECURE Himalaya highlighted. Reaffirmation of Schedule I protection, biosphere reserve coverage, and landscape-level conservation. Relevance GS3 – Environment, Biodiversity, Climate Change Snow leopard as a keystone & flagship species → indicator of ecosystem health. SPAI as a model for scientific wildlife monitoring in India. Landscape-level conservation planning under NSLEP and Project Snow Leopard. Climate change impacts on alpine prey species and habitat range shifts. Biosphere reserves and PA networks strengthening India’s biodiversity commitments. Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) Apex predator of High Himalayas (3,000–5,000 m). Keystone species maintaining prey–predator balance. Flagship for high-altitude ecosystem conservation. Range: Ladakh, J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh. The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, a status changed from Endangered in 2017 Ecological roles: Controls herbivore populations (bharal, ibex, argali). Indicator of habitat integrity and climate change vulnerability.  First Nationwide Snow Leopard Census (SPAI) A. Population Estimate (2019–2023) Total = 718 individuals Ladakh – 477 Uttarakhand – 124 Himachal Pradesh – 51 Arunachal Pradesh – 36 Sikkim – 21 J&K – 9 B. Scale & Coverage 1,20,000 km² surveyed 70% of India’s potential snow leopard range covered. C. Scientific Framework Two-stage methodology: Stage 1: Occupancy-based sampling → mapping spatial distribution. Stage 2: Camera trap-based abundance estimation (stratified). Field effort: 13,450 km walked for sign surveys. 1,971 camera-trap stations. 1,80,000 trap nights. 241 distinct snow leopards identified. D. Coordination Lead: Wildlife Institute of India (WII). Partners: Range States/UTs + local NGOs. E. SPAI 2.0 (Launched 2025) Stronger scientific framework: Improved population monitoring cycle. Multi-taxa assessments (associated species). Expanded community-led conservation modules. Conservation Architecture and Government Support A. Species Recovery Programme (Centrally Sponsored: Development of Wildlife Habitats) Snow leopard is one of 24 species under targeted recovery. Funding for: Anti-poaching and patrolling Habitat restoration Scientific research Community conflict mitigation B. Foundation for Strategic Action SPAI findings are baseline for: Long-term monitoring Landscape-level interventions Habitat quality assessment Species recovery benchmarks  National Snow Leopard Ecosystem Protection Priorities (NSLEP) India’s long-term strategy for high-altitude biodiversity. Prioritized actions: Habitat protection and corridor management Climate-resilient conservation planning Strengthened research and monitoring Community-based stewardship Project Snow Leopard (PSL) Multi-state initiative involving: Ladakh, J&K, HP, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Anchored in: Landscape approach: conservation beyond PAs. Participatory management with herders and local communities. Livelihood diversification to reduce ecological pressure. Secure Himalaya India–UNDP–GEF partnership. Objective: Protect high-altitude Himalayan ecosystems. Conserve snow leopard populations. Enhance local livelihoods (eco-tourism, handicrafts, sustainable grazing). Reduce human–wildlife conflict. Legal & Policy Protection Schedule I, Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 → highest protection. High-altitude PA network expansion. Enforced through: Anti-poaching units Habitat protection forces Inter-agency coordination (Army, ITBP, local forest departments)  Biosphere Reserves Securing Snow Leopard Habitat Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve (HP) → part of UNESCO WNBR; 7,770 km² habitat. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (Uttarakhand). Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (Sikkim). These secure critical alpine, cold desert, and trans-Himalayan landscapes. Long-Term Conservation Focus Landscape-level conservation (not just PAs). Scientific monitoring (SPAI cycle). Habitat degradation prevention: Regulating grazing Reducing fragmentation Controlling infrastructure expansion Community-based programs: Insurance schemes for livestock depredation Predator-proof corrals Eco-development committees Inter-agency collaboration: MoEFCC, WII, State Forest Departments, ITBP, Local Councils Key Challenges Human–wildlife conflict (livestock predation). Climate change reducing alpine prey availability. Infrastructure expansion in fragile zones (roads, defence, tourism). Sparse population & difficult terrain → monitoring challenges. Limited baseline ecological data before SPAI.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 12 December 2025

Content The stark reality of educational costs in India Is the falling rupee a cause for alarm? The stark reality of educational costs in India Why Is It in News? New findings from the NSS 80th Round (April–June 2025) on education expenditure reveal: Rising costs of schooling and private tuition in India despite Article 21A’s guarantee of free and compulsory education. Increased enrolment in private schools across rural and urban sectors compared to the 75th Round (2017–18). Private tuition has become a major cost burden, with expenditure sharply rising with educational level. The data exposes a contradiction: a constitutional right to free education coexists with significant household spending, raising concerns about equity, affordability, and the future of universalisation goals under NEP 2020. Relevance GS2 – Polity & Social Justice Article 21A, RTE Act, NEP 2020. State’s responsibility vs household burden. Inequality in access to education. GS2 – Governance Public service delivery; affordability barriers; need for reform. Fee regulation, teacher quality, public school revitalisation. GS1 – Society Urban–rural divides, gender disparities, socio-economic stratification. Practice Question Rising private schooling and coaching expenditure in India reveal a widening contradiction between constitutional guarantees and educational reality.Discuss in the light of NSS 80th Round findings.(250 Words) Constitutional & Policy Framework Article 21A (86th Amendment, 2002) Guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6–14 years. Operationalised through the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009. NEP 2020 Expansion Extends the universalisation goal to ages 3–18, covering: Pre-primary Elementary Secondary education Target: Universal school education up to Class 12 by 2030. Contradiction Despite guarantees, large household expenditures on schooling reveal: Gaps in public provisioning Quality deficiencies Rising dependence on private education and coaching Key Findings of NSS 80th Round – School Enrolment Pattern Overall School Enrolment (National) Government schools: 55.9% Private aided: 11.3% Private unaided: 31.9% Urban vs Rural Private school enrolment: Urban: 51.4% Rural: 24.3% Gender gap: modest Boys: 34% private Girls: 29.5% private Level-wise Trends Urban private school enrolment declines with level: Pre-primary: 62.9% Higher secondary: 42.3% Rural private enrolment: fairly stable across levels (21–28%). Long-term Rise (vs NSS 75th Round) Rural private school share increasing across primary, middle, secondary. Urban private school share also rising significantly, especially in primary and middle levels. Interpretation: India is witnessing a steady shift toward privatisation of schooling, driven by perceived quality differences. Costs of Schooling – The Affordability Crisis Fee Payments Government schools: Rural: 25.3% pay fees Urban: 34.7% Private schools: ~98% pay fees across rural & urban. Annual Fee Levels Government Schools Rural: ₹823 (pre-primary) → ₹7,308 (higher secondary) Urban: ₹1,630 → ₹7,704 Private Schools Rural: ₹17,988 → ₹33,567 Urban: ₹26,188 → ₹49,075 Monthly Burden vs Household Income Private schooling costs (monthly): Rural: ₹1,499–₹2,797 Urban: ₹2,182–₹4,089 MPCE comparison: Pre-primary private school cost ≈ income of poorest 5% households. Higher secondary private school cost ≈ MPCE of 3rd income decile. Meaning: Basic schooling is unaffordable for large sections of households despite RTE guarantees. Private Tuition: Incidence & Cost Share of Students Taking Tuition Rural: 25.5% Urban: 30.7% Rising sharply with education level, highest at secondary/higher secondary. Expenditure per Student (Annual) Rural: ₹7,066 (average) Urban: ₹13,026 Highest at: Rural higher secondary: ₹13,803 Urban higher secondary: ₹22,394 Why is Tuition so Widespread? Household income & parental education strongly correlated. Private schools often have underpaid, underqualified teachers, pushing students to tuition. Tuition seen as prestige, a marker of “good parenting.” Tuition supplements poor school quality and exam-centric culture. Structural data from Research Rising private schooling → rising household burden → widening inequality. Tuition is negatively associated with school quality: Better school quality → less need for tuition (2024 study by Agrawal, Gupta & Mondal). Thus, quality improvement in public schools reduces both inequality and household expenditure. Implications for Equity & Universalisation A. Financial Inequality Poor households forced into: High private school costs High tuition costs Threatens principle of free & universal education. B. Social Inequality Wealthier students access private schooling + tuition → better outcomes → entrenched privilege. C. Public School Decline Falling enrolment → shrinking budgets → quality deterioration → negative cycle. D. NEP Goal at Risk Universalisation to age 18 by 2030 is jeopardised if: Public education remains underfunded Private costs continue rising Coaching culture expands Why Revival of Public Schools Is Critical ? Reduces financial burden on households. Ensures equal learning opportunities. Bridges social divides in outcomes. Enhances trust in government institutions. Supports SDG-4: Inclusive & equitable quality education. Policy Way Forward Improve teacher availability, training, accountability. Invest in infrastructure, labs, digital access. Expand early childhood care through Anganwadi–school linkage. Provide free supplementary classes to counter tuition reliance. Regulate private school fee structures transparently. Use school quality audits to strengthen public trust. Ensure NEP 2020 implementation with focus on inclusion & affordability. Is the falling rupee a cause for alarm? Why Is It in News? Over the past few days, the rupee fell below ₹90 per US dollar and has remained around that level. Political debate intensified in Parliament, but economists emphasise understanding macro drivers, not rhetoric. The editorials presents insights on: Why the rupee is falling How India compares with other currencies Whether the fall is harmful What this means for policy and RBI action The question: Is the falling rupee a cause for alarm? Relevance GS3 – Economy Currency depreciation External sector management Balance of payments FPI flows, forex reserves RBI’s role in exchange rate stability GS3 – Inflation & Macroeconomic Stability Imported inflation, fiscal implications Sectoral impact: exports vs. imports Practice Question India’s recent rupee depreciation reflects more sentiment-driven pressures than structural weakness. Discuss the drivers, macroeconomic implications, and the appropriate policy response.(250 Words) What Determines an Exchange Rate? Exchange rates depend on: Demand and supply of foreign currency Trade deficit / current account deficit Capital flows (FPI/FII inflows/outflows) Forex reserves position Global dollar strength Market sentiment & expectations RBI interventions Depreciation = more rupees needed to buy a dollar. Why Is the Rupee Falling? A. Weakening Fundamentals Higher trade deficit → more demand for dollars. Rising current account deficit (CAD). Negative FPI flows → capital leaving Indian markets. Falling (or reduced build-up of) forex reserves. B. Sentiment Factors Uncertainty over the India–U.S. tariff agreement → negative market expectations. Expectations of global slowdown → FPI shifts to other markets with better short-term returns. C. Market Mechanics RBI’s limited intervention indicates: Depreciation is within “acceptable limits” Central bank aims to prevent volatility, not defend a fixed level D. Trade Imbalances (as per Banerjee) Import growth > export growth → structural dollar demand. Portfolio investors shifting to markets where valuations are cheaper. Is the Rupee an Outlier Compared to Other Currencies? Recent short-term performance Rupee is one of the worst performers in the last 3 months. Medium-term performance Over the past 2 years, rupee has done better than most EM currencies except South Korea. Many emerging economies have seen far steeper depreciation. Meaning: The rupee’s fall is not proportionate to weakness in fundamentals but is driven by short-term pressures. Does a Falling Rupee Benefit India? Possible Benefits Exports become more competitive Particularly helpful when facing tariff headwinds from the U.S. Service exporters gain Higher rupee realisation = improved margins Potential productivity spillover (bonuses → consumption) Theoretical Advantage Depreciation of 4–5% can improve Indian export prices relative to competitors. Costs and Downsides Imports become more expensive India is a large importer of crude oil, fertilizers, electronics. Imported inflation 5% depreciation → 0.3–0.4% rise in CPI inflation. Current low inflation means this impact is manageable. Business volatility Exchange rate instability → hard for importers/exporters to plan. Fiscal pressure Higher fertilizer subsidy Higher cost of government imports But not enough to break fiscal arithmetic Does a Falling Rupee Indicate Economic Weakness? Economists’ View: No GDP growth strong. CAD manageable. Forex reserves cover 11 months of imports. Inflation benign. Capex cycle robust. Monetary and fiscal policy stable. Conclusion: The fall is not structural; it is sentiment-driven and temporary. Should the RBI Intervene More? Current RBI stance Prevent volatility, not defend a specific rate. Intervention appears limited but calibrated. Experts’ view No major intervention needed unless: Volatility spikes Depreciation becomes self-fulfilling Moderate depreciation is acceptable and even useful. Overall Assessment: Is This an Alarm Situation? Not alarming because: Macro fundamentals strong. Inflation impact limited. Exporters benefit. Depreciation aligned with other EM currencies. Concerns remain: Volatility hurts business planning. Tariff uncertainty with U.S. affecting sentiment. FPI outflows may continue if global returns elsewhere look better.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 12 December 2025

Content Savings shift reshapes India’s markets Narco Tests Why human-rating matters as India prepares for Gaganyaan DPIIT signals Copyright Act changes to address AI issues Mexico imposes 50% tariffs on Indian and other Asian imports 2,805 deaths while awaiting organ transplants since 2020 Savings shift reshapes India’s markets  Why is it in news? NSE Market Pulse (2025) reports a major structural shift: domestic household savings (direct equity, MFs, SIPs) are now replacing Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) as the dominant force in Indian capital markets. FPI ownership: 16.9% of total equities 24.1% in NIFTY 50 Domestic investors now hold ~19%, the highest in over 20 years. This shift: Improves market stability by reducing reliance on volatile global flows. Brings millions of new retail investors into markets — many without adequate financial literacy. Raises concerns on inclusive growth, investor protection, inequality, corporate governance, and policy preparedness for Viksit Bharat 2047. Relevance GS3 – Economy Capital market deepening Household savings behaviour Financialisation FPI flows vs domestic flows IPO markets, valuation discipline Implications for inclusive growth GS3 – Financial sector reforms Passive investing Investor protection norms SEBI regulatory design Corporate governance What is happening in India’s capital markets? Declining FPI dominance Historically, FPIs moved markets; their exits triggered volatility. Their ownership share has declined sharply, reaching a 15-month low. Rise of domestic savings Mutual fund AUM hitting new highs. SIP inflows at record levels. Retail investors emerging as the new market anchor. What enabled this shift? Digital investment platforms. Low-ticket SIPs; demat penetration. Low inflation (CPI: 0.3% YoY in Oct) → higher real returns. Strong macroeconomic stability. Policy implications Lower dependence on foreign inflows → RBI gets greater flexibility. Less pressure to defend the rupee. Can focus on domestic credit expansion and the growth–inflation balance. But stability depends on broad participation, not a narrow investor base. The market structure shift: why it matters Lower volatility Domestic support acts as a buffer against FPI outflows. October NIFTY rally was driven primarily by domestic buying. Boom in primary markets FY25: 71 IPOs, raising ₹1 lakh crore+. Investment announcements: ₹32 lakh crore, up 39% YoY. Private sector share: ~70% of proposed investments. But valuations are rising faster than fundamentals in some segments. Emerging risks: unequal participation and limited returns Unequal access Higher participation in: Urban regions Higher-income households Areas with formal financial infrastructure Women, rural citizens, lower-income groups remain marginal. “Performance problem” in active funds Most active funds fail to beat the index after adjusting for: Risk Fees New investors unknowingly pay high charges for poor relative performance. IPO overvaluation Examples: Lenskart, Mamaearth, Nykaa. High P/E multiples → risk of losses for retail subscribers. Decline in household equity wealth Q4: fall of ₹2.6 lakh crore. Concentrated losses among vulnerable investors undermine: Trust Inclusivity Consumption demand (due to lower MPC) The inequality dimension Who benefits? Gains accrue mainly to: Higher-income households Those with better financial acumen Urban and already economically secure groups Wealth concentration reduces demand High-income households save more and consume less → weakens overall demand. Inclusive growth at risk Markets may become stable but unequal without safeguards. The access asymmetry problem Today’s system emphasises: Disclosure over actual protection Participation over meaningful capacity Volume over equitable outcomes Needed shifts From “more investors” → “safer investors” From expensive active schemes → low-cost passive/index funds Current imbalance Active funds: 9% of market Passive funds: 1% This skews outcomes against small investors. Corporate governance concerns Promoter holding in NIFTY 50 at a 23-year low (40%). Must ensure: Genuine capital raising — not promoter exit-driven dilution Strong disclosure and transparency norms Protection of domestic savers’ long-term value What India must do next — policy directions Strengthen investor protection Suitability norms Anti–mis-selling regulations Risk-adjusted performance disclosure Expand passive investment Reduce expense ratios Promote index funds through NPS, EPFO, PMJDY-linked products Deepen financial literacy Target groups: Rural households Women Youth First-time investors Improve corporate governance Stricter disclosure Monitor promoter selling Address IPO pricing excesses Use data-driven policy Gender-disaggregated data Location-specific investment trends Income-linked participation gaps F. Maintain market integrity Monitor bubbles Regulate overvalued IPOs Encourage long-term investing culture Narco Tests Why is it in news? The Supreme Court has set aside a Patna High Court order (Amlesh Kumar v. State of Bihar, 2025) that permitted a forced narco test. The Court reaffirmed that any involuntary narco-analysis test is unconstitutional, violating: Article 20(3) – protection against self-incrimination Article 21 – right to life, privacy and autonomy SC held the High Court order to be contrary to Selvi v. State of Karnataka (2010), the landmark judgment regulating narco, polygraph and brain-mapping tests. Relevance GS2 – Constitution & Polity Article 20(3), Article 21, Right to Privacy Selvi 2010 guidelines Limits of police power Due process and fair procedure GS3 – Internal Security / Criminal Justice Investigative tools vs constitutional safeguards Ethical boundaries in criminal investigations What is a narco test? A narco test involves administering barbiturates such as Sodium Pentothal to induce a sedated, trance-like state. Purpose: to reduce inhibitions, weaken reasoning ability, and encourage disclosure of suppressed or concealed information. It is part of “scientific investigative techniques”, similar to: Polygraph (lie detector) Brain mapping (BEAP test) Key point: It is a non-invasive but intrusive psychological intervention that manipulates the mental state of an individual. Why are narco tests constitutionally problematic? Article 20(3) – Right against self-incrimination No person accused of an offence shall be compelled to be a witness against himself. Narco tests can extract involuntary verbal responses, violating mental privacy and autonomy. SC: Without free, voluntary and informed consent, the test is unconstitutional. Article 21 – Right to life, personal liberty and privacy Includes bodily integrity, mental autonomy, and right to privacy (Puttaswamy 2017). Forcibly altering a person’s mental state is a grave intrusion into liberty and human dignity. Any state action affecting personal liberty must follow just, fair and reasonable procedure (Maneka Gandhi, 1978). The “Golden Triangle”: Art 14–19–21 Violation of privacy and consent = violation of life and liberty, which affects equality and freedom as well. Narco tests without consent fall outside constitutionally permissible limits. Democratic criminal justice principles Indian justice system must balance: Victim’s right to justice Accused’s right to liberty Forced narco tests tilt the balance towards coercive state power, undermining due process. Selvi v. State of Karnataka (2010): The governing framework Selvi is the controlling precedent; the Court held: No compulsory administration Narco-analysis, polygraph, brain-mapping cannot be conducted without informed consent. Consent must be: Free, voluntary, informed Recorded before a judicial magistrate Accompanied by legal and medical safeguards Test results are not standalone evidence They may only give investigative leads. Any information extracted must be independently corroborated. Protects mental privacy “The mind is the ultimate repository of personal freedom.” The state cannot forcibly access it. The recent judgment reaffirms that Selvi binds all courts. Evidentiary value: What have courts held? Manoj Kumar Saini v. State of MP (2023) Narco results cannot confirm guilt. They are at best investigative clues. Vinobhai v. State of Kerala (2025) Information from narco must be corroborated by other evidence. The test does not have probative evidentiary value on its own. Supreme Court’s position Test permissible only when voluntarily undertaken. Cannot substitute proper investigation. Results cannot be treated as confessions or admissions. No “indefeasible right” to demand such tests — even voluntary requests fall under judicial scrutiny. Can an accused volunteer for a narco test? Yes — but with strict conditions: Voluntary request allowed only at defence evidence stage, under Section 253 of BNSS. Magistrate must ensure: Free and informed consent Understanding of implications Medical and legal safeguards Even voluntary tests do not guarantee admissible evidence unless corroborated. Ethical foundations: Why consent matters Autonomy and natural justice Informed consent flows from individual autonomy — a core moral principle. Immanuel Kant: an act is ethical only when performed with consent. Forced narco tests undermine: Human dignity Mental freedom Bodily and psychological integrity Forced truth extraction violates human rights norms International legal philosophy rejects coercive interrogation. UN principles also discourage techniques manipulating consciousness. Does banning involuntary narco tests weaken investigations? No. SC emphasises: Investigative efficiency cannot override constitutional rights. Narco tests: Are not reliable Are prone to suggestion, hallucination, false narratives Cannot replace evidence-based investigation The police must rely on: Forensics Material evidence Witness statements Digital trails Narco-analysis remains a supplementary, not primary, tool. Why human-rating matters as India prepares for Gaganyaan Why is it in news? As India prepares for its first human spaceflight under Gaganyaan, the process of human-rating the LVM-3 rocket has become central to mission readiness. ISRO is upgrading LVM-3 to HLVM-3, incorporating redundancy, fault tolerance, crew safety systems, and extensive qualification tests. The article explains what human-rating means, why it is complex, and how global agencies certify their launch systems. This marks India’s entry into the league of nations capable of launching humans into space, requiring the highest safety standards. Relevance GS3 – Science & Technology Human spaceflight, launch vehicle engineering Risk management, redundancy design Cryogenic propulsion, escape systems GS3 – Indigenisation & Strategic Tech Atmanirbhar Bharat in space Indigenous capability for human spaceflight Technology sovereignty What is human-rating? Human-rating is the engineering, testing, and certification process that ensures a launch vehicle and spacecraft are safe enough to carry humans. Key features Establishes an acceptable level of risk. NASA threshold: 0.2% probability of catastrophic loss of crew during ascent/descent (1 in 500). Ensures the system can tolerate failures and still protect astronauts. Core requirements Redundant systems (triple/quadruple redundant flight computers). Crew Escape System (CES): must work instantly at any point during ascent. Fault tolerance: vehicle must survive and recover from single-point failures. Environmental control and life support system (ECLSS). Extensive qualification and documentation far beyond that required for cargo rockets. Human-rating is not just hardware modification; it is a systems-level safety philosophy. Why is human-rating so challenging? Extreme launch environment Rocket must accelerate to 28,000 km/h in 8–10 minutes. Experiences: High vibration Severe acoustic loads Maximum dynamic pressure (Max-Q) Rapid staging events Zero tolerance for failure Cargo missions can fail without loss of life; human missions cannot. Airplanes have backup landing options and glide capability; rockets do not. Reliability standards Best orbital launch vehicles: 98–99.5% success rate. Commercial aviation: 1 fatal accident per 10–20 million flights — far safer. Added mass & complexity Redundant systems and escape mechanisms: Increase mass → reduce payload capability Introduce potential new failure modes Increase development cost and documentation burden High cost Human-rating can multiply overall mission cost by 1.5–3×. Human-rating therefore demands a shift from “mission success” to “crew survival at all costs.” Which global launch vehicles are human-rated? Operational today Russia’s Soyuz-2 China’s Long March 2F SpaceX Falcon 9 + Crew Dragon Near-operational / undergoing certification ULA Atlas V with Boeing Starliner Completed crewed test flight (2024), awaits formal certification. NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) Human-rated, flew uncrewed Artemis I; first crewed flight upcoming. Reliability records Soyuz: ~150 crewed missions since 1967; two early fatal missions; 100% crew survival since 1971. Space Shuttle: 135 missions, 133 successes (98.5%); two catastrophic failures. Crew Dragon (Falcon 9): 20 crewed orbital flights → 100% success. Why aren’t all launch vehicles human-rated? High cost of certification Requires: Structural strengthening Redundancies Software certification Safety assurance processes Abort systems Reduced performance More mass → lower payload to orbit. Different mission priorities Cargo rockets maximise: Cost-efficiency Payload capacity Human-rating would make them uneconomical. Added complexity Each additional system is a potential failure point. Hence, only nations with sustained human spaceflight programmes invest in human-rating. Human-rating for Gaganyaan: ISRO’s upgrades to LVM-3 LVM-3 → HLVM-3 (Human-rated LVM-3) Modifications and upgrades Crew Escape System (CES) for rapid abort during ascent. Enhanced redundancy in avionics and flight computers. Strengthened engines: Vikas (liquid), C25 cryogenic stage, S200 solid boosters. Greater subsystem reliability through qualification tests. Fault tolerance built into critical components. Improved quality assurance & documentation, aligned with global standards. Why LVM-3 was chosen Track record of seven consecutive successful orbital flights (including Chandrayaan-3). Fully indigenous propulsion architecture → strategic autonomy under Atmanirbhar Bharat. Highest payload capability in ISRO’s fleet. Who certifies human-rating? Global frameworks NASA Sets human-rating standards for: SLS SpaceX Crew Dragon Boeing Starliner FAA licenses launch operations but does not certify crew safety. China Certification by China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). Russia Roscosmos certifies Soyuz rockets and spacecraft. India (ISRO) Human-rating certification conducted internally through: Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) Committee of national aerospace experts Final safety approval is issued only after: Flight tests Uncrewed demonstrations Abort test success How successful are human-rated rockets historically? Soyuz ~150 crewed missions Two early fatalities (1967, 1971) 100% crew safety since 1971 Crew escape system saved astronauts in 1975, 1983, 2018 Space Shuttle 133 successes / 135 missions (98.5%) Two catastrophic losses (1986, 2003) Falcon 9 + Crew Dragon 20/20 crewed missions successful Most reliable active human-rated system Long March 2F + Shenzhou 16 crewed missions; mostly successful One 2025 incident: Shenzhou-20 damaged by space debris (crew evacuated safely) DPIIT signals Copyright Act changes to address AI issues Why is it in news? The Union Government has indicated that major amendments to the Copyright Act, 1957 will be introduced within three years to address challenges arising from AI training and Generative AI (GenAI). The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) released a working paper proposing: A blanket licensing framework for AI data scraping. Creation of a Copyright Royalties Collective for AI Training (CRCAT) to collect and distribute royalties to content owners. This comes amid global legal disputes between AI firms (OpenAI, Google, Meta) and publishers alleging unauthorized use of copyrighted content for AI model training. Indian industry body Nasscom dissented, warning that the proposal may impose an unworkable burden of proof on AI developers. Relevance GS2 – Governance & Policy Regulatory challenges of emerging technologies Balancing innovation with rights protection Role of state in digital economy governance GS3 – Economy, Technology & IPR Copyright law Digital economy AI governance Tech policy reforms Why Is Copyright Relevant to AI? How AI training works Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Gemini, LLaMA etare trained on: News articles Books Websites Social media Public datasets This training copies, stores, and analyses massive amounts of text → raises copyright issues. The conflict Publishers claim: AI companies profit from their content without permission or payment. AI companies claim: Training use is “fair use” (in some jurisdictions). Output is transformative, not reproducing the original text. This legal ambiguity is what India seeks to resolve. What DPIIT Proposes ? Blanket Licensing Framework AI developers can legally crawl/scrape publicly available content. But they must pay royalties when the model is commercialised. Payments made via CRCAT, a central copyright society. Role of CRCAT Collect royalties from AI firms. Distribute them to content owners: News publishers Digital platforms Website owners Other copyright holders Opt-out debate Big Tech firms argue publishers should be able to opt out of AI training. DPIIT’s blanket licensing is effectively opt-out–resistant. Future Paper The next DPIIT working paper will examine: Whether AI-generated works are copyrightable. Who should be treated as the author: AI system? Human prompting the system? AI developer? Why Are Amendments Needed? Current law does not address AI training Copyright Act, 1957 predates AI. Key gaps: Does training = copying? Is scraping allowed without permission? Who owns AI-generated content? Global litigation pressures ANI (India), New York Times (U.S.), and others have sued AI firms for unlicensed usage and “regurgitation”. India wants legal clarity Protect content creators. Enable AI innovation. Create certainty for investors and startups. Objections from Tech Companies Big Tech firms and Nasscom raise several concerns: Burden of proof reversed Normally: Content owner must prove infringement. DPIIT model implies: AI developer must prove they did not use someone’s content. For probabilistic models, proving non-use is technically impossible. Running cost increases Royalty payments may raise entry barriers for startups. Blanket licensing may trigger global disputes Because different jurisdictions treat training data differently. Unpredictable liabilities If outputs resemble copyrighted text, developers may face legal exposure. Legal and Ethical Dimensions Fair Use vs. Copyright Infringement India does not have U.S.-style broad “fair use”. Indian law relies on “fair dealing”, which is narrower. Transparency & accountability AI models trained on copyrighted text must disclose: Whether they used copyrighted material. Nature of data sources. Moral rights Indian copyright protects: Attribution Integrity of work AI-generated transformations may impact these rights. Creator livelihood protection Especially for: News publishers Photographers Writers Digital platforms Global Context EU Artificial Intelligence Act Requires: Training data disclosure Copyright-compliant datasets UK & Japan More liberal; allow text and data mining. U.S. Ongoing lawsuits; no clear legislative framework yet. India Seeking middle path: Enable AI innovation Protect content owners Create licensing infrastructure Key Challenges  Identifying data sources AI developers often lack logs at granular level. Valuation of royalties How to price data contribution? How to assess relative importance? Preventing monopolies Blanket licensing might entrench only big players. Enforcement Hard to track whether developers used Indian content. Grey area: Publicly available vs. Public domain Availability ≠ copyright-free. Way Forward   Layered licensing regime Allow: Free use for research and academic training Royalty-based use for commercial LLMs Clear opt-out mechanisms Allow publishers to block crawlers. Mandatory transparency disclosures Training data sources Model architecture Safety evaluations Royalty calculation standards Views per article Weight of content Model size & commercial use Strengthen India’s copyright society infrastructure Efficient distribution Dispute resolution Audit mechanisms F. Protect Indian startups Tiered royalty slabs Exemptions for early-stage models Mexico imposes 50% tariffs on Indian and other Asian imports  Why is it in news? The Mexican Senate has approved 50% import tariffs on cars and hundreds of items from India, China, and other Asian economies that do not have trade agreements with Mexico. This follows the U.S. imposing steep tariffs on Chinese and certain Indian goods, which has redirected trade flows toward Mexico — causing concerns in Mexican policy circles. India’s exports to Mexico—especially vehicles, auto components, machinery, chemicals, and nuclear reactors—face significant disruption. The tariffs come into force in January 2026, threatening India’s growing auto-export market and complicating its supply chains dependent on North America. Relevance GS2 – International Relations Trade disputes Diplomacy in economic policy Impact of U.S.-Mexico-China interactions on India GS3 – Economy Export competitiveness Tariff impact on industries Protectionism and global trade dynamics Supply chain relocation What exactly has Mexico done? Tariff Decision Mexico has imposed: 50% tariff on passenger cars Tariffs on hundreds of other items from countries without trade agreements with Mexico. Affects India, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and others. Why Mexico Can Do This Mexico’s trade architecture is dominated by: USMCA (U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement) Few FTAs with Asian nations Countries without FTAs receive non-preferential MFN tariffs, which Mexico is now sharply increasing. India’s Export Exposure Top Indian exports to Mexico (Apr–Sep 2025): Vehicles & parts – $985.75 million Electric machinery – $316.06 million Nuclear reactors & parts – $284.61 million Organic chemicals – $163.55 million Total India–Mexico trade is ~$15 bn annually. Why has Mexico imposed these tariffs?  Protecting Domestic Industry Mexico seeks to shield: Local automobile industry Electronics and machinery producers Given rising Asian imports, Mexican industry groups lobbied strongly for protection. Response to Rising Asian Shipments In 2024–25, exports from India and China surged, partly due to: Diversion of supply after U.S. tariffs on China/India Indian automakers scaling shipments (compact cars, parts) via Mexico to the Americas Revenue Generation Mexico aims to raise ₹37.6 billion additional revenue over three years through tariffs. Anti-circumvention of U.S. Tariffs U.S. fears “tariff-jumping”: Chinese/Asian goods entering U.S. via Mexico. Mexico is tightening controls to: Preserve USMCA Avoid retaliation from the U.S. Political & Electoral Pressure Strong lobbying by: Mexican auto workers’ unions Local manufacturers Populist political constituencies  Economic impact on India Major Impact on Auto Exports India exports close to $1 billion worth of small cars and auto components to Mexico annually. Cars designed for Mexico may now become commercially unviable. 50% tariff sharply reduces price competitiveness. Potential Loss of Market Share Indian exporters may lose to: U.S. manufacturers European OEMs Mexico-based assemblers Korean and Japanese firms with FTAs Disruption to Supply Chain Linkages Several Indian component suppliers feed into: Mexican assembly lines North American EV ecosystem Tariffs could disrupt these supply chains. Industry Reaction SIAM (Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers) has flagged: Threat to India’s competitive position Need for urgent diplomatic outreach Possible Decline in 2026 Exports Projections indicate a 10–15% fall in India’s Mexico-bound auto exports if tariffs remain. Wider geopolitical context U.S.–China–India Trade Rivalry U.S. has imposed tariffs on: EVs Batteries Autos Steel/aluminium Asian firms redirecting exports to Mexico are now being blocked. Mexico’s Alignment with U.S. Interests To avoid violating USMCA, Mexico must prevent: Transshipment Duty evasion Over-reliance on Asian imports Latin American Protectionism Rising Other Latin American countries may consider similar measures. Implications for India’s policy and industry Need for Trade Negotiations India requires: A bilateral trade dialogue Market access guarantees Sector-specific tariff relief Reorientation Toward Other Markets Indian automakers may divert supply to: Southeast Asia Africa Middle East Latin America (non-Mexico) Opportunities to Localise in Mexico Indian firms may consider: Setting up local assembly Joint ventures CKD/SKD pathways to bypass tariffs Strengthening India’s Domestic Competitiveness Tariffs highlight need for: Higher R&D spending EV competitiveness Stronger supply-chain integration What happens next? Monitoring U.S.–Mexico–India Triangle Further U.S. tariffs could trigger more countries to adopt protectionist measures. India’s Diplomatic Strategy Inter-ministerial discussions (MEA, Commerce) underway. India may seek: Transitional relief Carve-outs for EVs or small cars Lower tariffs on intermediate goods Industry-level Adjustments Carmakers may revise: Product lines Pricing Export allocations 2,805 deaths while awaiting organ transplants since 2020 Why is it in News? The Union Health Ministry informed Parliament (Dec 2025) that 2,805 patients died while waiting for an organ transplant since 2020. Data provided by NOTTO (National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation) highlight severe organ shortages and long waiting periods. The government has introduced new digital reforms, including: Removal of mandatory domicile or registration-state restrictions. A new uniform national criterion for cadaveric organ allocation. Emphasis on centralised, equitable, need-based distribution. The figures expose the mismatch between demand and availability, and underline the urgent need to strengthen India’s cadaveric organ donation ecosystem. Relevance GS2 – Health & Governance Public health delivery Organ donation policy Ethical governance Digital systems and national registries GS3 – Science & Technology Medical logistics Transplant technologies Biomedicine and health infrastructure What is Organ Transplantation in India? Types of Donation Living donor transplants Kidney, part-liver, bone marrow Deceased (cadaveric) donor transplants Heart, lungs, pancreas, full liver, corneas Governing Framework Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994 National network: NOTTO (National level) ROTTO (Regional) SOTTO (State) India’s Organ Gap Demand far exceeds supply: Kidney: need ~2 lakh/year; transplants ~25,000 Liver: need ~50,000; transplants ~3,200 Heart: need ~30,000; transplants <250 What the New Parliamentary Data Shows ? Deaths While Awaiting Transplants (2020–2025) Total deaths: 2,805 Highest: Delhi – 1,425 Maharashtra – 297 Tamil Nadu – 233 Patients Currently on Waitlist 82,285 patients awaiting organ transplants (as of Dec 2025). State-wise waiting load Maharashtra: 20,553 Gujarat: 18,992 Tamil Nadu: 16,966 Delhi: 8,883 Karnataka: 7,405 These numbers demonstrate high geographic concentration of demand. Which Organs Are Most in Demand? Kidney Largest waiting list: ~65,090 patients nationwide. Liver 18,724 waiting. Heart 1,659 waiting. Lung Smaller numbers, but mortality is high due to scarcity. Why Do So Many Patients Die Waiting? Low cadaveric donation rate India’s deceased donation rate: <0.7 per million population Spain: ~46 pmp U.S.: ~38 pmp Limited ICU infrastructure Organ retrieval requires: Ventilator support Trained ICU staff Shortages restrict the pool of potential donors. Logistical constraints Organ viability windows: Heart: 4 hours Liver: 8–12 hours Kidney: up to 24 hours Lack of: Green corridors Air ambulance infrastructure State-level coordination → leads to lost organs. Restrictive allocation rules (earlier) Hospitals often preferred in-state patients. Lack of unified national queue led to inequitable access. Low public awareness Cultural hesitancy, myths, lack of donor pledges. F. Cost Barriers Transplants expensive: Kidney: ₹5–8 lakh Liver: ₹20–30 lakh Low insurance penetration compounds challenges. Recent Reforms Introduced by NOTTO / Union Govt. Removal of domicile restrictions Organs no longer restricted to: State of registration State of retrieval → Enables national pooling → boosts fairness. Uniform waiting-list criteria Priority now based on: Urgency Waiting time Medical compatibility Severity National-level digital registry Single national system covering: Listing Allocation Matching Transport logistics Promoting organ retrieval centres Increasing number of authorised hospitals. Linking Ayushman Bharat with transplant packages Reducing out-of-pocket burden for poorer families. Key Ethical and Policy Considerations Equity in Access Need to prevent: Hospital-level biases Regional monopolies “First come–first served” overriding urgency Transparency Algorithms for matching must be publicly auditable. Incentive alignment Non-monetary incentives for families: Honouring donors Fast-track benefits Ethical prohibition No room for: Commercial sale of organs Coercion Exploitation of the poor Strengthen Cadaveric Donation Movement Spain, U.S. models show success through: Mandatory referral Trained transplant coordinators National awareness drives

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 11 December 2025

Content Deepavali Inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage Crimes Against Women & Children Deepavali Inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage What is Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)? UNESCO defines ICH as living traditions, expressions, knowledge, and skills passed across generations. Includes: oral traditions, performing arts, festive events, rituals, craftsmanship, and traditional knowledge systems. Objective: Safeguarding, not freezing traditions; ensuring community participation and intergenerational transmission. Representative List Showcases cultural practices demonstrating cultural diversity and human creativity. Offers global visibility but no legal protection. Relevance GS 1: Indian Culture Demonstrates India’s cultural continuity, diversity, and living traditions. Illustrates the role of festivals, rituals, crafts, and oral traditions in India’s cultural ecosystem. Highlights diaspora cultural practices and the global transmission of Indian culture. Why is Deepavali in News? At the 20th Session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee (10 Dec 2025, Red Fort, New Delhi), Deepavali was officially inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Inscription attended by delegates from 194 Member States, Union Minister of Culture, and UNESCO officials. What is Deepavali and Why is it Significant as ICH? A multi-regional, multi-faith, multi-layered living tradition, celebrated widely in India and by the global Indian diaspora. Embodies the philosophical message “Tamso Ma Jyotirgamaya” (from darkness to light). Practised through: Lighting of diyas Rangoli making Traditional crafts and decorations Rituals, prayers, community gatherings Exchange of sweets and intergenerational storytelling Recognised as a people’s festival sustained by potters, artisans, farmers, sweet-makers, florists, priests, and households. Why Did UNESCO Recognise Deepavali? Core Criteria Fulfilled ? Community participation Nomination involved practitioners, artisans, agrarian groups, diaspora communities, persons with disabilities, and transgender groups. Showed Deepavali’s inclusive and community-driven continuity. Social cohesion Strengthens unity, harmony, generosity, and wellbeing across castes, regions, religions, and continents. Cultural diversity & adaptability Deepavali takes diverse forms across India and global diaspora: North India: Victory of Rama (Ramayana tradition) South India: Worship of Lakshmi, Kali; return of Bali (Onam-linked narratives) Jain: Nirvana of Mahavira Sikh: Bandi Chhor Divas Reflects ability to adapt across time and geography. Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) SDG 5: Gender equality (women-led rituals, craft traditions) SDG 8: Livelihoods for artisans, potters, craftspeople SDG 11: Safeguarding cultural heritage SDG 4: Cultural education through intergenerational learning Why is the 2025 Inscription Important for India? Strengthens India’s soft power and civilizational diplomacy. Highlights India’s living traditions, not just monuments (earlier: Yoga, Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja, Kolam, Garba). Builds global awareness of India’s cultural ecosystems and traditional craftsmanship. Enhances India’s role as a leader in heritage conservation. Government’s Role in the Nomination Prepared by Sangeet Natak Akademi (nodal body for ICH). Included extensive documentation of: Ritual practices Craft ecosystems Cultural livelihoods Diaspora traditions Inclusion of marginalised groups Submission aligned with UNESCO’s 2003 Convention on Safeguarding ICH. Significance for the Indian Diaspora Deepavali now recognised as a global cultural festival. Celebrated in Southeast Asia, Africa, Gulf, Europe, Caribbean, reinforcing cultural bridges. Diaspora celebrations played a crucial role in the nomination’s strong case. Broader Implications for Cultural Policy Reinforces a shift toward people-centric heritage, not monument-centric. Places responsibility on: Communities to continue traditions State bodies to support artisans and cultural livelihoods Educational institutions to integrate ICH knowledge Encourages safeguarding plans: documentation, transmission, craft revivals, sustainable materials (eco-friendly diyas, natural colors for rangoli). Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (RL) Traditional Performing Arts Kutiyattam (Kerala) – 2008 Ramlila (North India) – 2008 Kalbelia Folk Songs & Dance (Rajasthan) – 2010 Mudiyettu (Kerala) – 2010 Chhau Dance (Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand) – 2010 Buddhist Chanting (Ladakh) – 2012 Sankirtana (Manipur) – 2013 Garba of Gujarat – 2023 Social Practices, Rituals & Festive Events Yoga – 2016 Nawrouz (multinational; India included) – 2016 Kumbh Mela – 2017 Durga Puja (Kolkata) – 2021 Kolam (Tamil Nadu) – 2024 Deepavali (India-wide) – 2025 Traditional Craftsmanship Vedic Chanting – 2008 Ramman Festival (Uttarakhand) – 2009 Thatheras of Jandiala Guru (Punjab) – Brass & Copper Craft – 2014 Crimes Against Women & Children Constitutional & Legal Framework ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ fall under State List (List II), Seventh Schedule. Primary responsibility for law & order, protection of women & children, investigation, prosecution = State Governments / UT Administrations. Union Government acts through: Policy support Legislative reforms Funding mechanisms Technology-enabled tools Capacity-building programmes Advisories and coordination Relevance GS 2: Governance, Constitution, Welfare Schemes Federal structure: Police & Public Order under State List; Centre supports via law, funding, advisories. Legislative reforms under BNS–BNSS–BSA 2023 modernising criminal law. Strengthens institutional mechanisms: Women Help Desks One Stop Centres Mission Shakti Victim Compensation Scheme Enhances transparency in investigation: AV recording, forensic guidelines, DNA labs. GS 2: Social Justice Addresses vulnerability of women and children. Schemes for protection, rehabilitation, legal aid (OSC, 181 helpline, 1098). Issues of underreporting, patriarchy, stigma, lack of awareness. Why is this in News? MoS Home Affairs gave a comprehensive written reply in Rajya Sabha outlining India’s multi-layered strategy to combat crimes against women & children. Response summarised central initiatives, legal reforms (especially BNS/BNSS/BSA 2023), institutional mechanisms, and progress under key schemes. Major Central Interventions  A. Police Station–Level Support Women Help Desks (WHDs) in every police station (centrally funded). Objective: accessibility, sensitivity, trust-building. B. Emergency Response 112 – ERSS: pan-India emergency number; GPS-enabled dispatch of field units. C. Safe City Projects Implemented in 8 cities under Nirbhaya Fund. Integrates surveillance, analytics, panic systems, smart policing. D. National Databases & Tracking Systems NDSO – National Database on Sexual Offenders: real-time investigative support. ITSSO – Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offences: monitors time-bound investigations under Criminal Law (Amendment), 2018. E. Forensic Strengthening State-of-the-art DNA units in Central & State FSLs. Financial support via Nirbhaya Fund. Standardised Sexual Assault Evidence Collection (SAEC) kits and guidelines. Over 18,020 kits distributed for training. F. Capacity Building 35,377 police/prosecution/medical officers trained by BPR&D and NFSU (Delhi Campus). Focus on victim sensitivity, forensic protocols, POCSO procedures. Transformational Legal Reforms: BNS–BNSS–BSA (2024 Onwards) Structural Changes Chapter V of BNS: First substantive chapter devoted exclusively to offences against women & children. Gives precedence and special focus. Key New Offences & Revisions Sexual intercourse under false promise (marriage, employment, promotion, or concealment of identity) criminalised. Uniform punishment for gangrape of minor girls (below 18): Life imprisonment or death (removes earlier 12/16-year differentiation). Mandatory audio-video recording of victim statements. Victim statements to be recorded preferably by a woman Magistrate. Medical report of rape victim must be sent within 7 days. Hiring/engaging a child to commit an offence added as a new offence. Enhanced penalty for buying a child for prostitution → max 14 years. Anti-Trafficking Enhancements Section 143, BNS: Minimum 10 years RI, extendable to life, for child trafficking. Beggary included as an exploitive purpose for trafficking. Section 144(1): Sexual exploitation of trafficked child → 5–10 years RI + fine. Victim-Centric Provisions Free first-aid/medical treatment for all victims of crimes against women & children at all hospitals. Reinforces rights under BNSS for time-bound, transparent investigation. Fast-Track Justice System Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) Operational since 2019. Total functional as of Sept 2025: 773 FTSCs (includes 400 e-POCSO courts). Cases disposed since inception: 3,50,685. Aim: reduce pendency, ensure speedy trial for rape & POCSO offences. Victim Support Schemes A. Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVCF) ₹200 crore released in 2016–17 as one-time grant. Strengthens State Victim Compensation Schemes under Section 357A CrPC / Section 396 BNSS. Covers rape, acid attack, trafficking, child abuse. B. One Stop Centres (OSCs) Integrated, single-window support for women: Police facilitation Medical aid Legal support Shelter Counselling 864 OSCs operational. 12.67 lakh women assisted till Sept 2025. C. Women Helpline (181) 24/7 referral and emergency support. Operational in 35 States/UTs. D. Child Helpline (1098) 24/7 protection for missing, trafficked, or distressed children. Railway Childlines operational at major stations. E. Mission Shakti Samarthya component and Shakti Sadan: Rehabilitation for women in difficult circumstances. Mission Shakti Portal (2025 launch): Consolidates schemes Enhances accessibility Supports rescue–rehabilitation workflows Strengthens accountability of duty-holders Awareness, Monitoring & Coordination National Commission for Women (NCW): Awareness campaigns, seminars, media outreach. Tracks complaints and coordinates with police for resolution. Advisories from MHA & MWCD issued frequently on: Cyber-crimes Trafficking POCSO compliance Forensic protocols Women safety guidelines Strengths of India’s Approach Multi-dimensional: legal, technological, infrastructural, forensic, social. Focus on victim-centricity, speedy justice, digital tracking, capacity building. Legal reforms under BNS modernise the framework after 160+ years. Systemic Challenges Understaffed police forces; low women representation. FSL bottlenecks despite capacity expansion. High pendency despite FTSCs. Uneven implementation across states (federal–state capacity gap). Social stigma, underreporting, patriarchal norms. Way Forward Expand Safe City Project beyond the first 8 cities. Increase FSL manpower & decentralised DNA labs. Mandatory gender-sensitivity modules in police training schools. Integrate ERSS–112 with real-time predictive policing. Strengthen community-based prevention, school education modules on child safety.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 11 December 2025

Content Childcare, the growth lever that can’t be ignored India is model for digital infra. It can become one for AI, too Childcare, the growth lever that can’t be ignored Why is it in News? India aims for 8–10% sustained GDP growth, but labour force participation of women remains low. Policymakers and experts argue that childcare must be recognised as critical economic infrastructure, not a welfare add-on. Current debate: India’s demographic shift (falling fertility, ageing population) makes women’s workforce participation indispensable. The article stresses that childcare is the missing link—the “soft infrastructure” needed to unlock women’s labour, productivity, and human capital. Relevance GS-I (Society) • Gender roles, women’s agency, demographic transition • Social infrastructure and workforce participation GS-II (Governance / Welfare Schemes) • ICDS, Poshan Abhiyaan, Anganwadi reforms • Inter-ministerial coordination in social policy • Inclusive growth and state capacity Practice Question  Childcare is no longer a welfare expenditure but a critical economic infrastructure for sustaining India’s growth. Discuss with evidence.(250 Words) What is “Childcare as Infrastructure”? Traditionally seen as welfare support for women and poor households. Modern economic thinking classifies childcare as growth infrastructure because it: Frees up women’s time. Enables consistent labour supply. Enhances human capital formation in early childhood. Raises productivity of both mothers and future workers. Two components: Childcare services: crèches, Anganwadi centres, daycare facilities, preschool education. Early childhood development: nutrition, cognitive stimulation, parent guidance in first 1,000 days. Why Childcare is Crucial for India’s Growth ? A. Productivity drag due to lack of childcare Millions of women reduce work hours or drop out entirely because childcare is: Unaffordable Unavailable Of poor quality Leads to a hidden productivity loss—a structural constraint on India’s growth target. B. Evidence from Indian states Five southern states account for nearly 75% of India’s female workforce participation. These states have invested in: Childcare services Hostels Free public transport Demonstrates policy correlation between childcare ecosystems and women’s economic participation. C. Global evidence Vietnam: Crèches improved job quality, moving women to formal work and increasing retention. Rio de Janeiro (slums): Free childcare increased working hours exactly proportionate to daycare hours. Shows childcare has both labour supply and productivity effects. India’s Childcare Infrastructure — Current Gaps Anganwadi centres primarily focus on nutrition, not full-day care. Operational hours are short → women cannot take full-time jobs. Quality varies widely; staffing shortages undermine early learning. Industrial and service hubs lack workforce-linked childcare. Policy Solutions Proposed A. Hybrid Model: Physical centres + digital support Brick-and-mortar Anganwadis / crèches → provide safe, full-day care. Digital tools → guide parents on early stimulation at home. Examples: Tamil Nadu: Adding a half-time preschool worker doubled instructional time without harming nutrition outcomes. Meghalaya: Used SHG members as para-teachers through short-term fellowships. Chandigarh: Internships to support Anganwadi workforce. B. Extending Anganwadi Hours Objective: Convert to full-day facilities at low fiscal cost. Example: Telangana increased worker stipends to extend hours. C. First 1,000 days Intervention 80% of brain development occurs here. Focus on: Nutrition Cognitive stimulation Parent-child interaction Digital nudges (e.g., POSHAN Tracker) help parents turn daily routines into learning moments. Odisha case: Weekly mothers’ group meetings → improved cognitive and language skills almost equal to home visits. D. National Mission on Early Childhood Care Proposes integrated convergence across: Women & Child Development Labour Education Health Industry Purpose: Link child welfare, childcare, and women’s workforce participation into one coherent policy framework. Economic & Demographic Imperatives A. Demographic transition Several states below replacement fertility. By 2050, 20% of Indians will be over 60. Implication: Smaller future workforce must be highly productive. Women’s employment becomes critical for sustaining growth. B. Demographic dividend risk Without childcare and early learning → Lower-quality human capital. Reduced labour force. Growth slowdown. “Dividend” turns into demographic deficit. Multi-Stakeholder Approach Government: regulatory framework, funding, mission coordination. Business: workplace crèches, innovation in childcare models, CSR support. Civil society: last-mile delivery, community mobilisation, training. Together, they create market-shaping childcare infrastructure, not charity. Conclusion Childcare is not a welfare add-on—it is economic infrastructure necessary for India’s growth trajectory. Evidence from India and globally shows childcare increases women’s labour supply, enhances job quality, and improves early childhood development. A national mission with inter-ministerial coordination, expanded Anganwadi hours, digital support systems, and industrial-area crèches can yield high economic and social returns. If childcare remains underinvested, India risks losing both its women-led development potential and its demographic dividend. India is model for digital infra. It can become one for AI, too Why is it in News? India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) (Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker, FASTag, CoWIN, Account Aggregator, ONDC, etc.) is globally recognised as a successful, scalable model for population-scale digital service delivery. The article argues that India can now extend this leadership to Artificial Intelligence infrastructure, especially AI public infrastructure (AI-DPI). Amid global rivalry between US and China for AI leadership, India is seen as the potential third pole due to its DPI experience, democratic governance, and digital inclusion. Relevance GS-II (Governance) • Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) • Data governance and consent architecture • AI regulation, accountability, and sovereign AI systems GS-III (Science & Tech / Economy) • AI ecosystem, semiconductors, HPC, data centres • Innovation, startup ecosystem, technology-led growth • Energy requirements for emerging technologies • India as a global tech leader Practice Question India’s success with Digital Public Infrastructure provides a unique foundation to build population-scale, trusted Artificial Intelligence systems. Examine the opportunities and challenges.(250 Words) What is Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)? Definition: Open, interoperable digital platforms collectively enabling identity, payments, data exchange, and public service delivery. Core pillars of India’s DPI: Aadhaar → identity layer UPI → payments layer DigiLocker / Account Aggregator → data layer FASTag, CoWIN, eKYC, eSign → service delivery ecosystem Key features: Interoperable, open-source, low-cost, high-volume, inclusive. Why admired globally? Scales to billions, reduces leakages, empowers private innovation, ensures digital inclusion. Main Argument — If India can build world-class DPI, it can build world-class AI infrastructure AI is entering a new phase: Requires high-performance computing (HPC) Huge energy demand Advanced cooling and semiconductor systems Robust data governance The article argues: India’s digital governance model + engineering capability + massive datasets = unique advantage to build AI infrastructure. How AI will transform Economy & Governance ? A. AI will change how people work and make decisions Automation of cognitive and back-office tasks Higher productivity in sectors like services, logistics, and governance B. AI is a double-edged sword Strength: makes systems efficient Vulnerability: High dependency on algorithms External control of AI systems Cyber risks Bias and accountability gaps Hence India must build sovereign AI capacity. India’s unique position for AI leadership (1) Large AI-use markets A billion consumers Digital financial inclusion High mobile penetration (2) Rich, high-quality datasets Payments, mobility, health, education, agriculture Generated through regulated DPI systems Valuable for training safe and efficient AI systems (3) Cost advantage & talent Large engineering pool World’s cheapest data rates Startup ecosystem (4) Early experience in global-scale digital engineering Aadhaar scale UPI real-time payment network CoWIN vaccination platform ONDC open commerce network All these are forms of population-scale system design, an important prerequisite for AI governance. Four Strategic Priorities 1. AI Systems should be subject to rule of law Must run on sovereign infrastructure Data must be stored, processed, and audited under Indian jurisdiction No outsourcing core algorithms to foreign-controlled systems Ensures national security + citizen rights + transparency 2. AI must operate on trusted data processed through public-interest frameworks India’s Account Aggregator network + DPI model already establish norms for: Consent-based data use Secure data access Verified data exchange 3. Systems should be interoperable like UPI & Aadhaar Open standards API-driven architecture Allows private innovation on public rails Ensures competition, prevents monopolies in AI space 4. AI must be energy-efficient & sustainable AI training needs massive power → data centres, cooling, renewables Opportunity to integrate: Solar Wind Green hydrogen India can build low-cost, green AI infrastructure Examples of Where AI can build on DPI A. Agriculture AI agent for every farmer → crop advice, weather forecasting, market pricing Reduces dependence on intermediaries B. Health AI agent for each ASHA/ANM → diagnosis support, record management Improved health outcomes C. Education AI tutors for students Personalised learning Support for underserved districts D. Public services AI to assist in governance, compliance, and beneficiary identification Reduces administrative burden Enhances accuracy and transparency India’s International Opportunity The world is worried about US–China dominance in AI. Democracies require open, accountable, safe alternatives. India can export: DPI model AI safety and governance frameworks Low-cost AI infrastructure This positions India as the global hub for trusted AI for the Global South. Risks & Challenges High capital cost of data centres Semiconductor import dependence Skilled manpower shortages in deep tech Cybersecurity vulnerabilities Risk of centralised AI power affecting privacy and rights But India’s DPI experience reduces these barriers. Conclusion India built the world’s most inclusive digital infrastructure for identity, finance, and public services. The same governance architecture—open, interoperable, secure, scalable—can now power AI Public Infrastructure (AI-DPI). India has the market size, data systems, engineering talent, and regulatory maturity to become a global leader in trusted and democratic AI ecosystems. The opportunity is not just technological but strategic: shaping how AI supports human development rather than corporate or geopolitical dominance.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 11 December 2025

Content Is India’s 8.2% Growth Sustainable? Satellites, Science, and the New Fight for Spectrum in Space Russia’s Su-57 Offer and India’s Tepid Response Appointment of the Chief Information Commissioner Deepavali Enters UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage List Western Tragopan Breeding Project Gives the Endangered Species Breathing Space Top 10% Earners in India Get 58% of National Income – World Inequality Report 2026 Is India’s 8.2% Growth Sustainable? Why is it in News? India reported 8.2% GDP growth, with quarterly output rising to ₹48.63 lakh crore — significantly higher than last year. The IMF simultaneously assigned India a ‘Grade C’ for the quality of national income statistics, flagging systemic data issues. This combination raises the core question: Is high growth masking deeper structural weaknesses? Relevance GS-III – Indian Economy GDP measurement accuracy; statistical system reforms Structure of growth: sectoral composition & productivity External vulnerabilities: CAD, exports, geopolitical risks Inflation management & monetary stability Fiscal consolidation; tax buoyancy; quality of expenditure Demand patterns: PFCE, rural–urban divergence Employment vs growth mismatch Institutional capacity in economic governance GS-II – Governance Data quality & transparency in public institutions Federal fiscal data gaps; state-level accountability Role of RBI and independent institutions in economic oversight Basics: What Does 8.2% GDP Growth Represent? Indicators of genuine momentum Manufacturing: +9.1% → factories closer to capacity, rising industrial demand. Services (60% of GDP): +9.2% → financial services +10.2% → strong credit flow, urban demand. Real GVA: ↑ from ₹82.88 lakh cr → ₹89.41 lakh cr → growth not driven by inflation alone. Nominal GDP: up 8.8% → implies inflation subdued. PFCE: +7.9% → households spending more. Agriculture: +3.5% → better reservoirs, horticulture; slight rural recovery. Inflation: slipped below RBI target by end-2024-25 → macro stability. Banking: strong credit growth, clean balance sheets, high capital buffers. Fiscal side: consolidation continues; GST + direct taxes strong. External sector: small CAD, robust services exports, diversified FX reserves. Conclusion: Short-term growth is broad-based, stable, and non-inflationary. India is outpacing most major economies. The IMF’s ‘Grade C’: Why It Matters The IMF was not grading the growth rate, but the statistical architecture behind the numbers. Key deficiencies Base year outdated (2011–12) → distortions in measuring structural shifts. Use of WPI, not Producer Price Index, for deflators → inaccurate measurement of real output. Excessive single deflation → cyclical biases in GDP estimates. Large discrepancy between production vs expenditure GDP → weak coverage, especially informal sector. No seasonally adjusted data → unreliable quarter-on-quarter interpretation. Missing consolidated data for States/local bodies post-2019. Implication: Even if the economy is performing well, the statistical foundations are not strong enough to inspire high global confidence. What the RBI Quietly Points Out The RBI Annual Report (2024–25) accepts that growth is strong but flags structural constraints: a) External vulnerabilities Global trade protectionism rising. Tariff uncertainty in key export markets. Geopolitical tensions reducing global demand. b) Weak goods export engine Services + remittances cushion the CAD, but India still lacks a scaled-up manufacturing exports base. c) Currency pressures Rupee stable only due to RBI intervention. Underlying pressure from strong USD + volatile foreign capital flows. d) Sectoral imbalances Mining: 0.04% Electricity: 4.4% Agriculture: 3.5% These employ millions, yet contribute modestly to output → weak productivity. Structural Vulnerabilities Behind the High Growth Number 1. Mismatch between employment and output structure Tertiary sector = 60% of GVA But majority of workforce still in agriculture + low-wage services → low productivity trap. 2. Uneven industrial recovery Electricity and mining sluggish due to weather anomalies, but they expose deeper issues: Low diversification Slower core sector momentum Inadequate infrastructure in resource sectors 3. Weak institutional capacity Data quality gaps reflect broader governance constraints. Inconsistent state-level fiscal data post-2019 implies weak transparency. 4. Export competitiveness Lacks strong integration into global value chains. Protectionist global climate hits Indian goods harder. 5. Domestic demand concentration Growth driven by urban, formal, credit-linked sectors. Rural consumption recovery is mild; income divergence persists. So, Is 8.2% Growth Sustainable? Short-term sustainability: YES Supported by: Low inflation Strong financial system Fiscal consolidation High services momentum Rising consumption Stable external account This momentum can continue 2–3 years if global conditions do not deteriorate sharply. Long-term sustainability: UNCERTAIN Because: Productivity growth is weak in agriculture + informal services. Manufacturing exports remain insufficient to support long-run high growth. Statistical system needs modernisation. Institutional and state-level fiscal capacities remain uneven. Employment-generation does not match GDP performance. External environment is becoming more hostile to trade. Core argument from the article: India’s pace of growth is high, but the architecture supporting growth is still catching up. Satellites, science, and the new fight for spectrum in space WHY IS IT IN NEWS? A new global race has emerged—not to reach the Moon, but to secure radio frequencies (spectrum) and orbital slots necessary for low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite megaconstellations. With over 50,000 satellites expected by 2030, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is under pressure as existing governance mechanisms struggle with congestion, interference, and debris. ITU reforms (WRC-23, ITU-R 74) aim to address spectrum coordination and space sustainability, but compliance remains limited (70% deorbiting rate). Megaconstellations are transforming global Internet access but risk deepening inequality and intensifying geopolitical competition. Relevance GS-II – International Relations & Global Governance ITU as a global institution; Global Commons governance Spectrum allocation disputes & geopolitics Power asymmetry: developed vs emerging nations in space rule-making Space as a strategic domain: communication, navigation, surveillance GS-III – Science & Technology Satellite megaconstellations & LEO technology Space debris, orbital sustainability (ITU-R 74) Space economy growth & innovation Interference, spectrum congestion, orbital slot management WHAT IS “SPECTRUM” AND WHY DOES IT MATTER? a) Spectrum Electromagnetic frequencies used for wireless communication. Satellites need dedicated frequencies to transmit/receive signals without interference. b) Most valued frequency bands Ku-band (12–18 GHz) → high-speed Internet Ka-band (26–40 GHz) → high-capacity broadband L-band (1–2 GHz) → GPS, navigation Radio frequencies are so vital that spectrum = oxygen for space communication. c) Orbital slots Precise physical positions in Earth’s orbit from which satellites can broadcast efficiently. Scarce resource → intense competition → strategic race. d) Why both spectrum + orbit matter Spectrum prevents signal overlap Orbit ensures correct coverage footprint MEGACONSTELLATION BOOM: SCALE OF THE RACE Major players Starlink (SpaceX): 8,000+ satellites; plans for 42,000 OneWeb: 648 satellites Amazon Project Kuiper: ~3,200 China’s GuoWang: ~13,000 Market expansion $4.27 billion (2024) → $27.31 billion (2032) 25.5% CAGR driven by global broadband demand and lower launch costs. Strategic dimensions Nations view megaconstellations as key for: Technological sovereignty Secure communications Intelligence and navigation Digital infrastructure dominance WHY REGULATION STRUGGLES: ITU AND THE SPECTRUM–ORBIT CRUNCH ? a) ITU’s role UN agency coordinating spectrum and orbital slots. Works on principle: “Limited natural resources must be used rationally, efficiently, and economically.” b) First-come, first-served system Favors wealthy operators who can file early applications. Late entrants (developing nations) risk losing access to prime bands/orbits. c) WRC-23 (World Radiocommunication Conference) reforms Key decisions: Resolution 8: Operators must notify deviations between planned vs actual deployment. Prevents spectrum hoarding. Mandatory deployment milestones: 10% in 2 years 50% in 5 years 100% in 7 years Reduces speculative filings by companies seeking to lock future rights. d) ITU under stress Framework designed for hundreds of satellites → now facing tens of thousands annually. 80% of ITU agenda today is satellite-related, revealing overload. SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGE: SPACE DEBRIS AND ITU-R 74 2023 resolution for sustainable spectrum-orbit use: Mandatory deorbit within 25 years post-mission. Compliance is only ~70%, meaning debris accumulates faster than removal. Current orbital conditions 40,000 tracked objects in orbit 27,000+ pieces of debris (>10 cm) By 2030 → 50,000+ new satellites expected Growing risk: Collision cascade (Kessler syndrome) Loss of space access for all DIGITAL DIVIDE: PROMISE VS REALITY OF SATELLITE INTERNET Why megaconstellations matter LEO satellites (150–2,000 km) Latency: 20–40 ms Suitable for telemedicine, online education, remote work But affordability is the bottleneck Starlink terminal: ~$600 (₹53,000) Monthly subscription charges → unaffordable for rural communities. ITU estimates $2.6–2.8 trillion needed to close global digital divide by 2030. Connectivity inequality Global Connectivity Index: Switzerland: 34.41 India: 8.59 A four-fold disparity 2.6 billion people still offline (2025). Without subsidies or universal service mandates, LEO Internet may widen inequality rather than solve it. WHERE DOES INDIA STAND? a) India’s strategic strengths GSAT-N2: 48 Gbps throughput; covers remote regions (A&N Islands, Northeast). OneWeb: Bharti owns 39% → India embedded in global LEO ecosystem. b) Spectrum allocation debate TRAI recommends administrative allocation, not auctions, for satellite spectrum. Rationale: Satellite spectrum is inherently non-exclusive and shared. Auctions could raise costs → reduce affordability → defeat universal access goals. c) India’s dual challenge Secure spectrum & orbital resources internationally Ensure affordability domestically Without both, India risks losing out in the new space economy. MACRO TRENDS SHAPING THE NEXT DECADE A. Commercial imperatives Internet markets + remote-region connectivity Real-time applications (IoT, autonomous systems) B. Geopolitical imperatives Nations competing for: Strategic communication Surveillance Navigation independence C. Governance imperatives Need for global rules on: Spectrum equity Orbital sustainability Fair access for emerging nations D. Risk of future conflict Without reform → “Spectrum wars” → overcrowded space → unsafe, unequal, unusable orbital environment. Su-57  WHY IS IT IN NEWS? Ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent India visit, Moscow aggressively pitched major defence platforms: Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter S-500 air defence system Geran (Shahed-136 variant) kamikaze drones Submarines and long-range UAVs India responded lukewarmly, signalling no major defence procurements despite 19 agreements signed during the visit. The muted response reflects India’s accelerating shift toward self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) and declining appetite for large-ticket foreign hardware. Relevance GS-II – International Relations India–Russia defence relations: continuity & change Strategic autonomy; diversification of partners (US, France, Israel) Impact of Ukraine war on Russian export capacity CAATSA sanctions & geopolitical constraints GS-III – Defence & Security Indigenous defence manufacturing & Aatmanirbhar push Evaluation of 5th-gen aircraft, drones, missile systems Tech transfer issues; reliability of foreign suppliers Naval capability building: submarines, UAVs, air defence INDIA–RUSSIA DEFENCE RELATIONSHIP Russia has been India’s largest defence supplier for decades (50–60% of inventory legacy). Key platforms: Su-30MKI, MiG-29 T-90 and T-72 tanks S-400 air defence Kilo-class submarines BrahMos (joint development) Historically based on technology transfer and long-term maintenance frameworks. Over the past decade, however, India is diversifying suppliers and building domestic capability. WHAT EXACTLY DID RUSSIA OFFER? WHY? a) Su-57 (5th-gen stealth fighter) Russia’s flagship stealth platform; export version Su-57E. Earlier joint Indo-Russian FGFA project (based on Su-57) collapsed in 2018 due to Indian concerns over: Stealth quality Sensor fusion Engine performance Cost Technology transfer limitations b) S-500 “Prometey” Next-gen long-range missile defence system (higher-tier than S-400). c) Geran (Shahed-136 type) kamikaze drones Key to Russia’s low-cost attrition strategy in Ukraine. Capable of mass-swarm saturation attacks. d) Submarines & long-range UAVs Russia seeks revival of conventional submarine deals + naval cooperation. Why Russia is pushing these platforms Sanctions + Ukraine war → Russia seeks revenue, market stability, and geopolitical signalling. India is Russia’s largest defence partner outside CSTO, making it economically important. WHY INDIA’S RESPONSE WAS TEPID ? A) Strategic Shift: Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defence Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted: Production: ₹1.51 lakh crore (2024) → up from ₹46,000 crore (2014) Exports: ₹24,000 crore → up from < ₹1,000 crore (2014) India wants domestic development, not dependence on imports. B) Preference for Indigenous Alternatives Drones → Indian firms already developing: Loitering munitions MALE/HALE UAVs Joint ventures with Israel Fighters → focus on LCA Tejas Mk1A AMCA (5th-gen Indian stealth fighter) MRFA (where U.S., France, Sweden competitive) C) Concerns about Russian reliability War with Ukraine has: Reduced production capacity Created delivery delays Impacted supply chains & spares CAATSA sanctions risks add further complexity. D) Technology Transfer Limitations India wants: Full transfer of technology Local manufacturing Intellectual property access Russia cannot fully meet these expectations for Su-57/S-500. E) Cost & Capability Doubts Su-57 still under limited Russian induction; unclear combat performance. Geran drones considered low-tech, not aligned with India’s requirement for high-end, survivable UAV systems. INDIA–RUSSIA DEFENCE MECHANISM UPDATE 23rd India–Russia Working Group Meeting (Oct 29, 2024) Co-chaired by Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar. Covered tri-service cooperation + R&D. Ended with a new Protocol identifying fresh collaboration areas. However, no big-ticket deals were finalised. Putin’s visit outcomes 19 agreements signed — mostly trade, energy, connectivity, logistics. No announcements on Su-57, S-500, submarines, or drones. BROADER GEOPOLITICAL CONTEXT India’s diversification U.S., France, Israel, and domestic suppliers increasingly relevant. Quad-related tech cooperation rising. Russia wants to retain strategic foothold. Russia’s own constraints Ukraine conflict drains resources. Export commitments hard to meet. Sanctioned supply chains delay deliveries. Chief Information Commissioner  WHY IS IT IN NEWS? The Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, and the Union Home Minister met to finalise appointments to the Central Information Commission (CIC). The panel has to select a new Chief Information Commissioner and eight Information Commissioners. The meeting also discussed names for vacant Vigilance Commissioner posts in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). Rahul Gandhi reportedly submitted a dissent note on some proposed names. The meeting coincided with a Lok Sabha debate on electoral reforms, where concerns were raised regarding appointment processes for independent constitutional/statutory bodies. Relevance GS-II – Polity & Governance Statutory bodies under RTI Act (CIC) Appointment process; balance between executive & LoP Transparency, checks & balances, institutional independence Role of CVC; anti-corruption oversight Issues of vacancies & backlog in quasi-judicial bodies GS-II – Separation of Powers Judicial interventions on appointments (e.g., EC judgment 2023) Autonomy of oversight institutions WHAT IS THE CENTRAL INFORMATION COMMISSION (CIC)? a) Constitutional or statutory? Statutory body created under the Right to Information Act, 2005. b) Mandate Adjudicates appeals and complaints relating to the Right to Information (RTI). Ensures transparency and accountability of public authorities. c) Composition One Chief Information Commissioner Up to 10 Information Commissioners d) Appointment mechanism (RTI Act, Section 12(3)) Appointments are made by the President on recommendation of a committee comprising: Prime Minister (Chair) Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Union Cabinet Minister nominated by PM In current practice, the Home Minister is often the nominated Cabinet Minister. e) Tenure 3 years or until age 65, whichever earlier (after 2019 amendment). WHY ARE THESE APPOINTMENTS SIGNIFICANT? a) Backlog and vacancies Several vacancies have remained unfilled, causing delays in RTI appeals. Appointment of eight Commissioners + CIC is expected to reduce backlog significantly. b) Independence of RTI regime CIC is central to enforcing transparency across government ministries. Selection must be credible, impartial, and timely to maintain public trust. c) Wider governance context Occurs amid national debates on institutional autonomy, including: Election Commission appointments Vigilance institutions Tribunals and regulatory authorities WHAT IS THE CENTRAL VIGILANCE COMMISSION (CVC)? a) Statutory body Created under the CVC Act, 2003. b) Mandate Supervises vigilance administration. Oversees CBI investigations in corruption cases. c) Composition Central Vigilance Commissioner Up to two Vigilance Commissioners d) Appointment Committee PM (Chair) Home Minister Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Thus, the same selection arrangement as CIC. Vacancies here also impact functioning of anti-corruption mechanisms. Deepavali enters intangible heritage list  WHY IS IT IN NEWS? UNESCO has officially inscribed Deepavali on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity. The decision was announced at the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee held in New Delhi at the Red Fort. Delegates from 194 member states, international experts, and Indian officials, including the Union Culture Minister, participated. The inscription highlights Deepavali’s global cultural significance and its contribution to social cohesion and traditional craftsmanship. Relevance GS-I – Indian Culture Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) under UNESCO 2003 Convention Festivals as living traditions; craft ecosystems (diyas, rangoli, artisanal work) Social cohesion, rituals, intergenerational transmission GS-II – International Relations Cultural diplomacy & soft power India’s increasing presence in UNESCO heritage lists UNESCO committees & global heritage governance WHAT IS INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE (ICH)? a) Definition Under UNESCO’s 2003 Convention, Intangible Cultural Heritage refers to: Living traditions, expressions, and knowledge passed across generations. Examples include: Festivals Oral traditions Performing arts Rituals Traditional crafts Social practices and community knowledge b) Purpose of inscription Safeguard cultural practices Promote awareness and respect for cultural diversity Support communities preserving traditions Strengthen international cultural cooperation c) Representative List of the ICH of Humanity A global list showcasing traditions with significant cultural value. Deepavali now joins the list, alongside other Indian entries such as: Yoga Kumbh Mela Durga Puja Ramlila Kalbelia dance Vedic chanting WHAT THE UNESCO INSCRIPTION RECOGNISES ABOUT DEEPAVALI ? a) A “living heritage” UNESCO acknowledges Deepavali as a cultural practice kept alive by millions through: Community celebrations Intergenerational transmission Craft-based traditions b) Key cultural dimensions Strengthens social bonds Family gatherings, community rituals, shared customs. Supports traditional craftsmanship Potters making traditional ‘diyas’ Artisans engaged in rangoli, décor, textiles, metalwork Encourages generosity and well-being Charity, gift-giving, community welfare activities Contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) SDG 11: Sustainable cities & cultural heritage SDG 8: Livelihoods for artisans and craftspeople SDG 16: Stronger social cohesion and community trust WHY DEEPAVALI QUALIFIES AS INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE ? A) Wide geographic spread Celebrated across India and globally (South Asia, Southeast Asia, diaspora communities). B) Multiple cultural layers Religious significance Harvest symbolism Seasonal rituals Community bonding traditions C) Strong craft and livelihood ecosystem Millions of traditional workers participate in the festival economy, including: Potters Decorative artisans Sweet makers Farmers producing festival-linked crops Priests and local craft guilds D) Deep continuity Multimillennial tradition with consistent cultural transmission. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE INSCRIPTION FOR INDIA 1. Global recognition Enhances India’s cultural presence and soft power. Highlights India’s diversity and heritage diplomacy. 2. Preservation and documentation UNESCO tag encourages: Cultural mapping Safeguarding measures Financial and institutional support 3. Benefits for traditional livelihoods Craftspeople and artisans gain visibility, market value, and protection of traditional crafts. Opportunities for sustainable tourism and cultural industries. 4. Strengthens the RTI of culture Reinforces India’s role in shaping global cultural narratives. Enhances people-to-people diplomacy. NATIONAL CONTEXT OF THE EVENT The Union Culture Minister described the inscription as a moment of immense pride. Special emphasis placed on the people-centric nature of Deepavali, acknowledging contributions of artisans and ordinary households. The Prime Minister described the recognition as reflecting Deepavali’s role in India’s cultural ethos and civilisational identity. BROADER CONTEXT: UNESCO AND INDIA’S HERITAGE DIPLOMACY India’s growing heritage presence Multiple Indian traditions have been added to UNESCO lists in recent years. India’s cultural diplomacy aims to highlight: Civilisational depth Community cultural practices Sustainable craft ecosystems Plurality of festivals and traditions UNESCO ICH helps India in: Cultural tourism Global image-building Protection of traditional knowledge systems Strengthening artisan-based rural economies Western Tragopan  WHY IS IT IN NEWS? The western tragopan, one of India’s rarest pheasants and the State bird of Himachal Pradesh, has shown successful captive breeding at the Sarahan Pheasantry, with 46 individuals currently maintained. However, experts warn that the species’ long-term survival remains uncertain because: Only 3,000–9,500 mature individuals survive in the wild. All belong to one subpopulation, increasing genetic vulnerability. Habitat fragmentation, climate change, and human disturbance continue to threaten wild populations. Reintroduction trials (2020–21) showed early signs of viability, but funding gaps and need for more research have stalled further releases since 2023. Relevance GS-III – Environment & Ecology Species conservation (IUCN Vulnerable) Ex-situ vs in-situ conservation Habitat loss, fragmentation, climate change effects Reintroduction protocols; genetic diversity management Human–wildlife interface in Himalayan ecosystems WHAT IS THE WESTERN TRAGOPAN? a) Taxonomy Scientific name: Tragopan melanocephalus Family: Phasianidae (pheasants & partridges) Distribution: Historically Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand; now restricted to fragmented Himalayan pockets. b) IUCN Status Vulnerable (but with rapidly declining numbers; conservationists consider it closer to “Endangered”). c) Habitat Prefers dense temperate broadleaf and conifer forests, usually between 2,000–3,600 m elevation. d) Ecological role Indicator species for high-altitude forest health, sensitive to disturbance & climate variability. POPULATION STATUS & FRAGMENTATION a) Wild population 3,000–9,500 mature individuals All part of a single subpopulation → high extinction risk Distributed across western Himalayas & parts of northern Pakistan b) Key threats Habitat fragmentation Encroachment & grazing pressure Climate variability disrupting breeding cycles Declining insect availability for chicks Human disturbance in breeding zones THE MISSING LINK: IN-SITU CONSERVATION Experts repeatedly emphasise that ex-situ breeding cannot substitute for habitat protection. Key issues: Habitat loss continues → forests crucial for wild survival remain threatened. Breeding failures linked to climate variability: Warming at lower altitudes Unsynchronised timing between chick hatch and insect peak Dependence on community support: Locals in Pakistan voluntarily protect breeding zones Similar models could be explored in India Conservation benefits remain stagnant despite crores spent because: Birds were produced But wild habitats were not strengthened simultaneously COMMUNITY-BASED CONSERVATION: A PROMISING MODEL Birdwatchers and local guides report stronger sightings in areas where villagers minimise disturbance. Community-based tourism provides alternative income → reduces pressure on forests. Examples: Rakhundi, Shilt regions Positive local stewardship reshapes conservation outcomes Top 10% earners in India get 58% of national income, bottom half 15% – World Inequality Report 2026 WHY IS IT IN NEWS? The World Inequality Report 2026, led by economists Lucas Chancel, Ricardo Gómez-Carrero, Ravaida Mushrif, and Thomas Piketty, reveals that India’s income inequality is among the highest in the world. The top 10% of earners capture 58% of national income, while the bottom 50% receive only 15%. Wealth inequality is even sharper: the top 1% owns 40% of total wealth, and the bottom 50% owns just 6%. The findings mark a continued rise in inequality despite earlier improvements post-liberalisation. Relevance GS-III – Economy Income & wealth inequality trends Structural drivers: informality, labour markets, capital concentration Impact on growth quality, consumption demand, productivity Policy responses: taxation, social security, universal services GS-II – Welfare & Governance Public service delivery gaps Social protection mechanisms for bottom 50% Fiscal policy design (wealth tax, inheritance tax debates) WHAT IS THE WORLD INEQUALITY REPORT? a) What is it? An annual global study by the World Inequality Lab, analysing distribution of income, wealth, gender inequality, and public vs private assets. b) Why it matters? Provides country-wise comparable data. Influences global debates on taxation, welfare, job creation, and inequality. Uses multiple data sources: national accounts, tax data, household surveys. KEY FINDINGS FOR INDIA (INCOME INEQUALITY) a) Income Shares in 2024 Top 10%: 58% of national income Middle 40%: 27% Bottom 50%: 15% b) Historical trend Inequality fell after Independence → lowest in 1980s Rose sharply after 1991 liberalisation Since 2000s, India among world’s most unequal economies c) Comparison with 2023 Top 10% share: rose from 57% → 58% Bottom 50% share: marginal improvement from 13% → 15% WHY INEQUALITY IS WORSENING A) Structural economic factors High informality in labour markets → low wages Unequal access to education & health Skill-biased growth favouring tech-intensive sectors Concentration of corporate power and private capital Regional disparities (South & West more developed than North-Central regions) B) Wealth concentration mechanisms Rising property prices High returns on capital vs wages Growth of billionaire wealth → tripled in 10 years Limited inheritance taxation or wealth taxes C) Labour market outcomes Women earn only 64% of what men earn for equal work Unpaid labour and care burden remain high Agricultural wages remain stagnant despite growth in service economy GLOBAL CONTEXT Inequality reduced in Asia, Europe, North America during 20th century, but: Since 1980, 40% of global wealth growth captured by the top 1% India mirrors global trend but with more extreme concentration Geography of inequality (report highlights) High inequality regions: Middle East & North Africa Latin America India Sub-Saharan Africa Low inequality regions: Europe East Asia (Japan, South Korea) SOCIAL & ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES FOR INDIA A) Economic growth quality High inequality → reduces consumption demand Limits human capital formation Weakens long-term growth sustainability B) Social impacts Reduced social mobility Intergenerational inequality Increased risk of social tension Gender disparity persists C) Policy impacts Public investments (health, education, skilling) face pressure Widening gap between urban digital economy and rural informal economy POLICY DEBATES RAISED BY THE REPORT Possible interventions (as per global best practices): Progressive taxation Wealth tax or inheritance tax Stronger taxation on capital gains & high-income groups Universal basic services Health, education, childcare reforms Social security for informal workers Labour market reforms Higher minimum wages Strengthening collective bargaining Gender-focused interventions Reducing unpaid labour burden Ensuring equal pay structures Regional balancing Targeted investment in backward districts Rural infrastructure & skilling

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 10 December 2025

Content India Hosts UNESCO’s 20th ICH Session National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)  India Hosts UNESCO’s 20th ICH Session Why in News? India is hosting the 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) from 8–13 December 2025 at Red Fort, New Delhi. First time ever India is hosting this global ICH governance body. Coincides with 20 years of India’s ratification (2005) of the UNESCO 2003 Convention on ICH. Chaired by Vishal V. Sharma, India’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. Nodal agencies: Ministry of Culture Sangeet Natak Akademi Relevance GS 1 — Indian Heritage & Culture Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) vs Tangible Heritage 2003 ICH Convention: Objectives, safeguarding mechanism Indian elements on UNESCO ICH List (15 elements) Living traditions: Rituals, festivals, crafts, oral traditions Culture as a dynamic, community-owned process, not static monuments GS 2 — International Relations & Global Institutions Role of UNESCO in global cultural governance India as: Chair and host of a major multilateral cultural body Voice of the Global South in heritage governance Convention diplomacy: Cultural cooperation as a tool of IR Cultural multilateralism as a pillar of norm-setting What is Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)? Living traditions including: Oral traditions, performing arts Rituals, festivals, social practices Traditional craftsmanship and indigenous knowledge Dynamic, community-owned, and inter-generationally transmitted Differs from tangible heritage (monuments, artifacts) 2003 UNESCO Convention on ICH — Core Architecture Adopted: 17 October 2003, 32nd UNESCO General Conference, Paris Entry into force: 2006 Four objectives: Safeguard ICH Ensure community respect Raise national & global awareness Promote international cooperation Intergovernmental Committee — Key Functions Implements the 2003 Convention Decides on: ICH Representative List ICH in Need of Urgent Safeguarding Register of Good Safeguarding Practices Controls: ICH Fund utilisation International assistance grants Reviews: State Party periodic reports India’s Role in Global ICH Governance India has served three terms on the ICH Committee. 15 Indian elements inscribed on the UNESCO ICH Representative List. 2025 Nominations: Diwali Chhath Mahaparva Strategic Objectives of India as Host Showcase India’s ICH safeguarding model: Institutional support Community participation National inventory & documentation Promote: Joint multinational nominations Capacity building and knowledge exchange Boost: Cultural tourism Global research & funding for Indian traditions Strengthen: Youth participation in heritage transmission Advance: Soft power & cultural diplomacy Integrate: Heritage + Sustainable Development + Livelihoods Economic & Social Significance of ICH for India Livelihood security: Artisans, performers, crafts communities Social cohesion: Reinforces pluralism across caste, tribe, region, religion Knowledge preservation: Ecology, folk medicine, oral histories, rituals Soft power dividends: Global branding via Yoga, Garba, Durga Puja, Kumbh, etc. Institutional Framework in India 1. National ICH Scheme (Ministry of Culture) Objectives: Documentation & digitisation UNESCO nomination dossiers Preservation & promotion Training & skill development Stakeholders: States, universities, NGOs, local practitioners 2. Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) Capacity building Field documentation Awareness & transmission programs Governance + Development Linkage (UPSC Value Addition) ICH supports SDGs: SDG 1 (Livelihoods) SDG 4 (Education & knowledge transmission) SDG 8 (Cultural economy) SDG 11 (Sustainable communities) Emerging Challenges Commercialisation vs authenticity Urbanisation-driven skill loss Youth disengagement from traditional practices Inadequate grassroots documentation Digital misappropriation of community knowledge Conclusion Hosting the 20th ICH Session elevates India as: A global heritage leader A voice of the Global South in cultural governance Reinforces India’s model of: Community-centric safeguarding Heritage-led sustainable development Converts India’s cultural diversity into: Diplomatic capital Economic opportunity Civilisational continuity National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)  Why in News? Government released latest progress update (Dec 2025) on: NMEO–Oil Palm (OP) area expansion & CPO production NMEO–Oilseeds (OS) implementation scale-up NITI Aayog’s 2024 report highlighted: India ranks No. 1 globally in production of rice bran oil, castor, safflower, sesame, niger By Nov 2025: 2.50 lakh ha freshly covered under NMEO-OP Total oil palm area now 6.20 lakh ha CPO output doubled from 1.91 lakh tonnes (2014–15) to 3.80 lakh tonnes (2024–25) Relevance GS Paper 3 — Agriculture Oilseeds as: Second-largest crop group after foodgrains NMEO verticals: NMEO–Oil Palm (2021) NMEO–Oilseeds (2024) Yield gap, rainfed dependence, seed replacement strategy GS 3 — Food Security & Nutrition Edible oils as: Core source of fats & fat-soluble vitamins Per capita consumption rise vs domestic supply gap Import dependence risks on nutritional security Strategic Context India meets only ~44% of edible oil demand from domestic production (2023–24). Import dependence: Fell from 63.2% (2015–16) → 56.25% (2023–24) Edible oil imports (2023–24): 15.66 million tonnes Consumption surge (2004–05 → 2022–23): Rural: +83.7% Urban: +48.7% Historical Background Yellow Revolution (1990s) via Technology Mission on Oilseeds: Near self-sufficiency achieved through: MSP Import substitution Post-WTO phase: Reduced tariffs + weaker price support Imports surged, domestic productivity stagnated National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO) Launched to achieve: Atmanirbharta in edible oils Import substitution Farmer income enhancement Two verticals: NMEO–Oil Palm (2021) NMEO–Oilseeds (2024) Implemented by Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare under Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare NMEO – Oil Palm (OP) Why Oil Palm? Highest oil yield per hectare among all oilseeds Oil yield ≈ 5× traditional oilseeds Produces: Palm oil (food) Palm kernel oil (industrial) Financial Architecture Total outlay: ₹11,040 crore Centre: ₹8,844 cr States: ₹2,196 cr Centrally Sponsored Scheme Core Innovations Viability Price (VP) for Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFBs): Protects farmers from global CPO price volatility Input subsidy enhanced: Planting material: ₹12,000 → ₹29,000 per ha Rejuvenation of old gardens: ₹250 per plant Focus on: Drip irrigation Inter-cropping during 4-year gestation Crop diversification from low-yield cereals Regional Focus Traditional leaders: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana (98% production) New expansion: North-East, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Odisha Targets vs Progress Indicator Target Current Status Area 6.5 lakh ha by 2025–26 6.20 lakh ha CPO 11.2 lakh t by 2025–26 3.80 lakh t Long-term CPO 28 lakh t by 2029–30 On track NMEO – Oilseeds (OS) Approved: 2024–25 to 2030–31 Outlay: ₹10,103 crore Coverage Primary oilseeds: Mustard, Groundnut, Soybean, Sunflower, Sesame, Safflower, Niger, Linseed, Castor Secondary sources: Cottonseed, Rice bran, Coconut Tree-Borne Oilseeds (TBOs) included Targets (By 2030–31) Area: 29 → 33 million ha Production: 39 → 69.7 million tonnes Yield: 1,353 → 2,112 kg/ha Additional: 40 lakh ha expansion via: Rice fallows Potato fallows Intercropping Combined with NMEO–OP: Domestic oil production target: 25.45 million tonnes Demand met: ~72% Implementation Framework 600+ Value Chain Clusters Coverage: >10 lakh ha annually Managed by: FPOs Cooperatives Farmers receive: Free quality seeds GAP training Pest & weather advisory Post-harvest: Oil extraction & storage support Digital & Institutional Backbone SATHI Portal: 5-year rolling seed plan Infrastructure: 65 seed hubs 50 seed storage units Monitoring: Krishi Mapper Last-mile delivery: Krishi Sakhis (CASPs) via SHGs Role of Research & Technology Implemented by Indian Council of Agricultural Research through AICRPs: 432 high-yielding varieties notified (2014–25) Focus on: Hybrid breeding Gene editing Climate-resilient varieties Seed Performance Metrics: VRR (Varietal Replacement Rate) SRR (Seed Replacement Rate) Breeder seed production (2019–24): 1.53 lakh quintals Complementary Policy Support PM-AASHA: MSP procurement via NAFED, NCCF Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: Crop insurance for oilseeds Import duties raised: Crude oils: 5.5% → 16.5% Refined oils: 13.75% → 35.75% MSP raised for mustard, soybean, groundnut Strategic Significance Macro-Economic: Saves foreign exchange Reduces vulnerability to global price shocks Farmer Welfare: Assured pricing + stable demand Nutritional Security: Addresses fat and vitamin deficiencies Agro-Industrial Growth: Strengthens oil processing ecosystem Atmanirbhar Bharat: Core pillar of agri self-reliance Key Challenges High rainfed dependence (76%) Yield gaps vs global benchmarks Long gestation of oil palm Environmental risks (monoculture, water stress) Market volatility despite price assurance Relevance GS-3: Agriculture, food security, MSP, agri-import substitution Essay: Atmanirbhar Bharat through agricultural transformation Prelims: NMEO–OP vs NMEO–OS Viability Price (VP), SATHI, Krishi Sakhi Conclusion NMEO represents India’s most comprehensive edible oil reform since the Yellow Revolution. Combines: Oil palm expansion Traditional oilseed productivity Advanced seed systems Digital governance If executed sustainably, NMEO can: Cut import dependence to below 30% Transform oilseeds into a high-value farmer income engine Secure India’s nutritional and economic sovereignty.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 10 December 2025

Content: Care as disability justice, dignity in mental health Charting an agenda on the right to health Care as disability justice, dignity in mental health  Why is in News? A recent opinion piece by practitioners from The Banyan highlights: Deep gaps in India’s mental health-care model The limits of a purely biomedical and deficit-based approach The urgent need for a dignity, equity, and disability justice–centred framework The article gains policy relevance due to: Persistently high suicide burden 70–90% global mental health treatment gap Rising concerns over: Institutional abuse Homelessness Continuity of care failures Relevance GS-2: Governance, Constitution & Social Justice Right to mental health under Article 21 (Right to Life) State responsibility for: Rehabilitation Continuity of care Institutional accountability Failure of: Community mental health integration Aftercare & housing support Mental health as a rights-based welfare obligation, not charity GS-3: Health Sector & Human Development India’s 70–90% treatment gap in mental health care Structural neglect: Severe shortage of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers Over-reliance on: Tertiary hospitals Pharmacological solutions Weakness of: District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) Practice Question Mental health is no longer merely a medical issue but a question of governance, dignity, and social justice.”Critically analyse.(250 Words) What is meant by Mental Health & Psychological Disability? Mental Health (WHO understanding) A state of: Emotional well-being Ability to handle stress Productive functioning Meaningful social participation Psychosocial Disability Disability arising from: Mental illness plus Social barriers (stigma, exclusion, poverty, institutional neglect) Recognised under: Rights-based disability frameworks UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) Article’s Core Arguement Mental health suffering: Cannot be captured by statistics alone Requires attention to: Lived experience Trauma histories Social abandonment Present system: Focuses on “fixing the patient” Ignores: Broken families Violence Homelessness Caste, gender, class marginalisation The article calls for: A shift from clinical correction → dignity, justice, and relational care Data Points From National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) suicide data: ~33% suicides → Family problems ~10% suicides → Relational breakdowns Key emotional drivers (largely invisible in data): Shame Rejection Alienation Abandonment Insight: India’s distress is relational and social, not just clinical. Critical Gaps in Current Mental Health Care Model  Deficit Lens People seen as: “Maladaptive” “Unmanageable” Not as: Survivors of: Abuse Structural neglect Over-medicalisation Bias Excess focus on: Neurotransmitters Diagnosis Pills Under-focus on: Meaning Purpose Belonging Human relationships Continuity of Care Failure Many patients: Drop out Lose faith in institutions Slide into: Homelessness Chronic despair Context Blindness Social causes not integrated: Housing insecurity Economic precarity Gender violence Caste exclusion Queer marginalisation Intersectional Model  The article rejects single-cause explanations and supports overlapping causation: Domain Examples Biological Neurotransmitters, inflammation Psychological Trauma, learned helplessness Social Isolation, poverty Cultural Loss of meaning systems Political Oppression, weak welfare Historical Intergenerational trauma, colonial legacy Key Point: These act simultaneously, not in competition. Disability Justice Disability justice goes beyond: Hospital access Medication availability It demands: Dignity Equity Inclusion Context-sensitive care Care becomes: A relational process Not a transactional service Reimagining Care From Treatment → Meaningful Life Shift from: “Symptom reduction” To: “What does this person need to live the life they want?” From Linear Recovery → Non-linear Healing Accept: Setbacks Relapses Long-term dependence on support From Institutional Control → Relational Justice Trust building Honest collaboration Dialogic care From Specialist Monopoly → Lived Experience Practitioners Recognise: Peer supporters Community caregivers Provide: Training Remuneration Institutional backing Combined Necessity Material Needs Relational Needs Housing Belonging Income Trust Medication Purpose Food Identity The article asserts: You cannot heal only with a house, and you cannot heal only with medicines. Implications for Mental Health Education and Research Education Must Train For: Sitting with uncertainty Navigating social complexity Celebrating small recovery wins Ethical discomfort handling Research Must Shift Toward: Implementation science Micro-level care processes Transdisciplinary methods Real-world sensitive evidence Longitudinal trust-based outcomes Conclusion India’s mental health crisis: Is not only a medical challenge It is a social, ethical, economic, and governance crisis True reform requires: Moving from clinical efficiency → moral responsibility From symptom control → dignified living Without addressing: Poverty Violence Social abandonment Discrimination → Mental health systems will remain fragmented and ineffective Charting an agenda on the right to health  Why is in News? The National Convention on Health Rights (11–12 December 2025) is being held in New Delhi, timed between: Human Rights Day – Dec 10 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day – Dec 12 Organised by Jan Swasthya Abhiyan (JSA), a nationwide civil society coalition active in 20+ States. Around 400 public health professionals, activists, and community leaders will: Review lessons from COVID-19 Oppose commercialisation and privatisation of health care Renew demands for Right to Health as a Fundamental Right Relevance GS-2: Governance, Constitution & Social Justice Right to Health under Article 21 State vs Market in welfare provisioning Regulation of private health sector Federal health financing gaps Discrimination in service delivery GS-3: Health, Economy & Human Development Public health expenditure crisis Insurance vs public provisioning Medicine price regulation Health workforce as economic infrastructure Climate & pollution as health risks Practice Question India’s mental health crisis reflects the failure of community-based and continuity-driven care.Discuss with reference to homelessness, relapse, and disengagement from treatment. (250 Words) What is Right to Health ? Constitutional Status in India Not explicitly a Fundamental Right Interpreted under: Article 21 – Right to Life Strengthened through: Directive Principles: Article 38 – Social justice Article 39 – Health of workers Article 47 – Duty of State to improve public health International Basis Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) – Article 25 International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) – Article 12 Embedded in Universal Health Coverage (UHC) principle: Access to quality health services without financial hardship Core Message of the Convention “Health care for people, not for profits.” The convention argues that: India’s health system is being pushed towards privatisation This threatens: Affordability Equity Universal access Health must be treated as: A public good Not a market commodity Issue 1: PRIVATISATION & PUBLIC–PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS (PPPs) What is happening? Medical colleges & public health facilities being: Handed over to private players Expansion of: PPP-based healthcare delivery Why is it problematic? Weakens: Public hospitals Primary Health Centres (PHCs) Increases: Out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) Converts: Patients → paying customers Ground Resistance Movements Andhra Pradesh Karnataka Mumbai Madhya Pradesh Tribal Gujarat Issue 2: UNREGULATED PRIVATE HEALTH SECTOR Private healthcare expansion driven by: Domestic & foreign investment Pro-corporate health policies Regulation remains weak despite: Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act Consequences for Patients Overcharging Unnecessary procedures (especially C-sections) Opaque pricing Violation of patient rights Convention Demands Rate standardisation Transparent pricing Mandatory enforcement of: Charter of Patient’s Rights Accessible grievance redressal systems Issue 3: CHRONIC UNDERFUNDING OF PUBLIC HEALTH Current Public Health Spending Only ~2% of Union Budget allocated to health Annual per capita public health spending ≈ $25 Among the lowest globally Structural Outcome High Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) Insurance-heavy model without: Strengthened public hospitals Convention’s Key Critique Govt health insurance schemes: Claims > Reality Demand shifting to: Higher direct public spending Reduced OOPE Universal free public provisioning Issue 4: JUSTICE FOR HEALTH WORKERS COVID-19 Exposed: Dependence on: Doctors Nurses Paramedics Sanitation & support staff Persistent Problems Low wages Insecure contracts No social security Unsafe working conditions Convention Demand: Decent work, legal protection & workforce rights as a pillar of resilient health systems Issue 5: ACCESS TO MEDICINES Key Data Medicines = up to 50% of household medical spending >80% of medicines outside price control Market Failures Irrational drug combinations Unethical marketing High retail mark-ups Convention Proposals Stronger price regulation Remove GST on medicines Expand public sector drug manufacturing Enforce rational prescription norms Issue 6: SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION IN HEALTH CARE Special focus on: Dalits Adivasis Muslims LGBTQ+ persons Persons with disabilities Problems: Denial of care Poor quality treatment Stigma & structural exclusion Convention Lens: Health is not just biological — it is deeply social and political Issue 7: SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH Health linked with: Food security Air & water pollution Climate change Housing Employment Convention Approach: Inter-sectoral health governance “Health in All Policies” framework Parliamentary Engagement   Convention timed during: Winter Session of Parliament Delegates will engage directly with: Parliament of India Aim: Influence legislative debate on: Right to Health Public health financing Medical regulation Workforce laws 25 Years of Jan Swastya Abhiyan Active since 2000 Worked across: Women’s movements Rural groups Science collectives Patient rights platforms Known for: Pro-people health advocacy Public sector defence Medicines access campaigns Conclusion The National Convention on Health Rights, 2025 represents: A direct ideological challenge to health commercialisation A renewed civil society push for universal, publicly funded health care Central message: India cannot achieve Universal Health Coverage through privatisation, insurance alone, or weak regulation. The future of Indian health must rest on: Strong public systems Adequate government financing Workforce justice Medicine affordability Social inclusion Only then can health truly become a Fundamental Right in practice, not just in principle.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 10 December 2025

Content India–U.S. rice tariff issue High Court judge impeachment move Gannon’s Storm discovery SURYAKIRAN-XIX Cyber Slavery Racket in Southeast Asia  India–U.S. rice tariff issue Why in News? Days before a U.S. trade delegation led by Rick Switzer arrived in New Delhi (Dec 10–12), Donald Trump hinted at fresh tariffs on Indian rice. The claim: India is “dumping” rice in the U.S. market. Statement made during a White House meeting while announcing a $12 billion farm support package. Question raised to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent regarding India’s “exemption” on rice. This comes when the U.S. has already imposed 50% tariffs on Indian exports in multiple sectors. Relevance GS II – International Relations India–U.S. trade relations under stress. Impact of protectionism under Donald Trump-style economic nationalism. Trade diplomacy amidst strategic partnership narrative (QUAD vs tariffs contradiction). Use of tariffs as coercive foreign policy tools. GS III – Economy & Agriculture MSP-based procurement and export competitiveness. Agricultural exports vs global protectionism. WTO Agreement on Agriculture – public stockholding & dumping dispute. Impact on: Farmer income stability Food inflation abroad Export market diversification Core Economic Facts 1. Trade Asymmetry in Rice Only ~3% of India’s total rice exports go to the U.S. Over 25% of total U.S. rice imports come from India Conclusion: India is not dependent on U.S. U.S. is highly dependent on India Inference: Any tariff shock hurts U.S. consumers more than Indian exporters. Dumping: Is the allegation valid? Dumping (WTO definition): Exporting goods below domestic cost/price to capture foreign markets. Indian rice exports: Backed by: Low cost of production Economies of scale MSP-based procurement Not proven as: Below production cost Below domestic wholesale price Conclusion: U.S. claim is political, not legally established under WTO rules. Strategic Context 1. Domestic U.S. Politics Trump’s statement made alongside: $12 billion farm bailout Pressure from American farmer lobbies Objective: Signal protectionism Externalise domestic agrarian stress 2. Trade Negotiation Pressure Tactic Timed just before: India–U.S. tariff negotiations Classic U.S. strategy: Create pre-negotiation pressure Use sector-specific threats (rice) as leverage Who Loses If Rice Tariff Is Imposed? Impact on the U.S. Sharp rise in: Retail rice prices Food inflation Disproportionately affects: Low-income and immigrant consumers No quick alternative suppliers at Indian scale + price Impact on India Minimal export loss due to: Market diversification: West Asia Africa Southeast Asia U.S. market is non-critical for Indian rice WTO & Legal Angle Anti-Dumping duties require: Cost-price investigation Injury to domestic industry Unilateral tariff announcement: Violates spirit of multilateral trade rules Reflects weaponisation of tariffs Strategic Implications for India Reinforces need for: Export market diversification Reduced dependence on U.S. trade leverage Strengthens India’s case for: South–South trade Agro-export diplomacy Shows limits of: “Strategic partnership” under transactional protectionism Link with MSP, Food Security & Global Image India’s rice dominance stems from: MSP-backed procurement High buffer stocks Green Revolution legacy U.S. attack indirectly targets: India’s food security architecture Public stockholding system (WTO AoA debate) Broader Trend: Return of Trump-era Protectionism Sectoral targeting: Steel, auto, pharma earlier Rice now Tools used: National interest Dumping allegations Farm lobby pressure Conclusion The proposed U.S. tariff on Indian rice is economically irrational, politically motivated, and strategically self-damaging. It exposes: Fragility of U.S. commitment to free trade Weaponisation of tariffs for electoral optics India remains structurally resilient due to: Market diversification Cost leadership Global rice dominance High Court judge impeachment move  Why in News? 107 MPs of the INDIA bloc submitted a notice to Om Birla seeking impeachment of Justice G.R. Swaminathan, judge of the Madras High Court (Madurai Bench). Allegations: Deciding cases on political-ideological lines Bias towards a particular community Undue favour to a senior advocate Violation of secular character of the Constitution Triggering case: Direction to light Karthigai Deepam on a deepasthambam near a dargah atop the Thirupparankundram hill. Relevance GS 2 – Polity & Constitution Removal of constitutional authorities Judicial independence vs accountability Secularism and Basic Structure GS 4 – Ethics & Integrity Judicial ethics Conflict of interest Public perception of impartiality Constitutional Basics: How Are High Court Judges Removed? Relevant Articles Article 217 → Appointment & removal of High Court judges Article 124(4) → Removal procedure (borrowed from Supreme Court judges) Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968 → Detailed investigation mechanism Grounds of Removal (Only Two) Proved misbehaviour Proved incapacity “Judicial error” or “unpopular judgment” is NOT a ground for removal. Step-by-Step Removal Process (Impeachment) Motion signed by: 100 Lok Sabha MPs OR 50 Rajya Sabha MPs Speaker/Chairman admits the motion 3-member Judicial Inquiry Committee formed: One SC judge One HC Chief Justice One distinguished jurist If charges are proved: Motion voted in both Houses separately Special majority required: Majority of total membership 2/3rd of members present & voting President issues removal order What Is Being Alleged in This Case? Ideological adjudication violating judicial neutrality Communal bias in religious dispute (deepasthambam–dargah issue) Selective judicial favouritism Violation of: Article 14 (Equality before law) Article 25–28 (Secularism) Basic Structure doctrine Why This Is Constitutionally Sensitive ? Judges are protected by: Security of tenure Difficult removal procedure Purpose: Prevent political intimidation Maintain judicial independence Overuse of impeachment threats can convert judicial accountability into political control. Key Judicial Precedents on Judge Removal Justice V. Ramaswami (1993) – First impeachment attempt, failed due to political abstentions Justice Soumitra Sen (2011) – Rajya Sabha passed removal; judge resigned before Lok Sabha vote Justice J.B. Pardiwala (2018) – Attempt dropped at notice stage No judge has ever been fully removed in India through impeachment so far. But Also: Why Accountability Cannot Be Ignored Judiciary is not above constitutional scrutiny If credible evidence of bias exists, impeachment is: A democratic constitutional remedy Not contempt of court Conclusion The impeachment notice against Justice G.R. Swaminathan reflects a deepening friction between judicial independence and political accountability in communally sensitive cases. While the Constitution permits removal for proved misbehaviour, deploying impeachment in politically charged religious disputes risks: Undermining judicial autonomy Converting constitutional remedies into political weapons The only legitimate path forward lies through: Objective judicial inquiry Due process under the Judges (Inquiry) Act And strict adherence to constitutional morality Gannon’s Storm discovery Why in News? Aditya-L1, India’s first solar observatory, along with six U.S. satellites, has decoded why the May 2024 solar storm behaved abnormally. The storm, also called Gannon’s Storm, showed unexpectedly high geomagnetic impact on Earth. ISRO confirmed for the first time ever: Magnetic reconnection occurred inside a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME). The reconnection region spanned ~1.3 million km (~100× Earth’s size). Discovery made using joint data from: NASA missions: Wind, ACE, THEMIS-C, STEREO-A, MMS DSCOVR (NASA–NOAA joint mission) Relevance GS Paper III – Science & Technology India’s first solar observatory Aditya-L1. Breakthrough in heliophysics: internal magnetic reconnection in CME. Multi-satellite scientific collaboration (NASA–ISRO data fusion). GS Paper III – Disaster Management Space weather as a non-conventional disaster risk. Threat to: Power grids GPS & NavIC Telecom & aviation Basics First: What Is a Solar Storm? A solar storm is a disturbance caused by: Solar flares Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) CMEs: Giant clouds of superheated plasma + magnetic fields Travel at 500–3,000 km/s When CMEs hit Earth: Disturb magnetosphere Cause: Satellite damage GPS errors Radio blackouts Power grid failures Intense auroras What Is a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)? Massive magnetic “bubble” ejected from the Sun Contains: Charged particles Twisted magnetic field lines (flux ropes) Normally: A single CME interacts with Earth’s magnetic field Severity depends on magnetic orientation (southward = dangerous) What Was Unusual in the May 2024 Storm? 1. Collision of Two CMEs in Space Instead of one CME: Two CMEs collided mid-space Result: Intense compression of magnetic fields Triggered violent internal magnetic reconnection 2. Magnetic Reconnection Inside the CME (First-Ever Direct Evidence) Magnetic reconnection: Process where: Twisted magnetic field lines snap Rejoin in new configurations Release enormous energy Earlier belief: Reconnection mainly occurs: On the Sun Near Earth’s magnetosphere New discovery: It occurred inside the CME itself during transit 3. Scale of the Reconnection Size of reconnection zone: ~1.3 million km ~100 times the diameter of Earth Scientific significance: Largest reconnection region ever observed inside a CME Why Did This Make the Storm More Dangerous? CME collision caused: Sudden reversal of magnetic fields Effects: Stronger coupling with Earth’s magnetosphere Higher: Geomagnetic storm intensity Ionospheric disturbances Satellite drag Power grid stress Role of Aditya-L1 (India’s Strategic Edge) Payloads used: Magnetometers Plasma analysers Solar wind detectors Contribution: Provided precise 3D magnetic field mapping Enabled localisation of the reconnection zone This marks India’s: Entry into hard-core space weather physics Leadership in real-time solar monitoring Strategic Importance for India Protects: NavIC Defence satellites Power grids Telecom & internet Reduces dependence on: U.S. and EU space weather alerts Supports: Human spaceflight (Gaganyaan) Lunar and interplanetary missions Global Scientific Significance Improves: Prediction models of CME evolution Early warning systems for: Aviation Military communication Stock exchanges Validates: Multi-satellite cooperative heliophysics Link with Global Space Weather Preparedness Major past disruptions: Carrington Event (1859) – Telegraph systems failed Quebec blackout (1989) – 9-hour grid collapse May 2024 storm confirms: Modern digital civilisation is highly vulnerable to solar extremes Conclusion The Aditya-L1–led discovery of internal magnetic reconnection during the May 2024 CME collision marks a paradigm shift in heliophysics. It establishes that: CMEs are not magnetically stable objects Their internal dynamics can amplify storm intensity mid-journey For India, this transforms Aditya-L1 from: A scientific mission → a strategic national security asset SURYAKIRAN-XIX Why in News? The 19th edition of the India–Nepal Joint Military Exercise “SURYAKIRAN-XIX” concluded at Pithoragarh. The validation phase was jointly witnessed by the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of: Indian Army Nepal Army The exercise focused on: Counter-terrorism operations Intelligence-based surgical missions High-altitude and complex terrain warfare Tactical validation aligned with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The DGMOs planted a “Tree of Friendship”, symbolising deepening strategic trust. Relevance GS II – International Relations India–Nepal defence diplomacy. Military ties amidst Nepal’s strategic balancing (India–China factor). Border security cooperation. Military confidence-building measures (CBMs). GS III – Internal Security Counter-terrorism interoperability. High-altitude warfare capability (Himalayan security context). Tactical alignment with UN Chapter VII mandates. What Is Exercise SURYAKIRAN? SURYAKIRAN is the annual bilateral military exercise between: India and Nepal It is conducted alternately in both countries. It focuses on: Counter-terrorism Humanitarian assistance & disaster relief (HADR) Peacekeeping operations It reflects the unique nature of India–Nepal military ties, rooted in: Open borders Shared recruitment (Gorkha regiments) Historical defence cooperation Blue Corner Notice Why in News? A Blue Corner Notice has been issued against Goa club owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra. They are promoters of: Café Cubi Curlies The accused reportedly: Fled to Thailand Background case: A massive fire in a Goa club killed 25 people Interpol issued the Blue Notice at India’s request. Relevance GS Paper II – International Institutions Role and limits of Interpol. Nature of international police cooperation. Difference between Red, Blue & other notices (Prelims favourite). GS Paper III – Internal Security Transnational crime tracking. Fire safety negligence → criminal liability → international escape routes. Extradition as a security tool. Basics First: What Is Interpol? Full form: International Criminal Police Organization Headquarters: Lyon Established: 1923 Members: 195 countries Functions: Facilitates police cooperation Shares: Criminal data Fingerprints DNA records Financial crime info Interpol is NOT a global police force: It cannot arrest directly It only assists national police agencies What Are Interpol Notices? International alerts issued to: Share criminal information Track fugitives Prevent cross-border crime Issued at the request of: A member country Or an international tribunal Circulated to: All 195 member states Colour-Coded Interpol Notices  Notice Purpose Red Notice To locate and provisionally arrest a wanted person for extradition Blue Notice To collect information about a person’s identity, location, activities Green Notice Warning about habitual criminals likely to reoffend Yellow Notice To locate missing persons, especially children Black Notice To identify unidentified dead bodies Orange Notice Warning about imminent threats (terror, biological, chemical) Purple Notice Modus operandi of criminals, tools, concealment methods Silver Notice Used for financial crimes and asset tracing UN Special Notice For persons sanctioned by UN Security Council What Is a Blue Corner Notice?  Purpose: To trace a suspect’s location To gather: Identity details Travel history Criminal background It is used when: Person is not yet formally charge-sheeted Or arrest is not yet approved It DOES NOT authorise arrest It is: An intelligence-gathering tool A pre-extradition step Difference Between Blue Notice & Red Notice Parameter Blue Notice Red Notice Objective Information gathering Arrest & extradition Legal force No arrest power Provisional arrest allowed Stage Investigation phase Charges proved Use Track & verify Detain & extradite Cyber Slavery Racket in Southeast Asia  Why in News (2024–25) ? ~300 Indians repatriated from Myanmar after being forced to run cyber scams in “scam compounds”. Delhi Police arrested key recruiters of a transnational cyber slavery syndicate. Parallel FIRs and arrests in Gujarat and Haryana. Renewed focus on cross-border human trafficking + cybercrime convergence. What is “Cyber Slavery”? A form of human trafficking for forced cybercrime. Victims: Lured via fake overseas job offers (data entry, hospitality, BPO). Taken abroad on tourist visas. Detained, tortured, and forced to conduct online fraud. Work conditions: 15–18 hours/day Physical assault, emotional abuse Confined to dormitory-style scam compounds When Did Indian Authorities First Take Note? September 2022: Publicly flagged by M K Stalin Reported youth from Tamil Nadu stranded in Myanmar & Southeast Asia. Subsequently, similar cases emerged from: Gujarat Delhi Uttar Pradesh Geographic Hotspots of Cyber Slavery Myanmar Border town Myawaddy = most notorious hub Cambodia Casino cities, especially Sihanoukville Laos Golden Triangle SEZ Structural enablers: Weak law enforcement High casino density Presence of criminal syndicates Post-COVID economic distress Why Did These Countries Become Cyber Slavery Hubs? Post-COVID digital crime boom Legal casinos & online betting provided cover infrastructure Porous borders (especially Myanmar–Thailand) Chinese crime syndicates relocating abroad Cheap captive labour from South Asia High scam profitability using: Crypto fraud Investment scams Romance scams Fake trading platforms Indian Government’s Intervention   Immigration profiling at airports Verification of sponsors and contacts Cyber awareness campaigns Flagging at-risk destinations Embassy-led rescue coordination Key Data Jan 2022 – May 2024: 70,000+ Indian job seekers flagged for Cambodia & Laos 1,500+ Indians rescued mainly from: Myanmar Cambodia Use of Strategic Assets Indian Air Force aircraft deployed for repatriation Rescues conducted in coordination with: Myanmar military (select cases) Local police and immigration authorities Why This is a National Security Concern ? Human trafficking + cybercrime + foreign syndicates Large-scale financial fraud targeting Indian citizens Use of coerced Indians to attack Indian systems Links to: Money laundering Crypto-based terror financing Organised transnational crime Structural Gaps Exposed Weak overseas job regulation Poor digital literacy among youth Lack of real-time international police cooperation Slow mutual legal assistance (MLAT) processes Diplomatic & Legal Dimension Long-term resolution depends on: Bilateral treaties ASEAN-level cybercrime cooperation Extradition agreements Joint task forces

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