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Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 18th July 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 18th July – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) Blackhole merger Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context:  Scientists have detected gravitational waves from the largest black hole merger observed so far. These waves, first predicted by Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity (1915), were only directly observed in 2015 with the help of LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory). Key Points: Gravitational waves are ripples in space-time caused by massive cosmic events like black hole mergers. The newly detected event involved black holes 100–150 times larger than the Sun, which challenges current theories as such sizes were not expected to exist. One of the black holes was spinning at extremely high speeds, nearing limits set by General Relativity. The event involved a merged black hole 225 times the Sun’s mass, surpassing previous records. Significance: This discovery could refine theories about black hole formation, star evolution, and universe composition. It highlights gaps in the current understanding of stellar evolution leading to black hole formation. LIGO and Global Collaboration: LIGO first detected gravitational waves in 2015. Collaborators now include Virgo (Italy) and KAGRA (Japan). A new LIGO observatory is planned in India (Maharashtra), expected by April 2030, enhancing global detection capabilities. Learning Corner: Black Holes: A black hole is a region in space where gravity is so strong that nothing—not even light—can escape it. Formed when massive stars collapse under their own gravity at the end of their life cycle. The event horizon is the boundary beyond which nothing can return. Black holes can be of different types: stellar-mass, intermediate, and supermassive (found at the centers of galaxies). According to General Relativity, black holes warp spacetime, influencing nearby matter and light. LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory): LIGO is a large-scale physics experiment and observatory designed to detect gravitational waves—ripples in spacetime caused by massive accelerating objects like merging black holes or neutron stars. It uses laser interferometry to measure incredibly small disturbances caused by passing gravitational waves. In 2015, LIGO made the first direct detection of gravitational waves, confirming a major prediction of Einstein’s theory of general relativity. The detected signal came from the merger of two black holes about 1.3 billion light-years away. Link Between Black Holes and LIGO: Merging black holes are among the most powerful sources of gravitational waves. LIGO allows scientists to observe black holes indirectly, by detecting the gravitational waves produced during such cosmic events. This has revolutionized astrophysics by opening a new window to study invisible phenomena in the universe. Source: THE INDIAN EXPRESS Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) Category: ECONOMICS Context: Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) pulled out a net ₹77,901 crore from Indian equity markets during the first half of 2025. Key Highlights: Sector-wise Outflows (H1 2025): Highest Outflows: Information Technology: ₹30,600 crore FMCG: ₹18,178 crore Power: ₹15,422 crore Net Inflows: Telecommunication: ₹26,685 crore Financial Services: ₹13,717 crore Services: ₹7,294 crore FPI Shareholding: Declined to 16.09% of market capitalization as of June 30, 2025, down from 16.11% in December 2024. Month-wise Equity Sales (Q1 2025): January: ₹35,474 crore February: ₹34,574 crore March: ₹3,973 crore April-June 2025: FPIs turned net buyers: April: +₹4,223 crore May: +₹19,860 crore June: +₹14,590 crore Reason for Selling: Overvaluation in certain sectors, profit-booking, and reallocation contributed to the FPI exit in early 2025. Learning Corner: Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI): Definition: Investment by foreign entities in a country’s financial assets such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other marketable securities. Nature: Short-term and volatile; often called “hot money.” Control: Investors do not get direct control over the business operations of the companies they invest in. Example: Buying shares of Indian companies listed on the stock exchange. Regulator: Handled by SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India). Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Definition: Investment by foreign entities in physical assets or ownership of a company in another country. Nature: Long-term and stable. Control: Investors gain control, management rights, or a significant degree of influence over the company. Example: A foreign automobile company setting up a manufacturing plant in India. Regulator: Regulated by DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) and RBI. Key Differences: Feature FDI FPI Type of Investment Direct in physical/business assets Portfolio in financial assets Duration Long-term Short-term Control in Company Yes No Volatility Low High Regulatory Body DPIIT, RBI SEBI Source:  THE INDIAN EXPRESS Missile Tests Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context : India successfully conducted test-firings of multiple strategic missiles, showcasing its deterrence and operational readiness. Key Missile Tests: Akash Prime Test Location: Ladakh Altitude: Operates at over 4,500 metres Purpose: High-altitude air defense, tested after recent India-China tensions near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) Variant: Upgraded Akash missile for the Indian Army Part of: Operation Sindoor Prithvi-II and Agni-I Test Location: Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha Capabilities: Prithvi-II: ~350 km range, 500 kg payload Agni-I: 700–900 km range, 1,000 kg payload Type: Short-range, nuclear-capable ballistic missiles Use: Part of India’s strategic nuclear deterrent Learning Corner: Akash Prime Akash Prime is an indigenously developed upgraded version of the Akash surface-to-air missile system, designed and built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Army. Key Features: Purpose: High-altitude air defence against aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, drones, and helicopters. Range: Short- to medium-range (similar to Akash: ~25–30 km). Altitude Capability: Specifically configured to operate at high altitudes above 4,500 meters, ideal for deployment in areas like Ladakh and the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Guidance: Equipped with improved accuracy, reliability, and low-temperature operability compared to the original Akash missile. Warhead: Can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. Mobility: Can be launched from mobile platforms, increasing tactical flexibility. Recent Test: Successfully test-fired in Ladakh in July 2025 under Operation Sindoor.   Prithvi-II Missile Type: Short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile Developed by: DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) Range: Approximately 350 km Warhead Capacity: Up to 500 kg, can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads Guidance System: Advanced inertial navigation system Launch Platform: Mobile launchers Users: Operated by the Strategic Forces Command of the Indian Army Purpose: Tactical strike missile for battlefield use Recent Test: Successfully tested on 17 July 2025 from the Integrated Test Range, Odisha Agni-I Missile Type: Short-range nuclear-capable ballistic missile Developed by: DRDO Range: 700 to 900 km Warhead Capacity: Up to 1,000 kg, capable of delivering nuclear payloads Guidance System: Sophisticated navigation and control systems with high accuracy Launch Platform: Road/rail mobile launchers Users: Strategic Forces Command Role: Part of India’s nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability Recent Test: Also tested on 17 July 2025 from Chandipur, Odisha along with Prithvi-II Source :  THE INDIAN EXPRESS Changes in History textbooks Category: HISTORY Context: Raziyya Sultan & Nur Jahan Dropped from New Class 8 NCERT History Textbook  Key Omissions & Changes: Raziyya Sultan (ruled 1236–1240): Previously described as “more able and qualified” than her brothers; now not mentioned. Nur Jahan: Earlier credited with having coins struck and seals issued in her name; now dropped. No mention of any women rulers or queens from the Delhi Sultanate or Mughal period in the new book. Tipu Sultan and Haidar Ali: Also removed, with NCERT stating the new books are aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework 2023, not older content structures. Who is Newly Added: Rani Durgavati (Gond queen): Recognized for resisting Mughal attacks under Akbar in 1564. Tarabai (Maratha queen): Described as a “fearless warrior queen” who resisted Aurangzeb. Learning Corner: Raziyya Sultan Raziyya Sultan (reign: 1236–1240 CE) was the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and one of the few women in medieval Islamic history to rule independently. Key Facts: Dynasty: Slave Dynasty (Mamluk Dynasty) Father: Iltutmish, who nominated her as his successor due to her capability over his sons. Reign: 1236–1240 CE Title: Took the title “Sultan”, not “Sultana,” to assert equality with male rulers. Administration: Known for promoting merit over nobility and appointing non-Turks to key positions, which angered the Turkish nobility (Chahalgani). Challenges: Faced opposition from nobles for being a woman and for breaking orthodox norms. Downfall: Deposed and eventually killed after political instability and rebellion. Nur Jahan Nur Jahan (1577–1645) was one of the most influential women in Mughal history, known for her political power, cultural contributions, and administrative role during the reign of her husband, Emperor Jahangir. Key Facts: Birth Name: Mehr-un-Nissa Title: Given the title “Nur Jahan” meaning “Light of the World” after marrying Jahangir in 1611 CE. Political Role: Actively co-ruled with Jahangir, especially as his health declined. Issued royal farmans (decrees) in her name — rare for a Mughal empress. Had coins minted with her name — an extraordinary recognition of her authority. Administration: Influenced court appointments and foreign policy. Promoted trade and architecture, and supported widows and orphan girls. Family Influence: Her father Itimad-ud-Daulah and brother Asaf Khan held key positions. She arranged the marriage of her niece Mumtaz Mahal to Prince Khurram (later Shah Jahan). Rani Durgavati Rani Durgavati (1524–1564) was a Rajput queen of the Gond kingdom of Garha Mandla in central India (present-day Madhya Pradesh). Born into the Chandela Rajput dynasty, she married Dalpat Shah, the Gond ruler, and took over administration after his death. Renowned for her courage, administrative acumen, and military leadership, she effectively governed her kingdom and strengthened its defenses. In 1564, she fought bravely against Mughal forces led by Asaf Khan, a general under Emperor Akbar. Facing defeat, she chose to die by her own dagger rather than surrender, becoming a symbol of valour and resistance in Indian history. She is celebrated as one of the earliest women warrior rulers to fiercely resist Mughal imperialism. Tarabai Tarabai Bhosale (1675–1761) was a prominent Maratha queen and daughter-in-law of Chhatrapati Shivaji. She was the wife of Rajaram I, Shivaji’s younger son, and assumed power as regent of the Maratha empire after his death in 1700. Tarabai is remembered for her military leadership and administration during a crucial phase of Maratha history, especially for leading resistance against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Under her leadership, the Maratha forces regained lost territories and continued guerrilla warfare, successfully stalling Mughal advances in the Deccan. She is often described as a “fearless warrior queen” and was a central figure in preserving Maratha sovereignty during a period of crisis. Later, she also played a significant role in Maratha court politics, including efforts to maintain control during succession struggles. Source: THE HINDU Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Category: ECONOMICS Context: The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released the June 2025 Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) bulletin). Key Indicators (15+ years): Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): Overall: 54.2% Rural: 56.1% | Urban: 50.4% Worker Population Ratio (WPR): Overall: 51.2% Rural: 53.3% | Urban: 46.8% Unemployment Rate (UR): Overall: 5.6% Rural: ~5.0% | Urban: 5.6% Youth (15–29): 15.3% Female LFPR: ~35.2% (rural), ~25% (urban) Female WPR: 30.2% (overall), 33.6% (rural), 22.9% (urban) Trends (June vs May 2025): LFPR fell from 54.8% to 54.2% WPR dropped from 51.7% to 51.2% UR stayed steady at 5.6% Female UR slightly declined Youth UR rose from 15.0% to 15.3% Methodology Updates: Based on a rotational panel sampling design introduced in January 2025 Each household is surveyed four times over four months Sample size expanded: 89,493 households and 3.8 lakh persons surveyed in June 2025 Learning Corner: Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) is a nationwide labour and employment survey launched by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) in April 2017, conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO). Objectives: To provide estimates of key labour market indicators such as: Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) Worker Population Ratio (WPR) Unemployment Rate (UR) To generate data for both urban and rural areas at frequent intervals. Key Features: Uses two approaches: Usual Status (US) – for annual estimates Current Weekly Status (CWS) – for quarterly and monthly estimates Provides insights into: Workforce composition (sector-wise, gender-wise) Employment trends over time Urban-rural employment disparities Significance: Replaces the older Employment–Unemployment Survey. Aids in formulating labour, employment, and social sector policies. Helps monitor employment elasticity, job creation, and participation of vulnerable groups like women and youth. Source: PIB (MAINS Focus) 1US Eases EDA Restrictions on China: Implications for India (GS paper III – Economy) Introduction (Context) In May 2025, the Trump administration initially imposed stringent controls on EDA software exports to China, requiring licences for the sale of critical chip design tools from companies like Cadence, Synopsys and Siemens. However, the US government reversed course in exchange for China’s commitment to approve exports of rare earth elements to the US. This move could reshape global semiconductor dynamics, affecting India’s semiconductor growth plans. What is Semiconductor? A semiconductor is a material with electrical conductivity between a conductor (like copper) and an insulator (like glass).  The most used semiconductor materials are silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide. Applications Microprocessors and computer chips Memory devices (RAM, flash storage) Sensors, diodes, and transistors Smartphones, laptops, automotive electronics, industrial machines, solar cells It is almost used in everyday life. What is EDA? Electronic design automation (EDA) is a set of software, hardware, and essential services for designing chips and semiconductor devices. It is a simulated world where the circuits and designs are conceived and analyzed before making it to the real world.  Without EDA tools, chip design becomes nearly impossible due to the billions of transistors involved in modern microchips. Challenges and Opportunities for India: after lifting of ban Challenges Earlier, the USA government has asked Electronic Design Automation software makers, which include Cadence, Synopsys and Siemens to stop supplying their tech to China which had impacted China’s semiconductor industry. Now, the ban has been lifted. Chinese companies can now resume full access to cutting-edge EDA tools, potentially accelerating their chip design capabilities and market competitiveness. This could intensify competition in global semiconductor markets where Indian companies are seeking to establish themselves. Opportunities The recent US restriction showed that India depends too much on foreign EDA software (used for chip designing). This highlights the need for India to develop its own EDA tools to become self-reliant in the long run. Because of the uncertainty in US-China trade, companies will try to spread their supply chains to different countries. This could help Indian companies get more business. Big multinational companies want to reduce their dependence on Chinese suppliers. This means they might be more interested in working with Indian companies or investing in India. As companies focus on making their supply chains strong and safe, they may be ready to pay more to trusted suppliers. This could increase profits for Indian companies in the semiconductor sector. Status of Semiconductor industry in India India’s semiconductor market is anticipated to expand from Rs. 4,50,164 crore (US$ 52 billion) in 2024 to Rs. 8,95,134 crore (US$ 103.4 billion) by 2030, according to a report by the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA).  This growth is attributed to major sectors such as mobile handsets, information technology (IT), telecommunications, consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace, and defence. Mobile handsets, IT, and industrial applications alone contribute nearly 70% of the semiconductor industry’s revenue.  India’s present role in global semiconductor manufacturing is considered relatively modest. As of 2025, just 0.1 percent of global wafer fabrication capacity is accounted for by the country, and about 1 percent of annual global capital expenditure on semiconductor equipment is contributed by it.  The country’s semiconductor market, valued at $35.18 billion in 2023, is expected to grow at a remarkable 27.2 per cent CAGR through 2030.  Tata Electronics has signed strategic partnerships with Tokyo Electron for equipment and services, focusing on workforce training and R&D enhancement. Value addition: Government Initiatives  Government has approved the Semicon India programme with a total outlay of ₹76,000 crore for the development of semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem in the country. The programme aims to provide financial support to companies investing in semiconductors, display manufacturing and design ecosystem. The Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS)  provides a financial incentive of 25% on capital expenditure for electronic components, e-waste recycling, mechanics, micro/nano-electronic components, solar photovoltaic (SPV) polysilicon, SPV wafers and solar cells, specialized sub-assemblies and capital goods for manufacture of aforesaid goods.   To boost domestic manufacturing and attract investment in mobile phones value chain including electronic components and semiconductor packaging, Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI) for Large Scale Electronics Manufacturing was notified. The scheme extends an incentive of 3% to 6% on incremental sales (over base year) of goods manufactured in India and covered under target segments viz. Mobile Phones and Specified Electronic Components, to eligible companies, for a period of 5 years. Electronics Development Fund (EDF) ensures the development of critical infrastructure components within the ESDM sector. Way forward for India Strengthen R&D ecosystem with industry-academia collaboration. Develop indigenous semiconductor design and fabrication capabilities. Enhance ease of doing business and infrastructure for high-tech manufacturing. Build international partnerships for technology transfer and market access. Create a skilled workforce pipeline through specialised semiconductor engineering programmes. Conclusion India’s semiconductor industry is lacking fabrication infrastructure along with skilled workforce. With sustained government support, strategic global partnerships, and accelerated domestic capability building, India can transform from a semiconductor importer to a trusted global semiconductor partner amidst the evolving geopolitical landscape. Mains Practice Question Discuss the implications of recent US export policy reversals on India’s semiconductor ambitions. How can India strengthen its semiconductor ecosystem amidst global policy volatility? (250 words, 15 marks) Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/us-eases-restrictions-on-china-india-semiconductor-ambitions-10133328/ Can biofuel really replace fossil fuels? (GS paper III – Environment) Introduction (Context) As part of a global initiative to switch to renewable energy sources and reduce fossil fuel consumption, attention has increasingly been focussed on biofuel production, wherein bioethanol has emerged as a promising alternative.   Analysing, whether it can become an alternative to fossil fuels. What is biofuel? Biofuel is fuel derived from biomass (organic matter from plants or animals) that can be used for energy production. Sources of biofuel: First generation: Sugarcane, beet juice, corn, rice, maize, other grains. Second generation: Agricultural waste like stalks, husks, wood, bagasse. Third generation (emerging): Algae-based biofuels. Types of Biofuels: Bioethanol: A biofuel produced by fermenting sugars and starches from crops like corn, sugarcane, and wheat. It can also be produced from cellulosic biomass like grasses and wood.  Biodiesel: A biofuel made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled grease through a process called transesterification.  Biogas: A biofuel produced from the anaerobic digestion of organic matter like animal waste, food waste, and sewage. It mainly consists of methane and carbon dioxide.  Biohydrogen: A biofuel produced from various biomass sources through processes like gasification and aqueous phase reforming.  Ethanol as liquid fuel Properties: Remains liquid between -114°C to 78°C. Flash point: 9°C (easy ignition). Energy density is lower than petrol, but it burns well, giving similar mileage. Use in vehicles: E5 blend (5% ethanol) works without engine changes. E10 or E15 may need minor tuning but no major modification. Formation: Microorganisms like yeast and E. coli bacteria convert sugars into ethanol. Ethanol becomes toxic for these organisms above 10% concentration, so extra purification is needed. Co-fermentation (using multiple microbes) helps improve production. Hence, the production of fuel-grade bioethanol involves six major steps: biomass selection, pretreatment, saccharification, fermentation, distillation and dehydration, and by-product recovery.  Challenge: Azeotropic ethanol contains approximately 4.4 per cent water. As water is not miscible with petrol and typically settles as sludge at the bottom of vehicle fuel tanks. When high ethanol blended fuel is added, water dissolves into the ethanol fraction, rendering the fuel unsuitable for use in unmodified engines. Biomass and its role in the carbon cycle Biomass in nature Biomass is all organic material (plants, trees, crops, etc.) present on Earth. Every year, about 250 gigatonnes (Gt) of dry biomass moves through the biosphere. Out of this, 100 Gt is carbon, circulated through processes like photosynthesis, respiration, feeding, and decomposition. Photosynthesis captures a huge amount of solar energy (about 2 × 10²¹ Joules each year globally) and converts CO₂ into plant matter. Humans manage only 0.5% of total biomass, mainly as food crops. Biomass and carbon cycle Biomass maintains a “dynamic steady state” in the carbon cycle: Carbon absorbed during plant growth is equal to carbon released when used as fuel. Fossil fuels, however, release “ancient carbon” stored underground for millions of years, adding extra CO₂ to the atmosphere. Switching to biofuels like ethanol uses existing carbon in the natural cycle. In contrast, burning fossil fuels increases radiative forcing, leading to global warming and harming biodiversity. Production of biofuel and challenges Ethanol is made by microorganisms (like yeast and bacteria) under slightly acidic conditions (pH 4-5). Microorganisms generate energy primarily through two major respiratory pathways: aerobic respiration, which requires molecular oxygen, and anaerobic respiration, which does not.  Firth generation biofuel  Bioethanol can be easily generated from sugarcane, beet juice, corn, rice or other grains. There is ongoing controversy among scientists and economists, who argue that such diversion risks food supply shortages for populations living in poverty, especially in low and middle-income countries.  Second generation biofuel Second generation biofuel projects aim to convert the large amounts of waste biomass, such as stalks, husks, wood and bagasse, into sources of fermentable sugars.  However, the major challenge to this approach is the extraction of sugar from these highly complex and extremely stable biofibres.  It requires pre-treatments using non-renewable and environmentally taxing chemicals like corrosive acid or alkali, which is very expensive. Significance of biofuels Unlike fossil fuels, biofuels are derived from renewable biomass sources like plants and algae, making them a sustainable alternative.  When burned, biofuels generally produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, contributing to efforts to mitigate climate change.  Biofuels offer a domestically produced alternative to imported fossil fuels, enhancing a nation’s energy independence and reducing vulnerability to global oil market fluctuations.  Biofuel production can create jobs in rural areas, revitalize agricultural economies, and provide farmers with new markets for their crops.  Beyond greenhouse gas reductions, biofuels can lead to lower emissions of other pollutants like sulfur dioxide and air toxics, improving air quality.  Biofuels, particularly ethanol and biodiesel, are suitable for use in existing vehicles, making them a practical option for decarbonizing the transportation sector.  Biofuels can be produced from various waste and residue materials, contributing to waste management and resource efficiency.  Environmental and social concerns Land use change causes deforestation and biodiversity loss. Fertilisers and decaying biomass emit N₂O and CH₄, which are more harmful than CO₂. Can lead to displacement of indigenous people and worsen climate patterns. Monoculture farming reduces biodiversity and is hard to reverse. Needs large amounts of freshwater, adding to water scarcity. Conclusion Biofuels offer a promising renewable alternative, but their ability to fully replace fossil fuels is limited by technological, environmental, and social constraints. Sustainable development of biofuel requires a careful balance between energy needs, food security, and ecological health. Mains Practice Question Discuss the challenges and opportunities of bioethanol production in India. (250 words, 15 marks) Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/upsc-current-affairs/upsc-essentials/can-biofuel-really-replace-fossil-fuels-10133043/   Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated in our “Daily Current Affairs Quiz” section on our website Please click on the below link  https://iasbaba.com/daily-current-affairs-quiz/

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 17th July – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) CERN Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context:  CERN Collider Reveals Clue to Universe’s Bias Against Antimatter. Key Finding: For the first time, scientists have observed that the laws of physics differ between matter and antimatter in baryons (particles like protons and neutrons). This may help explain why the universe is dominated by matter despite both matter and antimatter being created in equal amounts during the Big Bang. What Was Discovered? CP (Charge-Parity) violation observed in a particle called the Λb0 baryon (Lambda b zero). CP violation breaks the symmetry between particles and antiparticles, making them behave differently. This violation has been seen in mesons before, but never in baryons until now. Experiment Details: Conducted by the LHCb collaboration at CERN using the Large Hadron Collider. Compared the decay rates of Λb0 baryons and their antimatter counterparts. Found a decay asymmetry of about 2.45%, with a statistical significance of 5.2 sigma (strong evidence). Why Is This Important? It adds a missing piece to the puzzle of why there’s more matter than antimatter. Supports the idea that CP violation in baryons could have helped the universe evolve with more matter. Could lead to “new physics” beyond the Standard Model of particle physics. Future Direction: More accurate measurement of the complex phase in baryon decays is needed. Researchers must determine whether the observed CP violation matches predictions or hints at unknown forces. Historical Context: 1967: Physicists Sakharov, Andrei, and others proposed three conditions for matter to dominate antimatter, one of which was CP violation. Until now, CP violation was seen only in mesons, not in baryons. Learning Corner: CERN CERN (Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire), or the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is one of the world’s largest and most respected centres for scientific research in the field of particle physics. Key Highlights: Established: 1954 Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland Members: 23 member states (India is an associate member since 2016) Major Functions: Fundamental Physics Research: CERN studies the basic constituents of matter by colliding particles at high energy. Large Hadron Collider (LHC): World’s most powerful particle accelerator, used to discover the Higgs boson in 2012. Technological Innovation: Develops advanced detectors, computing infrastructure (e.g. GRID), cryogenics, and medical applications like cancer therapy. India and CERN: India collaborates through institutions like TIFR, BARC, and IISc. Indian scientists contribute to detector development, grid computing, and engineering solutions. Indian companies have supplied cryogenics, precision mechanics, and electronics to CERN. Source: THE HINDU Wildfires in Europe Category: Environment Context: Climate Change is Fuelling Devastating Wildfires in Europe Wildfire Situation in 2025: 227,000 hectares of land have burned in Europe so far this year — more than double the 20-year average. Not the worst year on record (2003 & 2017 saw over 1.1 million hectares burned annually). 1,118 fires reported till July 8, compared to 716 during the same period last year. Role of Climate Change: Climate change is creating hotter and drier conditions, making wildfires more frequent and intense. Greenhouse gas emissions have warmed the Earth by 1.3°C since pre-industrial times. Europe is warming at twice the global average (WMO data). Where are Fires Happening? Severe fires in Catalonia (Spain), Marseille (France), Greece (Evia and Crete), and Syria. Greek island fires have forced thousands to evacuate. Mediterranean fires have been the worst but relatively isolated. Scientific Observations: Wildfires are worsened by early heatwaves and persistent dry spells. Once ignited, fires spread rapidly due to dry vegetation and wind. Climate change has caused earlier fire seasons and intensified fire behavior. Learning Corner: Wildfires What Are Wildfires? Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that rapidly spread across forests, grasslands, or other flammable vegetation. Causes of Wildfires Natural Causes: Lightning strikes (major cause in remote forests) High temperatures and dry conditions Anthropogenic Causes: Campfires, discarded cigarettes Agricultural burning Power lines, sparks from machinery Favourable Conditions (Fire Triangle) Fuel – Dry vegetation, trees, shrubs Heat – High temperatures, drought Oxygen – Abundant in the atmosphere Effects of Wildfires Loss of biodiversity and wildlife habitats Increased carbon emissions Degradation of air quality (PM2.5, CO, NOx) Soil erosion and desertification Threat to human lives and infrastructure Disruption of ecosystem services Global Hotspots USA – California, Oregon Australia – Bushfires (e.g., Black Summer 2019–20) Amazon Rainforest Siberia Mediterranean regions – Greece, Spain Canada – Record-breaking wildfires in 2023 Wildfires and Climate Change Rising temperatures and frequent droughts are increasing wildfire frequency and intensity. Wildfires contribute to climate change feedback loops by releasing stored carbon. Melting permafrost and peat fires are becoming more common in high-latitude regions. India and Wildfires States with frequent forest fires: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand Western Ghats and North-Eastern states are also vulnerable Major cause: man-made fires for shifting cultivation and poaching Important Reports/Initiatives Forest Survey of India (FSI): Releases forest fire reports MODIS & VIIRS Satellites: Used for real-time fire detection National Action Plan on Forest Fires (2018) by MoEFCC Fire Alert System (FAS) by FSI and ISRO Global Forest Watch Fires: Tracks global forest fires RED-Alert System: Pre-wildfire alerts for vulnerable forest areas Source:  THE INDIAN EXPRESS PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PM-DDKY) Category: Polity & Governance Context : The Indian government has launched the PM-DDKY, an ambitious umbrella scheme that merges 36 existing agricultural schemes to revitalize farming in 100 low-performing districts across India. Key Features: Integration of 36 Schemes across 11 departments with involvement from states and private partners. Focus Areas include: Increasing crop productivity through sustainable practices. Promoting crop diversification toward climate-resilient and high-value crops. Expanding irrigation and water-use efficiency. Boosting rural credit and strengthening storage at panchayat/block levels. Implementation Details: Target Districts: 100 districts selected based on low crop productivity, cropping intensity, and weak credit flow. Each state/UT has at least one district. District Committees: Local “Dhan-Dhaanya Samitis” will design and monitor farm-level plans with support from progressive farmers. Monitoring: A digital dashboard will track progress across 117 indicators, guided by NITI Aayog and central nodal officers. Scheme Highlights: Key Area Details Scheme Name PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PM-DDKY) Schemes Merged 36 Duration 6 years (starting FY26) Annual Budget ₹24,000 crore Target Coverage 100 districts, 1.7 crore farmers Key Goals Productivity, sustainability, credit, storage Monitoring Framework 117 indicators, digital dashboard   Objectives: Enhance agricultural productivity and farmer incomes Promote natural and organic farming Strengthen water and soil conservation Develop district-level agricultural resilience Learning Corner: Major Agricultural Schemes in India Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Launched: 2019 Objective: Provides ₹6,000 per year in three installments to all landholding farmer families for income support. Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) Launched: 2016 Objective: Crop insurance scheme that provides financial support in case of crop failure due to natural calamities, pests, or diseases. Premium: Farmers pay 2% for Kharif, 1.5% for Rabi, and 5% for commercial/horticulture crops. Implementing Agency: Ministry of Agriculture & State Governments Soil Health Card Scheme Launched: 2015 Objective: Provides soil health reports to farmers with recommendations on nutrient management for better crop yield and soil sustainability. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) Launched: 2015 Objective: Promotes organic farming through the adoption of traditional practices and cluster-based certification. Support: Up to ₹50,000 per hectare for 3 years, including inputs and certification. National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) Under: National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) Objective: Promotes climate-resilient farming, soil and water conservation, and efficient resource use. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY-RAFTAAR) Launched: 2007 (revised in 2017 as RAFTAAR) Objective: Assists states in boosting agriculture development, marketing infrastructure, and value chains. Flexible funding model for innovation and entrepreneurship. E-NAM (National Agriculture Market) Launched: 2016 Objective: Digital platform to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities. Integrates mandis (APMCs) across India to enable transparent price discovery. PM-Kisan Maandhan Yojana Launched: 2019 Objective: Voluntary pension scheme for small and marginal farmers (age 18–40). Benefit: Monthly pension of ₹3,000 after the age of 60. Agri-Infra Fund (AIF) Launched: 2020 Corpus: ₹1 lakh crore Objective: Provides medium-long term debt financing for post-harvest infrastructure like cold storage, warehouses, etc. Interest subsidy: Up to 3% per annum Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) Launched: 2015 Objective: “Har Khet Ko Pani” – expands irrigation coverage and improves water use efficiency. Components: Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme, Watershed Development, and Per Drop More Crop. Source :  THE HINDU Anti-Dumping Category: ECONOMICS Context: India’s actions on dumping and import surges (2025) Anti-Dumping Measures Duties Imposed: India imposed or extended anti-dumping duties on goods like: Plastic injection moulding machines (27–63% for 5 years) Chemicals such as PEDA, Acetonitrile, Vitamin A Palmitate, Insoluble Sulphur Aluminium foil and selected agricultural chemicals Focus Areas: Over 60% of actions target Chinese imports, protecting sectors like chemicals, plastics, and industrial goods. Criteria: Duties are imposed based on proof of dumping, injury to domestic producers, and causation, with adjustments to protect downstream users when necessary. Monitoring Import Surges Real-time Surveillance: The Commerce Ministry and DGFT monitor unusual spikes in imports and alert concerned ministries. World Trade Watch: Monthly reports track country-wise and product-wise surges, helping formulate trade responses and export strategies. Notable Trends: Imports rose by 4.4% (April–June 2025). Major spikes were seen in electronics, machinery, and coal, while gold and petroleum imports stagnated or declined. Specific Action – Liquid Gold: Curbs were imposed on colloidal precious metals to prevent misuse and smuggling. Institutional Mechanisms Import Monitoring Group: A new inter-ministerial group tracks diverted imports—especially from China and Vietnam—to prevent India from becoming a dumping ground for globally rerouted goods. Trade Remedies: The DGTR (Directorate General of Trade Remedies) continues active investigations and recommendations, with an increased acceptance rate of its findings. Learning Corner: Duties on Foreign Trade Foreign trade duties are taxes imposed on imports and exports to regulate international trade, protect domestic industries, and generate revenue. Customs Duty Definition: General term for duties levied on goods when they are transported across international borders. Includes: Basic Customs Duty, Countervailing Duty, Safeguard Duty, etc. Basic Customs Duty (BCD) Imposed on: All imported goods. Purpose: To protect domestic industries and generate revenue. Rates: Vary depending on product category and trade agreements. Countervailing Duty (CVD) Imposed when: A foreign country subsidizes its exports, making them cheaper. Objective: Neutralize the unfair advantage and protect domestic producers. Legal Basis: WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures. Anti-Dumping Duty Imposed when: Foreign goods are sold in India at a price lower than their domestic price (dumping). Purpose: Protect Indian industry from predatory pricing. Authority: Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR). Safeguard Duty Imposed when: Sudden surge in imports threatens domestic industries. Temporary measure to allow the local industry to adjust to competition. WTO-compatible measure. Protective Duty Recommended by: Tariff Commission. Purpose: To protect specific domestic industries against imports. Nature: Temporary and selective. Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS) Rate: Usually 10% on the aggregate customs duties (excluding IGST). Objective: To finance education, health, and social welfare schemes. Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) on Imports Imposed under: GST Act. Applied on: Imports to bring them at par with domestic goods. Collected by: Central Government. Source: THE HINDU ADEETIE Scheme Category: POLITY Context: Launched on 15 July 2025 by the Union Minister for Power, the ADEETIE (Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments) scheme aims to accelerate energy-efficient technology adoption in MSMEs across India. It is implemented by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). Key Objectives Reduce MSME energy consumption by 30–50% Promote green technologies and improve energy productivity Contribute to India’s climate goals: 45% emission intensity reduction by 2030, Net Zero by 2070 Scheme Details Total Outlay: ₹1,000 crore Duration: FY 2025–26 to 2027–28 Interest Subvention: 5% for Micro/Small, 3% for Medium Enterprises Financial Allocation: ₹875 crore – interest subvention ₹50 crore – energy audits ₹75 crore – technical support & monitoring Investment Mobilization: Expected ₹9,000 crore, including ₹6,750 crore in MSME loans Coverage & Support Targets 14 energy-intensive sectors (e.g. steel, textiles, food processing) Covers 60 industrial clusters initially, followed by 100 more Offers: interest subsidies, energy audits, DPR preparation, tech identification, and implementation support Dedicated portal launched: adeetie.beeindia.gov.in Learning Corner: Energy Efficiency Schemes in India India has launched several initiatives to improve energy efficiency across industries, buildings, and appliances. These schemes are primarily implemented by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power. PAT Scheme (Perform, Achieve, and Trade) Objective: Improve energy efficiency in large energy-intensive industries. Mechanism: Provides energy saving targets to industries. Units exceeding targets can trade Energy Saving Certificates (ESCerts). Sectors Covered: Power, iron & steel, cement, aluminium, textile, pulp & paper, etc. UJALA (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All) Launch: 2015 Implemented by: EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Limited) Objective: Promote widespread use of LED bulbs, tube lights, and energy-efficient fans. Impact: Over 36 crore LED bulbs distributed, saving energy and reducing carbon emissions. Standards & Labeling Programme Started by: BEE Objective: Encourage energy-efficient appliances through star rating labels (1 to 5 stars). Appliances Covered: ACs, refrigerators, geysers, motors, fans, etc. Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) Target: New commercial buildings. Objective: Ensure design and construction of energy-efficient buildings. Versions: ECBC (Commercial), Eco-Niwas Samhita (Residential). Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) Implementing Agency: EESL Objective: Replace conventional street lights with energy-efficient LED lights. Impact: Significant energy savings and lower maintenance cost for urban local bodies. DEEP Portal (Discovery of Efficient Electricity Price) Purpose: Facilitate transparent e-bidding for power procurement by DISCOMs. Promotes: Cost-effective electricity for end-users. National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) Part of: National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) Components: PAT (Perform, Achieve, and Trade) MTEE (Market Transformation for Energy Efficiency) EEFP (Energy Efficiency Financing Platform) FEEED (Framework for Energy Efficient Economic Development) Source: PIB (MAINS Focus) Seismic Resilience and India’s Earthquake Preparedness (GS paper III – Disaster Management) Introduction (Context) The recent earthquakes in Myanmar, Thailand, Tibet followed by recent in Delhi, exposing the nations vulnerability to it. With earthquake activity intensifying regionally and globally, the Government of India must lead a national dialogue to enforce seismic codes rigorously. What is Earthquake? Earthquake is the sudden shaking of the ground caused by the passage of seismic waves through Earth’s rocks.  Earth’s major earthquakes occur mainly in belts coinciding with the margins of tectonic plates. Position of India India’s seismic risk arises from the northward drift of the Indian Plate, colliding with the Eurasian Plate at 4–5 cm per year This collision forms the Himalayas, a region overdue for a “Great Himalayan Earthquake” (magnitude 8 or higher).  Examples: Bhuj earthquake (2001): Magnitude 7.7, over 20,000 deaths. Nepal earthquake (2015): Magnitude 7.8, widespread devastation. India’s seismic zones According to the seismic zoning map of the country, India is divided into four seismic zones. Zone II – Low Risk Characterised by low seismic activity, with earthquakes rarely exceeding magnitude 4.9. Covers much of southern India, including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of central India such as Madhya Pradesh. This zone faces minimal earthquake hazards compared to other regions. Zone III – Moderate Risk Experiences moderate seismic activity, with earthquakes typically between magnitude 5.0 and 6.0. Includes regions such as: Western and central India, including Mumbai, Pune, and nearby areas. Coastal states like Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Parts of the Indo-Gangetic plains, including Delhi and Bihar. Zone IV – High Risk Marked by frequent and strong seismic events, generally ranging from magnitude 6.0 to 6.9. Major areas include: The Himalayan belt, covering Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Delhi, highlighting its significant seismic vulnerability. Regions in Kashmir, Punjab, and western Uttar Pradesh. Zone V – Very High Risk Identified as the most seismically active zone in India, where earthquakes often reach magnitude 7.0 or above. Comprises: The entire northeastern states, including Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh. Northern Jammu and Kashmir. The Kutch region in Gujarat, known for the devastating 2001 earthquake. Parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which are also prone to tsunamis due to tectonic subduction activity. Issues in Preparedness Rapid urbanisation exacerbates the risk. Construction of buildings in liquefaction-prone soils, and poorly designed high-rises without structural retrofitting. Lack of public awareness  Poor enforcement of seismic codes. For example in the recent earthquake in Myanmar, enforced codes were not implemented which have worsened the quake toll in 2025. Steps needed Rigorous enforcement of seismic codes for all new and existing structures. Retrofitting older buildings using steel jacketing, base isolation, and pile foundations. (Bangkok Uses high-strength concrete (30–40 MPa) and ductile detailing for earthquake resistance) Avoid construction on floodplains and liquefaction-prone zones. (example in Brahmaputra floodplain) Expand early warning systems to rural Zone V areas for timely evacuation. Public education campaigns on earthquake safety, kits, and drills. National dialogue involving urban planners, structural engineers, and local governments to mainstream seismic resilience in urban policy. Solutions must be tailored to regional conditions, e.g. Soft soil challenges in northeast and Sandy basin vulnerabilities in Kutch regions. Citizens should educate themselves about the need for emergency kits, safe building practices, and evacuation plans. The Bhuj disaster, where unpreparedness amplified casualties, remains a haunting lesson. Conclusion Earthquakes are inevitable natural events, but their devastation can be minimised through proactive governance, strict code enforcement, and public preparedness. Mains Practice Question Earthquakes are inevitable natural phenomena, but their impact on society is largely determined by human preparedness and policy measures. Discuss with reference to India’s seismic vulnerability and disaster management strategies. (250 words, 15 marks) Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/a-tectonic-shift-in-thinking-to-build-seismic-resilience/article69820061.ece   Stablecoins (GS paper III – Economy) Introduction (Context) Recently, the US Senate has passed the GENIUS Act, a landmark legislation that gives American banks and even large companies like Amazon and Walmart the legal green light to issue digital dollars known as stablecoins on public blockchains. What are stablecoins? Stablecoins are digital tokens issued on blockchain platforms whose value is pegged to a stable reserve asset, such as a fiat currency or government bonds. The primary goal of stablecoins is to provide an alternative to the high volatility of popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), which can make these digital assets less suitable for common transactions. About USA Stablecoin In the US model, stablecoins are backed 1:1 by US Treasury Bills, ensuring price stability while leveraging the speed and transparency of blockchain technology. This means a bank in the US would be able to issue a digital version of the dollar, backed by government bonds, and it can be used for payments across the world.  Hence it is a combination of government securities and the speed and transparency of blockchain technology. How do stablecoins work? Stablecoins are stored and exchanged on decentralized networks (known as blockchains) that serve as ledgers of all transactions. No single intermediary is required for two parties to transact in crypto assets.  Instead, participants in a network receive small transaction fees for the computation expended to verify the validity of transactions Usage Stablecoins are primarily used for trading crypto assets, transacting in goods and services, insulating against local currency instability, and sending payments across borders. Stripe allows stablecoin payments to US merchants with lower fees than cards. Used for hedging Currency Risks particularly popular in countries with volatile fiat currencies (Argentina, Nigeria, Turkey) to save in USD. According to 2024 Visa survey: 47% of users in Brazil, Turkey, Nigeria, India, and Indonesia use stablecoins for saving in dollars. Also used for Cross-Border Payments & Remittances. India’s Position In India, RBI has raised concerns about unregulated cryptocurrencies, particularly from a monetary policy and consumer protection standpoint. Hence it is using conventional tools like rate cuts. However, stablecoins are different, as they are regulated, backed by government securities, and integrate blockchain with sovereign guarantees. Where India lags? In India, there is no regulatory mechanism due to which legitimate fintech innovation remains stuck. Issues in digitising currency: Lack of regulatory clarity pushes Indian blockchain developers and fintech startups to relocate abroad. Risks of unregulated crypto turning into a “refined form of hawala”, demanding urgent regulation. Most Indian household savings remain in fixed deposits or gold, limiting formal financial market depth. Steps needed Craft a balanced policy allowing stablecoins under RBI oversight, ensuring consumer protection, monetary stability, and legal clarity. Integrate blockchain-based products into the formal economy, supporting startups to build from India rather than relocating to Singapore or Dubai. Promote awareness on safe, regulated digital assets to deepen financial inclusion. Conclusion The stablecoin ecosystem isn’t just about finance — it’s about the future of fintech. It touches payments, digital wallets, eKYC, blockchain infrastructure, cybersecurity, tax compliance, and new forms of savings and investing. Hence, India should craft a framework that reflects Indian values — trust, transparency, and stability — while embracing the potential of fintech to create jobs, strengthen the rupee, and modernise our economy. Mains Practice Question “Stablecoins represent both an opportunity and a regulatory challenge for India’s fintech ecosystem.” Elaborate (250 words, 15 marks) Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/what-shubhanshu-shukla-came-back-to-earth-with-a-beautiful-view-10130989/   Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated in our “Daily Current Affairs Quiz” section on our website Please click on the below link  https://iasbaba.com/daily-current-affairs-quiz/

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 17th July 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 16th July 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th July – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Category: International Relations Context: The Pahalgam terrorist attack of April 22 was carried out to hurt the Jammu and Kashmir economy and to “sow a religious divide”, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers (SCO-CFM) meeting in China. About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Evolution: The SCO originated from the “Shanghai Five,” formed in 1996, consisting of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. It was established on 15th June 2001, in Shanghai, adding Uzbekistan as a sixth member.  Members: The current SCO members include India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus. India and Pakistan both officially joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) as full members in 2017. Headquarter: The Organization’s secretariat or headquarter is located in Beijing, China. Decision making: It operates on a consensus-based decision-making system, where all members must agree for any resolution to pass. This mechanism, while ensuring inclusivity, can also lead to diplomatic deadlocks when national interests clash. Significance: It is one of the few international organisations focused on security issues and primarily consists of Asian members. Contribution: It is the world’s largest regional organization in terms of geographic scope and population, covering approximately 24% of the world’s total area (65% of Eurasia) and 42% of the world population. The member countries contribute approximately over USD 23 trillion to global GDP. About Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): Nature: It is a permanent body of the SCO and is intended to facilitate coordination and interaction between the SCO member states in the fight against terrorism, extremism and separatism. Functions: The main functions of SCO-RATS are coordination and information sharing. India’s role: India is a member of the SCO and actively participates in RATS activities, including holding its chairmanship in 2021. Source: The Hindu Genetically Modified (GM) Crops Category: Environment Context: Field trials of two kinds of genetically modified (GM) maize are expected to begin this kharif (summer) season at the Punjab Agricultural University, weeks after the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee, the country’s top regulator, gave the nod for the trials after receiving consent from the Punjab government. Key highlights about the news: “The trials are for research purposes only, and we are not going to recommend that it (GM maize) should be grown commercially or not. It’s for the Central government to take a call,” Punjab Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal told. The Coalition for a GM-Free India, a platform advocating safe and sustainable agriculture, has urged the Punjab government to withdraw its no-objection certificate for the trials. About GM crops: Definition: These are plants whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This process involves introducing new genes or modifying existing ones to produce desired traits. Origin: GM crops were first introduced in the USA in 1994 with the Flavr Savr tomato, which had been genetically modified to slow tomato’s ripening process, delaying softening and rotting. Development processes: Gene Gun Approach: DNA-coated metal particles arebombarded into plant cells Agrobacterium Approach: Bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens transfers the desired gene into plant cells. Electroporation: Used when the plant tissue does not contain cell walls. In this technique, electric pulses are used to create miniature pores in the plant cell through which the DNA enters.  Microinjection: Used to directly inject foreign DNA into cells. GM Crops in India: Regulation: Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) approves large-scale use and release of GMOs. It was established under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and it functions in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). Major GM crops in India: Bt Cotton: The only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation in India (since 2002). It is resistant to cotton bollworm. In India, the adoption of Bt cotton has led to significant increases in cotton production, making the country a leading global producer. Bt Brinjal: It was approved by GEAC in 2009 but later environment ministry imposed a moratorium, citing the need for more studies and public consultations. GM Mustard Crop (DMH-11): It was developed by Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (Delhi University). However, it has not been released for commercial cultivation yet. Source: The Hindu Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) Category: Polity & Governance Context: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) urged people to update the biometric details of children aged between five and seven. “The fingerprints and iris biometrics of a child are not captured for Aadhaar enrolment below the age of five because these are not mature at that age,” the UIDAI said in a statement. About UIDAI: Establishment: The UIDAI is a statutory authority established on 12th July 2016 by the Government of India under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, following the provisions of the Aadhaar Act 2016. Mandate: The UIDAI is mandated to assign a 12-digit unique identification (UID) number (Aadhaar) to all the residents of India. Features: The number is linked to the resident’s basic demographic and biometric information such as a photograph, ten fingerprints, and two iris scans, which are stored in a centralised database. Functions: The implementation of the UID scheme entails the generation and assignment of UIDs to residents; defining mechanisms and processes for interlinking UIDs with partner databases; operation and management of all stages of the UID life cycle; framing policies and procedures for updating mechanism and defining usage and applicability of UIDs for delivery of various services, among others. Source: The Hindu Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) Category: Polity & Governance Context: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has constituted panels of its whole-time members to decide on the violations by certain insurers/insurance intermediaries. The move is part of the enforcement function, specifically to decide on the violations of the provisions of the Insurance Act and regulations. About IRDAI: Origin: It was founded in 1999 based on recommendations of Malhotra Committee. Objective: It was created as a regulatory body with the aim of protecting the interests of insurance customers. Jurisdiction: It is a statutory body under the IRDA Act 1999 and is under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Finance. Source of powers: The powers and functions of the Authority are laid down in the IRDAI Act, 1999 and Insurance Act, 1938. Major Initiatives by IRDAI: Bima Sugam: An online insurance marketplace for buying, selling, and servicing insurance policies as well as settling claims. It is a part of IRDAI’s Bima Trinity – Bima Vistaar, Bima Vahak, and Bima Sugam. Saral Jeevan Bima: Provides basic protection to self-employed individuals or people in low-income groups. Integrated Grievance Management System: To create a central repository of grievances across the country and provides for various analyses of data indicative of areas of concern to the insurance policyholder. Source: The Hindu North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Category: International Relations Context: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned on Wednesday that countries such as Brazil, China and India could be hit very hard by secondary sanctions if they continued to do business with Russia. About NATO: Establishment: It was established on April 4, 1949, with the signing of the North Atlantic Treaty in Washington, D.C. by 12 founding member countries from Europe and North America. Objective: It was established with the primary goal of providing collective defence against potential aggression, particularly from the Soviet Union during the Cold War era. Over the years, NATO has evolved to address a range of security challenges beyond its original mandate. Article 5: NATO’s primary mission is collective defence, as outlined in Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty. This article stipulates that an attack on one member country will be considered an attack on all, and the members will respond collectively. Original Members: The original 12 founding members of NATO were Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Expansion: NATO has expanded since its founding, with new member countries joining in multiple rounds. The alliance currently consists of 32 member countries. Sweden joined NATO as the 32nd member. Military Command Structure: NATO’s military command structure includes Strategic Commands (e.g., Allied Command Operations) responsible for operational planning and execution, as well as Regional Commands and Force Headquarters. Source: The Hindu (MAINS Focus) Cyber-crimes in India (Lokniti-CSDS Survey) (GS paper III – Science and Technology, GS paper II – Polity and governance) Introduction (Context) Cybercrime has become one of the most critical and pressing concerns across India over the past couple of years, with Delhi being the hotspot. According to Lokniti-CSDS Survey, Delhi residents have lost over ₹700 crore in 2024 to cybercrime. Despite the intensity and seriousness of the issue, structural gaps continue to exist. What are cyber-crimes? Cybercrime refers to criminal activities that utilize computers and networks as either the primary tools or the targets. These illegal acts can be driven by a variety of motives, including financial gain, political agendas, or personal revenge. Some common cyber-crimes are: Stalking: Cyber stalking is use of the Internet or other electronic means to stalk someone Hacking: “Hacking” is a crime, which entails cracking systems and gaining unauthorized access to the data stored in them.  Phishing: Phishing refers to the receipt of unsought emails by customers of financial institutions, asked them to enter their username, password or other personal information to access their account for some reason.  Squatting: Cyber-squatting is the act of registering a famous domain name and then selling it for a fortune.  Software Piracy: It is an illegal reproduction and distribution of software for business or personal use. This is considered to be a type of infringement of copy right and a violation of a license agreement.  Cyber pornography: This would include pornographic websites; pornographic magazines produced using computers (to publish and print the material) and the Internet (to download and transmit pornographic pictures, photos, writings etc).  Sale of illegal articles: This would include sale of narcotics, weapons and wildlife etc., by posting information on websites, auction websites, and bulletin boards. Cyber-terrorism: Cyber-terrorism is the adaptation of terrorism to computer resources, whose purpose is to cause fear in its victims by attacking electronic resources.  Cyber Defamation: This occurs when defamation takes place with the help of computers and / or the Internet. E.g. someone publishes defamatory matter about someone on a website or sends e-mails containing defamatory information to all of that person’s friends. Data according to Lokniti-CSDS Survey (data mainly covers Delhi) There is high General Awareness about digital frauds, over 90% aware of traditional cyber fraud methods.  Awareness drops for newer scams like ‘digital arrest’, known to only 61% of respondents.  Only 42% knew of the national cybercrime helpline (1930), with even fewer being aware of cyber police stations (25%) or the reporting website (30%). This reveals a gap between awareness and digital reporting literacy. Awareness of more concrete initiatives like the Cyber Swachhta Kendra was low (19%).  Only 21% victims report cybercrime due to mistrust, lack of awareness, or procedural difficulties. 48% victims dissatisfied with complaint resolution processes. 70% of victims never recovered lost money; only 17% recovered full amounts. Majority learn about cybercrime through social media or acquaintances rather than banks or government campaigns. High-income respondents are far more likely to adopt comprehensive security measures, including antivirus software (73%) and two-step authentication (75%), compared to just 20% and 31% in low-income groups respectively.  Impact of Cyber-crime Financial Losses: Cybercrimes like online scams, phishing, and ransomware attacks can lead to significant financial losses for individuals.  According to the report, 27% victims in Delhi lost ₹10,001–₹50,000, and 14% lost over ₹50,000. Data Breaches and Identity Theft: Individuals are increasingly vulnerable to data breaches where their personal information is stolen and used for fraudulent activities.  Emotional Distress: Cyberbullying, online harassment, and stalking can cause severe emotional and psychological harm.  Disruptions to Operations: Cyberattacks can disrupt business operations, leading to downtime, loss of productivity, and potential legal and regulatory challenges.  Intellectual Property Theft: Businesses face the risk of cybercriminals stealing valuable intellectual property, impacting their competitive edge.  Threats to Critical Infrastructure: Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, such as power grids, transportation systems, and financial institutions, can have serious consequences for national security and public safety.  Trust Deficit: Erodes public trust in digital banking and government systems. Challenges in Monitoring Cyber Crimes Server Location and Laws of Different Countries makes it difficult to track the culprits. Inadequate cyber police staffing and training. Outdated investigation tools in many states. Digital illiteracy and socio-economic divide in access to cyber safety tools. Use of phones/whatsapp to send and receive messages, concerns the government because the communications sent via such devices and applications are encrypted and could not be monitored and consequently hinders the country’s efforts to fight terrorism and crime.  Steps Taken by Government to Strengthen Cybercrime Mechanism Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) set up under MHA for comprehensive handling of cybercrime. Seven Joint Cyber Coordination Teams (JCCTs) formed in cybercrime hotspots to enhance inter-state coordination. National Cyber Forensic Laboratory (Investigation) established in Delhi to assist state police in cyber forensic analysis; helped in ~10,200 cases so far. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) launched for public reporting, with focus on crimes against women and children. Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting System operational with Helpline 1930; saved ₹2400+ crore in 7.6 lakh complaints. CyTrain MOOC platform developed for online training of police and judicial officers; over 96,000 officers registered and 71,000 certificates issued. SIM/IMEI Blocking: Over 5.8 lakh SIM cards and 1.08 lakh IMEIs blocked to curb cyber frauds. Cyber Hygiene Training provided to 6800 govt officials and 35,000 NCC cadets Under CCPWC Scheme, ₹131.6 crore allocated to states for capacity building, setting up cyber forensic labs, and training LEAs, prosecutors, and judges. Labs set up in 33 States/UTs and 24,600+ personnel trained. National Cyber Forensic Laboratory (Evidence) established in Hyderabad to support evidence analysis under IT and Evidence Acts. Awareness Initiatives include: SMS alerts, social media (Cyber Dost), radio campaigns, MyGov promotions, etc. Conclusion The Lokniti-CSDS survey paints a revealing portrait of Delhi’s cyber landscape, one marked by high awareness but low institutional trust, significant under-reporting, and stark socio-demographic disparities. Thus, bridging the gaps in awareness, reporting, institutional support, and technological preparedness is critical to ensuring safe and inclusive digital growth. Mains Practice Question Q Cybercrime is an inevitable consequence of digitalisation. Critically analyse India’s preparedness to deal with cyber threats and suggest measures to strengthen cyber security architecture. (250 words, 15 marks) Forest Governance and Community Forest Resource Rights (GS paper III – Environment, GS paper II – Polity and governance) Introduction (Context) Recently, the Chhattisgarh Forest department has issued a letter designating itself as the nodal agency for implementing community forest resource rights (CFRR) under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. This has violated the gram sabhas’ statutory authority to implement locally developed management plans. However, the letter was withdrawn later after a spirited grassroots mobilisation by gram sabhas, local elected representatives, and Adivasi rights groups. This issue highlights persistent tensions between centralised forest management and community-led conservation in India. What is a community forest resource? The community forest resource area is the common forest land that has been traditionally protected and conserved for sustainable use by a particular community.  The community uses it to access resources available within the traditional and customary boundary of the village; and for seasonal use of landscape in case of pastoralist communities. Each CFR area has a customary boundary with identifiable landmarks recognised by the community and its neighboring villages.  These landmarks are well-known to the community and neighbouring villages, ensuring that everyone understands where one community’s CFR ends and another begins. CFR areas are not limited to one type of forest category. They can include any land with forest characteristics that the community traditionally uses. It may include forest of any category – revenue forest, classified & unclassified forest, deemed forest, DLC land, reserve forest, protected forest, sanctuary and national parks etc. Revenue Forests: Forest lands recorded under the revenue department. Classified Forests: Officially notified as forests under government records. Unclassified Forests: Not officially notified but recognised locally as forests. Deemed Forests: Lands not formally classified as forests but treated as such based on Supreme Court directions (Godavarman case). DLC Land: Forest land diverted for non-forest use but vested with communities under District Level Committee decisions. Reserve Forests: Highly protected forests under the Indian Forest Act where activities are restricted. Protected Forests: Less strict than reserve forests but still under state protection. Sanctuaries and National Parks: Protected areas for wildlife, but FRA recognises traditional rights of communities even here. What are Community Forest Resource Rights? The Community Forest Resource rights under Section 3(1)(i) of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) provide for recognition of the right to “protect, regenerate or conserve or manage” the community forest resource. Along with Community Rights (CRs) under Sections 3(1)(b) and 3(1)(c): Include nistar rights and rights over non-timber forest products (NTFPs). ensure sustainable livelihoods of the community. These rights give the authority to the Gram Sabha to adopt local traditional practices of forest conservation and management within the community forest resource boundary. Nistar rights, refer to the rights granted to villagers and agriculturists to remove forest produce for their bona fide domestic use from forest coupes.  Why is the recognition of CFR rights important? Aimed at undoing the “historic injustice” meted out to forest-dependent communities due to curtailment of their customary rights over forests, the FRA came into force in 2008. It recognises the community’s right to use, manage and conserve forest resources, and to legally hold forest land that these communities have used for cultivation and residence. It is of greater significance inside protected forests like national parks, sanctuaries and tiger reserves as traditional dwellers then become a part of management of the protected forests using their traditional wisdom. Debate on Forest Management Approaches Historically, forests under government control (excluding wildlife sanctuaries or national parks) have been managed through forest departments’ working plans.  These plans included clear felling natural forests and replacing them with single-species plantations. This has led to: decline in India’s forests  spread of invasive species and  the increase in degraded forest areas After independence, with passage of time, working plans have begun to consider restoration and wildlife conservation objectives, they remain products of bureaucratic writ, largely detached from local livelihoods and closed to independent scientific scrutiny. How Forest Rights Act brought changes? Forest Rights Act recognises the integral role of local communities in the “very survival and sustainability” of forests.  CFR management plans are to be developed by gram sabhas to prioritise local needs and address current problems. These plans shall be “integrated” with working plans by the gram sabha. Over 10,000 gram sabhas have received Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR) titles in India. However, less than 1,000 gram sabhas have prepared their CFR management plans so far. Issues in implementation: Forest departments refusing to recognise the legitimacy of gram sabhas They are denying funds to CFRR-holding gram sabhas A 2024 joint letter of Ministry of Tribal Affairs with the Environment Ministry required CFR management plans to conform to the National Working Plan Code (NWPC) and even suggested the involvement of foresters in their preparation. This violates the FRA’s letter and spirit. Way forward According to the National Working Plan Code, a working plan prescribes maximising timber yield whereas in contrast, forest management by gram sabhas will likely pursue multiple livelihood needs, for which the NWPC provides little guidance. Hence, reject NWPC Compliance for CFR Plans. Government should follow gram sabha plan as it provides experiences of the community and also adapts to climate change. Provide funds, training, and legal protection to gram sabhas for effective CFRR implementation. Forest Department must discard a timber-oriented science in favour of a different science of a people-friendly forest management. Conclusion Effective implementation of FRA, 2006, with gram sabhas at the centre, is critical to achieving ecological justice, livelihood security, and sustainable forest management in India. Mains Practice Question Q Discuss the significance of Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR) under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 in transforming forest governance in India. (250 words, 15 marks) Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated in our “Daily Current Affairs Quiz” section on our website Please click on the below link  https://iasbaba.com/daily-current-affairs-quiz/

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 15th July 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th July – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) Kaziranga records high diversity of grassland birds in survey Category: ENVIRONMENT Context: In the first such survey of avians conducted in March 2025, a team of forest officials, bird experts, scientists, and conservationists recorded 43 grassland species across Kaziranga’s three wildlife divisions. The survey report marks a milestone in the documentation and protection of grassland-dependent bird species in the Brahmaputra floodplains. Key findings of the survey: The recorded species included the critically endangered Bengal florican, the endangered Finn’s weaver, and the swamp grass babbler. Among the remaining 40 species, six were in the vulnerable category — the black-breasted parrotbill, marsh babbler, swamp francolin, Jerdon’s babbler, slender-billed babbler, and bristled grassbird. The study is significant because wet grasslands are not very well surveyed in India. Kaziranga’s grassland bird diversity can, thus, be compared in terms of species richness with the dry grasslands of Gujarat and Rajasthan. About Kaziranga National Park: Location: It is located in the State of Assam and covers 42,996 Hectare (ha). It is the single largest undisturbed and representative area in the Brahmaputra Valley floodplain. Conservation status: It was declared as a National Park in 1974. It has been declared a tiger reserve since 2007. It has a total tiger reserve area of 1,030 sq km with a core area of 430 sq. km. Heritage: It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Speciality: It is the home of the world’s most one-horned rhinos. Much of the focus of conservation efforts in Kaziranga are focused on the ‘big four’ species— Rhino, Elephant, Royal Bengal tiger and Asiatic water buffalo. Source: The Hindu Resurgence of Nipah virus in Kerala Category: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: Health authorities have warned people to avoid visiting patients in hospitals, particularly in Palakkad and Malappuram districts of Kerala, in the wake of an increased Nipah scare. About Nipah virus: Cause: It is caused by an RNA virus from the family Paramyxoviridae, genus Henipavirus. Zoonotic: It can be transmitted from animals to humans and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly between people. Hosts: Nipah virus initially appeared in domestic pigs, dogs, cats, goats, horses, and sheep. Fatality: The case fatality rate ranges from 40% to 75%. Symptoms: It includes fever, headache, drowsiness, disorientation, mental confusion, coma, and potentially death. Diagnosis: It can be diagnosed through real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) from bodily fluids and antibody detection via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).  Prevention: No vaccines are presently available for humans or animals. Source: The Hindu Abuse of right to free speech increasing on social media, says SC Category: Polity & Governance Context: The Supreme Court on Monday said the right to free speech was increasingly being abused, especially on social media, and called for self-restraint and regulation. Key highlights about the news: A Bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and K.V. Viswanathan said the right to freedom of speech and expression carried with it reasonable restrictions. Using free speech to instigate divisive tendencies, at least on social media, needed to be curbed. The court mulled framing guidelines to regulate abusive and divisive social media posts. Expressing concern about vitriolic social media engagements, Justice Viswanathan said only greater fraternity among citizens would reduce mutual hatred. “We are not speaking about censorship. But in the interest of fraternity, secularism and dignity of individuals… We will have to go into this beyond this petition,” the Bench said. About Right to Free Speech: Meaning: It includes the right to express one’s views and opinions at any issue through any medium, e.g. by words of mouth, writing, printing, picture, film, movie etc. Available only to citizens: This right is available only to a citizen of India and not to foreign nationals. Constitutional provision: Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression to all citizens. This right includes: Expressing opinions and ideas freely. The right to receive and impart information. Freedom of the press. Right to criticize the government and public figures. Reasonable restrictions: This right is, however, not absolute and it allows Government to frame laws to impose reasonable restrictions. Article 19(2) provides for reasonable restrictions on various grounds like: sovereignty and integrity of India security of the State friendly relations with foreign State public order, decency or morality in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence Important Judgements: In Romesh Thappar v. State of Madras (1950), Supreme Court (SC) observed that freedom of the press lays at the foundation of all democratic organizations. In Maneka Gandhi vs Union of India (1978), the Supreme Court held that the freedom of speech and expression is not confined to National boundaries. In Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015), Supreme Court held that freedom of thought and expression is fundamental to democracy. Centre gives nod for transfers, appointments of new CJs of HCs Category: Polity & Governance Context: The Union government on 14th July cleared the transfers and appointments of Chief Justices and judges of several High Courts across the country. Union Law and Justice Minister wrote on X that the appointments or transfers of judges were cleared by the President in exercise of the power conferred by the Constitution of India. About appointment of judges in HCs and SC: Constitutional provision: The Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the President under clause (2) of Article 124 of the Constitution. Convention: Judges of the higher judiciary are appointed through the collegium system. The term “collegium” is not mentioned in the Indian Constitution but has been established through judicial pronouncements. Salaries and allowances: Salaries, allowances, privileges, leave, and pension of Supreme Court judges are determined by Parliament. The Salaries, Pension, and Allowances of the Supreme Court Judges are charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India. Post-retirement Restrictions: After retirement, a judge of the Supreme Court is prohibited from practicing law in any court in India or pleading before any government authority. Evolution of Collegium System: First Judges Case (1981): It declared that the “primacy” of the CJI’s (Chief Justice of India) recommendation on judicial appointments and transfers can be refused for “cogent reasons.” Second Judges Case (1993): It introduced the Collegium system, holding that “consultation” really meant “concurrence”. It added that it was not the CJI’s individual opinion, but an institutional opinion formed in consultation with the two senior-most judges in the Supreme Court. Third Judges Case (1998): SC on the President’s reference (Article 143) expanded the Collegium to a five-member body, comprising the CJI and four of his senior-most colleagues. Source: The Hindu MGNREGS attendance system being manipulated, Centre tells States Category: Polity & Governance Context: Nearly four years after introducing the digital attendance system for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme workers and three years after making it mandatory, the Union government has discovered a whole range of ways the National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS) platform used for the purpose is being “misused” and has now added four layers of analog monitoring to plug the gaps. Key highlights about the news: Under the NMMS, geo-tagged photographs of the workers are to be uploaded twice a day — first when they arrive for work and then at the end of their shift. Only exception for the second round of photographing is offered at sites with 20 or below workers. The other significant change is that the government now allows for editing the muster rolls before making the wage bill. So far, this could be done only at the District Collector’s level, who also took action in case of complaints. The Ministry has directed the States to ensure that these photographs and attendance of workers is verified at gram panchayat, block, district and State level. At gram panchayat level, they want 100% verification of the present workers. The percentage of physical verification of the uploaded photographs of workers reduces at different levels. About MGNREGA: Launch: MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) is one of the largest work guarantee programmes in the world launched in 2005 by the Ministry of Rural development. Objective: The primary objective of the scheme is to guarantee 100 days of employment in every financial year to adult members of any rural household willing to do public work-related unskilled manual work. Other requirements: At least one-third of beneficiaries have to be women. Wages must be paid according to the statutory minimum wages specified for agricultural labourers in the state under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948. Step towards Right to work: The most important part of MGNREGA’s design is its legally-backed guarantee for any rural adult to get work within 15 days of demanding it, failing which an ‘unemployment allowance’ must be given. Role of Gram Sabha: Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) play an important role in planning and implementing these works. The Act mandates Gram sabhas to recommend the works that are to be undertaken and at least 50% of the works must be executed by them. Source: The Hindu (MAINS Focus) Women, STEM careers and a more receptive industry (GS paper III – Science and Technology, GS Paper II - Governance) Introduction (Context) Despite India producing one of the world’s largest pools of women STEM graduates, their representation in the STEM workforce remains disproportionately low. This paradox highlights the deeper challenges of translating educational gains into meaningful employment for women. Key data: 43% of India’s STEM graduates are women, yet women represent only 27% of the STEM workforce, limiting women’s access to career opportunities offered by the STEM sector. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24, India’s overall female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) has risen to 41.7%. The increase is sharper for rural women (47.6%) than in urban areas (25.4%), reflecting barriers in formal employment, workplace safety, and societal expectations.  According to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (2021), only 31.5% of researchers worldwide are women. This education-employment gap reflects systemic barriers that industry is uniquely positioned to address.  According to estimates by the McKinsey Global Institute, enabling 68 million more women to participate in India’s workforce could boost India’s GDP by up to $700 billion by 2025. Similarly, the World Bank suggests that achieving a 50% female workforce participation rate could elevate GDP growth by 1%. Challenges faced by Women Deep-rooted societal notions such as “mechanical means masculine” and “coding isn’t for girls” deter girls from pursuing or sustaining STEM careers, creating self-doubt and limiting aspirations Women face concerns around workplace safety, lack of equitable pay, and inadequate policies to support life transitions such as marriage, childbirth, and caregiving, resulting in career breaks or exits from STEM fields. Families often lack exposure to diverse STEM career opportunities, discouraging girls from pursuing technical education or supporting their employment away from home. Government vision and STEM skilling The New Education Policy aims to integrate STEM education with skills training, life skills, and critical thinking from early schooling to higher education. The Government’s renewed focus on revitalising Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and expanding vocational skilling is bringing high-quality technical education and training closer to villages and small towns, ensuring broader access for youth across rural India. The share of the gender budget increased from 6.8% in 2024-25 to 8.8% in 2025-26, with an allocation of ₹4.49 lakh crore. This increase supports targeted programmes for women’s education, skilling, entrepreneurship, and safety, reflecting a stronger commitment to gender-responsive budgeting. Further, the Union Budget 2025-26 introduced term loans for women entrepreneurs, new National Skill Training Institutes, and investments in technology-driven skilling.  However, government policy alone cannot bridge the education-employment gap. Industry must transform from passive recruiter to active enabler of women’s career transitions. Example – UN Women’s WeSTEM Programme: Implemented with Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat Governments and supported by the Micron Foundation, this initiative focuses on: Providing skills training aligned with industry needs. Bridging talent gaps through placement-linked courses. Engaging families and community leaders to build acceptance. Conducting workplace safety sessions. Introducing women role models in classrooms to inspire girls. Industries need to move beyond merely hiring women to actively nurturing their careers through mentorship, flexible policies, and skill upgradation. Way forward Industry partnerships with educational institutions can bridge the education-employment gap by aligning skills with market needs. Form Mentorship networks that link professionals with students and provide guidance, exposure, and career clarity for women in STEM. Workplace policies that accommodate life transitions (marriage, childbirth, caregiving) and ensure safety are crucial to retaining women in STEM careers. Conclusion By equipping women and girls with the skills and training needed to succeed in STEM fields, we can create a more inclusive and robust society. When a woman earns, her voice and impact echoes across dinner tables, shop floors, policy rooms and entire industries. And in that voice lies the blueprint of a future ready India. Mains Practice Question Q Despite a high proportion of women STEM graduates, India continues to witness low female representation in STEM employment. Critically examine the factors responsible for this paradox. Suggest policy and industry measures to bridge this gap and leverage women’s potential for national development.” (250 words, 15 marks) Deepfakes: Threats and Regulations (GS paper III – Science and Technology, GS paper II - Polity) Introduction (Context) Denmark has proposed extending copyright protections to individuals’ facial features, appearance, and voice to avoid the misuse of Deepfake. What is Deepfake? Deepfakes are a form of synthetic media which depict believable and realistic videos, pictures, or audio of events that never happened — they show real people doing or saying things that they never did or said. The volume of deepfake content online has risen dramatically in recent years, and deepfakes have become increasingly difficult to spot. How does Deepfake work? Deepfake uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create fake photos, videos, or audio that look and sound real. It mainly uses Generative Adversarial Networks, which is a type of AI that learns patterns from large amounts of data. The goal of GAN is to create new data instances that resemble a given training dataset. They consist of two neural networks, a generator and a discriminator, that compete against each other in a “game” to produce increasingly realistic data. Key Data NASSCOM (2024): India saw a 400% rise in reported deepfake crimes between 2022-24. Europol predicts 90% of online content could be synthetically generated by 2026. Uses of Deepfakes: Entertainment: Deepfake technology can be used in the film and entertainment industry for special effects and digital enhancements. Virtual Assistants and Avatars: AI-generated avatars can be employed as virtual assistants for advertising/marketing, providing a more engaging and interactive user experience. Education and Training: Deepfakes can be utilized for educational purposes, creating realistic simulations and training scenarios for various professions, such as healthcare, law enforcement, and customer service. Dubbing and Localization: Deepfake technology can assist in dubbing content into different languages while preserving the natural lip movements and facial expressions of the original actors. Accessibility: Deepfakes can be used to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. For example, a sign language interpreter’s movements could be replicated using deepfake technology to make content more accessible for the deaf community. Threats Deepfakes pose several threats, ranging from potential misuse to broader societal and security concerns. Some of the key threats associated with deepfakes include: Misinformation and Fake News: Deepfakes can be used to create deceptive videos or audio recordings, contributing to the spread of misinformation and fake news, making it challenging to discern truth from fiction. Privacy Concerns: Deepfakes can violate individuals’ privacy by superimposing their faces onto explicit or compromising content without consent, leading to personal and professional consequences. Identity Theft: Deepfake technology poses a risk of identity theft by creating convincing fake videos or audio recordings impersonating individuals. This raises concerns about identity theft, privacy violations, and potential harm to an individual’s personal and professional reputation. Cybersecurity Risks: The creation and distribution of deepfake content can be facilitated by cybercriminals, leading to increased risks of cyberattacks, including phishing, social engineering, and other malicious activities. Reputation Damage: Deepfakes could be used to manipulate content related to businesses, celebrities, politicians causing reputational damage, financial losses, and legal consequences. National Security Concerns: Deepfakes could be leveraged for spaying or to create fake videos depicting political leaders making statements or engaging in activities that never occurred, potentially leading to diplomatic tensions or security issues. Erosion of Trust: As deepfake technology becomes more sophisticated, there is a risk of eroding public trust in media and information sources. People may become skeptical of the authenticity of videos and audio recordings, impacting trust in journalism and media outlets. Social Engineering and Scams: Deepfakes can be used in social engineering attacks, where attackers manipulate individuals into taking actions based on deceptive content. This could include financial scams, fraudulent activities, or other forms of exploitation. Legal and Ethical Challenges: The use of deepfakes raises complex legal and ethical questions. Determining responsibility, accountability, and legal consequences for the creation and dissemination of deepfake content can be challenging. Steps taken by Denmark Denmark has proposed the bill that gives people “the right to your own voice, your own facial features, and no one can copy that without your consent”. The Bill introduces three new forms of protection against deepfakes: Imitation protection, which bars others from publicly sharing realistic digital recreations of a person’s physical traits, like facial features and voice; Performance protection, that covers artistic performances such as non-verbal or improvised acts that may not meet the usual copyright thresholds; and Protection for performing artists, specifically targeting digital mimicry of musicians, actors, performers, etc. The most notable here is the protection extended to ordinary individuals.  The proposed Section 73(a) makes it illegal to share realistic deepfakes mimicking a person’s appearance, voice, or characteristics for up to 50 years after their death. The Bill proposes a kind of consent-based protection: deepfake content can only be shared with the permission of the individual impersonated in it. It is the responsibility of the person sharing the content to prove that consent was obtained, and this consent can also be withdrawn at any time. The Bill also makes online platforms responsible for taking down deep fakes, and proposes heavy penalties if they fail to do so. Legal Framework in India Indian courts have thus far resorted to concepts of privacy, defamation, and publicity rights when dealing with deepfakes. Notably, the Delhi High Court extended protections against unauthorised use of their likenesses to actors Amitabh Bachchan in 2022 and Anil Kapoor in 2023. Laws are: IT Act 2000: No specific mention, but deepfakes may be prosecuted under: Section 66E: Violation of privacy. Section 67: Obscene content. Section 469 IPC: Forgery for harming reputation. Proposed Digital India Act 2025: Plans to define and regulate AI-generated content, including deepfakes. Way Forward Define deepfake legally and penalise malicious usage. Develop AI tools for detection and watermarking of authentic content. Public education on verifying digital content. Promote responsible AI development with safeguards against misuse. Conclusion Deepfake technology is a double-edged sword. While it holds potential for creative industries, its misuse poses serious threats to society, governance, and security. India needs a robust legal, technological, and ethical framework to address deepfake challenges effectively. Mains Practice Question Q Deepfake technology is both an innovation and a threat. Discuss the challenges posed by deepfake content to society and governance in India, and suggest measures to mitigate its misuse. (250 words, 15 marks) Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated in our “Daily Current Affairs Quiz” section on our website Please click on the below link  https://iasbaba.com/daily-current-affairs-quiz/

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 14th July 2025

The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂 After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions. .To take the Test Click Here

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th July – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) Nomination to Rajya Sabha Category: ENVIRONMENT Category: Polity & Governance Context: President Droupadi Murmu nominated former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Special Public Prosecutor in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks case Ujjwal Nikam, Kerala BJP leader C. Sadanandan Master and Delhi-based historian Meenakshi Jain to the Rajya Sabha. More about the news: The nomination was notified by the Union Home Ministry. “In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-clause (a) of clause (1) of article 80 of the Constitution of India, read with clause (3) of that article, the President is pleased to nominate to the Council of States the following persons to fill the vacancies caused due to retirement of nominated members — Shri Ujjwal Deorao Nikam, Shri C. Sadanandan Master, Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Dr. Meenakshi Jain,” the notification said. Nomination of Members to Rajya Sabha: The Fourth Schedule of the Constitution deals with the allocation of seats in the Rajya Sabha to the states and union territories The maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is fixed at 250, out of which, 238 are to be the representatives of the states and union territories (elected indirectly) and 12 are nominated by the president. The president nominates 12 members to the Rajya Sabha from people who have special knowledge or practical experience in art, literature, science and social service. Roles and Powers of Nominated Members: Nominated members of Rajya Sabha enjoy all the powers and privileges to which the elected MPs are entitled.  They can take part in the proceedings of the House in a normal manner. Nominated members are not allowed to vote in the election of the President. However, they do have the right to vote in the election of the Vice-President. Issues with the Nominated Members: There has been criticism that several nominated members have poor attendance and do not appear to show much interest in legislative work. E.g.- In this context, cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, actor Rekha, and businesswoman Anu Aga have faced criticism in recent years. Ruling dispensations have repeatedly used the nominated category to shore up their numbers in the House, to dispense favours, and to get their preferred individuals into Parliament. Way Forward: Position of the Rajya Sabha in our constitutional system can be made as strong as that of the Senate in the American constitutional system to grant more powers to Rajya Sabha while ensuring more accountability. Source: The Hindu Sessions of the Parliament Category: POLITY Context: Ahead of the Monsoon session of Parliament, scheduled to begin on July 21, Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi has convened a meeting of the party’s top leadership to finalise the strategy for the session. More about the news: Key issues likely to be discussed include the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, the recent Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, the imposition of U.S. tariffs against India, and broader concerns around the state of the economy, inflation, and unemployment. The Congress-led Opposition is also expected to raise the demand for the Deputy Speaker’s post in the Lok Sabha, with eight-term MP from Kerala, Kodikunnil Suresh, being viewed as a leading contender. Sessions of the Parliament: The summoning of Parliament is specified in Article 85 of the Constitution. The power to convene a session of Parliament rests with the Government. The decision is taken by the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs which is formalised by the President, in whose name MPs are summoned to meet for a session. The maximum gap between two sessions of Parliament cannot be more than six months. Thus, the Parliament should meet at least twice a year. India does not have a fixed parliamentary calendar. By convention (i.e. not provided by the Constitution), Parliament meets for three sessions in a year. The Budget Session is the longest and most important session of the Parliament. The primary focus of the Budget Session is the presentation, discussion, and passing of the Union Budget, which outlines the government’s revenue and expenditure plans for the upcoming fiscal year. The name “Monsoon Session” derives from the fact that it coincides with the Monsoon Season (Seasonal Rains) in India. The Monsoon Session is generally held from July to September. Similar to the Monsoon Session, the primary objective of the Winter Session is to transact legislative business and prioritize urgent matters and bills. The Winter Session is generally held from November to December. Source: The Hindu Jarawa Tribe Category: HISTORY Context: Conducting census among the six main indigenous tribes in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will not be tough as the Central Government has already made contact and are running several welfare measures for these tribes, said physician Ratan Chandra Kar. Dr. Kar who played an important role in providing healthcare to the Jarawa tribe of the Andaman Islands began his work with the tribes in 1998, combating a devastating measles outbreak in 1999 that threatened the tribe’s existence. More about the news: The Government has formally announced that the 16th Census of India will take place in two phases, with the reference dates set as March 1, 2027, for most of the country and October 1, 2026. This census will include the first nationwide caste enumeration since 1931. With the next Census yet to be conducted, the Tribal Affairs Ministry has found it challenging to estimate the population of PVTGs, including in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while implementing targeted scheme-delivery programmes like the PM-JANMAN for PVTG households. Jarawa Tribe: The Jarawas are one of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands, known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, reliance on forest resources, and deep connection to their natural environment. They are one of the world’s oldest surviving tribes and are mostly hunter-gatherers, living in nomadic bands of 40-50 individuals. Historically, the Jarawas remained isolated from outside contact, preserving their unique cultural practices and traditions. They inhabit the western coasts of South and Middle Andaman Islands, a region rich in biodiversity that supports their traditional way of life. The first significant friendly contact with the Jarawas occurred in April 1996, marking a turning point in their interaction with the outside world. This event was initiated when Enmei, a 21-year-old Jarawa tribesman, suffered a serious fracture in his left ankle. The 2011 Census recorded 380 Jarawa individuals out of the 28,530 Scheduled Tribe individuals across Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Source: The Hindu Jarawa Tribe Category: GEOGRAPHY Context: Conducting census among the six main indigenous tribes in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will not be tough as the Central Government has already made contact and are running several welfare measures for these tribes, said physician Ratan Chandra Kar. Dr. Kar who played an important role in providing healthcare to the Jarawa tribe of the Andaman Islands began his work with the tribes in 1998, combating a devastating measles outbreak in 1999 that threatened the tribe’s existence. More about the news: The Government has formally announced that the 16th Census of India will take place in two phases, with the reference dates set as March 1, 2027, for most of the country and October 1, 2026. This census will include the first nationwide caste enumeration since 1931. With the next Census yet to be conducted, the Tribal Affairs Ministry has found it challenging to estimate the population of PVTGs, including in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while implementing targeted scheme-delivery programmes like the PM-JANMAN for PVTG households. Jarawa Tribe: The Jarawas are one of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands, known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, reliance on forest resources, and deep connection to their natural environment. They are one of the world’s oldest surviving tribes and are mostly hunter-gatherers, living in nomadic bands of 40-50 individuals. Historically, the Jarawas remained isolated from outside contact, preserving their unique cultural practices and traditions. They inhabit the western coasts of South and Middle Andaman Islands, a region rich in biodiversity that supports their traditional way of life. The first significant friendly contact with the Jarawas occurred in April 1996, marking a turning point in their interaction with the outside world. This event was initiated when Enmei, a 21-year-old Jarawa tribesman, suffered a serious fracture in his left ankle. The 2011 Census recorded 380 Jarawa individuals out of the 28,530 Scheduled Tribe individuals across Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Source: The Hindu World Heritage List Category: Culture Context: Activist Tommy Garnett’s decades of work paid off when Sierra Leone’s Tiwai island — a lush forest home to one of the world’s highest concentrations of primates — landed a spot Sunday on the UN cultural agency’s World Heritage list. The 66-year-old and the conservation group he founded are the reason Tiwai, which was nearly destroyed during Sierra Leone’s 1991-2002 civil war, still exists. More about the news: Gola-Tiwai is a treasure chest of biodiversity: The primates include the endangered western chimpanzee, the king colobus monkey and the Diana monkey. And its forests and waters are home to animals such as the pygmy hippopotamus and the critically endangered African forest elephant. The Gola-Tiwai complex, which also includes the nearby Gola Rainforest National Park, will be Sierra Leone’s first UNESCO site. The two areas have a spectacular biodiversity that has been imperilled for years by threats such as deforestation. The island, located in the Moa river, measures just 12 sq. km. and has 11 species of primates. About World Heritage Site: A World Heritage Site is a location recognised by UNESCO for its “outstanding universal value”.  It is guided by Convention Concerning Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (called World Heritage Convention). It has three categories: Cultural heritage, Natural heritage, and Mixed heritage (cultural as well as natural). There are 44 World Heritage Sites in India. Out of these, 36 are cultural, seven are natural, and one, Khangchendzonga National Park, is of mixed type, listed for both cultural and natural properties. Source: The Hindu National Medical Commission Category: Polity & Governance Context: The Union Cabinet has appointed Abhijat Sheth as the new Chairperson of the National Medical Commission (NMC), replacing Suresh Gangadhar, who stepped down due to health concerns. About National Medical Commission (NMC): The NMC has been constituted by an act of Parliament known as National Medical Commission Act, 2019. It replaced the Medical Council of India (MCI) which had been the regulatory body for medical education and practice in India since 1934. The headquarters of the National Medical Commission is located in New Delhi. Committed to upholding the highest standards in healthcare education, NMC ensures the delivery of quality medical education and training across the nation. It consists of 33 members, including the Chairperson (who must be a medical professional), 10 ex-officio members, and 22 part-time members. Source: The Hindu (MAINS Focus) AI’s role in India’s energy transition (GS paper III – Science and Technology, GS paper III - Economy) Introduction (Context) India’s energy demand is rapidly increasing and is expected to double by 2030 (IEA). To meet this sustainably, India targets 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2070, aligning with its Paris Agreement commitments.  Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds immense potential to transform the energy sector by enhancing efficiency, integrating renewables, and optimising grid management. However, challenges like outdated infrastructure, funding gaps, data quality issues, and limited AI capacity must be addressed to fully harness AI’s benefits for India’s clean energy transition. India’s Energy Status According to the Energy Statistics India 2025 Total Electricity Generation (FY 2023-24) approx. 15,20,000 GWh (Renewable + Non-Renewable combined) Total Renewable Energy Potential (as on 31-Mar-2024) is 21,09,655 MW (Wind Power: 11,63,856 MW (~55%), Solar Energy: 7,48,990 MW and Large Hydro: 1,33,410 MW) Top contributors of renewable energy: Rajasthan: 20.3% Maharashtra: 11.8% Gujarat: 10.5% Karnataka: 9.8% Per-capita consumption of energy has increased from 14,682 Mega Joule/person during FY 2014-15 to 18,410 Mega Joule/person during FY 2023-24. Lacunas in India’s Power Sector 20%-30% of electricity generated lost in transmission and distribution. Around 75% electricity is from coal leading to high GHG emissions. Infrastructure gaps such as outdated grids, frequent outages, and electricity theft in tier 2 & 3 cities. Role of AI in energy sector Machine learning models can predict generation and demand fluctuations, helping grid operators maintain balance. Smart grids can detect faults, reduce transmission losses, and integrate renewables efficiently. AI-powered systems adjust energy supply based on real-time usage, significantly reducing wastage and costs.  AI also supports consumer-side energy efficiency by encouraging behaviours that reduce peak-hour strain and promote off-peak usage. Challenges in implementation of AI Outdated infrastructure, high electricity theft, and frequent outages mainly in tier 2 and 3 cities. Fragmented data systems hinder the use of AI in energy forecasting and grid optimisation.  Financial barriers particularly in smaller utilities as they struggle to meet the high upfront costs and limited government support. Lack of supportive policy frameworks and guidelines dampens the investments in AI technologies.  Shortage of AI and data analytics experts limits the sector’s ability to leverage AI solutions, while growing cybersecurity risks. Global Best Practices Barcelona: Smart meters for real-time energy management. Los Angeles: Cloud-based analytics for predictive distribution. Germany: Specialised machine learning training for energy professionals. UK: Retraining programmes for workers impacted by automation. Copenhagen: Consumer empowerment through energy-saving initiatives. New York: Strong cybersecurity protocols for data safety. Way Forward Invest in smart grids, meters, and cloud platforms. Formulate clear guidelines and incentives for AI adoption. Develop a skilled workforce in AI and data analytics. Protect critical energy data systems from cyber-attacks. Addressing ethical concerns such as fairness and job impacts along with community engagement and workforce reskilling. Conclusion AI offers transformative potential for India’s energy sector by boosting efficiency, reducing emissions, and integrating renewables, but the challenges remain. Outdated infrastructure, financial and policy barriers, skill shortages, and equity concerns need adequate attention.  A collaborative effort involving government support, private investment, and community engagement will be key to ensuring that AI’s benefits are sustainable and accessible across urban and rural areas. Mains Practice Question Q Discuss the role of Artificial Intelligence in accelerating India’s energy transition. What are the challenges in its effective implementation, and how can these be addressed for a just and inclusive transition? (250 words, 15 marks) Urban Naxalism and Maharashtra Maoism Bill (GS paper II – Polity and Governance) Introduction (Context) The stringent Maharashtra Special Public Security (MSPS) Bill, which seeks “to provide for effective prevention of certain unlawful activities of left wing extremist organisations or similar organisations”, was passed by the state Assembly. In this context, we are discussing concept of Urban Naxalism. What is Naxalism? Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is one of India’s most serious internal security challenges.  It has emerged due to the socio-economic inequalities and is driven by Maoist ideology. The movement has aimed to undermine the Indian state through armed rebellion and parallel governance structures, particularly targeting security forces, public infrastructure, and democratic institutions.  Originating from the Naxalbari movement of 1967 in West Bengal, it spread primarily across the “Red Corridor,” affecting states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra, Kerala, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.  The Maoist insurgents claim to fight for the rights of the marginalized, particularly tribal communities, but their methods include armed violence, extortion, destruction of infrastructure, and recruitment of children and civilians. What is Urban Naxalism? The term ‘Urban Naxal’ is based off a Maoist strategy where they look to urban regions for leadership, organising masses and engaging in military tasks like providing personnel and infrastructure. The focus of the Maoists’ urban work is to organise the masses, including the working class, students, middle class employees, intellectuals, women, Dalits and religious minorities. Its presence is increasing in the urban areas also through the Naxal front organisations”. (frontal organisations provide logistics and safe refuge to armed Naxal cadres)  To address this situation, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha have enacted Public Security Acts and banned 48 Naxal frontal organisations Similarly, to meet the challenge of urban naxalism, Maharashta government has passed the stringent Maharashtra Special Public Security (MSPS) Bill, which seeks “to provide for effective prevention of certain unlawful activities of left wing extremist organisations or similar organisations”. Impact of Urban Naxalism Provides ideological, logistical, and financial support to rural armed cadres, sustaining the overall insurgency. Influences universities, media, and civil society organisations to propagate extremist narratives. Radicalises urban youth by portraying violent rebellion as justified resistance. Facilitates planning, recruitment, and supply chains in urban safe havens, making counterinsurgency difficult. Creates public dissent against the state through misinformation campaigns and legal activism supporting extremist causes. Provisions of the Bill The Bill gives the government the power to declare any suspect “organisation” as an “unlawful organisation”.  It prescribes four offences for which an individual can be punished:  for being a member of an unlawful organisation,  when not a member, for raising funds for an unlawful organisation,  for managing or assisting in managing an unlawful organisation and,  for committing an “unlawful activity”. These offences carry jail terms of two years to seven years, along with fines ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh.  The offence relating to committing an unlawful activity carries the toughest punishment: imprisonment of seven years and a fine of Rs 5 lakh. These offences carry jail terms of two years to seven years, along with fines ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. The offence relating to committing an unlawful activity carries the toughest punishment: imprisonment of seven years and a fine of Rs 5 lakh. When an organisation has been declared “unlawful”, the District Magistrate or the Police Commissioner may take possession and evict individuals from “any place which in his opinion is used for the activities of such unlawful purpose of organization”. Definition of ‘unlawful activity’: Interference with the maintenance of public order, or with the administration of law; Overawing a public servant by criminal force; Indulging in or propagating, acts of violence, vandalism, or other acts generating fear and apprehension in the public; Indulging in or encouraging the use of firearms, explosives, or other devices, or disrupting communications by rail, road, air, or water; Encouraging or practising disobedience to established law and its institutions. Concerns raised by experts The Bill criminalises a wide range of actions – from interference with the maintenance of public order and administration of the law, to generating fear and apprehension in the public, and encouraging or preaching disobedience of the law. It also prescribes penal consequences for alleged offences, including forfeiture of property even before a trial is conducted and the accused is found guilty. Concerns have been raised that the overbroad definitions in the Bill and the wide powers that it confers on the police could possibly be misused. Conclusion The introduction of the Urban Naxalism Bill reflects the state’s proactive approach to countering the evolving threat of Left Wing Extremism, especially its spread into urban intellectual, activist, and organisational networks. However, Ordinary criminal laws have constitutional safeguards, such as the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, and the burden of proof lying with the state to establish the crime against the accused. In special laws, for high-stakes offences, these principles are diluted. Hence should be taken to avoid their misuse. Mains Practice Question Q What is Urban Naxalism? Why did the Maharashtra government introduce a Bill to tackle it? (250 words, 15 marks) Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Today’s – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated in our “Daily Current Affairs Quiz” section on our website Please click on the below link  https://iasbaba.com/daily-current-affairs-quiz/