Posts

Oct 29, 2025 Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 29 October 2025

Content Relief, rehabilitation Cities are Critical for India Today Relief, rehabilitation Why in News ? Cyclone Montha (October 2025): Formed over the Bay of Bengal and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm (October 27–28, 2025). Affected Odisha and north coastal Andhra Pradesh — Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Srikakulam, Ganjam, and Gajapati districts. 10,000+ people evacuated in Kakinada and Konaseema regions (Andhra Pradesh). NDRF and state teams deployed under a “Red Alert” in southern Odisha. Though weaker than past super cyclones (1977, 1999), it rekindled the debate on climate resilience and preparedness along India’s east coast. Relevance GS-1 (Geography): Cyclone formation, Bay of Bengal climatology, coastal vulnerability. GS-2 (Governance): Disaster management systems, centre-state coordination, institutional preparedness. GS-3 (Environment & Disaster Management): NDMA, NCRMP, IMD forecasting, climate adaptation measures. GS-3 (Economy): Economic losses, insurance, livelihood rehabilitation, climate-resilient infrastructure. Practice Question India’s east coast has evolved from being a zone of repeated disaster to a model of cyclone preparedness. Examine the key factors behind this transformation and the gaps that remain in ensuring long-term coastal resilience.(250 Words) Historical Context Cyclone Season: Peaks in October–November when sea surface temperatures in the Bay of Bengal exceed 28°C and upper air divergence favors cyclone formation. Historical Data: Between 18th and 20th centuries, 12 major cyclones hit India — 9 occurred during Oct–Nov (IMD, 2021). Notable Past Disasters: 1977 Andhra Pradesh Cyclone: Landfall near Nizampatnam (Nov 19); ~10,000 deaths. 1999 Odisha Super Cyclone: Landfall near Paradip (Oct 29); ~10,000 deaths; wind speed ≈260–270 km/h; storm surge up to 7 meters. 2018 Cyclone Gaja (Tamil Nadu): Massive loss of cattle and poultry in Nagapattinam & Thanjavur districts. India’s Cyclone Geography East Coast (Bay of Bengal): Accounts for >70% of India’s cyclones (IMD, 2023). States most affected: Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal. West Coast (Arabian Sea): Fewer but increasing cyclones due to warming seas (IMD and IITM Pune studies, 2024). East coast remains more vulnerable due to shallow continental shelf, deltaic plains, and higher population density. Causes for East Coast Vulnerability Warm Bay of Bengal waters (28–31°C) → high latent heat energy. Low vertical wind shear during Oct–Nov → sustained cyclonic intensity. High coastal population density: >250 people/km² in coastal districts (Census 2011). River deltas (Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna): prone to flooding and storm surges. Socio-economic exposure: dependence on agriculture, fisheries, and informal livelihoods. Current Preparedness Framework National Level: National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) — Policy, coordination, and capacity building. India Meteorological Department (IMD): Real-time forecasting via INSAT-3D/3DR, Doppler Weather Radars, and IMD’s Cyclone Warning Division (CWD). National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): Rapid deployment units in all cyclone-prone states. National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP): Implemented by NDMA and World Bank. Focus: Early warning systems, evacuation shelters, coastal embankments, capacity training. State-Level Initiatives: Odisha: State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) — model of zero-casualty preparedness (post-1999). Andhra Pradesh: Strengthened real-time monitoring and community-based disaster response (APSDMA). Tamil Nadu: Cyclone shelters, coastal bio-shield (mangrove restoration). Recent Successes Reduced Mortality: From 10,000 deaths (1999) → <100 in severe cyclones like Fani (2019) and Yaas (2021) due to timely evacuations. Community Resilience: Use of mobile alerts, panchayat-level preparedness, and satellite early warning systems. Infrastructure Readiness: 400+ multi-purpose cyclone shelters, 1,500+ trained community task forces (Odisha, 2024 data). Continuing Challenges Economic Losses: Average annual cyclone damage: ₹28,000–30,000 crore (Ministry of Home Affairs, 2023). Livelihood Disruption: Fisherfolk, agricultural laborers, and informal workers suffer prolonged income loss. Animal Losses: Example: Cyclone Gaja (2018) killed 46,000+ cattle and 1.5 lakh poultry birds. Infrastructure Damage: Rural roads, power lines, and communication networks repeatedly destroyed. Climate Change Factor: Bay of Bengal warming at ~0.20°C/decade (IPCC, 2023) → more intense but short-lived cyclones. Technological and Policy Innovations IMD Upgrades: 24×7 Cyclone Warning Centres in Chennai, Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam. Satellite Tools: INSAT-3D, SCATSAT-1 for wind vector analysis. Digital Early Warning: Common Alert Protocol (CAP) for simultaneous alerts via SMS, radio, and TV. Resilient Infrastructure Mission (2023): Mainstreaming disaster-resistant design in coastal housing. Mangrove & Shelterbelt Programmes: Under National Coastal Mission to reduce storm surge impact. Way Forward Comprehensive Coastal Zone Management: Integrate ecological buffers (mangroves, dunes) with engineered defenses. Cyclone Insurance Schemes: Tailored risk coverage for small farmers and fisherfolk. Decentralised Power Backup: Solar microgrids for cyclone shelters and emergency services. Post-disaster Livelihood Restoration: Rapid assistance for livestock, fisheries, and small traders. Strengthening Data Integration: Combine IMD forecasts with ISRO GIS mapping for micro-level evacuation plans. Conclusion India’s east coast, though historically the epicentre of cyclonic destruction, has emerged as a global model of disaster preparedness. From the devastation of 1999 Odisha to the efficient evacuation in Cyclone Montha (2025), the transformation underscores the power of early warning, community participation, and adaptive governance. Yet, as climate variability intensifies, India must now shift focus from saving lives to safeguarding livelihoods — ensuring resilient coastal development, sustainable resource use, and inclusive recovery. Cities are Critical for India Today Context Urbanization is central to India’s economic transformation. India aims to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047; cities will be the engines of this growth. Urban areas already contribute ~63% of India’s GDP (World Bank, 2023), projected to rise to ~75% by 2047. The article highlights the need for better urban planning, sustainable infrastructure, and inclusive growth to realize India’s economic and climate goals. Relevance GS-1: Urbanization, population dynamics, and spatial planning. GS-2: Governance, urban local bodies, decentralization, and policy implementation. GS-3: Infrastructure, environment, sustainable growth, and climate resilience. Practice Question “India’s growth story will be written in its cities.” Examine the economic and environmental significance of urbanization in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.(250 Words) Why in News ? Aligns with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, focusing on green, inclusive, and sustainable urbanization. Reflects ongoing debates around the National Urban Policy (NUP) and reforms in master planning led by NITI Aayog and NIUA. Comes amid increasing climate vulnerability of cities (heatwaves, flooding) and urban governance challenges (housing, transport, land use). Basic Concepts Urbanization Shift of population from rural to urban areas driven by economic opportunities. India’s urban population: 31% (2011 Census) → projected ~40% by 2036 (MoHUA, 2023). Urban expansion requires infrastructure, jobs, and governance systems. Urban Planning Process of designing land use, infrastructure, and social systems for city growth. India’s planning often follows top-down, static “master plan” models — outdated and misaligned with demographic changes. Key Issues Highlighted a) Outdated Planning Processes Master plans in India are rigid, decades-old, and fail to adapt to dynamic migration and economic patterns. Many cities operate without updated land-use plans; some follow 1960s-era frameworks. b) Disconnect Between Land Use and Economic Planning Urban planning rarely integrates job growth projections or industrial needs. Example: Industrial corridors developed without matching housing or transit infrastructure. c) Fragmented Governance Urban governance is spread across multiple parastatals (e.g., transport, water, waste boards) → coordination failure. Weak municipal institutions lack fiscal and administrative autonomy. d) Infrastructure and Mobility Gaps Inadequate public transport and overdependence on private vehicles → congestion, pollution, productivity loss. Urban transport contributes ~20% of GHG emissions in major Indian cities. e) Land Scarcity and Informality 40% of urban population lives in informal housing (UN-Habitat, 2023) due to high land prices and poor zoning flexibility. Encroachment and slum growth reflect failure of affordable housing policies. f) Climate and Sustainability Challenges Cities face increasing floods, heat islands, and air pollution. Urban India contributes ~70% of CO₂ emissions and consumes ~80% of commercial energy. Data and Facts 1/3 of India’s population expected to live in urban areas by 2036 (~600 million people). India needs $840 billion in urban infrastructure investment by 2036 (NIP, 2022). GHG reduction target: net-zero by 2070 → cities must lead through green mobility, energy-efficient housing, and waste management. Job linkage: 70% of future non-farm jobs likely to emerge in cities. Authors’ Core Arguments a) Planning Must Begin with Jobs Urban plans should start from projected job creation, then align housing, infrastructure, and transport accordingly. Economic activity is the foundation of sustainable urban growth. b) Need for ‘Composite Planning’ Integrate land use + economic + social + environmental planning instead of siloed approaches. Example: Linking industrial zones with affordable housing and transport. c) Decentralization and Local Capacity Empower Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to handle data-driven, adaptive planning. Strengthen municipal finances through property tax reforms and user charges. d) Regional Integration Cities cannot be planned in isolation — need regional linkages (peri-urban, rural-urban continuum). Example: NCR planning needs coordination across Haryana, UP, and Delhi. e) Climate-Resilient Urban Growth Prioritize compact, transit-oriented, and resource-efficient urban design. Incorporate Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and climate adaptation infrastructure. Way Forward Shift from Master Plans to Strategic Urban Plans Replace 20-year rigid plans with 5–10-year rolling plans using real-time data. Employ GIS-based zoning, predictive modelling, and participatory planning. Institutional Reform Strengthen 73rd–74th Amendment implementation; devolve functions, funds, and functionaries to ULBs. Create metropolitan planning committees with clear accountability. Urban Finance Reform Expand municipal bond markets, integrate PPP models, and improve property tax coverage. Rationalize land monetization and value capture mechanisms. Sustainability Focus Promote green buildings, EVs, and renewable-powered infrastructure. Enhance urban flood resilience and waste-to-energy systems. People-Centric Urban Governance Ensure inclusion of migrants, slum dwellers, and informal workers in housing and social welfare schemes. Digital governance for service delivery (e.g., AMRUT 2.0, SBM-U 2.0, Smart Cities Mission). Broader Significance Economic: Cities will be the key to achieving India’s $30T economy by 2047. Social: Urban governance quality will determine equality, opportunity, and living standards. Environmental: Urban design choices will define India’s net-zero trajectory. Political: Urban voters (~450 million by 2047) will shape democratic priorities.

Oct 29, 2025 Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 29 October 2025

Content India’s Metro Network and Ridership Quadrupled in the Last Decade Centre Approves Terms of 8th Central Pay Commission Moving Villagers from Tiger Reserves Must Be Voluntary Setting Up an Early Warning System for the Himalayas Poses Unique Challenges Delhi and Cloud Seeding Chhath Puja: What Makes This Festival So Dear to the Purvanchali Heart India’s metro network and ridership quadrupled in the last decade Why in News ? As of 2025, India’s metro rail network crossed 1,000 km, expanding from just 248 km in 2014, making India the world’s 3rd largest metro system (after China and the U.S.) — as per the Press Information Bureau (PIB). Daily ridership has surged 4x in a decade, indicating rapid urban transit transformation and growing public adoption. Relevance: GS-3 (Infrastructure & Economy): Urban transport development, public infrastructure growth, and economic multiplier impacts. GS-2 (Governance & Policy): Urban mobility policies — Metro Rail Policy (2017), Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT 2.0, and PM Gati Shakti. Background & Evolution 2002: India’s first modern metro system launched in Delhi. 2014: 5 cities, 248 km network. 2025: 23 cities, >1,000 km operational; 20+ cities under construction or planning phase. Represents one of the fastest urban transit expansions globally, driven by Make in India and Smart Cities Mission integration. Leading Metro Systems (Operational Length, 2025) City Network Length (km) Daily Ridership (approx.) Delhi 394 65 lakh Bengaluru (Namma Metro) 96 10 lakh Mumbai 80.2 8.5 lakh Kolkata 74 6 lakh Hyderabad 69.2 4.7 lakh Chennai 54 3.19 lakh Pune 33.2 2.18 lakh Kolkata Metro (2024): India’s first underwater metro tunnel under the Hooghly River, a major engineering milestone. Delhi Metro: Among the world’s top 10 busiest metro systems; benchmark for urban transit governance (DMRC model). Fare Structure & Economics Minimum fare: ₹10 (standard across metros). Distance-based pricing: Chennai: ₹2.14/km Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar: ₹1.2/km Fare caps: Bengaluru Metro: ₹90 max for 30+ km. Many metros adopt integrated ticketing, digital passes, and NCMC (National Common Mobility Card) to promote cashless, seamless travel. Institutional Framework Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). Implementing Agencies: DMRC model (Delhi): Public sector SPV. PPP models: Hyderabad, Mumbai. Metro Railways (Amendment) Act, 2020 – enabled private participation, multi-modal integration, and urban transport planning reforms. Policy & Programmatic Support National Urban Transport Policy (2006, updated 2021): Shift from “moving vehicles” to “moving people.” Metro Rail Policy (2017): Mandates financial viability, PPP participation, and last-mile connectivity plans. Make in India Initiative: 80% metro coaches now domestically manufactured (e.g., BEML, Alstom, Titagarh). National Common Mobility Card (NCMC): Interoperable payments across metros, buses, and rail. Urban Infrastructure Schemes: AMRUT 2.0, Smart Cities Mission, and PM Gati Shakti support urban mobility integration. Economic & Environmental Impact Urban productivity gains: Reduces congestion and fuel loss; Delhi Metro saves ~3.4 lakh tonnes of CO₂ annually. Job creation: ~10 lakh direct & indirect jobs (construction, operation, maintenance). Transit-oriented development (TOD): Catalyzing real estate and commercial activity near metro corridors. Challenges High capital costs: Average ₹250–300 crore/km for underground corridors. Operational losses: Low farebox recovery (<60% in many cities). Last-mile connectivity gaps: Poor feeder bus, pedestrian, and cycling infrastructure. Ridership disparities: Newer metros (Nagpur, Lucknow) underperform compared to capacity. Future Outlook Under-construction: ~700 km more by 2030 (Ahmedabad, Indore, Surat, Agra, Patna, etc.). Tier-2 city expansion: Nashik, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Varanasi in planning. Integration with Regional Rapid Transit Systems (RRTS): Delhi–Meerut corridor (2026). Goal: 2,000 km operational network by 2030, aligned with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities) and India@2047 urban mobility vision. Centre approves terms of 8th Central Pay Commission Why in News ? The Union Cabinet has approved the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) — the body that determines the pay structure and retirement benefits of Central Government employees. The Commission was announced in January 2025 and has now been formally constituted, marking a crucial step toward revising government pay and pension structures. Relevance: GS-2 (Polity & Governance): Constitutional and administrative mechanisms for pay revision, fiscal federalism, and inter-governmental coordination. GS-3 (Economy): Fiscal implications of pay hikes on GDP, inflation, and fiscal deficit. GS-2 (Social Justice): Wage rationalization, labour welfare, and pension reforms (NPS vs. OPS debate). Background & Context Central Pay Commissions (CPCs) are periodically constituted (roughly every 10 years) to review and recommend changes in pay, allowances, and pensions of Central Government employees and pensioners. The 1st CPC was set up in 1946, and since then, seven CPCs have been implemented — the 7th CPC from January 1, 2016 (notified in June 2016). The 8th CPC (2025) continues this decadal tradition, reflecting changing macroeconomic conditions and public sector pay dynamics. Composition of the 8th CPC Position Member Chairperson Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai (Retd.) Part-time Member Prof. Pulak Ghosh, IIM Bangalore Member-Secretary Pankaj Jain, Petroleum Secretary Will submit recommendations within 18 months from constitution date (expected by mid-2026). Supported by an expert secretariat and administrative staff under the Department of Expenditure. The CPC will recommend revisions after considering the following key factors: Macroeconomic stability & fiscal prudence: Ensuring pay hikes do not destabilize fiscal deficit targets. Adequacy of resources for development expenditure: Balancing employee welfare with public investment needs. Unfunded pension liabilities: Addressing sustainability of non-contributory pension schemes (especially pre-NPS). Impact on State finances: Coordination with States to manage ripple effects on their budgets. Comparative emoluments: Benchmarking against CPSUs and private sector wages for parity and retention. Work conditions and productivity linkage: Considering performance-based pay and rationalization of allowances. Scale and Scope Covers ~50 lakh Central Government employees and ~70 lakh pensioners. Indirectly affects State Government pay commissions, as States usually adopt CPC recommendations with modifications. Major Ministries involved in consultations: Defence, Home Affairs, Railways, Personnel & Training. Expected fiscal impact: 2–3% of GDP (based on past CPC trends if fully implemented). Historical Evolution of Pay Commissions CPC Year Constituted Implementation Year Key Features 1st CPC 1946 1947 Focused on rationalizing colonial pay scales 2nd CPC 1957 1959 Introduced “Dearness Allowance” concept 3rd CPC 1970 1973 Introduced systematic pay structures 4th CPC 1983 1986 Inflation-linked DA system 5th CPC 1994 1996 Recommended downsizing, performance-linked incentives 6th CPC 2006 2008 Introduced Pay Bands + Grade Pay system 7th CPC 2014 2016 Replaced grade pay with Pay Matrix; implemented 2.57x fitment factor 8th CPC 2025 — To recommend structure post-2026 Expected Areas of Recommendation Pay Matrix revision: Likely upward adjustment of minimum and maximum pay scales. Fitment Factor: Revision from 2.57x (7th CPC) to possibly 3.0–3.2x, aligning with inflation. Dearness Allowance (DA): Rationalization mechanism to link with CPI and inflation index more dynamically. Pension reform: Review of Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and National Pension System (NPS) anomalies. Performance incentives: Greater emphasis on productivity-linked pay for efficiency. Allowances restructuring: Review of House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, and hardship allowances. Fiscal & Economic Considerations Fiscal prudence: Key ToR element — wage hikes must not strain budgetary balance. Revenue vs. expenditure trade-off: Increased salary bill (~₹5–6 lakh crore annually) could reduce development spending if unmoderated. Inflation impact: Higher disposable incomes may cause demand-pull inflation. Positive multiplier: Boost to consumption, housing, and retail sectors due to increased government spending. Broader Implications Inter-governmental impact: States often mirror CPC recommendations, amplifying fiscal implications. Labour market signaling: Benchmark for public sector and PSU pay parity. Administrative reform linkage: Opportunity to integrate digital HR reforms (e.g., iGOT, SPARROW, e-HRMS). Political economy dimension: CPC recommendations often coincide with pre-election cycles and welfare expansions. Timeline & Way Forward Constitution: January 2025 ToR approval: October 2025 Recommendations expected: By mid-2026 Implementation likely: From January 1, 2026, aligning with previous CPC cycles. Moving villagers from tiger reserves must be voluntary Why in News ? The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs has issued a new policy framework mandating that relocation of forest-dwelling communities from tiger reserves must be “exceptional, voluntary, and evidence-based.” This comes amid protests from Gram Sabhas and rights groups against recent NTCA (National Tiger Conservation Authority) directives prioritizing relocation of villages from core tiger habitats. Relevance: GS-2 (Governance): Inter-ministerial coordination between MoTA & MoEFCC; policy balance between conservation and rights. GS-3 (Environment): Wildlife conservation ethics, Project Tiger, and coexistence models. Background India’s Tiger Reserves are governed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and managed by the NTCA. The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 legally recognizes Individual and Community Forest Rights of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers. Frequent conflicts have arisen between tiger conservation goals and forest dwellers’ rights, particularly regarding forced or incentivized relocation. There are currently 591 villages and 64,801 families living within the core areas of tiger reserves (NTCA data). Policy Title & Origin Title: “Reconciling Conservation and Community Rights: A Policy Framework for Relocation and Coexistence in India’s Tiger Reserves” Issued by: Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) Addressed to: Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) Purpose: To ensure relocation processes align with constitutional rights, FRA provisions, and human rights standards. Core Principles of the New Policy Voluntary Relocation Only: Displacement can occur only if communities consent after informed consultation. Exceptional Measure: Relocation should be rare, justified by strong ecological or safety evidence. Evidence-Based Decision: Each case must be supported by scientific assessment of necessity (wildlife conflict, habitat degradation, etc.). Rights First Approach: Relocation cannot override Individual or Community Forest Rights (IFR/CFR) granted under FRA. Consent Mechanism: Gram Sabha approval is mandatory before any relocation step. Key Institutional Mechanisms Proposed National Framework for Community-Centred Conservation and Relocation: Jointly formulated by MoTA and MoEFCC. To define standard procedures, timelines, and accountability for relocation. National Database on Conservation–Community Interface: To record and track all relocation cases, compensation, rehabilitation status, and post-relocation outcomes. Annual Independent Audits: Conducted by empanelled third-party agencies to assess compliance with: Forest Rights Act, 2006 (FRA) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 Human Rights norms and environmental justice principles Community Rights & Options Right to Stay: Communities may choose to continue living within their traditional habitats inside tiger reserves. Exercising Rights: Can exercise Individual Forest Rights (IFR) and Community Forest Rights (CFR) under FRA. Coexistence Principle: Encourages models of “people-in-reserve” conservation where sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity protection coexist. Participation: Local institutions (Gram Sabhas, JFMCs) to be partners, not adversaries, in conservation. Rationale Behind the Policy Addressing grievances: MoTA received several representations from State governments and Gram Sabhas about non-implementation of FRA and forced relocations. Conflict resolution: Aims to reconcile wildlife protection with tribal livelihood rights. Governance balance: Promotes inter-ministerial coordination between MoTA and MoEFCC for rights-based conservation. Legal & Ethical Anchors Constitutional Basis: Article 21: Right to life with dignity (includes livelihood and habitat). Article 46: Promotion of educational and economic interests of Scheduled Tribes. Statutory Frameworks: Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 – Recognizes land and habitat rights. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 – Regulates tiger reserves and core zones. PESA Act, 1996 – Ensures Gram Sabha’s role in local decision-making. Human Rights Standards: Calls for Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) principle in all relocations. Challenges Addressed Forced relocations violating FRA provisions. Inadequate compensation and lack of livelihood rehabilitation. Poor post-relocation tracking, leading to social marginalization. Inter-ministerial coordination gaps between NTCA (MoEFCC) and MoTA. Broader Conservation Context India’s Project Tiger (1973) evolved from exclusive protection to inclusive conservation. The new framework aligns with Global Biodiversity Framework (CBD, 2022) principle of “Rights-based Conservation.” Reflects India’s commitment to SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 16 (Justice and Institutions). Way Forward Develop a joint national protocol for relocation and coexistence under MoTA–MoEFCC. Ensure transparency through public database and audit reports. Promote co-management models where tribals are partners in tiger conservation. Strengthen capacity building for State forest and tribal departments to implement FRA effectively. Setting up an early warning system for the Himalayas poses unique challenges Why in News ? In early October 2025, a sudden blizzard, torrential snowfall, and lightning strikes hit Mount Everest (Tibetan side), trapping over 1,000 trekkers. Simultaneously, heavy rain and snowfall triggered floods and landslides in Nepal and Darjeeling, killing dozens. This incident has reignited focus on the escalating Himalayan disaster frequency and the urgent need for Early Warning Systems (EWS) across India’s mountain arc. Relevance: GS-3 (Disaster Management): Early Warning Systems (EWS), risk reduction, and NDMA frameworks. GS-1 (Geography): Himalayan ecosystem fragility, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and climate impacts. GS-3 (Science & Tech): AI and satellite-based disaster prediction technologies; ISRO–IMD integration. Background: The Fragile Himalayan Ecosystem The Himalayas, spanning 2,400 km across 13 Indian States/UTs, are among the world’s most seismically and climatically volatile mountain ranges. They are highly prone to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), avalanches, landslides, cloudbursts, and earthquakes. According to the Down To Earth (2024) report: India experienced 687 disasters (1900–2022); 240 occurred in the Himalayas. Only 5 disasters (1902–1962) → 68 disasters (2013–2022) = rapid decade-on-decade rise. The last decade alone accounted for 44% of all national disasters. NASA data: 1,121 landslides occurred in the Himalayan region between 2007–2017. Key Climatic Trends The Himalayas are warming faster than the global average — between 0.15°C and 0.60°C per decade (Springer Nature, 2023). Rising temperatures accelerate glacial melt, increasing GLOF risk, while also triggering erratic precipitation and slope instability. A 2024 Climate Change journal study warns that if global warming hits +3°C, 90% of the Himalayas could face prolonged droughts lasting over a year. The Disaster Escalation Pattern Period Number of Disasters Notable Trend 1902–1962 5 Minimal anthropogenic disturbance 1963–1972 11 Start of hydropower & road expansion 1973–1982 13 Increased deforestation, settlement 2013–2022 68 Peak disaster frequency (44% of India’s total) Inference: The curve shows a nonlinear escalation, correlating with rapid development, glacier retreat, and erratic climate patterns. Why Early Warning Systems (EWS) Matter Definition: EWS are data-driven tools designed to predict natural hazards, alert communities, and minimize casualties and economic loss. Current Status: Extremely limited coverage in Himalayan valleys; absence of localized, low-cost, weather-proof systems. Many disaster-prone valleys lack any monitoring network due to terrain, connectivity, and cost issues. Core Components Needed: Multi-source data (satellites, drones, in-situ sensors) AI-based data integration for predictive analytics Real-time transmission networks Trained local operators for maintenance and response Technological & AI Applications AI-assisted forecasting: Converts live data from sensors and satellites into actionable warnings. Drones: Effective for localized monitoring, though limited in rugged, windy glacier zones. Satellites: Useful for remote observation, but costly and bandwidth-intensive for real-time use. Hybrid models: Combine AI algorithms, meteorological downscaling, and local hydrometeorological data to generate sub-kilometre precision alerts. Example: Environment Ministry project (Uttarakhand & Himachal Pradesh): AI-enabled EWS giving hailstorm alerts at 100–500 m resolution, aiding apple orchard management (Vinod K. Gaur, NGRI). International & Regional Precedents Swiss Alps (Blatten village): Averted a glacier-collapse disaster after local shepherds manually relayed warnings — underscores the value of community-based systems. China (Cirenmaco Lake, 2022): Developed an AI and unmanned-boat-based GLOF Early Warning System, creating hazard maps for flood depth, velocity, and evacuation routes. Core Challenges in Himalayan Monitoring Topographical complexity: Narrow valleys, steep gradients, glacier zones limit sensor deployment. Connectivity gaps: Most high-altitude valleys are beyond mobile and internet range. High system cost: Satellite links and AI integration remain financially prohibitive for local governments. Institutional inertia: Disaster mitigation in the Himalayas is not prioritized in central or state planning. Community exclusion: Local populations often uninformed or untrained in EWS operation and response. Expert Perspectives Dr. Argha Banerjee (IISER Pune): “We need EWS in every valley. The lack of an indigenous, low-cost, weather-proof, and easy-to-operate system is the key bottleneck.” Dr. Vinod Kumar Gaur (Ex-NGRI): “AI-aided, locally downscaled EWS can capture micro-climatic patterns; local participation is critical.” Global experts: Call for integrating citizen-science networks and local data collection to bridge monitoring gaps. Ecological & Societal Impacts Lives & Livelihoods: Frequent floods and landslides displace thousands annually, damaging roads, farms, and hydropower infrastructure. Biodiversity: “Altitude squeeze” observed — musk deer, snow trout moving to higher elevations (UN Report, 2024). Economic Cost: Increasing repair costs to highways, dams, and rural assets undermine Himalayan development goals. Policy Implications & Way Forward National Priority: Establish a National Himalayan Disaster Early Warning Network (NHDEWN) integrating multiple agencies. Localization: Develop low-cost, solar-powered, modular EWS kits for valley-level deployment. Capacity Building: Train local villagers, panchayats, and forest guards in EWS operation, maintenance, and evacuation protocols. Data Integration: Use ISRO’s satellite data, IMD forecasts, and AI models for real-time risk mapping. Transboundary Cooperation: Himalayas span India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan — need cross-border data-sharing protocols. Climate Adaptation Synergy: Align with India’s National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) and National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP). Delhi and Cloud seeding Why in News ? Context: The Delhi Government, in collaboration with IIT-Kanpur, conducted two back-to-back cloud-seeding trials using a Cessna 206H aircraft to induce artificial rain for pollution mitigation. Objective: To scrub pollutants and reduce high Air Quality Index (AQI ~294, “Poor”) levels in Delhi during the post-Diwali pollution spike. Relevance: GS-1 (Geography): Weather modification techniques, monsoon dynamics, cloud microphysics. GS-2 (Governance): Inter-agency coordination (Delhi Govt–IIT Kanpur), environmental governance mechanisms. GS-3 (Environment & Technology): Air pollution mitigation strategies, artificial rain technology, climate engineering ethics. What is Cloud Seeding Definition: A weather modification technique that enhances rainfall by introducing chemicals (like silver iodide or potassium iodide) into clouds. Mechanism: Aircraft releases chemicals into existing clouds. Chemicals act as condensation nuclei. Moisture condenses around them → rain droplets form → precipitation occurs. Prerequisites: Presence of moisture-laden clouds. Favorable temperature (around -20°C or lower). Adequate aerosol and humidity levels. Scientific Objective Primary: Increase rainfall by converting atmospheric moisture into precipitation. Secondary (in Delhi’s case): Wash down airborne pollutants (PM2.5, PM10). Temporarily reduce smog and improve air quality. Process in Delhi Trial Aircraft: Cessna 206H. Rounds Conducted: First: Kanpur → Meerut → Marut Vihar → North Karol Bagh → Burari → Sadulpur → Jhajjar → Kanpur. Second: Meerut → Marut Vihar → North Karol Bagh → Burari → Sadulpur → Bhojpur → Kanpur. Chemicals Used: Silver iodide and potassium iodide. Outcome: No rainfall recorded over Delhi; only light rain near Meerut. Key Scientific Challenges Cloud Dependency: Requires pre-existing clouds with sufficient moisture. Cannot generate clouds in dry or stable atmospheric conditions. Timing: Must target clouds before they drift away; delays can render the effort ineffective. Geographical Variability: Success varies with topography, humidity, and wind speed. Cost and Scalability: Requires aircraft, chemicals, and real-time weather tracking — resource-intensive. Short-Term Effect: Only provides temporary pollution relief, not structural mitigation. Scientific Assessment & Data IITM Pune (2023) & IIT-Kanpur Observations: Only moisture-rich clouds are seedable. Delhi’s winter clouds are often too dry or low-altitude. Timing mismatch reduces success probability. DTE Report (2024): India’s earlier trials (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu) had mixed results; rain often localized and unpredictable. IMD’s Position: Efficacy in reducing urban pollution remains unproven. Expert Insights Dr. Suresh D. K. Khilari (Rajalhand College): Delhi’s weather is too complex for consistent success. “You need the right kind of cloud at the right time.” Dr. Thara Prabhakaran (IITM Pune): Clouds differ in aerosol content and temperature; not all are seedable. Need for more research, documentation, and localized models. Anthropogenic emissions alter cloud chemistry, reducing predictability. Environmental and Ethical Concerns Unknown Ecological Impacts: Chemical dispersal may affect soil, water, and biodiversity. Artificial Weathering: Could disturb regional rainfall patterns or microclimates. Equity Issue: Downstream states may experience reduced rainfall if upwind seeding alters natural systems. Global Perspective Success Cases: UAE, Thailand, China, and the US have developed sophisticated seeding programs using radar-linked EWS. India’s Status: Conducted sporadic trials since the 1950s (notably in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra). No standardized success metric or national protocol yet. Way Forward Targeted Research: Study Delhi’s micro-meteorology before large-scale deployment. Data-Driven Cloud Profiling: Use radar, satellite, and AI-based forecasting. Pilot Zones: Test in Western Ghats or Northeast (higher moisture zones). Public Transparency: Publish results, cost-benefit data, and long-term impacts. Integrate with Air Quality Plans: Cloud seeding must complement, not replace, emissions reduction. Chhath Puja: What makes this festival so dear to the Purvanchali heart Why in News ? Context: The 2025 Chhath Puja concluded this Tuesday with millions of devotees offering arghya (water offerings) to the rising sun, marking the end of a four-day ritual dedicated to Surya (Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya. The festival, traditionally prominent in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand, is now celebrated widely across urban India, reflecting the migration and cultural integration of the Purvanchali community. Relevance: GS-1 (Indian Culture): Vedic origins, rituals, and symbolism of solar worship traditions. GS-1 (Society): Purvanchali identity, women-led rituals, and cultural resilience amidst urbanization. GS-1 (Diversity of India): Integration of regional festivals into urban India — migration-driven cultural synthesis. Basics: What is Chhath Puja Type of Festival: A Vedic Sun-worship festival emphasizing purity, austerity, and ecological reverence. Duration: Four days — generally in the month of Kartik (October–November), six days after Diwali. Deities Worshipped: Surya (Sun God) – for sustaining life and granting energy. Chhathi Maiya (Usha or Pratyusha) – personification of the first and last light of the day (dawn and dusk). Spiritual and Cultural Significance Symbolizes gratitude to nature and reverence to cosmic energy (Surya) for sustaining life. Represents purity, discipline, and community harmony, cutting across caste and class lines. Embodies the Purvanchali cultural identity and emotional connection to the homeland. Conveys a spiritual philosophy: “What sets, rises again”, symbolizing hope, resilience, and renewal. Historical Origins Vedic Roots: References found in Rig Veda hymns to Surya and Ushas. Epic Links: In Ramayana – Lord Rama and Sita are said to have observed the ritual post-return to Ayodhya. In Mahabharata – Kunti (mother of the Pandavas) is believed to have performed Chhath for divine blessing. The practice possibly evolved as a folk-Vedic synthesis, emphasizing solar worship and ascetic discipline. The Four Days of Rituals Nahay Khay: Devotees bathe in holy rivers (like Ganga) and eat a single vegetarian meal prepared in sanctity. Marks purification and preparation. Kharna (Second Day): Day-long fast without water; concludes after sunset with gud-chawal kheer (sweet porridge) as prasad. Represents self-control and humility. Sandhya Arghya (Third Day): Devotees offer arghya to the setting sun, symbolizing gratitude for life’s completeness. Families gather at riverbanks with bamboo baskets (soop) carrying fruits and thekua (traditional sweets). Usha Arghya (Fourth Day): Offerings made to the rising sun at dawn. Fasting concludes with distribution of prasad and blessings from elders. How it is Celebrated ? Takes place near riverbanks, lakes, or ponds where devotees perform rituals at sunrise and sunset. Songs dedicated to Surya and Chhathi Maiya are sung throughout the festival. Entire families participate, maintaining complete purity and vegetarianism for four days. Major centers: Patna, Varanasi, Gaya, Arrah, and now Delhi, Mumbai, and Noida due to migration. Sociological Dimension Chhath represents Purvanchali identity and solidarity, especially for migrants in metro cities. Creates temporary communal harmony spaces — cutting across religion, class, and gender divides. Increasingly celebrated as a public cultural festival in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Surat. Unique Features No priestly mediation: Devotees perform rituals themselves, emphasizing direct communion with nature. Eco-centric ethos: Use of biodegradable materials — bamboo, earthen lamps, and natural offerings. Women-led observance: Central role of women (called Parvaitin) symbolizes matriarchal devotion and sacrifice. Dual worship of sunrise and sunset: Represents cyclic continuity of life and acknowledgment of both creation and dissolution. Modern Transformations Migration has turned Chhath into a pan-Indian urban festival, with ghats in Delhi and Mumbai specially arranged for it. Growing media coverage and state support (Delhi, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand governments declare public holidays or ghat facilities). Emergence of eco-Chhath initiatives — discouraging plastic and promoting clean riverbanks. Symbolism and Deeper Meaning Philosophical Core: Acknowledges dependence of human life on solar energy and nature’s rhythms. Moral Discipline: Fasting, purity, and self-restraint reflect inner purification. Cultural Resilience: Despite urbanization, the festival preserves Purvanchal’s folk traditions and oral songs.

Oct 28, 2025 Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 28 October 2025

Content Building a Viksit Bharat with 6G Building a Viksit Bharat with 6G India’s Transition to 6G Objective: Position India as a global hub for next-gen telecom aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals. Approach: Triple-pillar vision — Affordability, Sustainability, and Ubiquity. Context: From 4G Atmanirbharta to 6G global leadership through indigenous R&D, public-private partnerships, and international alliances. Relevance: GS-3 (Science & Technology): Indigenous telecom R&D, 6G innovation ecosystem, AI-integrated networks, and digital infrastructure. GS-3 (Economy): Telecom sector’s GDP contribution, innovation-led growth, and startup ecosystem development. GS-2 (Governance & International Relations): Global collaborations (NextG, 6G IA, ESA), standard-setting diplomacy, and digital inclusion policies. Understanding 6G: Technical Overview Speed: Up to 1 Tbps theoretical peak; 1 microsecond latency (≈1000× faster than 5G). Spectrum Range: Operates in Terahertz (THz) bands (>100 GHz) enabling massive bandwidth. Capabilities: Real-time applications: Remote surgery, autonomous vehicles, industrial robotics. AI-Integrated Networks: Autonomous data routing and edge-cloud optimization. Advanced Features: Precision sensing and imaging. 3D holographic communication. Energy-efficient data transmission. India’s 6G Vision (Released: 22 March 2023) Goal: India to become a frontline designer, developer, and deployer of 6G by 2030. Economic Projection: 6G-enabled telecom to add USD 1.2 trillion to India’s GDP by 2035. 10% of global 6G patents to originate from India. Key Principles: Affordability: Democratize access to advanced connectivity. Sustainability: Green networks and low-energy infrastructure. Ubiquity: Seamless digital inclusion across geographies. Institutional Architecture Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA) Launched: 2023 | Members (2025): 80+ (including 30+ startups). Composition: Industry, academia, telecom service providers, R&D bodies, and standardization agencies. Working Groups: 7 domains — Spectrum, Technology, Applications, Green & Sustainability, Use Cases, etc. Global Collaborations (MoUs): Alliances: NextG (USA), 6G IA (Europe), 6G Flagship (Finland), 6G Forum (S. Korea), XGMF (Japan), NGMN, 6G Brasil, ESA (Europe). National synergy: TSDSI and NASSCOM partnerships for standardization and AI integration. Objective: Create a self-reliant and globally competitive 6G ecosystem emphasizing secure, trusted telecom supply chains. Key Government Initiatives and Schemes 100 5G Labs Programme Launched: FY 2023–24 across academic institutions. Aim: Build a 6G-ready human and innovation ecosystem. Functions: Hands-on research for UG/PG students. 5G/6G testbed access for startups and MSMEs. Academia-industry collaboration for developing prototypes. Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) Launched: 1 October 2022 under USOF. Purpose: Fund domestic R&D and commercialization of telecom technologies for rural inclusion. Financials: 115 projects (5G & 6G) sanctioned worth ₹310.6 crore (as of Sept 2025). Project duration: 1–5 years. Focus: Affordable broadband for rural/remote areas. Indigenous development of core network equipment, chips, and software. Collaboration among academia, startups, and industry. Technology Innovation Hub at IIIT Bangalore (under NM-ICPS) Core Focus: Advanced Communication Systems for 5G+ and 6G networks. Technologies Under Development: Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) – enhances signal reflection and efficiency. O-RAN Massive MIMO – for scalable, software-defined networks. Priority: Patent creation and product-based IP generation for global 6G standards. India’s Global Outreach and Leadership IMC 2025 (International 6G Symposium): Showcased India’s indigenous 4G stack as a foundation for India 6G Vision 2030. Released Joint Declaration on 6G Principles (10 Oct 2025). MoUs signed: B6GA–NASSCOM for AI-driven telecom applications. B6GA–ESA for satellite-6G integration. 4 Whitepapers Released: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G in India. Powering Next-Gen Telecom. AI and Network Evolution to 5G. 6G Architecture, Security & Exposure Framework for RF Sensing. Data-Driven Outlook Parameter 5G Era (2022–2025) 6G Targets (2030–2035) Peak Speed 20 Gbps 1 Tbps Latency 1 millisecond 1 microsecond Spectrum Range 30–100 GHz 100 GHz–1 THz GDP Contribution ~USD 450 billion (5G) USD 1.2 trillion (6G) Global Patent Share <2% Target: 10% Satellite Market Size USD 10B (2023) USD 30B (by 2033) Strategic Significance for India Technological Self-Reliance: Indigenous 4G and 5G stacks reduce dependence on foreign vendors. Digital Inclusion: 6G to bridge rural–urban connectivity divide. Strategic Autonomy: Secure supply chains and trusted telecom architecture. Global Standing: Active role in setting ITU 6G standards and global patent frameworks. Green Telecom: Energy-efficient designs aligned with India’s Net Zero 2070 vision. Challenges Ahead High R&D Costs: Need for sustained public–private funding beyond ₹300 crore approved. Spectrum Allocation: THz range requires international harmonization. Security & Trust: Protecting telecom networks from cyber-espionage and backdoor vulnerabilities. Talent Gap: Skilling and retaining advanced telecom engineers and researchers. IPR Ecosystem: Accelerating patent filing and international recognition of Indian standards. Conclusion: Towards a Viksit Bharat 2047 India’s 6G roadmap transforms telecom from an import-dependent sector to an export-capable innovation engine. Anchored in Atmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India, and Viksit Bharat 2047, the 6G ecosystem will ensure: Global standard-setting capacity. Inclusive, affordable, and secure connectivity. Integration of AI, space, and IoT to power a knowledge-driven economy.

Oct 28, 2025 Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 28 October 2025

Content A start for North-South carbon market cooperation Group Insolvency under IBC A start for North-South carbon market cooperation Context and Background Event: On 17 September 2025, India and the European Union (EU) unveiled the New Strategic EU–India Agenda, outlining five key pillars: Prosperity & Sustainability Technology & Innovation Security & Defence Connectivity & Global Issues Enablers across pillars Breakthrough Clause: The EU agreed to link the Indian Carbon Market (ICM) with the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) — a potential game-changer for India–EU trade and climate cooperation. Relevance: GS-3 (Environment & Economy): Carbon pricing, market-based mitigation, green trade mechanisms, industrial decarbonisation. GS-2 (International Relations): India–EU cooperation, climate diplomacy, WTO negotiations. GS-2 (Governance): Institutional architecture of carbon markets and regulatory integration. Practice Question : “The linkage between India’s Carbon Market and the EU’s CBAM represents a new phase in climate diplomacy.” Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of integrating India’s carbon pricing mechanism with global systems.(250 Words) The Linkage: What It Means Mechanism: Carbon prices paid by Indian exporters will be deducted from the CBAM levy at the EU border. Purpose: Prevents double taxation on carbon emissions and rewards early decarbonisation by Indian industries. Significance: Aligns India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) with global carbon pricing systems. Enhances trade competitiveness for Indian exporters under EU’s climate trade regime. Understanding the Two Systems A. EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) Operational Since: 2023 (transition phase till 2026). Objective: Level the playing field by taxing imports based on embedded carbon emissions. Carbon Price: €60–€80/tonne CO₂ (EU ETS average). Sectors Covered: Steel, cement, aluminium, fertilisers, electricity, hydrogen (expansion planned post-2026). B. India’s Carbon Market (CCTS/ICM) Launched: 2023 under Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022. Administered by: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) & Ministry of Power. Carbon Price: Currently €5–€10/tonne. Nature: Based on intensity-based reductions (project-level offsets), not absolute emission caps yet. Regulatory Gap: No equivalent to EU’s independent emissions registry or compliance-grade cap system. Key Benefits of Linkage Trade Shield: Protects Indian exporters from double carbon taxation. Incentivises Decarbonisation: Encourages industries to reduce emissions early for global credit recognition. Market Integration: Positions India within global carbon markets worth >$850 billion (World Bank, 2024). North–South Cooperation Model: First-of-its-kind linkage between a developing and a developed economy’s carbon markets. Core Challenges and Barriers Structural Weaknesses in ICM No Absolute Caps: EU’s ETS is cap-and-trade; India’s is intensity-based, making tonne-to-tonne verification difficult. Verification Deficit: India lacks independent regulators and emission registries akin to EU’s European Environment Agency (EEA). Market Fragmentation: Multiple voluntary offset registries dilute credit quality. Price Disparity EU carbon price: €60–€80/tonne India: €5–€10/tonne Result: EU may refuse full deduction, deeming Indian carbon prices “insufficient,” leading to partial CBAM charges. Political–Economic Tensions Industry Pushback: Domestic firms may resist higher compliance costs → risk of policy dilution. Sovereignty Issue: CBAM gives EU implicit oversight over India’s climate policy credibility. WTO Frictions: India has formally opposed CBAM as a “green protectionist” and unilateral trade barrier at COP and WTO. Trust Gap: EU’s recognition of Indian credits contingent on data transparency and regulatory parity. Strategic and Legal Implications Dimension Implication Trade Avoids double carbon levy; enhances Indian exports’ competitiveness (esp. steel & aluminium sectors). Climate Diplomacy Tests India’s balance between climate leadership and trade autonomy. Sovereignty CBAM linkage may indirectly subject India’s domestic policies to EU’s approval standards. Compliance Risk Domestic political reversal (e.g., relaxation of ICM) could instantly expose exporters to full CBAM tariffs. Pathways to Resolution Technical & Regulatory Upgrades Develop Compliance-Grade Cap System: Move from project-based credits → legally binding emission caps per sector. Establish Independent Emissions Registry: Ensure third-party verification of carbon credits. Set a Floor Carbon Price: Align with EU CBAM levels via sectoral carbon contracts or price corridors. Bilateral Cooperation EU can extend technical assistance under CBAM linkage for: MRV (Monitoring, Reporting, Verification) frameworks. Carbon pricing methodologies. Emission data transparency systems. India–EU Joint Working Group on Carbon Markets (proposed) could harmonize methodologies. WTO-Compatible Design Ensure linkage respects “Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR)” under UNFCCC. Negotiate CBAM credits as mutual recognition instruments, not unilateral deductions. Data Snapshot: Comparative Overview Parameter EU ETS India CCTS (ICM) Year Established 2005 2023 Carbon Price €60–€80/tonne €5–€10/tonne Coverage 45% of EU emissions ~30% of India’s industrial emissions (initial phase) Governance European Environment Agency, European Commission Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), MoP Credit Type Cap-and-trade (compliance-grade) Project-based & intensity-based Verification Third-party, independent registries Limited, evolving Linkage Readiness Mature Transitional Strategic Significance For India: Boosts export competitiveness in EU (India–EU trade: €150 billion in 2024). Accelerates green industrial transformation and carbon pricing discipline. Provides carbon finance access for Indian industries (~USD 10B annual potential). For EU: Strengthens climate diplomacy with Global South. Validates CBAM as a globally integrative tool rather than protectionist. For Global Climate Governance: Establishes precedent for cross-border carbon credit recognition between developed and developing economies. Conclusion The CBAM–ICM linkage is a symbolic and strategic breakthrough—a potential bridge between global trade and climate finance. Yet, institutional gaps, price disparities, and sovereignty concerns threaten operational success. For real impact, India must upgrade its carbon market architecture and negotiate fair recognition within CBAM. If implemented effectively, it could protect exporters, drive industrial decarbonisation, and position India as a leader in equitable carbon market diplomacy. Group Insolvency under IBC Background and Context India’s Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 revolutionized debt resolution by ensuring time-bound and creditor-driven insolvency processes. However, it lacked a framework for “group insolvency” — cases involving interconnected companies within a business group. Fragmented proceedings for each entity led to conflicts, duplication, and value erosion (e.g., Jet Airways Group, Videocon Group). Relevance GS-2 (Governance): Delegated legislation, institutional accountability, and executive overreach. GS-3 (Economy): Corporate insolvency, ease of doing business, financial stability, and legal reforms. Practice Question : Discuss the significance of introducing a “Group Insolvency” framework under the IBC (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in strengthening India’s corporate insolvency ecosystem.(250 Words) The IBC (Amendment) Bill, 2025 Introduced during the Monsoon Session, 2025, it adds a new Chapter VA to address Group Insolvency. Aim: Coordinate insolvency resolution among holding companies, subsidiaries, and associates. Empowers the Central Government to define: Procedures for joint resolution. Rules for coordination and communication between companies under insolvency. Composition of a Common National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) bench. Key Provisions Proposed Section 59A(1): Authorises the Government to prescribe manner and conditions for conducting group insolvency. Subsection (2): Lists measures that may be prescribed, such as: Common NCLT bench for related entities. Coordination and communication committee among creditors. Common resolution professional (RP) or committee of creditors (CoC). Subsection (3): Allows government to apply IBC provisions with modifications to group insolvency cases. Structural Concerns Delegation of legislative power: Excessive delegation to the Executive under “Henry VIII clause” (ability to amend primary law via subordinate rules). Violates legislative principle of non-delegation of essential functions, reaffirmed in Ajay Kumar Banerjee v. Union of India (1984). Skeletal framework: Key definitions (e.g., “group”, “coordination”) left vague — risks inconsistent application. Definition of “Group” – The Core Issue Borrowed from Companies Act, 2013 (≥26% cross-shareholding). Critics argue this threshold is too narrow; should also consider: Operational interdependence, Common management, Financial linkages, and Cross-guarantees between entities. In EU and Singapore models, functional integration and inter-company guarantees are considered. Procedural and Legal Gaps No clear procedural architecture: Does not specify whether proceedings will be consolidated or coordinated. Ambiguity in roles of multiple CoCs or RPs. Democratic deficit: Common CoC may dilute individual creditor rights under Sections 21–24 of IBC. Raises questions about voting thresholds and conflict resolution between entities. Comparative Insights Country Legal Model Key Features EU (Directive 2019/1023) Cross-border group insolvency Coordination through a “group coordinator”; retains entity autonomy. Singapore Omnibus insolvency regime Consolidated process permitted if companies are financially interdependent. U.S. (Chapter 11) Substantive consolidation doctrine Courts may merge assets and liabilities in exceptional cases. India’s Bill borrows coordination elements but lacks clarity on when consolidation is allowed. Data and Practical Rationale As per IBBI (2024): 40% of corporate insolvencies involve entities within a larger group. Fragmented proceedings cause 20–30% value erosion of total group assets. Average IBC resolution time: 468 days, often extended by inter-company litigations. Group Insolvency could reduce delays by 30–40%, if effectively implemented. Risk Factors and Criticisms Creditor Prejudice: Consolidating unrelated or weak entities may dilute creditor recoveries. Regulatory Overreach: Government’s power to modify IBC provisions via notifications bypasses Parliamentary scrutiny. Corporate Governance Concerns: May impact independent directors’ fiduciary duties if group liabilities are merged. Judicial Burden: NCLT already faces backlog of 25,000+ cases (2025) — group insolvency will increase complexity. Recommendations for Robust Implementation Legislative Clarity: Explicitly define “group,” “coordination,” and “consolidation.” Specify triggers for common proceedings (e.g., >50% revenue interdependence). Institutional Strengthening: Dedicated Group Insolvency Benches in NCLT with financial experts. Protection Mechanisms: Safeguard standalone creditors through ring-fencing provisions. Transparency: Mandatory disclosure of intra-group guarantees and loans. Pilot Phase: Test model on select large groups (e.g., PSUs, infrastructure conglomerates). Broader Implications Economic: Enhances enterprise value preservation and investor confidence. Legal: Aligns Indian insolvency jurisprudence with global best practices. Institutional: Strengthens IBBI and NCLT capacity for multi-entity resolution. Policy: Reflects India’s transition from “entity-centric” to “group-centric” insolvency framework. Conclusion The IBC (Amendment) Bill, 2025 marks a crucial evolution in India’s insolvency law — a frontier with potential, but fraught with design flaws. Without clear legislative definitions, procedural safeguards, and checks on executive power, the “group insolvency” regime risks becoming a flaw rather than a frontier.

Oct 28, 2025 Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 28 October 2025

Content SIR 2.0 to Begin in 12 States, UTs — Covering 51 Crore Voters Is the Dogri Language Losing Resonance in India? India’s Per Capita Income to Cross USD 5,000 by 2031 Kerala Reverses Policy to Implement the PM-SHRI Schools Scheme Twin Cyclonic Threats in the North Indian Ocean Region SIR 2.0 to begin in 12 States, U.T.s, cover 51 crore voters Why in News? The Election Commission of India (ECI) has launched the Second Phase of Special Intensive Revision (SIR 2.0) of electoral rolls across 12 States and Union Territories, covering 51 crore voters. The revision includes poll-bound States such as Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Kerala, and Puducherry, ahead of their 2026 Assembly elections. Assam is excluded for now, given its citizenship verification process under Supreme Court supervision. Relevance: GS-2 (Polity & Governance): Electoral reforms, voter list integrity, transparency in elections, ECI’s constitutional mandate under Article 324. GS-2 (Government Schemes): Electoral Roll Management (ERONet, NVSP), Aadhaar–voter linkage (Section 23A, RPA 1950). GS-3 (Technology in Governance): Use of digital systems for voter verification and inclusion. Basic Context Election Commission of India (ECI): Constitutional body under Article 324 of the Constitution. Responsible for superintendence, direction, and control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and offices of President & Vice-President. Electoral Roll: The official list of all eligible voters in a constituency. Maintained under the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1950. Continuous updating is essential to remove duplicates, include new voters, and ensure error-free elections. Special Intensive Revision (SIR): Periodic mass verification and updating of voter rolls to maintain accuracy. Conducted before major elections or to implement voter-linked reforms (like EPIC–Aadhaar linkage, gender ratio correction, etc.). Key Features of SIR 2.0 (2025) Coverage: 12 States/UTs including Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Kerala, Puducherry, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. Scale: Covers ~51 crore voters, one of the largest voter verification exercises globally. Timeline: Rolls to be frozen after the revision begins, typically from midnight of announcement day, as per EC norms. Assam Exception: Separate notification to be issued later. Citizenship verification under Supreme Court-monitored NRC process ongoing. Administrative & Political Context ECI Objective: Clean, inclusive, and updated electoral rolls. Removal of deceased/duplicate voters. Enrollment of first-time voters (18+ as of Jan 1, 2026). Address gender and urban-rural voter disparities. Political Concerns: Trinamool Congress (West Bengal) and DMK (Tamil Nadu) expressed concerns about potential misuse or selective targeting during revision. EC reiterated transparency and adherence to RPA norms. Legal & Constitutional Basis Provision Relevance Article 324 Empowers ECI for conduct and supervision of elections. RPA, 1950 (Sections 14–23) Deals with preparation and revision of electoral rolls. RPA, 1951 Governs conduct of elections, corrupt practices, and disqualification. Article 326 Guarantees adult suffrage (18 years and above). Delimitation Act, 2002 Ensures constituency boundaries are based on latest census data (though frozen till 2026). Data Significance India’s total electorate (2024): ~97 crore voters. SIR 2.0 coverage: 51 crore → covers over 50% of total voters. First-time voters: Estimated 1.5–2 crore additions expected. Gender ratio correction: Female-to-male voter ratio in some States below 940:1000, ECI aims for parity. Institutional Mechanisms Booth Level Officers (BLOs): Local officials verifying voter details door-to-door. ERONet (Electoral Roll Management System): Digital platform ensuring uniformity and real-time updates. Voter Helpline App / NVSP Portal: Allow citizens to check and update details online. Aadhaar-linkage (under Section 23A, RPA 1950): Voluntary linkage to prevent duplication. Reform and Integrity Focus De-duplication drive: Using Aadhaar and demographic data to eliminate multiple entries. Gender and youth inclusion: Focus on urban youth (lowest registration rates). Voter migration tracking: Pilot project to track internal migration using digital voter IDs. Transparency Mechanisms: Political parties given access to draft rolls for verification. Challenges Data Privacy Concerns: Linking Aadhaar with voter rolls raises surveillance fears. Urban Apathetic Voters: High non-registration rates in metros. Political Allegations: Accusations of bias or selective deletions during revision. Administrative Coordination: Synchronizing across 12 State Election Departments and multiple BLOs. Keywords Explained Term Explanation Electoral Roll Freezing Period during which no addition/deletion is allowed; usually before elections. Booth Level Officer (BLO) Field-level official verifying voter data at the polling station level. ERONet Centralized software system integrating all State election databases. EPIC Electors Photo Identity Card – official voter ID issued by ECI. Adult Suffrage Right of all citizens aged 18 and above to vote, regardless of gender, caste, or wealth. Comparative Perspective Country Practice Key Feature India Continuous roll revision (annual + SIR) Door-to-door verification + online update USA State-level roll maintenance Decentralized; prone to purges UK Annual canvass Central voter registration office Australia Compulsory registration Automatic enrollment via tax records Way Forward Digital Integration: AI-based tools to detect duplicates and deceased voters. Awareness Campaigns: “My Vote, My Identity” drives in schools/colleges. Voter Inclusion Index: To measure gender, age, and region-based inclusion rates. Transparency Measures: Publish anonymized deletion and addition data publicly. Data Protection: Strict adherence to DPDP Act, 2023 for Aadhaar-linked voter data. Is the Dogri language losing resonance in India? Why in News UNESCO (2024 report): India tops the global list of countries with the maximum number of endangered dialects. Dogri, spoken in the Jammu region, faces a sharp decline in usage despite being an official language of J&K (since 2020) and part of the Eighth Schedule (since 2003). Concern raised by linguists like D.G. Rao (former Director, Central Institute of Indian Languages): India lost over 220 languages in the last 50 years. Relevance GS-1 (Culture): Language as a component of India’s intangible cultural heritage. GS-2 (Governance): Policy implementation gaps in linguistic inclusion. GS-3 (Social Issues): Impact of globalization and migration on cultural identity) Basic Context Dogri Language: Belongs to the Indo-Aryan family (subgroup: Western Pahari). Spoken mainly in Jammu, parts of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and northern Pakistan. Recognized under Eighth Schedule of the Constitution (92nd Amendment, 2003). Official status in J&K under the Official Languages Act, 2020, alongside Urdu, Hindi, Kashmiri, and English. Current Issue: Linguistic Extinction Trend Globalisation & Migration: People prioritise economically dominant languages (Hindi, English) for mobility and jobs. Regional languages lose intergenerational transmission. Cultural Assimilation: Younger speakers identify more with national/global culture than regional identity. Digital Neglect: Dogri lacks digital presence (content creation, social media, or e-learning resources). Survey Insights (Jammu Region) Sample Size: 130 respondents, across 20 locations. Method: Random sampling (intervals of 3–4 households). Findings: 48%: Government has failed to give adequate policy support. 43.2%: Dogri has little career or employment relevance. Generational Divide: Elderly (>60 years): Fluent speakers. Youth (<30 years): Understand but rarely use Dogri in public/education. Dimensions Policy Dimension Delayed Recognition: Dogri added to Eighth Schedule only in 2003, long after languages like Konkani (1992). Implementation Deficit: Despite official status, Dogri not widely used in administration or education. Lack of Institutional Support: Insufficient funding for Dogri literature, teacher training, and curriculum integration. Weak implementation of the National Policy on Languages (draft form). Socio-Economic Dimension Urban Aspirations: Urban youth prefer Hindi/English for employability. Migration: Outmigration to metros erodes community language use. Media Dominance: Bollywood and digital media reinforce Hindi over Dogri. Generational Dimension Language Shift: Shift from “mother-tongue use” to bilingualism or language abandonment. Cultural Disconnect: Folklore, songs, oral traditions in Dogri are vanishing due to lack of transmission. Keywords Explained Term Explanation Eighth Schedule List of 22 languages recognized by the Indian Constitution (Article 344(1) & 351) for promotion and representation. Endangered Language A language at risk of falling out of use because speakers shift to other dominant languages. Linguistic Diversity Index (LDI) Measures probability that two randomly selected individuals speak different mother tongues; India’s LDI ≈ 0.93 (high). Language Shift Gradual replacement of one language by another within a speech community. Revitalization Policy Measures to preserve and promote endangered languages through education, documentation, and media presence. Constitutional & Institutional Framework Article 29: Protection of linguistic and cultural rights of minorities. Article 350A: Instruction in the mother tongue at the primary stage. Article 351: Duty of the Union to promote the spread of Hindi without interfering with other languages. Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL): Apex body for research and preservation. Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages (SPPEL): Launched by Ministry of Education to document endangered tongues. Challenges Specific to Dogri Low inclusion in school curriculum (except a few optional papers in J&K). Negligible administrative use despite official recognition. Declining literary publication and print media presence. Weak community initiatives for cultural revival. Comparative Insight Region Language Revival Strategy Outcome Northeast India Bodo Added to Eighth Schedule + language academies + textbooks Revival successful South India Tulu Active digital movement (#TuluOfficialLanguage) Awareness growing Jammu (Dogri) Dogri Constitutional + official recognition only (no education/media base) Decline continues Way Forward Educational Integration: Make Dogri mandatory in primary schools in Jammu region. Develop digital Dogri learning platforms. Administrative Implementation: Ensure use of Dogri in local governance, signage, and official documents. Cultural Revitalization: Encourage Dogri theatre, cinema, and literature festivals. Promote Dogri on Doordarshan, AIR, and digital platforms. Documentation & Research: Expand SPPEL coverage with academic partnerships (CIIL, JNU, University of Jammu). India’s per capita income to cross $5,000 by 2031 Why in News ? A Franklin Templeton research report (2025) projects that India’s per capita income (PCI) will exceed USD 5,000 by 2031, nearly doubling from USD 2,729 (2023). This will trigger a structural shift in consumption, marking India’s entry into a mass affluent economy. Relevance GS-3 (Economy): Growth models, structural transformation, inequality, behavioral economics. GS-2 (Governance): Welfare design, inclusive policy frameworks. Key Data & Projections Indicator 2023 2031 (Projected) Per Capita Income (USD) 2,729 5,242 Share of Upper-Middle Income Households 11% (2010) 24% (2035) Non-essential Spending Share 1950s: <20% Now: ~60% Premium Product Growth 2–3× faster than mass market Top 20% Households Hold ~85% of savings, drive consumption Relevant Keywords Per Capita Income (PCI): Average income earned per person in a given year (GDP ÷ population). Indicator of standard of living and economic welfare (GS-3: Growth & Development). Consumption-Led Growth: Economic growth primarily driven by domestic demand rather than exports/investment. India’s consumption ≈ 60% of GDP — higher than China (~38%). Premiumization: Consumers shifting from mass-market to higher-value (premium) products. Reflects rising disposable income and urban aspirations. Affluence Elasticity of Demand: As incomes rise, demand for non-essential goods grows disproportionately faster. Middle-Income Trap: When growth slows after reaching middle-income status due to lack of innovation or productivity gains. India’s challenge: avoid this trap through structural reforms and skills development. Demographic Dividend: Economic growth potential from a young working-age population. India’s median age ≈ 28 years, offering a long window of consumption-driven expansion. Discretionary Expenditure: Spending on non-essential items — leisure, electronics, personal care — linked to consumer confidence. Structural Transformation Trends Rising Disposable Income: Urban and semi-urban households witnessing real income growth. Shift to Services: Growth in finance, health, education, recreation, and digital economy. Digital Consumption: E-commerce, UPI payments, and BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later) reshaping access. Urbanization: 40% population projected to be urban by 2035 — concentrated consumption hubs. Financialization of Savings: Shift from physical assets (gold, real estate) → financial assets (mutual funds, equities). Economic & Policy Implications Positive Multiplier Effect: Rising consumption fuels production, job creation, and tax revenues. Inclusive Growth Challenge: Need to ensure that rural and informal sectors also share income gains. Fiscal Implications: Higher incomes widen the tax base, improving fiscal space. Inflationary Pressures: Greater discretionary spending can elevate core inflation. Environmental Costs: Expansion of consumption must align with green growth strategies (LiFE Mission, circular economy). Behavioural Shift Aspirational Economy: Middle class driving demand for better housing, education, and healthcare. Consumer Confidence: Indicates economic optimism; linked to job stability and real wage growth. Cultural Convergence: Small towns adopting metro consumption patterns → “Tier-2 Urban Boom”. Global Context Comparative Perspective: India at USD 5,000 ≈ China in 2008; Suggests a decade-lagged but similar trajectory in consumption growth. India’s Global Ranking (IMF 2025): Per capita income rank ~136 globally but fastest among major economies. Potential Market Size: India projected to become 3rd largest consumer market by 2035, after US & China. Challenges & Concerns Income Inequality: Gini coefficient around 35–37; top 10% own ~65% of national wealth. Jobless Growth Risk: Rising income without commensurate employment generation. Rural Distress: Consumption growth remains urban-heavy. Supply Bottlenecks: Infrastructure, logistics, and energy gaps can limit consumption scalability. Way Forward Boost Rural Incomes: Strengthen agriculture, MSMEs, and rural employment. Skill-Based Growth: Align workforce with formal-sector opportunities. Sustainability: Promote green consumption, recycling, and LiFE initiatives. Digital Financial Inclusion: Deepen UPI and credit access for lower-income groups. Balanced Fiscal Policy: Use consumption growth to enhance public investment and social equity. PM-SHRI Schools Scheme and Kerala’s Policy Reversal Why in News ? Kerala’s LDF government (CPI-M led) has decided to implement the PM-SHRI Schools Scheme, reversing its two-year opposition. This has political and governance implications, highlighting tensions between Centre–State relations, NEP 2020 adoption, and federal financial incentives. Relevance GS-2 (Governance): Centre–State relations, cooperative federalism, education policy reforms. GS-2 (Social Justice): School quality improvement, equitable access, NEP 2020 implementation. Background of PM-SHRI Scheme Launched: September 2022 Full Form: Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India Aim: Develop 14,500 model schools as NEP 2020 exemplars across India. Coverage: Includes Central, State, and local government schools (like KVs, NVs, and state-run schools). Funding Pattern: 60:40 (Centre:State) for general states. 90:10 for NE & Himalayan states; 100% for UTs. Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Education, Department of School Education and Literacy. Core Objectives Demonstrate NEP 2020’s vision of holistic and multidisciplinary education. Integrate vocational training, art, ICT, and multilingual pedagogy. Establish School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF) to evaluate and improve learning outcomes. Foster environment-friendly, inclusive, and digitally equipped learning environments. Reasons for Policy Reversal Financial Pressure: Kerala faced reduced Samagra Shiksha allocations since non-participation in PM-SHRI led to funding exclusion. In FY 2024–25, no funds were received under Samagra Shiksha; partial release in FY 2023–24 (~₹115 crore). Pragmatic Adjustment: Implementing PM-SHRI ensures access to central funds (~₹150 crore annually). Aligns with federal fiscal reality rather than ideological rigidity. Administrative Efficiency: Integration with existing state education infrastructure under Samagra Shiksha makes implementation smoother. National Context — Other States Agreed: Delhi (AAP), Punjab, West Bengal, and now Kerala. Holding Out: Tamil Nadu and earlier West Bengal cited NEP-related concerns. Trend: Gradual convergence of opposition-ruled states towards implementation for fiscal and developmental reasons. Policy Implications Centre–State Federalism: Reflects a shift towards “cooperative pragmatism”—states aligning with centrally funded schemes despite ideological reservations. Education Governance: Shows how financial design (conditional funding) influences policy compliance. Implementation Model: Use of SQAF for performance-linked disbursal introduces outcome-based governance in school education. Political Optics: “PM” branding raises questions about decentralized recognition in joint schemes. Criticisms and Challenges Federal Concerns: Central “branding” seen as undermining state ownership. NEP Alignment Issues: Kerala yet to fully endorse NEP 2020 — may create curricular friction. Equity Challenge: Risk that better-performing schools benefit disproportionately. Administrative Load: Monitoring transformation via SQAF requires strong data infrastructure and human resources. Twin Cyclonic Threats in the North Indian Ocean Region Why in News ? The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported two simultaneous cyclonic systems developing on either side of India — Cyclone Montha in the Bay of Bengal, and a persistent depression in the Arabian Sea. Such twin cyclonic formations are rare but indicate a hyperactive North Indian Ocean phase. Cyclone Montha is expected to make landfall near Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh) on October 28, 2025, while the Arabian Sea system is moving towards Gujarat. Relevance: GS-1 (Geography): Tropical cyclones – formation, classification, and regional patterns (Bay of Bengal vs Arabian Sea). GS-3 (Environment): Climate change impact on cyclone intensity and frequency (IPCC AR6 linkage). GS-3 (Disaster Management): Role of IMD, NDMA, NCRMP, and early warning systems. Meteorological Context Formation dates: Bay of Bengal system formed October 24, intensified rapidly into Cyclone Montha by October 26. Arabian Sea depression formed on October 22 — has not intensified or dissipated. Movement patterns: Cyclone Montha: Moving NNW at ~18 km/hr, currently ~520 km ESE of Chennai. Arabian Sea depression: Highly erratic track — NW → NE → N → W → S → N again; now drifting towards Gujarat coast. Wind speeds (IMD forecast): Sustained: 90–100 km/hr Gusts: Up to 110 km/hr Classified as a Severe Cyclonic Storm (SCS). Expected impact: Storm surge: ~1 metre above astronomical tide, threatening low-lying areas of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam (Puducherry). Rainfall: Very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall over Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. Technical & Climatic Analysis Faster-than-expected intensification due to: High sea surface temperature (SST): ~30–31°C in Bay of Bengal. Strong convection and latent heat release in the mid–upper troposphere. Low vertical wind shear enabling organized circulation. Twin cyclones phenomenon: Known as “Basin Dipole Activity”, where simultaneous low-pressure systems form in both the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea. Typically arises from enhanced Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) activity and Indian Ocean warm pool anomalies. Climatic context: October–November is the post-monsoon cyclone season, contributing 25–30% of annual cyclonic activity in the North Indian Ocean. Bay of Bengal accounts for ~80% of cyclones in this basin; Arabian Sea for the remaining 20%. Comparative Dynamics Feature Cyclone Montha (Bay of Bengal) Arabian Sea Depression Formation Date October 24, 2025 October 22, 2025 Status Severe Cyclonic Storm (SCS) Depression Wind Speed 90–110 km/hr 30–40 km/hr Landfall Forecast Near Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh) Moving towards Gujarat coast SST Influence 30–31°C 29–30°C IMD Alert Red alert for East Coast No official alert yet Environmental & Socioeconomic Implications Risk to coastal infrastructure: High wind + storm surge → potential damage to ports, power lines, and fishing harbours. Agricultural impact: Possible crop loss in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana, especially in paddy and horticulture zones. Marine hazards: Disruption of shipping routes in both Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea. Humanitarian preparedness: NDRF and state disaster management authorities placed on high alert. Scientific and Policy Significance IMD’s Early Warning System: Use of INSAT-3D/3DR, GFS, and ECMWF data for real-time tracking. Demonstrates improved predictive accuracy under the National Monsoon Mission. Climate linkage: Strengthening evidence of warming-induced cyclone intensification in the North Indian Ocean. Aligns with IPCC AR6 finding — increase in rapid intensification events since 1990s. Policy relevance: Supports India’s National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) under NDMA. Reinforces need for urban flood resilience and coastal infrastructure hardening under PM Gati Shakti and Blue Economy Vision 2047. Conclusion The twin cyclonic systems — Montha in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea depression — represent a critical climate–weather intersection.While Cyclone Montha is a near-term threat to the east coast, the western depression underscores persistent oceanic heat anomalies and shifting monsoonal dynamics. This episode highlights the growing complexity of India’s cyclonic climatology, demanding integrated early-warning systems, coastal adaptation measures, and regional cooperation in disaster risk reduction. Static Revision Definition and Classification Cyclone: Rapidly rotating storm system characterized by a low-pressure center, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. Types (based on wind speed – IMD classification): Wind Speed (km/hr) Example Low Pressure Area <31 Monsoon lows Depression (D) 31–49 Monsoon depressions Deep Depression (DD) 50–61 Pre-cyclone phase Cyclonic Storm (CS) 62–88 Cyclone Sitrang (2022) Severe Cyclonic Storm (SCS) 89–117 Cyclone Montha (2025) Very Severe Cyclonic Storm (VSCS) 118–165 Cyclone Tauktae (2021) Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm (ESCS) 166–220 Cyclone Amphan (2020) Super Cyclonic Storm (SuCS) ≥221 Odisha Super Cyclone (1999) Structure of a Tropical Cyclone Eye: Calm center with descending air and clear skies. Eye Wall: Ring of towering cumulonimbus clouds with strongest winds and rainfall. Spiral Rainbands: Bands of clouds and thunderstorms spiraling towards the center. Energy Source: Latent heat released by condensation over warm ocean waters (≥26.5°C). Conditions Favourable for Cyclone Formation Warm sea surface temperature (≥26.5°C) up to 60 m depth. Coriolis force (absent near Equator → cyclones form between 5°–15° N/S). High humidity in the lower–mid troposphere. Atmospheric instability promoting convection. Low vertical wind shear (<10 m/s). Pre-existing low-pressure disturbance or intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) perturbation. North Indian Ocean (NIO) Cyclone Basin Extent: Between 45°E–100°E longitude, including Bay of Bengal (BoB) and Arabian Sea (AS). Seasonal Peaks: Pre-monsoon: April–June Post-monsoon: October–December (more intense) Cyclone frequency (IMD average 1891–2020): Bay of Bengal: ~5.5 cyclones/year (~80% of total NIO cyclones) Arabian Sea: ~1.5 cyclones/year (~20%) Recent trend: Frequency in Arabian Sea increasing due to rapid warming; BoB remains dominant in intensity. Reasons for Bay of Bengal’s Higher Cyclonic Activity Warmer SSTs (average 29–31°C). Abundant moisture from rivers and monsoon outflow. Shallow sea and high latent heat flux. Remnant low-pressure systems from Pacific crossing over via Myanmar. Weak vertical wind shear during transition seasons. Favorable Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) phase more frequent. Arabian Sea Cyclones — Emerging Concern Earlier: Cooler waters and stronger wind shear inhibited cyclones. Now (post-2000): Warming trend of +1.2°C/decade; conducive for more VSCS (Tauktae, Mekunu, Vayu, Biparjoy). Driven by: Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) phases. Anthropogenic warming of Western Indian Ocean. Reduced aerosol loading increasing solar absorption. Naming of Cyclones Initiated in 2004 by WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones. Member countries: 13 (India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman, UAE, Yemen, Qatar, Iran, Saudi Arabia). Names are pre-determined and rotated in lists — next name after Montha will be from Myanmar’s contribution. Indian Meteorological Institutions & Monitoring Nodal Agency: India Meteorological Department (IMD) – Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre (RSMC), New Delhi. Other key institutions: National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) Technology used: INSAT-3D/3DR, Doppler weather radars, GFS, ECMWF, and satellite-based SST data.

Oct 27, 2025 Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 27 October 2025

Content Classical Languages of India Jal Jeevan Mission Classical Languages of India Background and Context India’s linguistic diversity: Over 19,500 languages/dialects spoken as per Census 2011, reflecting deep civilisational heritage. Policy intent: Recognition of “Classical Languages” aims to preserve, promote, and academically institutionalize India’s ancient linguistic traditions. Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Culture, in coordination with Ministry of Education (Language Bureau & CIIL, Mysuru). Relevance GS 1 (Culture): Linguistic evolution, ancient literature, heritage preservation. GS 2 (Governance): Policy design for cultural preservation, institutional architecture. Key Update (October 2024) Union Cabinet Decision (3 Oct 2024): Conferred Classical Language status on Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali. Total Classical Languages (as of Oct 2025): 11 Earlier 6 (2004–2014): Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada (2008), Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013), Odia (2014). Newly added 5 (2024): Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, Bengali. Significance of Classical Language Status Cultural recognition: Acknowledges the antiquity, continuity, and intellectual contribution of a language. Knowledge preservation: Safeguards epics, scriptures, philosophy, grammar, and ancient sciences. Academic promotion: Enables creation of Centres of Excellence, research grants, digitisation projects, and translation initiatives. Cultural diplomacy: Enhances India’s soft power and identity as a civilisational knowledge hub. Criteria for Recognition (Defined by Ministry of Culture; approved by Union Cabinet) Antiquity of 1,500–2,000 years of recorded history. Rich ancient literature or texts considered as heritage by generations. Presence of prose, poetry, epigraphy, inscriptions beyond oral traditions. Distinctness between ancient and modern forms of the language. Expansion of Linguistic Heritage (2024 Additions) (A) Marathi Speakers: ~110 million (Ethnologue 2024); among top 15 global languages. Origin: From Maharastri Prakrit (Satavahana era, 2nd century BCE–2nd CE). Key Texts: Gathasaptasati (1st century CE, King Hala) – earliest literary work. Lilacharitra & Jnaneswari – medieval milestones (~13th century). Naneghata Inscription (~1st BCE) – early Marathi epigraphy. Notable Saints: Dnyaneshwar, Namdev, Tukaram – Bhakti movement figures. (B) Pali Timeframe: c. 500 BCE; language of early Buddhist canon. Region of use: India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand; extended to East Asia. Canonical Works (Tipitaka): Vinaya Pitaka – monastic rules. Sutta Pitaka – Buddha’s discourses. Abhidhamma Pitaka – philosophy & psychology. Scholars: Buddhaghosa (commentaries), early grammarians. Cultural Impact: Vehicle of Buddhist thought and moral philosophy across Asia. (C) Prakrit Nature: Middle Indo-Aryan linguistic group; evolved from Sanskrit; mother to several modern Indian languages. Prominent Forms: Ardhamagadhi, Maharastri, Shauraseni. Use: By Buddha and Mahavira for sermons; language of masses. Inscriptional Evidence: Ashokan edicts, Kharavela inscriptions. Texts: Gaha Sattasai, Natyashastra mentions Prakrit as people’s language. Contribution: Foundation for Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Rajasthani. (D) Assamese Roots: From Magadhi Apabhramsa (Eastern Prakrit line). Evolution: 7th century CE onward; shares lineage with Bengali and Oriya. Earliest Texts: Charyapadas (8th–12th centuries, Buddhist Tantric hymns). Later Literature: Katha Gurucharit; writings of Srimanta Sankardeva. Distinct Features: Retains Magadhan phonetics; evolved script by 13th century. (E) Bengali Origin: From Magadhi Prakrit → Apabhramsa → Old Bengali (~10th CE). Early Literature: Charyapadas (47 hymns by Siddhacharyas). Medieval Works: Mukunda Ram (Chandimangal), Bharat Chandra, Ram Prasad. Renaissance Period (19th century): Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Vidyasagar, Bankim Chandra. Bande Mataram (Bankim) & Jana Gana Mana (Tagore). Global Impact: Language of Tagore (Nobel 1913); shaped India’s nationalism. Institutional Framework for Promotion (A) Nodal Body Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysuru under MoE’s Language Bureau. Mandate: Research, documentation, digitisation, and academic promotion. (B) Centres of Excellence Language Centre Location Tamil Central Institute of Classical Tamil Chennai Telugu Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Telugu (CESCT) Nellore, Andhra Pradesh Kannada CESCK University of Mysore Malayalam CESCM Tirur, Kerala Odia CESCO Bhubaneswar, Odisha Examples of Activities: Digitisation of manuscripts & epigraphs. Translation of classical texts (e.g., Tirukkural in 28 Indian + 30 world languages, and Braille). Research on Dravidian grammar and comparative linguistics. Compilation of 10,000+ classical Telugu works. Publication of critical editions (e.g., Telugu Sasanaalu, Sankeerthana Lakshanam in Kannada). Odia projects: palm-leaf manuscripts, murals, archaeological documentation. Sanskrit Promotion Initiatives 3 Central Sanskrit Universities (2020): Central Sanskrit University, New Delhi. Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University, New Delhi. National Sanskrit University, Tirupati. Financial Assistance: To Adarsh Sanskrit Mahavidyalayas and Shodha Sansthans. Key Objectives of Centres for Classical Languages Preserve & propagate India’s classical linguistic legacy. Conduct multidisciplinary research (epigraphy, archaeology, anthropology). Facilitate translations, audio-visual documentation, scholar training. Establish global chairs & linkages (e.g., Tamil Chairs in global universities). Connect ancient linguistic knowledge with indigenous epistemologies. Broader Policy Vision Embodies “Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi” – heritage with progress. Aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Culturally Rooted India vision. Strengthens national integration by connecting linguistic diversity with cultural unity. Enhances India’s soft power diplomacy through global promotion of classical languages. Data Snapshot (As of 2025) Parameter Data Total Classical Languages 11 Institutions under CIIL 5 active Centres of Excellence Sanskrit Universities 3 (established 2020) Translation outreach (Tamil) 28 Indian + 30 global languages Marathi speakers ~110 million (Ethnologue 2024) Oldest Classical Text Evidence Tolkāppiyam (Tamil, ~500 BCE) Earliest Literary Work (North India) Charyapadas (8th–12th CE) Jal Jeevan Mission Why in News ? As of October 2025, over 15.72 crore rural households (≈81% coverage) now have functional tap water connections under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). Central outlay:₹2.08 lakh crore, marking one of the largest rural infrastructure programmes globally. WHO, SBI Research, IIM Bangalore–ILO, and global agencies have validated its public health, gender, and economic impacts. Relevance GS 2 – Governance, Welfare Schemes, Service Delivery : Decentralized governance, community-led implementation, women’s empowerment. GS 3 – Environment, Economy, and Technology : Water resource management, sustainability, digital governance in infrastructure. Basics Launch: 15 August 2019 Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti Objective: To provide Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) to every rural household by 2024, ensuring: Adequate safe drinking water (55 lpcd) Quality monitoring Source sustainability Community participation Mission Motto: “Har Ghar Jal” Funding Pattern: 90:10 (NE states, UTs), 50:50 (other states), 100% central for UTs without legislature. Progress and Key Data (as of 22 Oct 2025) Parameter 2019 Baseline 2025 Status Growth Rural households with tap water 3.23 crore (16.7%) 15.72 crore (81%) +12.48 crore Districts with full coverage — 192 (116 certified) — States/UTs with 100% coverage — 11 (Goa, Haryana, Gujarat, Telangana, etc.) — Schools with tap water — 9.23 lakh — Anganwadi centres — 9.66 lakh — Women trained in water testing — 24.8 lakh — Water samples tested (2025–26) — 38.78 lakh — Water labs operational — 2,843 — Quality Assurance and Institutional Strengthening Water Testing Network: 2,843 labs (2,184 institutional + 659 plant-based). Community Testing: 24.8 lakh women trained to use Field Testing Kits (FTKs) across 5.07 lakh villages. Certification System: Reported: State/UT confirms tap water in all HHs. Certified: Verified through Gram Sabha resolution post-inspection. Components of JJM In-village piped water infrastructure – Ensuring last-mile connectivity. Sustainable water sources – Rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, reuse. Greywater management – Treatment and reuse at household level. Water quality interventions – Arsenic and fluoride removal technologies. Digital governance – Real-time dashboards, GIS mapping, RPWSS IDs. Capacity building – Community mobilization, IEC campaigns, skill training. Contingency and O&M funds – Ensuring sustainability. Digital Governance: RPWSS & ‘Jal Mitra’ Rural Piped Water Supply Schemes (RPWSS) ID: Unique digital ID for every water scheme (to be completed by Nov 2025). Integrated with GIS and PM Gati Shakti for real-time monitoring. ‘Jal Mitra’ Application (West Bengal): Tracks 13.7 crore activities, functionality checks for 80.39 lakh HHs. Created 4,522 Jal Bachao Committees for participatory governance. Employment & Economic Impact IIM Bangalore–ILO Study: ~3 crore person-years of employment generated. SBI Research (2025): 9 crore women freed from fetching water daily. +7.4% rise in women’s participation in agriculture and allied work. Economic savings: Estimated ₹8.2 lakh crore in health and productivity costs (WHO). Health and Social Impact (WHO & Research) 4 lakh diarrheal deaths averted annually (WHO). 14 million DALYs prevented. 30% reduction in under-5 child mortality (Prof. Michael Kremer). 5.5 crore hours saved daily — 75% of which were women’s time. Improved attendance in schools and Anganwadi centres due to safe water. Community-led Success Models a) Maharashtra – Women-led Management Amritnath Mahila Samuha manages full water utility cycle. 100% bill recovery; ₹1.7 lakh earned through community management. b) Nagaland – Source Protection Catchment restoration through recharge pits, trenches, and afforestation. Climate-resilient water systems with convergence of Forest Dept. c) Assam – Health Transformation 27 waterborne disease cases (2022–23) reduced to zero post-piped water. Community funds system (₹1/day/HH) for O&M sustainability. d) Rajasthan – Water Security Planning Ridge-to-valley approach increased water level by 70 feet. 11.77% rise in annual storage; 5% community cost sharing. e) West Bengal – Digital Monitoring ‘Jal Mitra’ MIS ensures transparency, replaced manual record system. Governance and Sustainability Framework Community Ownership: Village Water & Sanitation Committees (VWSCs) managing local systems. Convergence: MGNREGS, SBM-G, 15th Finance Commission grants, and watershed programmes. Focus on Marginal Areas: Arsenic/fluoride belts, drought-prone districts. Capacity Building: Over 25 lakh women trained; IEC drives fostering Jan Andolan. Challenges Ahead Ensuring source sustainability amid depleting groundwater. Operation & maintenance (O&M) post-completion — ensuring local financial viability. Water quality monitoring in arsenic-fluoride belts (e.g., Bengal, Bihar, Rajasthan). Climate-induced water stress; integration with Atal Bhujal Yojana needed. Building skilled Jal Doots for decentralized management. Broader Implications SDG Alignment: SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being) SDG 5 (Gender Equality) SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) Economic Multiplier: Every ₹1 invested in water yields ₹4 in health, productivity, and education returns. Governance Benchmark: Real-time dashboards and GIS mapping model for other schemes (e.g., PMGSY, SBM).

Oct 27, 2025 Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 27 October 2025

Content The contours of constitutional morality Winding up the clock of India-Nepal economic ties The contours of constitutional morality Why in News ? Justice N. Anand Venkatesh (Madras High Court) revisited the concept of Constitutional Morality, emphasizing its role as a living ethos for constitutional governance. Comes amid growing judicial debates (e.g., Sabarimala review, Delhi Government vs LG, Puttaswamy) on whether morality in law should derive from majoritarian public morality or constitutional morality anchored in justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Relevance GS-2 (Polity & Governance): Constitutional values, judicial interpretation, and democratic ethics. Role of judiciary in upholding justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Separation of powers and moral foundations of governance. Practice Questions What do you understand by the term “Constitutional Morality”? Discuss its significance in maintaining a balance between majority rule and constitutional governance in India.(250 Words) The Classical Relationship: Law and Morality Ancient Indian Thought: The idea of Dharma in Vedic and post-Vedic traditions united law, morality, and justice (no separation between legal and ethical norms). Thirukkural stressed Aram (virtue), aligning moral duty with social order. Western Jurisprudence: Natural Law Theorists (e.g., Aquinas): Law derives validity from moral order. Legal Positivists (e.g., Bentham, Austin, H.L.A. Hart): Law is valid because it’s enacted by authority, not because it is moral. Hart-Devlin Debate (1960s): Lord Devlin: Law should enforce moral standards to preserve social cohesion. H.L.A. Hart: Individual liberty must be protected from moral majoritarianism; law should not police private morality. Sparked global discourse on morality’s place in liberal democracies. The Indian Position: Law Reflecting Moral Evolution P. Rathinam vs Union of India (1994) SC quoted Justice Frankfurter: Law embodies moral principles aligned with fairness and justice. Example of Divergence: Law leads morality: Abolition of untouchability (Article 17) before social acceptance. Law follows morality: Recognition of gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights over time. Lesson: Indian constitutionalism treats law as a moral enterprise, not merely a command. Rise of the Idea of “Constitutional Morality” Origin: Coined by historian George Grote (1846) in History of Greece: “A paramount reverence for constitutional forms combined with free speech and civic confidence.” Indian Adoption: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, citing Grote in the Constituent Assembly: “Constitutional morality is not a natural sentiment; it has to be cultivated.” Warned that democracy in India is a “top dressing on undemocratic soil.” Understanding Constitutional Morality Meaning: Adherence to the core values, procedures, and spirit of the Constitution beyond its literal text. Essence: Rule of law + Respect for institutions + Protection of minorities + Ethical exercise of constitutional power. Distinction: Public Morality → Majoritarian social values. Constitutional Morality → Justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity as guiding principles. Key Judicial Landmarks Case Year Core Idea / Holding S.P. Gupta v. Union of India 1981 Justice Venkataramiah: Violation of constitutional conventions = breach of constitutional morality with political consequences. Manoj Narula v. Union of India 2014 Constitutional morality = adherence to rule of law; PM is expected (not compelled) to exclude tainted ministers. Indian Young Lawyers Association v. State of Kerala (Sabarimala case) 2018 (CJI Dipak Misra) Public morality under Art. 25 should mean constitutional morality — not societal biases. Later referred to 9-judge bench. State (NCT of Delhi) v. Union of India 2018 CM-LG relationship must reflect constitutional morality — cooperative federalism, consensus, and accountability. Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India 2017 Right to Privacy anchored in constitutional morality; state actions must respect rule of law and individual dignity. Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India 2018 Constitutional morality protects LGBTQ+ rights; law cannot reflect public prejudice. Theoretical Foundations Prof. A.V. Dicey: Distinguished “law of the constitution” (enforceable) vs “conventions of the constitution” (non-justiciable but morally binding). Ambedkar’s Vision: Constitutional morality = moral compass guiding exercise of constitutional power. Needed to “hold together the diverse strands of democracy.” Data & Facts: Institutional Embedding Constitutional Morality in Action: Judicial Discipline: Over 70 references to “constitutional morality” across Supreme Court judgments (2014–2025). Governance Practice: 2024–25 Lok Sabha debates cited it in contexts of ordinance misuse, governor powers, and freedom of expression. India’s CPI ranking declined to 96 (2024, score 38) from 85 (2021, score 40), reflecting governance and institutional ethics gaps — highlighting Ambedkar’s warning that “constitutional morality must be cultivated, not presumed. Philosophical and Governance Implications Moral Legitimacy of Law: A law may be valid but not just (e.g., Section 377 pre-2018). Constitutional Morality as a Democratic Guardrail: Prevents elected majorities from undermining constitutional principles. Judicial Use: Expands interpretative horizons—guiding constitutional evolution through moral reasoning. Risk: Excessive moralization of law can blur boundaries of separation of powers, leading to judicial overreach. Challenges Subjectivity: Who defines morality — judges, legislature, or society? Over-judicialization: Morality-based activism may intrude on legislative domain. Cultural Pluralism: Single moral code incompatible with India’s diversity. Selective Invocation: Morality often cited inconsistently across judgments and governance contexts. The Road Ahead Institutional Reforms: Codify conventions of constitutional ethics (e.g., cabinet norms, governor conduct). Civic Education: Embed constitutional values in school curricula (NEP 2020 provision for citizenship education). Political Accountability: Foster adherence to moral governance through transparency and citizen vigilance. Judicial Restraint: Courts must balance moral interpretation with textual fidelity. Conclusion The relationship between morality and law in India is symbiotic — law shapes morality, and morality legitimizes law. Constitutional Morality, as envisioned by Ambedkar, is not static but evolutionary — the moral foundation of India’s constitutional democracy. It ensures that majority rule never degenerates into moral tyranny, and that the spirit of justice remains the soul of governance. Winding up the clock of India-Nepal economic ties Context and Background Date & Announcement: On October 1, 2025, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra unveiled three measures aimed at internationalising the Indian Rupee (INR). Geoeconomic backdrop: Follows RBI’s broader agenda of “Rupee Globalisation” and the South Asia currency integration drive under India’s Neighbourhood First Policy. Significance: Enhances India–Nepal economic interdependence, regional trade in local currencies, and de-dollarisation momentum in South Asia. Relevance GS-2 (International Relations): India–Nepal bilateral relations and neighbourhood diplomacy. Economic interdependence and cross-border cooperation mechanisms. Regionalism and financial integration in South Asia. GS-3 (Economy): Internationalisation of the Indian Rupee (INR). External sector management, currency stability, and de-dollarisation. Role of RBI in fostering regional financial architecture. GS-3 (Internal Security & Economy Linkage): Economic resilience of neighbouring states and its implications for India’s security and border stability. Practice Questions Discuss how the Reserve Bank of India’s recent rupee internationalisation measures can strengthen India–Nepal economic relations and promote regional currency integration.(250 Words) The Three RBI Measures INR Lending to Non-Residents (Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka) Authorised Dealer (AD) banks can now lend INR for cross-border transactions. Impact: Enables Nepalese industries to access Indian credit lines, easing liquidity and scaling trade operations. Expansion of Special Rupee Vostro Accounts Foreign banks’ INR accounts in Indian banks (Vostros) can now invest in: Corporate Bonds Commercial Papers Earlier permitted only for central government securities. Impact: Deepens INR capital markets’ accessibility to foreign participants. Transparent Reference Rate Mechanism RBI to establish a reference rate for major trading partners’ currencies. Impact: Reduces volatility and ensures consistency in INR-based invoicing and settlements. Historical Context: INR–NPR Peg Peg ratio: 1 INR = 1.6 Nepalese Rupee (NPR) (in place since 1993). Stability: Peg has shielded NPR from sharp depreciation against USD and other hard currencies. Caution: Economists warn against disturbing a working peg system, which underpins Nepal’s monetary stability. Nepal’s Economic Challenges GDP slowdown: Post-COVID rebound driven by remittances (≈25% of GDP) faded by 2024. Industrial stagnation: Limited access to institutional credit; banks are oligarch-controlled. MSMEs face severe working capital crunch. Unemployment: >11% (ILO 2024), highest among SAARC countries after Afghanistan. Supply chain disruptions: Domestic ancillary units struggling due to low demand and liquidity. Result: Political volatility and high economic vulnerability. Potential Benefits for Nepal Access to Indian Credit: RBI’s INR lending move could inject liquidity into Nepal’s industrial ecosystem. Lowers dependency on expensive USD loans or foreign donor credit lines. Boost to Bilateral Trade: India accounts for 65% of Nepal’s international trade. Exports (FY24): India → Nepal: USD 6.95 billion (FY24). Nepal → India: ~USD 1 billion Major exports: edible oil, tea, coffee, jute. Nepal’s rank as Indian export destination: 28th (2014) → 17th (2024). Attraction of Investment: Indian firms contribute 33% of Nepal’s total FDI stock, worth ~USD 670 million. INR-denominated trade will improve FDI flows, especially for cross-border value-added supply chains. De-dollarisation and Forex Stability: Reduces Nepal’s dependence on USD; shields from exchange rate shocks. Eases hard currency shortages, improving Current Account Deficit (CAD) management. Employment & Industrial Multipliers: INR credit enables scaling up of small and medium enterprises, generating local jobs. Facilitates joint ventures and value addition industries (e.g., agro-processing, light manufacturing). Strategic and Financial Multiplier Effects Rupee Trade Settlement System (RTSS): Builds on 2022 framework enabling INR-based invoicing with 18 countries. Regional Integration: Encourages South Asian Monetary Cooperation under India’s leadership. Resilience to USD cycles: Protects smaller economies like Nepal from Fed-driven volatility. Macro stability: Encourages balanced BoP management and stronger monetary coordination between RBI and Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB). Institutional and Policy Implications For Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB): Must frame prudential norms and risk assessment frameworks for cross-border INR lending. Need for regulatory convergence with RBI guidelines on compliance, transparency, and borrower eligibility. For RBI: Maintain prudential oversight to prevent misuse or arbitrage via INR lending. Monitor liquidity flows and non-performing exposure risks from overseas borrowers. For Governments: Opportunity for India–Nepal Sovereign Credit Framework, joint risk rating, and bilateral trade insurance mechanisms (e.g., EXIM Bank–NRB tie-up). Broader Geoeconomic Context USD dominance: Globally, the US dollar accounts for ~54% of trade invoicing but dominates ~88% of foreign exchange turnover (IMF, BIS 2024). INR globalisation: India pushing for INR settlement with Russia, UAE, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and now Nepal. Strategic payoff: Reduces transaction costs (~2–3% savings) and enhances India’s financial soft power in South Asia. Challenges and Caveats Interest rate competitiveness: Indian banks must offer rates viable for Nepalese borrowers. Regulatory risk: NRB’s cautious stance could delay uptake. Credit monitoring: Cross-border lending requires robust credit evaluation and recovery mechanisms. Political sensitivities: Perceptions of “INR dominance” must be mitigated through joint consultation mechanisms. Way Forward Institutional coordination: Establish India–Nepal Financial Coordination Council (INFCC). Regular review of INR–NPR peg sustainability. Capacity building: Encourage joint banking ventures and financial literacy programmes for Nepalese SMEs. Promote Rupee Corridor Initiatives via SAARC framework. Long-term goal: Achieve South Asian Local Currency Settlement Mechanism (LCSM) akin to ASEAN’s system. Position the INR as a regional anchor currency by 2030. Conclusion RBI’s October 2025 measures mark a watershed in India–Nepal financial diplomacy. They represent the fusion of rupee internationalisation, regional integration, and developmental partnership. If prudently executed, the move can make INR not just India’s currency, but South Asia’s stability instrument—advancing both economic sovereignty and strategic depth for India and its neighbours.

Oct 27, 2025 Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 27 October 2025

Content Uttarakhand’s Proposed ‘Green Cess’ on Outstation Vehicles. The ‘Dunki Route’ and the Dark Side of Irregular Migration IUCN World Heritage Outlook 4 22nd India–ASEAN Summit (Kuala Lumpur, 2025) Municipal Bonds Now Eligible for Repo and Reverse Repo Deals Uttarakhand’s Proposed ‘Green Cess’ on Outstation Vehicles Why in News The Government of Uttarakhand plans to introduce a “Green Cess” on vehicles entering from outside the state. Aim: Combat rising vehicular pollution, fund green infrastructure, and improve air quality in ecologically sensitive hill regions. Estimated annual revenue: ₹100 crore, to be managed by the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPCB). Relevance GS-3 (Environment, Conservation & Pollution Control): Fiscal instruments for sustainability, vehicular pollution mitigation. GS-2 (Governance): Policy design, fiscal decentralization, environmental regulation. GS-1 (Geography): Himalayan ecology and environmental vulnerabilities. GS-3 (Economy): Green budgeting and fiscal federalism. Background and Context Uttarakhand witnesses massive tourist inflow — over 5 crore visitors (2022–24) — leading to traffic congestion, dust pollution, and ecosystem stress. Vehicular emissions and road dust contribute to PM2.5 and PM10 pollution, especially in Dehradun, Nainital, Haridwar, Rishikesh. The state’s fragile Himalayan ecology is already under pressure due to urbanization, road-widening projects, and pilgrimage tourism (Char Dham, Kedarnath). Aligns with India’s larger goals of Net-Zero by 2070 and National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). Key Features of the Green Cess Applicability: All vehicles registered outside Uttarakhand entering the state. Objective: Internalize environmental costs by applying the Polluter Pays Principle. Estimated Annual Collection: ~₹100 crore. Administering Body: Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPCB) under the State Environment Department. Revenue Utilization: Air quality monitoring & sensor network expansion. Dust suppression and road vacuuming projects. Green infrastructure: Urban forests, EV charging stations, green corridors. Public awareness & behavioural change campaigns. Promotion of electric vehicles and clean mobility. Economic & Environmental Rationale Environmental Fiscal Reform (EFR): Uses taxation to disincentivize pollution and generate revenue for mitigation. Tourism-linked Environmental Stress: Heavy influx of vehicles (especially diesel SUVs) from Delhi-NCR and UP. Polluter Pays Principle: Embeds the cost of environmental externalities within market mechanisms. Co-benefits: Encourages public transport, shared cabs, EV adoption. Reduces congestion and particulate emissions. Creates dedicated green fund for continuous ecological improvement. National Parallels (India) State/City Measure Key Outcome Delhi NCR Environment Compensation Charge (ECC) on commercial vehicles Reduced entry of old diesel trucks, improved AQI marginally Himachal Pradesh Green Fee on vehicles entering tourist towns (Manali, Shimla) Finances solid waste and parking management Goa Entry Tax on out-of-state vehicles Used for coastal zone management Ladakh Eco-tax on tourists and vehicles Revenue for glacier and biodiversity conservation Sikkim Sustainable Tourism Fee Funds trekking route maintenance and reforestation Learning for Uttarakhand: Success depends on transparent fund utilization, earmarked green spending, and measurable pollution reduction. Global Parallels Country/City Mechanism Key Learning London (UK) Congestion Charge and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) Reduced NO₂ levels by ~25%, boosted EV adoption Singapore Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) Dynamic pricing curbs congestion, reinvested in mass transit Norway CO₂-based Vehicle Tax Drastically increased EV share (over 80% new car sales) Sweden Carbon Tax (1991) Shift from fossil fuels to renewables; model for EFR success Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) on tourists Controls inflow, funds environmental projects Inference: Globally, eco-taxes serve dual goals — behavioral change + revenue for sustainability projects. Administrative & Policy Dimensions Legal Backing: Can be notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, or through a State Finance Bill. Implementation Agencies: Uttarakhand Transport Department (collection mechanism) UKPCB (project financing and monitoring) Monitoring: Integration with FASTag or ANPR systems for automated cess collection. Transparency Measures: Annual Green Cess Utilization Report. Public dashboard for tracking revenue allocation. Potential Challenges Administrative: Setting up collection points at multiple entry routes (Haridwar, Rampur, Rudrapur). Equity Concerns: Frequent visitors and commercial transporters may face high burden. Economic: Tourism operators fear deterrence to visitors, affecting livelihoods. Accountability: Ensuring cess funds are not diverted to non-environmental uses. Coordination: Requires alignment with central programs like NCAP and National Mission on Sustainable Habitat. Long-Term Implications Positive: Builds a sustainable fiscal base for environmental protection. Encourages inter-state learning on green taxation. Strengthens Uttarakhand’s case as an eco-conscious tourist destination. Risks: If poorly implemented, may become a revenue tool rather than environmental reform. Possible pushback from tourism sector without visible green outcomes. Integration with Broader Policy Frameworks National: NCAP (2019) – Targets 40% reduction in PM levels by 2026. National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives on vehicular emissions. FAME-II Scheme promoting EV adoption. National Clean Energy Fund model for cross-sector green spending. International Commitments: Paris Agreement & Glasgow Pact – internalizing carbon pricing. SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land). Way Forward Institutionalize a “Green Fund” with independent audit and citizen oversight. Differential Cess Design: Lower rate for EVs, higher for diesel and heavy vehicles. Tourist Management Policy: Seasonal caps, parking limits, shuttle-based last-mile connectivity. Green Infrastructure Priorities: Urban forests in Mussoorie & Nainital. Solar-powered public transport. Dust-free road zones in pilgrimage circuits. Public Communication: Campaign linking tourism with ecological responsibility — “Clean Himalaya, Green Himalaya”. ‘Dunki Route’ and the Dark Side of Irregular Migration Why in News On October 26, 2025, 50 men from Haryana (aged 25–40) were deported from the United States after being caught for illegal entry and stay via the “Dunki route.” They had paid hefty sums (₹25–60 lakh each) to human traffickers promising entry into the U.S. through Latin America. The deportation is part of a U.S. crackdown on irregular migrants, under which ~2,500 Indians have been deported since January 2023. Relevance GS-2 (Governance, International Relations): Human trafficking, migration diplomacy, India–U.S. bilateral cooperation. GS-3 (Internal Security): Transnational crime, money laundering, illegal migration networks. GS-1 (Society): Rural distress, aspiration-driven migration, demographic pressures. What is the ‘Dunki Route’? The “Dunki route” refers to illegal backdoor migration routes used by Indians to reach Western countries—especially the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The route typically passes through South America (Brazil, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico) and involves crossing dangerous terrains to enter the U.S. illegally. The term “Dunki” (Punjabi slang) derives from “donkey” — implying an underground, risky, and unapproved method of travel. Key Facts from the Current Incident Financial loss: Each migrant spent between ₹29–58 lakh, selling land or taking high-interest loans. Journey duration: 60–120 days via South America. Arrests: Many detained in Georgia and Texas, jailed for 10–14 months before deportation. Deportation logistics: Flights operated under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) coordination. National Scale of the Issue MEA data (Jan 2023–Oct 2025): ~2,500 Indians deported or repatriated from the U.S. States most affected: Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh. Previous major deportation: Feb 5, 2025 — U.S. Air Force C-17 flight with 104 Indians landed in Amritsar, the longest deportation flight in U.S. history. India ranks among the top 5 source countries for irregular migrants intercepted at the U.S.–Mexico border. Economic and Social Drivers Push Factors (India): Agrarian distress and rural unemployment in North Indian states. Aspirations for better earnings and social mobility abroad. Social prestige associated with foreign migration in Punjab–Haryana belt. Weak local job opportunities for educated youth. Pull Factors (Destination Countries): Labour demand in U.S. service and agriculture sectors. Smuggler networks offering “guaranteed entry” packages. Circulation of social media success stories of those who settled illegally. The Human Trafficking and Agent Nexus Operated by interconnected networks spanning India, Latin America, and U.S.–Mexico border states. Payment model: Agents take partial advance in India; balance on “arrival.” False promises: Legal work permits, safe passage, or “political asylum.” Criminality: Violates the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, and Foreigners Act, 1946. Risk factors: Exposure to robbery, extortion, sexual exploitation, and even death. No legal protection or recourse abroad. U.S. Policy Context U.S. Immigration Enforcement: Since 2022, tightened asylum and border-entry policies under Title 8 deportations (post-Title 42 repeal). Bilateral cooperation: India and U.S. have agreed to streamline repatriations and combat illegal human trafficking networks. Deportees are flown back under ICE Air Operations, with coordination from MEA & Indian missions. Legal and Diplomatic Aspects India’s stance: Zero tolerance toward illegal migration but emphasizes humane treatment of deportees. MEA & MHA coordinate with Interpol and U.S. Homeland Security to identify trafficking rackets. Embassies facilitate verification, travel documents, and safe return. State police & CID investigate local agents under Sections 370 & 420 IPC (Trafficking & Cheating). Wider National Implications Highlights India’s irregular migration crisis, with thousands stranded or jailed abroad. Brain drain risk: Educated youth leaving rural India through illegal means due to lack of quality employment. Debt crisis: Families forced into bankruptcy after paying ₹30–60 lakh to agents. Governance challenge: Need for integration of deportees and rehabilitation schemes at the district level. Global Context and Parallels Country/Region Comparable Trend Policy Response Mexico–Central America “Coyote” networks smuggling Latin Americans to U.S. U.S. assistance programs, regional migration compacts North Africa–Europe Illegal crossings from Libya to Italy/Spain EU–Africa Migration Partnership; strict maritime border control Philippines Irregular migration via Gulf states Stringent licensing of recruitment agencies Bangladesh–Malaysia Human trafficking by sea routes Joint task forces and rehabilitation policies Lesson: Global responses combine law enforcement, safe migration awareness, and local job creation. Government and Policy Response (India) MEA Measures: Crackdown on fake travel agents through passport verification & police NOCs. Awareness drives via embassies and state governments. MHA & State Police: Haryana CID tracking 100+ suspected human smuggling agents. FIRs under IPC 420, 370, and Passport Act violations. Skill Development Link: Integration with PM Vishwakarma Yojana, Skill India Mission to generate domestic employment. Migration Governance Framework: Strengthen e-Migrate portal (currently for Gulf migration) to cover Western destinations. Introduce a National Anti-Human Smuggling Policy. Ethical and Societal Dimensions Reflects moral hazard where desperation overrides legality. Raises questions on agents’ accountability, state regulation, and society’s glorification of foreign success. Deportees face social stigma, making reintegration difficult. Long-term Way Forward Preventive: Awareness campaigns in rural belts on risks of “Dunki” migration. Stricter licensing and monitoring of travel and placement agents. Data-sharing MoUs with the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Brazil. Curative: Rehabilitation schemes for deportees (skill training, debt relief). Legal aid and compensation for victims of trafficking. Collaboration with UNODC & IOM for safe migration corridors. Structural: Boost rural livelihoods under PMEGP, NRLM, Agri Value Chains. Promote legal migration routes through bilateral labour agreements. IUCN World Heritage Outlook 4 Why in News ? The IUCN’s World Heritage Outlook 4 (2025) categorised the Western Ghats, Manas National Park (Assam), and Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal) as “of significant concern” among Asia’s natural World Heritage sites. Marks a decline in global conservation performance, with only 57% of sites showing a positive outlook, down from 63% in 2014, 2017, and 2020. Relevance GS-3 (Environment): Conservation, Biodiversity, Environmental Degradation, Climate Change GS-2 (Governance): International Cooperation – IUCN, UNESCO, CBD, GBF About the IUCN World Heritage Outlook A global conservation assessment that evaluates the state of all natural and mixed UNESCO World Heritage Sites every three years. Uses categories: Good Good with Some Concerns Significant Concern Critical Evaluates management effectiveness, threat levels, and conservation prospects. Outlook 4 (2025) is based on 200+ site assessments conducted since 2014. Key Findings (2025) Global trend: Decline in positive conservation outlook (from 63% to 57%). New threats identified: Roads and railways among top 5 threats (not previously listed). Intensified climate change impact on ecosystems. Top four threats in South Asia: Climate Change Tourism Pressure Invasive Alien Species Infrastructure (Roads, Dams) Sites of “Significant Concern” (India) 1. Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot: Older than the Himalayas, rich in endemic flora and fauna. Home to: ~325 globally threatened species (IUCN Red List). Major threats: Hydropower projects (e.g.,₹5,843 crore Sillahalla Pumped Storage Project). Monoculture plantations (eucalyptus, acacia). Tourism-induced waste and elephant-human conflict. Climate-driven species migration (Nilgiri flycatcher shifting to higher altitudes). Policy context: Conflicts over Kasturirangan and Gadgil panel recommendations on Western Ghats protection. 2. Manas National Park (Assam) UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, part of Manas Tiger Reserve. Concerns: Encroachment and illegal grazing. Political instability in Bodoland region in the past. Poaching pressure and invasive weeds. Habitat degradation affecting tigers, rhinos, and elephants. 3. Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal) World’s largest mangrove delta, shared by India and Bangladesh. Home to: Bengal Tiger, estuarine crocodile, fishing cats. Key threats: Rising sea levels and salinity. Heavy metal contamination and unregulated fishing. Storm surges and coastal erosion. Shrinking mangrove diversity. Other Indian Sites (Better Status) “Good with Some Concerns”: Kaziranga National Park Keoladeo National Park Great Himalayan National Park Nanda Devi & Valley of Flowers “Good”: Khangchendzonga National Park (Sikkim) — only Indian site in this top tier. Comparative Global Context China: Seven sites ranked “bestprotected,” including Mount Huangshan Chengjiang Fossil Site Badain Jaran Desert Global Significance: Natural WH sites = <1% of Earth’s surface Host >20% of mapped species richness (>1,00,000 species). Global Framework Link: Supports Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) targets to halt biodiversity loss by 2030. Structural and Policy Challenges (India & Asia) Habitat fragmentation: Roads, dams, and linear infrastructure bisect protected areas. Poor inter-agency coordination: Forest, energy, and tourism departments often work in silos. Invasive species management: Weak enforcement of biosecurity norms. Tourism mismanagement: Unregulated resorts, vehicular pollution, waste mismanagement. Climate adaptation gaps: Lack of wildlife corridors and assisted migration policies. Positive Interventions & Opportunities Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) notifications under Environment (Protection) Act. Project Tiger & Project Elephant integration for landscape-level conservation. Global support: UNESCO-IUCN collaboration under the “World Heritage Leadership Programme”. Community-based conservation: Western Ghats’ sacred groves (community-preserved patches). Eco-development in buffer zones (e.g., Kaziranga’s rural livelihood schemes). Way Forward Policy Coherence: Integrate biodiversity into energy, infrastructure, and tourism planning. Climate-Resilient Conservation: Strengthen climate refugia within protected areas. Monitor species migration patterns. Restoration over Protection: Move from reactive to proactive habitat restoration. Technology Integration: Remote sensing, AI-based forest cover tracking, DNA barcoding for invasive species. Local Community Empowerment: Expand Joint Forest Management (JFM) to heritage zones. Global Partnerships: Use India’s G20 “LiFE” and CBD-GBF commitments to fund restoration and adaptation projects. 22nd India–ASEAN Summit (Kuala Lumpur, 2025) Why in News ? PM Narendra Modi addressed the 22nd ASEAN–India Summit (October 2025, Kuala Lumpur) virtually. Highlighted that the India–ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership remains resilient amid global geopolitical uncertainties. Announced plans to enhance maritime security cooperation in 2026. Timor-Leste was formally welcomed as ASEAN’s newest member. Relevance GS-2(International Relations) : India’s Act East Policy, Bilateral & Regional Groupings, Indo-Pacific Cooperation. India–ASEAN Partnership Initiated: 1992 (Sectoral Dialogue Partner) → Full Dialogue Partner (1996) → Strategic Partnership (2012) → Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2022). Institutional Mechanisms: Annual ASEAN–India Summit (since 2002). East Asia Summit (EAS), ADMM+ (Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus), ARF (ASEAN Regional Forum). ASEAN Members (11 including new entrant Timor-Leste): Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste (2025). Highlights of PM Modi’s Remarks “Even in this era of uncertainties” (referring to wars, supply chain disruptions, and global power shifts), India–ASEAN partnership remains strong. Called ASEAN a “cultural partner”, emphasizing shared civilizational heritage — Buddhism, maritime trade, Nalanda links. Stated: “The 21st century is the century of India and ASEAN.” Proposed enhanced cooperation in maritime security, especially in: Freedom of Navigation and maritime domain awareness (MDA). Joint patrols, disaster response, and anti-piracy measures. Reaffirmed support for a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, aligned with ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). Strategic & Economic Context India–ASEAN Trade (2024): Over USD 130 billion, with target to reach USD 200 billion by 2030. Investment: ASEAN is India’s 4th largest trading partner; India is ASEAN’s 6th largest. Key Sectors: Electronics, digital economy, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, supply chains. Maritime Security Significance: ~90% of India’s trade by volume passes through the Indo-Pacific sea lanes. ASEAN’s centrality crucial for maintaining balance amid China’s assertiveness in South China Sea. Why the 2025 Summit Matters ? Geopolitical backdrop: Ukraine war and Israel conflict disrupting global energy and food security. China’s Belt and Road expansion and militarization in the South China Sea. India’s “Act East Policy” and Indo-Pacific vision gaining traction among ASEAN partners. Maritime cooperation push reflects: India’s strategic intent to counterbalance China. Strengthening of supply-chain resilience and digital connectivity through ASEAN. Inclusion of Timor-Leste expands ASEAN’s footprint, bridging Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Institutional Cooperation Frameworks Plan of Action (2021–2025): To implement the ASEAN–India Partnership Vision. Next Plan (2026–2030): Expected to integrate maritime, digital, and climate dimensions. ASEAN–India Maritime Exercise (AIME 2023): First joint naval drill in South China Sea. Connectivity Initiatives: India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway. Kaladan Multimodal Transit Project. ASEAN–India Air Transport Agreement (under negotiation). Cultural & People-to-People Ties Shared Heritage: Ancient trade and cultural links — from Chola–Srivijaya maritime ties to spread of Buddhism. Scholarship & Education: Over 1,000 ASEAN students study in India under ASEAN–India Fellowship Programme. Tourism & Connectivity: Promotion of Buddhist circuit, direct air links, and digital visas. Challenges Trade Imbalance: ASEAN’s exports to India outweigh imports. Slow Project Execution: Connectivity projects (like IMT Highway) face delays. China’s Influence: ASEAN’s economic dependence on China limits strategic alignment with India. Political Instability: Military coup in Myanmar complicates connectivity routes. Global Comparisons Japan–ASEAN (2023): “Golden Friendship” initiative for green and digital partnerships. US–ASEAN (2024): Comprehensive Strategic Partnership focusing on AI, semiconductors. India–ASEAN (2025): Prioritising maritime security, youth exchanges, and resilient supply chains, balancing economic and strategic goals. Way Forward Strengthen Indo-Pacific Partnerships: Align ASEAN’s AOIP with India’s IPOI for regional synergy. Focus on Blue Economy: Marine resource sustainability, ocean energy, and fisheries. Accelerate Connectivity: Fast-track IMT Highway & Kaladan projects for trade integration. Digital and Green Corridors: Promote EV supply chains, renewable energy linkages. Institutional Deepening: Launch ASEAN–India 2.0 framework (2026–2030) with measurable goals. Municipal bonds now eligible for repo, reverse repo deals Why in News ? The Finance Ministry has allowed municipal bonds to be used as eligible collateral in repo and reverse repo transactions, as per a notification under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Act, 1992. This move effectively creates a new investible asset class and aims to deepen India’s municipal bond market. Relevance GS-3 (Economy): Financial markets, urban infrastructure financing, fiscal decentralization. GS-2 (Governance): Strengthening local governance and municipal accountability. GS-1 (Urbanization): Financing challenges of rapidly urbanizing India. Concept Basics: What are Municipal Bonds Definition: Debt instruments issued by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to raise funds for infrastructure projects (e.g., water supply, sanitation, urban mobility). Types: General Obligation Bonds: Backed by the issuer’s credit and taxing power. Revenue Bonds: Secured by specific revenue streams (e.g., tolls, user charges). Legal Framework in India: SEBI’s 2015 Regulations – Issue and Listing of Debt Securities by Municipalities. Requires credit rating, financial disclosure, and no default record in previous 365 days. Significance of Allowing Repo Eligibility Liquidity and Depth Before: Municipal bonds were largely illiquid, held mainly by long-term investors (pension funds, ESG investors). Now: Can be used for short-term borrowing/lending, attracting banks, mutual funds, insurers, etc. Enhances market depth, price discovery, and liquidity. Broader Investor Base Expands participation from institutional investors who prefer liquid securities. Improves credit visibility and market confidence in ULBs. Infrastructure Financing Enables cash-strapped municipalities to fund urban infrastructure (water, waste, transport, green projects) through market borrowings rather than dependence on grants. Fiscal Decentralization Strengthens financial autonomy of urban local bodies, consistent with the 74th Constitutional Amendment and Atmanirbhar Bharat’s decentralisation goals. Inclusion in Money Market Ecosystem Puts municipal bonds on par with sovereign and corporate bonds for short-term liquidity operations. Challenges & Constraints Challenge Explanation Low Credit Quality of ULBs Most municipalities have weak balance sheets, limited revenue sources (property tax collection <0.2% of GDP). Lack of Disclosure & Transparency Many ULBs don’t maintain audited accounts or meet SEBI disclosure norms. Limited Investor Appetite Past issuances (₹3,300 crore as of Sep 2025) are minuscule compared to central/state issuances (₹20–25 lakh crore annually). Risk of Default Despite being “secured”, weak governance and revenue unpredictability raise credit risk. Capacity Gaps Small/medium ULBs lack technical capacity to issue or manage bonds effectively. Data & Trends First modern municipal bond: Ahmedabad, 1998. Total raised till 2025: ~₹3,300 crore (SEBI). Top issuers: Pune, Hyderabad, Indore, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Lucknow. GoI incentive: ₹13 crore for every ₹100 crore bond issue (since FY18). Credit Costs: Gradual moderation in H2FY26 as repayment trends improve (Kotak Mahindra Bank). Global Context Country Model / Lesson United States $4 trillion municipal bond market; deeply liquid; backed by local tax revenues and often insured; key to financing schools, roads, and hospitals. Japan Local government bonds supported by strong fiscal discipline and transparent credit data. Brazil Uses municipal debt for urban transport and housing, supported by fiscal transfer guarantees. South Africa Johannesburg pioneered local government bonds (2004) to fund urban infrastructure; backed by robust local governance frameworks. Learning for India: Need for robust credit rating system, disclosure norms, and municipal finance reform to emulate mature bond ecosystems. Policy & Institutional Enablers SEBI 2015 Regulations – standardised issuance process. 15th Finance Commission – recommended incentives for municipal bond issuances. AMRUT 2.0 and National Urban Infrastructure Fund (NUIF) – facilitate city-level creditworthiness enhancement. Smart Cities Mission – encourages credit rating of cities. RBI & SEBI Coordination – repo eligibility links bond market to central liquidity mechanisms. Way Forward Credit Enhancement Mechanisms: State guarantees, pooled finance models (like Tamil Nadu Urban Development Fund). Transparency Reforms: Mandatory annual financial disclosures of ULBs. Digital Municipal Market Infrastructure: Centralized municipal bond exchange portal for real-time trading. Capacity Building: Training local officials on project finance and bond issuance. Green & Social Bonds: Promote ESG-focused municipal instruments to attract sustainable finance.

Oct 25, 2025 Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 25 October 2025

Content PM-ABHIM India’s Expanding Green Footprint PM-ABHIM Context Background: COVID-19 exposed critical gaps in India’s public health infrastructure—testing, surveillance, ICU capacity, and rural accessibility. Lesson: India required a decentralized, multi-tiered, and resilient health infrastructure for pandemic preparedness and public health emergencies. Response: Launched PM-ABHIM (Pradhan Mantri–Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission) on October 25, 2021, as part of India’s long-term pandemic response strategy. Relevance GS-2 (Governance & Health Policy): Strengthening health systems, cooperative federalism in health governance, and decentralised service delivery. GS-2 (Social Justice): Universal Health Coverage (UHC), equitable healthcare access, and public health preparedness. GS-3 (Disaster Management): Pandemic resilience, critical care infrastructure, and One Health integration. Objectives Strengthen health systems across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Ensure pandemic preparedness through upgraded surveillance, research, and critical care. Bridge service delivery gaps between urban and rural healthcare. Support Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and SDG-3 (Good Health & Well-being). Policy Frameworks and Linkages National Health Policy (2017): Stressed community-level health resilience and trained first responders. Envisioned integrated disaster preparedness at all levels of governance. National Health Mission (2005): Established decentralized, community-owned healthcare systems. Improved MCH, disease control, and infrastructure—served as PM-ABHIM’s foundation. Ayushman Bharat (2018): Four Pillars PM-JAY: Secondary & tertiary care insurance. Arogya Mandirs (HWCs): Strengthened primary care. ABDM: Digital health ecosystem. PM-ABHIM: Physical infrastructure for resilience. Budget and Timeframe Total Outlay (2021–26): ₹64,180 crore Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS): ₹54,204.78 crore Central Sector (CS): ₹9,339.78 crore Year-wise Allocation (₹ crore): Year Allocation (₹ crore) 2021–22 9,155.97 2022–23 10,465.09 2023–24 11,015.80 2024–25 13,551.30 2025–26 19,356.40 Total 63,544.56 + M&E (1%) = ₹64,180 crore 15th Finance Commission: Supported ₹19,272.43 crore share for health infrastructure augmentation. Core Components Primary Level (Community Access) Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs): Conversion of sub-health centres and PHCs into HWCs. 17,788 building-less SHCs approved for AAMs. 9,519 AAMs & 5,456 U-AAMs (urban slum areas) sanctioned. Secondary Level (Block-level Strengthening) Block Public Health Units (BPHUs): 3,382 planned; enhance surveillance, HR, and diagnostics. Integrate with e-health and disease monitoring systems. District Level Integrated Public Health Laboratories (IPHLs): 730 under development (1 per district). Ensure real-time testing, diagnostics, and outbreak investigation. Critical Care Hospital Blocks (CCBs): 602 being set up in districts >5 lakh population. Aim: 50–100 ICU beds per district for pandemic response. Pandemic Preparedness and Surveillance Network Real-time IT-enabled Disease Surveillance: Connects block → district → state → national labs. Enables early detection and containment of infectious disease outbreaks. One Health Approach: Integrates human, animal, and environmental health surveillance. Aligns with global zoonotic disease control frameworks (e.g., WHO Pandemic Agreement). Research and Innovation Encourages research on emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Supports collaboration with ICMR, DBT, and WHO’s PABS system for pathogen sharing and benefit access. Establishment of regional research hubs and bio-containment labs. Global Framework links WHO Pandemic Agreement (May 2025): Promotes equity in vaccine and diagnostic access. Introduces Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) and Global Supply Chain & Logistics Network (GSCL). Complements International Health Regulations (IHR, amended 2024) — both enhance outbreak readiness. Alignment with SDG-3 Targets: End epidemics of communicable diseases by 2030. Ensure access to safe, effective, affordable vaccines and medicines. Achieve UHC through strengthened national health systems. Administrative Progress Total approvals: ₹32,928.82 crore to States/UTs. Infrastructure Approved: 9,519 AAMs 5,456 U-AAMs 2,151 BPHUs 744 IPHLs 621 CCBs Coverage: All States and UTs under CSS implementation mode (FY 2021–26). Implementation Model Governance Mechanism: Convergent approach between MoHFW, State Health Departments, and Local Bodies. Regular monitoring via Health Management Information System (HMIS). Financing: 60:40 (Centre: State) for most States. 90:10 for NE & Hill States. 100% for UTs without legislature. Integration: PM-ABHIM + PM-JAY + ABDM = holistic health ecosystem (digital + financial + infrastructure). Significance Marks India’s largest health infrastructure investment since Independence. Builds “Health Security Architecture” — resilient, responsive, and equitable. Supports Make in India in Health by boosting diagnostics and medical technology ecosystems. Strengthens India’s epidemic intelligence and critical care readiness. Challenges Implementation capacity: Varies across States. Human resources: Shortage of trained epidemiologists, lab technicians, ICU staff. Maintenance: Sustainability post-2026 depends on State funding continuity. Urban-rural disparity: Urban AAM coverage still lower than target. Way Forward Institutionalize National Public Health Cadre under NHP 2017 vision. Expand Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) for all 700+ districts. Leverage Digital Health Mission (ABDM) for telemedicine and data integration. Strengthen One Health and AMR surveillance through inter-ministerial coordination (MoHFW–MoA–MoEFCC). Periodic simulation exercises and pandemic drills across States. Conclusion PM-ABHIM (2021–26) represents India’s transition from a reactive to proactive health system, embedding pandemic readiness into national development planning. With ₹64,180 crore investment, integration across levels, and alignment with SDG-3 and WHO’s Pandemic Agreement (2025), it has redefined India’s approach to health security. As India moves toward Universal Health Coverage by 2030, PM-ABHIM remains the backbone of a resilient, inclusive, and self-reliant healthcare infrastructure. India’s Expanding Green Footprint Context Report Released: Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025 by FAO on 22 October 2025. FAO (UN Agency): Leads international efforts on food security and sustainable natural resource management, including forests. Significance: GFRA is the world’s most comprehensive official database on forest area, change, and carbon balance, based on national submissions. Relevance: GS-3 (Environment): Afforestation, carbon sequestration, and sustainable forest management. GS-3 (Climate Change): India’s contribution to global carbon sinks, NDC targets, and climate resilience. GS-2 (Governance): Community-based forest governance, JFMCs, and decentralised natural resource management. GS-1 (Geography): Distribution and trends in forest cover and land use change. Global Forest Scenario (GFRA 2025) Total Global Forest Area: ~4.14 billion hectares, covering 32% of Earth’s land area (~0.5 ha per person). Regional Distribution: Europe: 25% of global forests (largest area). South America: 49% of its land area under forests (highest proportion). Top 5 forest-rich nations: Russia, Brazil, Canada, USA, China (hold 54% of total global forests). Trend: Net forest loss declined from 10.7 million ha/year (1990–2000) to 4.12 million ha/year (2015–2025) → indicates global slowdown in deforestation. India’s Performance Rank in Total Forest Area: 9th globally (up from 10th in 2020). Rank in Net Annual Forest Area Gain: 3rd globally (maintained). Rank among Global Carbon Sinks: 5th — forests remove 150 million tonnes (Mt) of CO₂ per year (2021–25). India’s Forest Area: 72,739 thousand hectares (~72.7 million ha) → about 2% of global forest area. Share of Global Wood Removals: 9%, ranking 2nd globally (2023). Forest Category Classification (FAO Framework) Naturally Regenerating Forests: Native species regenerating without planting. Planted Forests: Plantation Forests: Managed for commercial species (e.g., rubber, eucalyptus). Other Planted Forests: Planted but not commercially managed. Primary Forests: Intact native forests, no human intervention. India’s Success in Planted Forests Bamboo Global Bamboo Area: 30.1 million ha. Asia: 21.2 million ha (70%). India: 11.8 million ha → largest in Asia after China. Increase (1990–2025): +8.05 million ha globally → driven by India & China. Rubber Global Rubber Plantations: 10.9 million ha. India: 831 thousand ha (0.831 million ha) → 5th globally. Agro-forestry Contribution Asia’s Agroforestry Area: ~39.3 million ha, almost entirely from India & Indonesia. Global Agroforestry: 55.4 million ha → India + Indonesia = 70% share. Significance: Enhances carbon sequestration, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience. Deforestation and net gains (1990–2025) India: Achieved net forest gain due to large-scale afforestation and reduced deforestation. Global Trend: Decline in deforestation rates + expansion in Asia and Europe. Drivers of India’s Net Gain: National Afforestation Programmes. Green India Mission. Community-based Joint Forest Management (JFMCs). Global Forest Carbon Sink Trends (2021–2025) Parameter Global Estimate (2021–2025) Forest carbon sequestration 3.6 Gt CO₂ per year Emissions from net forest conversion 2.8 Gt CO₂ per year Net global sink effect 0.8 Gt CO₂ per year (down from 1.4 Gt in 2011–15) Strongest regional sinks Europe (1.4 Gt), Asia (0.9 Gt) India’s Contribution Carbon removals: 150 Mt CO₂ per year (2021–25). Forest carbon sink rank: 5th globally. Emission reduction: Asia-wide deforestation emissions have declined significantly. India’s domestic forest status (ISFR 2023) Total Forest Cover: 7,15,343 sq. km = 21.76% of India’s geographical area. Tree Cover (outside recorded forest): 2.82%. Combined Forest + Tree Cover: ~24.62% of India’s area. Top States by Forest Area Rank State Forest Area (sq km) 1 Madhya Pradesh 77,073 2 Arunachal Pradesh 65,882 3 Chhattisgarh 55,812 Mangroves India’s total mangrove cover: 4,992 sq km. Key states: A&N Islands, Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal. Protected Areas (2025) National Parks: 106 Wildlife Sanctuaries: 573 Conservation Reserves: 115 Community Reserves: 220 Govt. initiatives towards forest expansion (a) Budgetary Support (2025–26) MoEFCC Allocation: ₹3,412.82 crore (↑9% from ₹3,125.96 crore in 2024–25). Revenue Expenditure: ₹3,276.82 crore (96% of total). (b) National Mission for a Green India (GIM) Launch: February 2014 under NAPCC. Objectives: Expand 5 million ha of new forest/tree cover. Improve quality of 5 million ha of existing forests. Enhance carbon sinks & biodiversity. Improve livelihoods of ~3 million forest-dependent families. (c) National Afforestation Programme (NAP) Focus: Regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining areas. Implementation: State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) – State level. Forest Development Agency (FDA) – Division level. Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) – Village level. (d) Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) Global Recognition: UN Environment Assembly adopted a resolution based on India’s Mission LiFE philosophy. Initiatives: MeriLiFE Portal – promotes sustainable actions. “Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam” – mass plantation campaign linking environment to emotion. Outcomes and Impact India’s Forest Cover (1990–2025): Continuous net positive growth. Carbon Sink Function: +150 Mt CO₂/year → vital for India’s NDC target of 2.5–3 Gt CO₂ equivalent carbon sink by 2030. Global Standing: 9th in total area, 3rd in net gain, 5th in carbon removals. Social Impact: Improved rural livelihoods via agroforestry and bamboo-based industries. Challenges Forest Degradation: Despite area gain, quality (canopy density) remains a concern — only dense forests form ~9.5% of area. Invasive Species: Lantana camara, Prosopis, etc., affecting biodiversity. Balancing Development & Conservation: Infrastructure projects encroaching into forest lands. Institutional Fragmentation: Overlaps among MoEFCC, State Forest Departments, and JFMCs. Way Forward Increase Quality Forests: Focus on natural regeneration and dense cover improvement. Expand Urban Forestry: Integrate under Smart Cities and AMRUT 2.0. Promote Bamboo & Agroforestry Industries: For carbon credits and green jobs. Leverage Carbon Markets: Use India’s forest carbon removals in international carbon trading. Digitize Forest Data: Integrate ISFR + GFRA + Forest Fire Alerts + LiFE Portal into one unified dashboard. Community Empowerment: Incentivize JFMCs and Eco-Development Committees through Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES). Conclusion India’s consistent rise in forest cover, carbon sink rank, and afforestation pace demonstrates a model of development aligned with ecological balance. With 72.7 million ha of forests, 9% of global wood removals, and 150 Mt CO₂ sequestration annually, India has emerged as a key contributor to global climate stability. Through policies like GIM, NAP, and Mission LiFE, India’s green growth aligns both with SDG-13 (Climate Action) and SDG-15 (Life on Land) — marking a decisive step toward carbon neutrality and environmental leadership by 2070.

Oct 25, 2025 Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 25 October 2025

Content Please Mind the Gap Respect the health rights of India’s children Please Mind the Gap Context The Government of India is considering a policy to attract Indian-origin “star faculty” in STEM fields from abroad to work in Indian institutions. The move coincides with restrictive US immigration and funding policies (Trump-era tightening, continuing post-COVID). Objective: Strengthen India’s research ecosystem, reverse brain drain, and establish India as a global knowledge hub. Relevance GS-2 (Governance): Administrative reforms, institutional capacity, public service efficiency. GS-3 (Science & Technology): R&D ecosystem, innovation policy, human capital, brain drain. GS-3 (Economy): Technological self-reliance, knowledge economy, global competitiveness. Practice Question The Government’s plan to attract Indian-origin “star faculty” from abroad can help reverse India’s brain drain only if accompanied by deep institutional reforms. Discuss.(250 Words) Background Over 3.32 lakh Indian students were enrolled in US universities in 2023–24 (IIE Open Doors Report, 2024). India is one of the largest source of STEM PhD talent in the US — ~12% of all foreign PhDs (NSF, 2023). The scheme seeks to convert this “brain drain” into “brain circulation”, offering return pathways with infrastructure and autonomy. Objectives of the Scheme Long-term engagement (not short-term consultancies). Integration into premier institutions — IITs, IISc, IISERs, AIIMS, CSIR labs. Substantial set-up grants (potentially ₹5–10 crore per investigator, modeled on DST’s Swarnajayanti Fellowships). Foster collaborative innovation ecosystems between domestic and global research communities. Major Challenges Identified (a) Administrative & Bureaucratic Barriers India’s research process is heavily bureaucratic: Scientists spend 20–30% of time on administrative tasks (DST internal audit, 2022). Example: Delays of 6–12 months in equipment tendering are common due to overlapping financial oversight. (b) Institutional & Cultural Adjustment Returning scientists face a rigid hierarchy and lack of academic autonomy. Indian institutions have low international faculty ratio — only 0.5% (QS World Rankings, 2025). Sudden re-entry into bureaucratic culture contrasts with the performance-based, decentralized systems of US/Europe. (c) Financial Disparities Average assistant professor salary: India: ₹12–16 lakh/year US: ₹90,000–$120,000/year (~₹75–100 lakh/year) Even adjusted for PPP (Purchasing Power Parity), India’s net advantage remains below 40%. Research funding per faculty: IITs: ~$40,000/year US R1 universities: ~$300,000/year (NSF, 2023). (d) Social & Logistical Constraints Public services (housing, schooling, healthcare) often inadequate for global returnees. Limited international schooling in Tier-II research cities (IISER Bhopal, NISER Bhubaneswar, etc.). Frequent transfers, poor campus facilities, and red-tape in relocation deter long-term engagement. Comparative Example – China’s “Thousand Talents Program” Launched: 2008; later expanded as “Overseas High-Level Talent Program.” Offers: RMB 1–3 million (₹1–3 crore) in start-up grants, Tax-free relocation benefits, Housing subsidies, and Guaranteed tenured positions. Result: Over 7,000 top Chinese-origin researchers returned by 2020. China’s GERD (Gross Expenditure on R&D) rose from 1.4% (2008) to 2.7% of GDP (2023). Contributed to rise in Nature Index ranking — China now ranks #2 globally (after the US). Challenges: Native faculty resentment and occasional cases of “dual loyalty” scrutiny. India’s Current R&D Landscape (Data-Driven Snapshot) Indicator India (2023–24) Comparator GERD (% of GDP) 0.7% China: 2.7%, USA: 3.4%, Israel: 5.4% Govt share of R&D 55% OECD Avg: 25% Private sector share 45% OECD Avg: 75% Researchers per million 262 Global Avg: 1,341 No. of publications (Scopus, 2024) 2.75 lakh USA: 7.1 lakh Patent filings (WIPO, 2024) 83,000 China: 17 lakh Global Innovation Index (2024) Rank 40 China: 12, USA: 3 Policy Implications India’s brain drain costs ~0.5% of GDP annually in lost R&D productivity (World Bank, 2023). For “brain gain,” policies must integrate structural reform + ecosystem improvement, not just repatriation. Ease of Research Index (proposed by NITI Aayog, 2025) can help track administrative efficiency. Focus should be on research clusters — like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune — to ensure scale and collaboration. Key Recommendations Simplify procurement & fund utilization: Introduce single-window research portals (expand SERB’s PRISM and SPARK initiatives). Long-term institutional autonomy: Replicate IISc’s self-governing model for other institutes. Balanced privileges: Equal benefits to resident and returning scientists to prevent resentment. R&D spending target: Raise to 1.5% of GDP by 2030, aligning with National R&D Policy (Draft 2023). Diaspora collaboration hubs: Create Global Indian Research Network (GIRN) under DST for remote collaboration. Socio-economic enablers: Provide schooling, housing, and spousal employment support to attract families sustainably. Author’s Central Argument Mere financial incentives will fail if domestic research culture remains bureaucratic. India must first ensure a vibrant ecosystem for existing scientists before expecting NRIs to return. Without long-term autonomy, flexible funding, and respect for meritocracy — the “star faculty” initiative may repeat past failures. Conclusion India stands at a crossroads: between brain drain and brain circulation. The proposed NRI scientist scheme can succeed only if backed by deep institutional reforms, sustained funding, and merit-based governance. If executed well, it could position India as a scientific powerhouse by 2047, aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. Respect the health rights of India’s children Context Incident: Death of 25 children in Madhya Pradesh due to contaminated cough syrup in October 2025. Trigger: The syrup, banned by the Union Health Ministry (April 2025) for use in children below 4 years, continued to be prescribed. Scandal: The prescribing doctor reportedly earned a ₹2.54 commission per bottle — symbolizing systemic collapse and ethical failure. The tragedy underscores regulatory weaknesses in India’s drug oversight and the lack of paediatric pharmacovigilance infrastructure. Relevance GS-2 (Governance, Social Justice): Child welfare, Article 39(f), policy implementation. GS-3 (Science & Technology, Health): Drug regulation, pharmacovigilance, WHO standards. GS-4 (Ethics): Medical ethics, public accountability, duty of care. Practice Question The recurring incidents of contaminated cough syrups highlight a deeper governance and ethical crisis in India’s pharmaceutical regulation. Discuss.(250 Words) Constitutional & Policy Backdrop Article 39(f) (DPSP): Mandates the State to ensure children are given opportunities to develop in a healthy manner and are protected from exploitation and moral/material abandonment. Children’s share in population: 39% (Census projection, 2024 ≈ 520 million). Existing child-focused policies (13 major): National Policy for Children, 1974; National Health Policy, 2017; Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram, 2013; India Newborn Action Plan, 2014, etc. Key child-related legislations (10+): PCPNDT Act, 1994; Juvenile Justice Act, 2015; RTE Act, 2009; POCSO Act, 2012; Aadhaar Act, 2016, etc. Gap: None directly regulate paediatric pharmaceuticals or establish child–specific drug safety frameworks. The Regulatory Architecture Regulatory Body Jurisdiction Key Issues CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) Large manufacturers, export approvals Limited manpower (only ~1,800 officers nationwide) State Drug Control Authorities SMEs, retail distribution Weak enforcement, fragmented coordination Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) Adverse drug reaction reporting Poor coverage for paediatric drugs FSSAI (in OTC products) Monitors nutraceutical syrups Overlaps and confusion in jurisdiction India has 10,500 licensed drug manufacturers, of which 70% are small-scale, often outside rigorous central oversight. India’s Paediatric Pharmacovigilance Gap Children are not “small adults”; drug absorption, metabolism, and toxicity differ drastically. 90–95% of global drug trials are on adults (Lancet Global Health, 2023). In India, only 2–3% of drug trials involve paediatric subjects. Result: Dosage extrapolated from adult data, leading to off-label or unlicensed use. Termed by Dr. Harry Shirkey as “therapeutic orphans” — children’s medicine needs remain neglected. International Best Practices Country/Region Key Law/Policy Key Provisions United States Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act (BPCA), 2002 Research incentives, FDA-mandated paediatric studies European Union Paediatric Use Marketing Authorisation (PUMA) Requires paediatric investigation plans before approval WHO (Global) Essential Medicines List for Children (EMLc) Defines safe, age-appropriate essential drugs Contrast: India lacks a dedicated paediatric drug act, relying only on CDSCO advisories. Even the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM 2022) updates adult formulations frequently, but the EMLc (India) remains under-reviewed since 2011. Broader Public Health Dimension Over-the-Counter (OTC) drugs (esp. for cough, cold, fever) are widely available without prescription. Estimated OTC market size: ₹38,000 crore (ASSOCHAM, 2024). Urban misuse: 58% of parents self-medicate children for minor ailments (AIIMS Pediatric Study, 2023). Pharmacist compliance: Less than 40% read or communicate label warnings (FSSAI, 2023). Public sector shortfall: Only 1 pharmacist per 6,000 citizens (WHO recommends 1:2,000). Global Context of Indian Cough Syrup Controversies Between 2022–2025, WHO issued multiple medical product alerts over Indian–madecoughsyrups linked to child deaths in: Gambia (70 deaths, 2022) – Maiden Pharmaceuticals (Haryana) Uzbekistan (65 deaths, 2022) – Marion Biotech (Noida) Cameroon, Indonesia (2023–24) – diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol contamination DEG contamination is lethal at 1 ml/kg; used improperly as a solvent substitute. These incidents tarnished India’s global image as the “Pharmacy of the Global South.” Key Data on India’s Drug Regulation Indicator India (2025) Comparator Drug inspectors ~3,000 nationwide Needed: 12,000 (Mashelkar Committee, 2003) Manufacturing units 10,500 70% uninspected in last 3 years Pharmacovigilance centers 650 (PvPI data, 2024) Only 10% linked to child drug data Testing labs 50 (Central + State) Only 18 accredited to WHO-GMP Export value of formulations $28.4 billion (FY2024–25) 45% to Global South markets Ethical, Social, and Legal Dimensions Violation of Child Rights: Using untested/off-label medicines breaches Article 39(f) and UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), ratified by India in 1992. Economic inequality: 63% of child deaths from drug toxicity occur in households below₹10,000/month income (NFHS-5 data extrapolation). Moral hazard: Low commissions and incentives drive unethical prescriptions — commercialization of care. Policy Recommendations Legislative Action Draft a Paediatric Drug Safety and Regulation Act (PDSRA) — akin to BPCA (US). Mandate Paediatric Investigation Plans (PIPs) before drug licensing. Data and Research Establish a National Paediatric Pharmacovigilance Network (NPPN) under ICMR. Fund child-specific drug trials using indigenous data. Essential Medicines Reform Annual revision of India’s EMLc (Children). Prioritize affordability and availability under Ayushman Bharat & Jan Aushadhi. Regulatory Strengthening Expand drug inspectorate by 4×; digital track-and-trace for all paediatric drugs. Zero tolerance for DEG/EG contamination; establish batch-level testing in exports. Public Awareness & Training Pharmacist and caregiver education on child dosages and labelling. Strict control of OTC sales; mandatory prescriptions for paediatric cough syrups. International Cooperation Align with WHO’s Global Surveillance and Monitoring System (GSMS) for substandard medicines. Build shared R&D with UNICEF and GAVI for safe paediatric formulations. Author’s Core Argument India’s pharmacovigilance for children is fragmented, reactive, and under-institutionalized. Children remain therapeutic orphans, denied safe medicines due to adult-centric drug frameworks. India’s responsibility as a global pharma exporter must be matched with ethical and child-safe production standards. Conclusion The Madhya Pradesh tragedy is not isolated — it is symptomatic of regulatory anemia, data vacuum, and ethical collapse. Paediatric drug safety requires legislation, infrastructure, and accountability. Protecting children’s right to safe medicine is not charity — it is a constitutional and fiduciary obligation under Article 39(f) and the UNCRC. India must shift from being the “Pharmacy of the Global South” to being the “Guardian of Safe Medicine.”

Terms and Conditions Privacy Refund Policy Learning Management System by Testpress