Jun 12, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 12th June 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

Jun 12, 2025 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th June – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) High Seas Treaty – 2025 UN Ocean Conference Category: ENVIRONMENT Context: India is actively moving toward ratification of the High Seas Treaty (formally the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction – BBNJ – Agreement), contrary to any suggestion of reluctance. Decoding Context:  Key Highlights: India has signed the BBNJ Treaty and is undergoing its internal ratification process. At the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in Nice, the Minister of State for Earth Sciences confirmed India’s commitment to the treaty and ocean conservation. A six-point action plan was proposed by India, focusing on science-based, inclusive, and sustainable ocean governance. India’s Commitments: Enhancing marine research and data-driven ocean policy. Expanding marine protected areas. Tackling plastic and marine pollution via circular economy models. Promoting climate resilience and ocean-based solutions. Supporting renewable ocean energy. Integrating indigenous knowledge in marine governance. India also endorsed the ‘Nice Ocean Action Plan’, emphasizing finance, partnerships, and actionable steps toward achieving SDG-14 (Life Below Water). Global Status: As of mid-2025, 49 countries have ratified the treaty; 60 ratifications are required for it to come into force. The treaty aims to: Protect biodiversity in international waters. Establish marine protected areas. Ensure fair sharing of marine genetic resources. Foster international cooperation for high seas governance. Conclusion: India is firmly aligned with the objectives of the High Seas Treaty and is progressing toward formal ratification. Its current stance reflects a deliberate, policy-driven approach consistent with its broader marine conservation strategy.   Learning Corner: High Seas Treaty (BBNJ Agreement) Full Name: Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Adopted: June 2023 at the United Nations Purpose: To conserve and sustainably use marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ), i.e., the high seas which cover nearly two-thirds of the ocean and nearly half of the Earth’s surface. Key Features: Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Establish a global framework to create protected zones in international waters to safeguard marine ecosystems. Marine Genetic Resources (MGRs): Ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of MGRs, such as deep-sea organisms used in pharmaceuticals or biotechnology. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): Mandates EIAs for activities conducted on the high seas to prevent significant harm to marine environments. Capacity Building and Technology Transfer: Assists developing countries with scientific resources, training, and data-sharing to ensure equitable participation in high seas conservation. Decision-Making Structure: Establishes institutions to monitor implementation, resolve disputes, and update scientific guidelines periodically. Significance: Fills a major legal gap in international maritime law under the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea). Aims to protect biodiversity in the “global commons”. Critical for tackling threats such as overfishing, climate change, and deep-sea mining. Global Treaties that India has ratified and not ratified: Category Ratified by India Not Ratified by India Nuclear Treaties CWC, BWC NPT, CTBT, ATT Environmental Treaties UNFCCC, CBD, Paris Agreement, Basel, Stockholm BBNJ (in process), some UN water conventions Human Rights Treaties ICCPR, ICESCR, CRC, CEDAW Migrant Workers’ Convention, Enforced Disappearances Labour Treaties Some ILO conventions ILO 87, 98, partially delayed ratification of 138 Maritime Treaties UNCLOS, CITES, WTO-related None major Source : THE HINDU C. Sankaran Nair Category: HISTORY Sankaran Nair’s legacy defies simple categorization due to his multifaceted roles as a jurist, nationalist, reformer, and critic. He was both an insider in the British legal system and a principled dissenter, resigning from the Viceroy’s Council after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Key Aspects of His Legacy Constitutionalist and Rebel: Rose to become a judge of the Madras High Court, yet protested British atrocities and advocated for Indian rights through constitutional means. Legal and Social Reformer: Delivered landmark judgments emphasizing due process and justice. Advocated inter-caste marriage, women’s rights, and eradication of caste discrimination. Independent Nationalist: Supported Dominion Status as a step toward full independence. Criticized both British colonialism and Indian political orthodoxy, especially Gandhi’s mass movements and the Khilafat agitation. Courage and Integrity: Refused to apologize after losing a defamation case in England. Resigned from high office over ethical concerns. Underappreciated Figure: Despite his influence, his contributions were sidelined in mainstream narratives. He is now being rediscovered through biographies and popular media. Conclusion Sankaran Nair’s life embodied contradiction and courage—an elite fighting for the marginalized, a loyal servant of law who challenged empire, and a moderate voice amid radical upheaval. His legacy is essential to understanding the complexities of India’s freedom struggle. Learning Corner: Sankaran Nair (1857–1934) Lawyer | Jurist | Nationalist | Social Reformer Sankaran Nair was a prominent Indian jurist and nationalist leader known for his bold dissent against British colonial rule and his deep commitment to constitutionalism and social justice. He served as the President of the Indian National Congress in 1897, becoming the first Malayali to hold the position. Appointed Advocate-General of Madras and later a Judge of the Madras High Court, he was known for his commitment to legal integrity and civil rights. In protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre (1919), he resigned from the Viceroy’s Executive Council, becoming one of the earliest high-ranking Indians to do so. Nair was a strong advocate for social reform, promoting women’s rights, caste equality, and inter-caste marriage. He opposed Gandhi’s methods of mass civil disobedience and criticized the Khilafat Movement, preferring constitutional and legislative paths to reform. His book, Gandhi and Anarchy, outlined his differences with the dominant nationalist strategies of his time. Despite his contributions, he was largely forgotten in mainstream history until recent efforts began reviving interest in his legacy. Source: THE HINDU Sudan Refugee Crisis Category: INTERNATIONAL Context : Egypt’s Crackdown Forces Sudanese Refugees Toward Libya and Europe Decoding Context: Following the 2023 civil war in Sudan, millions fled the country—many initially seeking safety in Egypt due to its proximity and historic ties. However, Egypt’s increasingly restrictive refugee policies have made it harder for Sudanese to remain. Stricter visa rules, costly residency requirements, and a shift from UNHCR to government-controlled refugee registration have led to widespread detentions and deportations, even for registered asylum seekers. Facing harassment, fear of arrest, and poor living conditions, many Sudanese are now fleeing from Egypt through Libya in hopes of reaching Europe. Libya, though deeply unstable, has become a major transit route despite being extremely dangerous. Refugees face abuse, extortion, sexual violence, and repeated detentions by militias and smugglers. Women and children are especially vulnerable, and many endure brutal treatment before attempting perilous sea crossings to Europe. The humanitarian response is overwhelmed, with aid agencies warning of dire shortages and funding gaps as refugee numbers climb. Meanwhile, rights groups argue Egypt’s actions violate international obligations, and concerns have been raised over European complicity in funding Egypt’s border control efforts. Learning Corner: Sudan War The Sudan War that began in April 2023 is a devastating internal armed conflict between two powerful military factions in Sudan: Key Actors: Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF): Led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the de facto head of state. Rapid Support Forces (RSF): A powerful paramilitary group led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (also known as “Hemedti”), originally formed from the Janjaweed militias of Darfur. Cause of the Conflict: The war erupted due to a power struggle between the SAF and RSF, who were supposed to integrate under a new civilian-led transitional government following the ousting of dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019. Disagreements over security sector reform, power-sharing, and political timelines led to open conflict. Consequences: Humanitarian Catastrophe: Over 9 million people displaced (internally and abroad), including to Egypt, Chad, and South Sudan. Widespread famine-like conditions, ethnic violence, and civilian massacres, especially in Darfur. Health and Infrastructure Collapse: Hospitals destroyed or shut. Access to food, water, and medicine severely limited. Regional Destabilization: Flow of refugees into neighbouring countries. Potential for spillover effects and broader destabilization of the Horn of Africa. Global Response: UN, AU, Arab League, and Western countries have condemned the violence, but ceasefires have repeatedly broken down. Peace talks mediated by Saudi Arabia, USA, and African Union have made limited progress. Current Status (as of 2025): The war continues with no stable government, deepening lawlessness, ethnic cleansing, and potential signs of state collapse. Source :  THE HINDU 50 years to Declaration of Emergency Category: POLITY Context : On June 12, 1975, the Allahabad High Court found Prime Minister Indira Gandhi guilty of electoral malpractice for misusing government resources during her 1971 election campaign. Decoding Context The court declared her election to the Lok Sabha invalid and barred her from holding elected office for six years. This judgment posed a serious threat to her political future and triggered a major constitutional crisis. Gandhi’s Response and the Emergency Instead of resigning, Indira Gandhi appealed to the Supreme Court, which granted a conditional stay allowing her to remain Prime Minister but barred her from voting as an MP. As public protests grew and opposition intensified, she advised the President to declare a national Emergency on June 25, 1975, under Article 352 of the Constitution. The Emergency led to the suspension of civil liberties, press censorship, and the arrest of thousands of opposition leaders and activists. The government acquired sweeping powers and curtailed judicial independence. Aftermath and Legacy The Emergency lasted 21 months and ended in March 1977. It is remembered as a dark chapter marked by authoritarian rule, forced sterilizations, suppression of dissent, and democratic backsliding. Constitutional amendments during this time further shielded the Prime Minister from legal scrutiny. Learning Corner: Brief Note on Emergency Provisions in the Indian Constitution The Emergency provisions in the Indian Constitution allow the central government to assume greater powers to deal with extraordinary situations that threaten the security, unity, or integrity of the nation. These are covered under Part XVIII (Articles 352 to 360).   Types of Emergencies: National Emergency – Article 352 Grounds: War, external aggression, or armed rebellion. Effect: Federal structure becomes unitary. Fundamental Rights under Article 19 suspended. Parliament can legislate on State subjects. Life of Lok Sabha and State Assemblies can be extended. Example: Imposed thrice — 1962 (China War), 1971 (Pakistan War), 1975 (Internal disturbance during Indira Gandhi’s rule). President’s Rule (State Emergency) – Article 356 Grounds: Failure of constitutional machinery in a state. Effect: State government is dismissed. President governs the state through Governor. Parliament makes laws for the state. Duration: Initially 6 months; extendable up to 3 years with Parliamentary approval. Example: Imposed over 100 times in various states. Financial Emergency – Article 360 Grounds: Threat to the financial stability or credit of India or any part of its territory. Effect: Salaries and allowances of government employees can be reduced. Money bills of states require Presidential approval. Note: Never invoked in Indian history.   Key Safeguards (Post 44th Amendment, 1978): National Emergency must be approved by Parliament within 1 month (earlier 2 months). Extension requires every 6 months approval. Fundamental Rights under Articles 20 and 21 cannot be suspended even during Emergency. For declaring Emergency, written advice of the Cabinet is mandatory. Important Case laws: Case Year Key Issue Outcome A.K. Gopalan v. State of Madras 1950 Preventive detention legality Validated; Fundamental Rights seen in isolation ADM Jabalpur v. Shivkant Shukla 1976 Right to life during Emergency Denied; overruled later Minerva Mills v. Union of India 1980 Limits on amending power during Emergency Asserted Basic Structure doctrine Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala 1973 Scope of constitutional amendments Basic Structure doctrine established Waman Rao v. Union of India 1981 Post-Emergency judicial review Affirmed Basic Structure and limits on Parliament’s power Source: THE INDIAN EXPRESS Inflation Falls Below 3% Category: ECONOMICS Context : India’s CPI Inflation Falls Below 3% in May 2025 — First Time in 6 Years Decoding Context: India’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation for May 2025 is estimated to have dropped below 3%, the lowest since April 2019. Projections suggest it may be around 2.7%, following April’s already low 3.16%. Key Drivers of the Decline Easing food prices: Despite some increases in vegetable prices, the fall in cereals and pulses helped push overall food inflation down. Favorable year-on-year base effect: Essential commodities recorded their first annual price decline since early 2019. Core inflation: Remained moderate at ~4.2% due to weak domestic demand and soft global commodity prices. Policy and Economic Implications This decline may prompt the RBI to shift its stance from accommodative to neutral, though further rate cuts are unlikely in the near term. The RBI has revised its FY26 inflation forecast down to 3.7%, reflecting confidence in continued price stability. Learning Corner: Types of Inflation – Based on Causes Demand-Pull Inflation Occurs when aggregate demand exceeds aggregate supply. Common in rapidly growing economies. E.g., excessive consumer spending, rise in government expenditure. Cost-Push Inflation Arises due to increase in production costs (raw materials, wages, etc.). Producers pass increased costs to consumers. E.g., oil price shocks, wage hikes. Built-in Inflation (Wage-Price Spiral) Inflation that results from feedback loops between wages and prices. Higher wages → increased costs → higher prices → demand for more wages.   Types of Inflation – Based on Rate of Increase Type Inflation Rate (approx.) Nature/Impact Creeping/Mild < 3% Slow and manageable; often considered healthy. Walking 3–10% Noticeable rise in prices; may need policy action. Running 10–20% Hurts purchasing power significantly. Galloping > 20% Very high and dangerous; affects economic stability. Hyperinflation > 100% Prices rise uncontrollably (e.g., Zimbabwe, 2008).   Types of Inflation – Based on Scope Headline Inflation Measures total inflation including volatile items like food and fuel. Indicator used in CPI (Consumer Price Index). Core Inflation Excludes food and fuel prices. Indicates underlying inflationary pressures.   Other Forms of Inflation Stagflation High inflation + stagnant growth + high unemployment. Very difficult to control via traditional policies. Deflation Negative inflation; general fall in prices. May lead to lower production and unemployment. Disinflation A fall in the rate of inflation (e.g., from 6% to 3%). Prices are still rising, but at a slower rate. Source : THE INDIAN EXPRESS (MAINS Focus) Child Labour & The Velpur Model (GS Paper II – Governance) Introduction (Context) June 12 is observed globally as the World Day Against Child Labour (WDACL) by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to bring attention to the persistent issue of child labour and brings together governments, employers and workers’ organisations as well as civil society to work towards ending child labour. However, child labour is prevalent all over the world and we are far from achieving Sustainable Development Goal Target 8.7 that calls on the global community to take effective measures to end child labour in all its forms by 2025. The Velpur Mandal of Telangana presents a rare, replicable model of eliminating child labour through a community-driven movement. What is Child Labour? Child labour refers to the exploitation of children through any form of work that deprives them of their childhood, interferes with their education, and is harmful to their physical and mental development. It is distinct from permissible light work done in safe environments and outside school hours. Status and Trends Global scenario: 160 million children are estimated to be involved in child labour which is almost one among 10 children.  The Africa, Asia and the Pacific regions together account for almost nine out of every 10 children being in child labour.  The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation for many underprivileged children, when their schools closed, and their parents lost their jobs/wages. Many children who dropped out of school, and who were forced to work to supplement their family income, have not returned to school. India: Census 2011: 43.53 lakh children (5–14 age group) engaged in child labour. Prevalent in beedi units, carpet weaving, fireworks, and agriculture sectors. Causes of Child Labour Poverty and indebtedness Lack of access to quality education Cultural acceptance of child work in informal sectors Weak enforcement of labour and education laws Migration and displacement Impact of Child Labour Denial of education and skill development Physical and psychological exploitation Intergenerational poverty Violation of fundamental rights and human dignity Constitutional and Legal Provisions Article 21A: Right to free and compulsory education (6–14 years) Article 24: Prohibits employment of children below 14 in hazardous industries Right to Equality and Protection against Exploitation Government Initiatives Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 (Amended in 2016): Prohibits employment of children below 14 years in any occupation or process. Restricts adolescents (14–18 years) from working in hazardous occupations listed in the schedule. Prescribes penalties for employers violating the law and includes provisions for rehabilitation of rescued children. National Policy on Child Labour, 1987: Emphasizes a gradual and sequential approach to eliminate child labour. Focuses on rehabilitating children rather than punitive action. Targets high-incidence areas through developmental interventions. National Child Labour Project (NCLP): Rescued children are placed in special schools/bridge schools. Provides education, vocational training, stipends, mid-day meals, and healthcare. Implemented in districts with high child labour prevalence. PENCIL Portal (Platform for Effective Enforcement for No Child Labour): Serves as a centralised online portal to register complaints and track child labour cases. Facilitates coordination among district authorities, labour departments, and law enforcement. Monitors real-time implementation of NCLP and rehabilitation efforts. Mid-Day Meal Scheme, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, and PM Poshan: Provide nutritional meals, textbooks, and incentives to retain children in school. Address dropout rates and reduce the economic burden on poor families. Promote universal access to elementary education and discourage child labour. Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009: Makes free and compulsory education a legal right for all children aged 6–14. Prohibits any form of child labour interfering with school attendance. Challenges in Eradicating Child Labour in India Hidden nature of child labour in informal sectors Poor rehabilitation of rescued children Family economic compulsions and social tolerance Lack of sustained local-level monitoring Ineffective grievance redressal and coordination among agencies Case Study: The Velpur Model (Telangana) In Velpur Mandal (tehsil) of Nizamabad district in erstwhile Andhra Pradesh (now Telangana), child labour was prevalent in high numbers. In June 2001, a drive involving the community was started in Velpur to ensure that all children in the age group of five to 15 years went to school and that no child would be engaged as labour in any form.  After a sustained campaign for about 100 days, Velpur was declared to be a “child labour free mandal”, on October 2, 2001. Twenty-four years later, there is 100% retention in schools and no child labour in a mandal once notorious for it. Steps taken: The campaign to identify and track every out-of-school child and enrol them in schools. Children who were seen in work places were sent to bridge schools under the NCLP. (Bridge schools offer bridge education, vocational training, and support services like mid-day meals and stipends to help children catch up academically and prepare them for mainstream schooling) Public meetings emphasised the necessity of education and the need for children to go to school. In these meetings, children recognised their (former) employers who let them stop work and go to school. Under peer pressure, former employers also made a public announcement of writing off the balance amount (principal, the interest and penal interest) owed to them by the parents who took hand loans from them (the children were used as mortgage and as child labour till the amount was repaid). They even distributed school stationery to the children. All sarpanchs signed a memorandum of understanding (as in the provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Compulsory Primary Education Rules, 1982), with the government (district education officer in the presence of the District Collector) to ensure that all children in the five to 14 age group in their village were sent to school. The government in turn undertook to provide access, infrastructure and teachers Recognitions: Celebrated under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (2021) by VV Giri National Labour Institute Acknowledged by ILO, President APJ Abdul Kalam, NHRC, and Parliamentary Standing Committee (2022) Incorporated into VVGNLI training modules as a replicable model Way Forward Universal access to education and strengthening of RTE enforcement Livelihood support to families through MGNREGA, SHGs, etc. Convergence between labour, education, and rural development departments Replication of community-based models like Velpur Strengthen monitoring mechanisms through PENCIL Portal and local task forces Conduct periodic social audits and child tracking surveys Mains Practice Question Q “Despite various legislations and policies, child labour continues to be a harsh reality in India.” Examine the causes and suggest sustainable community-led solutions. (250 words, 15 marks)   Community Forest Rights (CFRs) as a Tool to End Naxalism (GS Paper II – Governance, GS Paper III – Internal Security) Introduction (Context) Recently, government has declared that it would end Naxalism by 31 March 2026 and also urged Naxal-affected states to expedite local infrastructure development programmes and provide the best possible rehabilitation packages to surrendered Naxals, while simultaneously continuing operations. In this context, the Gadchiroli model of combining CFR recognition, infrastructure development, and community empowerment offers valuable lessons for other Naxal-affected districts.. About Naxalism Naxalism refers to the armed communist insurgency originating from the village of Naxalbari in West Bengal (1967). It is inspired by Maoist ideology, aiming to overthrow the government through armed struggle, especially in rural and tribal areas. Causes Land Alienation: Tribal farmers lost land without fair compensation. Forest Resource Exploitation: Conservation and industrial projects displaced forest communities. Poverty and Unemployment: Underdevelopment made tribal youth vulnerable to recruitment. Social Exclusion: SCs and STs faced systemic neglect and discrimination. State Repression: Police excesses triggered resentment among tribal populations. Political Marginalisation: Tribals lacked voice in governance and decision-making. Impact of Naxalism Security Threat: Disturbs internal security in several regions. Loss of Life and Property: Frequent violence against civilians and security forces. Development Obstruction: Halts infrastructure and welfare initiatives. Human Rights Violations: Atrocities by both extremists and state agencies. Democratic Erosion: Undermines state authority and democratic functioning. Case study: Gadchiroli Model Gadchiroli is a district in Maharashtra, known for its vast forests, rich tribal culture, and natural beauty.  It is a part of red corridor. (“Red corridor” refers to the region in India where the Naxalite-Maoist insurgency has the strongest influence. The term “red corridor” refers to the region in India where the Naxalite-Maoist insurgency has the strongest influence.)  Steps by district to combat naxalism: Development of infrastructure Rehabilitation packages to surrendered Naxals It’s  Recognize customary and traditional rights of forest-dwelling communities over forest resources. Key Features of the Gadchiroli Model Of the 9,902.8 sq km forest in Gadchiroli, 5,110.07 sq km is under community control, the highest in India. 1,109 villages enjoy legal CFR recognition under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. In 2009, Mendha Lekha became the first village in India to be granted CFR. Provides exclusive rights over minor forest produce (MFP) such as bamboo and tendu. Gram Sabhas manage forest rights and resources democratically. Maharashtra allowed Gram Sabhas to issue bamboo transit passes. The government provided financial incentives (e.g., ₹1.78 lakh per CFR village). Governor’s directives empowered Scheduled Areas under the Fifth Schedule to auction and sell MFP. MoU with 728 Gram Sabhas for technical and financial support to implement CFR activities at the local level. What are Community Forest Rights? Community Forest Rights (CFRs) are legal rights granted to forest-dwelling communities under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 in India. These rights recognize the traditional and customary ownership, use, and management of forest resources by communities. Key Features of CFRs Rights are vested in the entire community or Gram Sabha, not individuals. Communities have the right to collect, use, and dispose of minor forest produce (like bamboo, tendu leaves, honey, etc.). Communities are empowered to conserve, regenerate, and manage forest resources sustainably. Recognizes rights over forests used for cultural, religious, and livelihood purposes. The Gram Sabha is the decision-making body for forest management and benefit-sharing. Strengthens democratic decentralisation in Scheduled Areas. Promotes sustainable forest conservation through local stewardship Achievements in Gadchiroli district Livelihood Security: CFR households earn a minimum ₹7,000/month from forest-based income. Environmental Sustainability: Forests managed by Gram Sabhas show lower deforestation than those under forest departments. Decentralised Governance: Transparent decision-making via Gram Sabha mechanisms. Economic Upliftment: Reduced migration, fewer middlemen, increased investment in education and health. Reinvestment in Forest Conservation: Local patrols, plantation drives, and forest protection initiatives led by communities. Reasons for Success Collective action and grassroots movements initiated by local tribal leaders. They did not depend on external agencies or NGOs for their forest rights.  The District Collector’s office has initiated a series of activities, making policies at the Gram Sabha level more responsive to sustainable tribal livelihood and forest conservation. To date, the administration has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with 728 Gram Sabhas to provide necessary technical and financial support in the development, management, and implementation of the recognised CFR areas.  Challenges Mining Threats: Fear of displacement due to proposed steel plants and mining projects, especially in South Gadchiroli. Implementation Gaps: Need for better convergence of development schemes at district and block levels. Rights Protection: Government must ensure development does not violate PESA and FRA safeguards. Value Addition Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 Its objective is to recognize and vest forest rights in forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers. Key Provisions: Individual Rights: For habitation and cultivation on forest land (up to 4 hectares). Community Forest Rights (CFRs): To manage and use forest produce collectively. Recognition of Rights: Based on customary use, irrespective of forest classification. Gram Sabha Role: Central in identifying beneficiaries and managing forest rights. Significance: Legal empowerment of tribal communities. Livelihood security and forest conservation. Reduction in alienation and forest-related conflicts. Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act – PESA, 1996 Its objective is to extend Part IX of the Constitution (Panchayati Raj) to Fifth Schedule areas with tribal populations. Key Provisions: Empowers Gram Sabhas to manage natural resources, approve development plans, and protect tribal culture. Gram Sabhas must be consulted before land acquisition and rehabilitation. Control over local markets, minor water bodies, and minor forest produce. Significance: Ensures self-governance for tribal communities. Strengthens decentralised democracy in tribal areas. Safeguards against exploitation and displacement. Way Forward Replicate the Gadchiroli Model in other LWE-affected regions through: Strong administrative will for decentralisation. Institutional and financial support to Gram Sabhas. Protection of forest rights against commercial exploitation. Ensure tribal autonomy and livelihood security remain central to development planning in Scheduled Areas. Mains Practice Question Q “Recognition of Community Forest Rights can be a sustainable pathway to tackle Naxalism.” Analyse in the context of Gadchiroli’s experience and suggest how this model can be replicated in other Naxal-affected areas. (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  Daily Current Affairs Quiz for UPSC IAS Prelims | IASbaba  

Jun 11, 2025 Important Articles

[PRELIMS RESULT] UPSC/IAS Civil Services Examination, Prelims 2025 Result Declared!

Hello All, The result of the Prelims 2025, UPSC/IAS Civil Services Examination has been announced. UPSC has been very quick this time with the results. To Download the Civil Services (Preliminary) Result Sheet/PDF – CLICK HERE To Download the Forest Services (Preliminary) Result Sheet/PDF – CLICK HERE If you have cleared the list, Congratulations! Kickstart your mains exam preparation by joining the Trusted Initiative of IASbaba - Mains Exclusive Mentorship Programme - Read More Details Wishing you Good Luck IASbaba

Jun 11, 2025 IASbaba's Courses

[Admissions Open] GURUKUL ADVANCED for Veterans’ - UPSC/IAS 2026 - ‘A Rigorous, Intensive Tests & Mentorship Based Programme’ - A Course With Highest Success Rate In UPSC!

  In the true spirit of Guru-Shishya Parampara — a guided, disciplined, and complete transformation journey for the serious UPSC aspirant. In a UPSC landscape overwhelmed with fragmented strategies, overflowing content, and isolated preparation — GURUKUL ADVANCED (under the Direct Mentorship of Mohan Sir) is a radically different experience. It’s phased. It’s strategic. It’s deeply personalized. This is where intellectual discipline meets emotional resilience, where one-to-one mentorship fuels consistent progress, and where every aspirant is seen, guided, and empowered. And the results speak for themselves 40 % Success Rate in Prelims 33 % Success Rate in Mains ~ 8 % Reach The Final List Among the highest in India for any UPSC programme But success here isn’t only about clearing the Civil Services Exam. It goes beyond the UPSC Civil Services Exam. No one walks away unsuccessful in this Gurukul Ecosystem, we have built over years. Those who didn’t make the final UPSC list have gone on to crack: IFoS, CAPF, EPFO, RBI, SSC CGL, NABARD, State PSCs, and more — a testament to the strength, discipline, and confidence this ecosystem instills. What makes GURUKUL ADVANCED different?   Direct mentorship by Mohan Sir Phased, outcome-driven learning structure Daily accountability & regular check-ins Small, focused peer group for high-performance collaboration GURUKUL ADVANCED doesn’t just prepare you for an exam — it prepares you for any challenge that life and the system may throw at you. Each phase of GURUKUL ADVANCED is thoughtfully crafted to serve a specific purpose: The Mains Mastery Phase (July – October) builds your foundational excellence through theme-based answer writing, PYQ-based analysis, and structured test-based preparation. The Blind Spot Phase (November – December) goes deeper —  identifying and addressing the invisible gaps in your preparation. Through personalized strategies tailored to your strengths and weaknesses across GS papers, this phase helps you take control of what often feels unpredictable. We also bring focused attention to areas aspirants often neglect — like revision and optional preparation, which tend to take a backseat amidst the GS rush. The Prelims Precision Phase (January – March)  sharpens your MCQ instincts and CSAT competence, leaving no room for silly mistakes or surprises. The Revision & Reinforcement Phase (April – May) ensures that everything you’ve studied is retained, revisited and refined. Please Note: Study Room/ Library facility is included as part of the Gurukul Program. There will be no additional charges for this service. Features of GURUKUL ADVANCED Common to All Phases Phase 1: Mains Mastery Phase 2: Blind Spot Phase Phase 3: Prelims Precision Phase 4: Revision & Reinforcement Integrated support system for seamless preparation across phases 1:1 Mentorship: Personalised guidance and reviews throughout the program Direct Mentorship by Mohan Sir: Core mentorship, strategy correction and motivation by Mohan Sir Dedicated Gurukul Library for students: Exclusive library access for Gurukul Advanced students for focused study Babapedia for Current Affairs: Daily updated platform for Prelimspedia + Mainspedia Current Affairs Focus: Master the entire Mains syllabus with classes and test. Duration: July to October Theme-Based Mains PYQ Classes: Classes built around recurring UPSC themes using PYQs integrated with current affairs. 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Duration: January to March Prelims Revision Classes: Daily classes covering static and dynamic syllabus components for Prelims CSAT Classes & Practice: Structured CSAT preparation with drills, mocks, and practice worksheets Daily Prelims Practice: Daily topic-wise MCQs with explanations to reinforce understanding Focus: Final leg of intensive revision, testing, and confidence building. Duration: April to May Sectional Revision Tests: Subject-specific Prelims tests for focused revision Full-Length Mock Tests: UPSC-level mocks simulating actual exam conditions Gurukul Advanced TOPPERS Hear from the students who have cracked UPSC Anjali Shrortriya - Rank 44 Ankita Mishra - Rank 169 Rajesh Ponnappa - Rank 222   Gurukul Advanced Feedback Saba - Karnataka Harith - Telangana Makesh - Tamil Nadu Bablu - Madhya Pradesh   Glimpse of Gurukul​ Advanced One on One Mentorship One on One Mentorship - Mains Mentor Monitored Group Discussion   Eligibility Criteria Only a limited number of highly dedicated students will be selected through multiple rounds of scrutiny. Seats are limited as one on one mentorship is possible only with a limited number of students. The selection process will be similar to UPSC standards, comprising of: Prelims Test – 50 MCQs – 100 marks; Syllabus will include current affairs of last one year and static GS topics + Objective CSAT questions) Mains Test – 150 marks and it will include an essay based on Current Issues and case studies of Ethics to check the approach of candidates Personality Test (Those who clear prelims & mains only)  it will be conducted to check the dedication of candidates and their level of understanding of Current Issues. Mode of Test: ONLINE & OFFLINE Date of Entrance Test –  Date: 14th to 23rd JUNE 2025 (Online & Offline Mode). Offline Venue – IASbaba Headquarters (HQ) – 2nd Floor, Ganapathi Circle, 80 Feet Road, Chandra Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560040. IASbaba Delhi Centre –First Floor, 56/3, Bada Bazar Rd, Old Rajinder Nagar, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi, 110060 Register For Entrance Test Note This is NOT a Scholarship Test. Admission to Gurukul Advanced is only through an ENTRANCE TEST. After the Prelims, Mains Test, and interview the result will be declared 2-3 days after a student takes the test. Downloads Gurukul Advanced Schedule Prelims Test & Solution (Sample) Value Add Notes Advanced (Sample) Value Add Notes Foundation (Sample) Mainspedia (Sample) Prelimspedia (Sample) Mains Mock & Synopsis (Sample) Pricing Gurukul Advanced Online Online ₹ 29,999 + GST 29,999 + 5,400 (18% GST) Register For Entrance Test Gurukul Advanced Offline Bengaluru ₹ 39,999 +GST 39,999 + 7,200 (18% GST) Register For Entrance Test Gurukul Advanced Offline Bengaluru ₹ 49,999 +GST 49,999 + 9,000 (18% GST) Register For Entrance Test Please Note: Study Room/ Library facility is included as part of the Gurukul Program. There will be no additional charges for this service. Still Confused? You can call us on 91691 91888 or mail us at support@iasbaba.com Or visit our centres: Bengaluru: IASbaba Headquarters (HQ) – 2nd floor, Ganapathi Circle, 80 Feet Rd, Chandra Layout, Bengaluru. Admission Centre – No.38,  60 Feet Main Road, Chandra Layout, Attiguppe, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560040. Landmark: Opposite to BBMP Building Delhi: First Floor, 56/3, Bada Bazar Rd, Old Rajinder Nagar, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi, 110060 Frequently Asked Questions What makes GURUKUL ADVANCED different from other UPSC programs? GURUKUL ADVANCED is a complete transformation ecosystem combining phased learning, 1:1 personalized mentorship, rigorous discipline and a focused peer group. With direct mentorship by Mohan Sir, daily accountability, and a structured progression through four distinct phases, the program focuses equally on intellectual clarity, emotional resilience, and exam-readiness. Who is eligible for GURUKUL ADVANCED, and how are students selected? Admission is selective and merit-based. Students must clear a three-stage entrance process modeled on UPSC standards: Stage 1: Prelims Test – 50 MCQs (Static + Current + CSAT) Stage 2: Mains Test – Essay + Ethics-based Case Studies Stage 3: Personality Test – Focused on motivation, clarity, and awareness Only the most dedicated aspirants who qualify all three stages will be selected. What is the structure and timeline of the programme? The program is divided into 4 Phases, each with a unique focus: Phase 1: Mains Mastery – PYQ-based classes, weekly revision tests, essay & ethics sessions Phase 2: Blind Spot Phase – Personalized strategy, weakness-based testing, and Optional focus Phase 3: Prelims Precision – Static + dynamic syllabus coverage, daily tests, and CSAT drills Phase 4: Revision & Reinforcement – Intensive mocks and subject-wise revision tests Each phase is tightly integrated with mentorship and performance monitoring. What kind of mentorship and support will I receive during the programme? You’ll receive: One-on-one mentorship throughout all phases Personal guidance by Mohan Sir You are never left alone in this journey. When is the entrance test? The entrance test will be held on 14th to 23rd JUNE 2025 in both online and offline formats. It includes: Prelims Test (Stage 1) Mains Test (Stage 2 – for those who qualify prelims) Personality Test (Stage 3 – for those who qualify mains)

Jun 11, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 11th June 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

Jun 11, 2025 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th June – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) UNFPA Report Category: INTERNATIONAL Context: India’s population has touched 1.4639 billion (146.39 crore) in 2025, officially making it the most populous country in the world Decoding Context:  According to the UNFPA State of World Population Report 2025, this figure marks a major demographic milestone with long-term implications. Key Highlights: Population (2025): 1.4639 billion Fertility Rate: 1.9 births per woman (below replacement level of 2.1) Life Expectancy: 71 years (men), 74 years (women) Age Distribution: 0–14 years: 24% 10–19 years: 17% 10–24 years: 26% 15–64 years (working age): 68% 65+ years: 7% Population Peak: Expected around 1.7 billion in the early 2060s, after which it will gradually decline. Demographic Dividend: With 68% in the working-age group, India has a key economic opportunity if employment and skilling are addressed effectively.   Fertility & Reproductive Trends: Fertility rate has dropped from nearly 6 children per woman in the 1960s to 1.9 in 2025. Decline driven by improved education, access to healthcare, and women’s empowerment. However, 36% of adults still experience unintended pregnancies, and 30% report unmet reproductive desires, indicating inequality in access and reproductive autonomy across regions.   Policy Focus: The report urges a shift from population control to reproductive rights. The true demographic dividend can only be realized by empowering individuals with informed reproductive choices, and ensuring access to quality healthcare, education, and job opportunities. Conclusion: India stands at a pivotal moment in its demographic journey. While falling fertility rates and better life expectancy are positive signs, realizing the benefits of this transition depends on inclusive policies, reproductive agency, and economic empowerment of the working-age population. Learning Corner: Decadal Census in India – Brief Note Definition: The Census of India is a decennial (once every 10 years) exercise conducted to collect comprehensive demographic, socio-economic, and housing data of the country’s population. It is the largest administrative and statistical exercise in the world. Historical Background: The first synchronous census was conducted in 1881 under British rule. Since then, it has been carried out every 10 years without fail, even during wars, pandemics, or emergencies. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for conducting the census. Key Features: Conducted in two phases: House-listing & Housing Census Population Enumeration Involves lakhs of enumerators, mainly government school teachers and other staff. Census 2011 was the 15th National Census since 1881. Census 2021 (Postponed): Census 2021 was to be the 16th decadal census. It has been postponed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and administrative reasons. This is the first time since 1881 that a decadal census has been delayed. Importance of the Census: Provides data for planning, policy-making, and allocation of resources. Essential for delimitation of constituencies, reservation of seats, and distribution of funds to states. Helps track migration trends, literacy levels, employment, housing conditions, and access to basic amenities. Challenges: Digital transition: Census 2021 was to be the first digital census, using mobile apps for data collection. Political sensitivity over caste-based enumeration (demand for caste census). Urban-rural coverage, underreporting, and data accuracy remain persistent concerns. Conclusion: The decadal census remains a cornerstone of India’s governance and development planning. With growing demands for more granular socio-economic data (e.g., caste census), its scope and complexity are increasing, making its timely and transparent execution more critical than ever. Source : THE HINDU KATRIN Experiment Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context The Karlsruhe Tritium Neutrino (KATRIN) experiment in Germany has set a new world record for the smallest upper limit on the mass of the electron neutrino Decoding Context: How It Works: KATRIN measures the energy of electrons emitted during the beta decay of tritium. By analyzing the endpoint of the energy spectrum, it infers the neutrino mass. The setup includes a 70-meter-long beamline and a 200-tonne spectrometer. Key Highlights: New Limit: Neutrino mass < 0.45 eV/c² (at 90% confidence). Data Used: 250 days of data, 36 million electron events. Comparison: Most precise direct and model-independent measurement so far. Cosmology vs. Lab: While cosmological models suggest even smaller combined masses, KATRIN’s direct approach avoids theoretical dependencies. Significance & Future Prospects: Neutrinos are key to understanding physics beyond the Standard Model, cosmic evolution, and structure formation. KATRIN continues to collect data and aims to push sensitivity to 0.3 eV by the end of 2025. The findings may open doors to new physics. Learning Corner: What are Neutrinos? Neutrinos are fundamental subatomic particles that belong to the family of leptons in the Standard Model of particle physics. They are: Electrically neutral Have extremely small mass (but not zero) Interact very weakly with matter (only via weak nuclear force and gravity) Can pass through ordinary matter almost undisturbed Types of Neutrinos: There are three known flavors of neutrinos, each associated with a charged lepton: Electron neutrino (νₑ) Muon neutrino (ν_μ) Tau neutrino (ν_τ) Key Properties: Property Value / Note Charge 0 (neutral) Spin ½ (fermion) Interaction Weak nuclear force, gravity only Mass Extremely small, non-zero (~<1 eV) Speed Close to speed of light   Neutrino Sources: Natural Sources: Sun (solar neutrinos), cosmic rays, supernovae, Earth’s interior (geoneutrinos) Man-made: Nuclear reactors, particle accelerators, and beta decay experiments   Important Phenomena: Neutrino Oscillation: Neutrinos can change from one flavor to another, which implies they have mass — a discovery that led to the 2002 Nobel Prize in Physics. Mass Measurement: Experiments like KATRIN aim to determine their absolute mass directly.   Why Are Neutrinos Important? They are essential to understanding the Standard Model and physics beyond it. Help explain matter-antimatter asymmetry in the universe. Offer insights into cosmic evolution, nuclear reactions, and dark matter candidates. Due to their weak interaction, they are excellent probes of processes deep inside stars and supernovae. Neutrino Comparison Table Property Neutrino Electron Photon Type Lepton Lepton Boson (Force carrier) Electric Charge 0 −1 0 Mass Very small, non-zero ~9.11 × 10⁻³¹ kg 0 Interaction Weak force, gravity EM, weak, gravity Electromagnetic only Spin ½ (Fermion) ½ (Fermion) 1 (Boson) Speed Close to light speed Much slower Speed of light Penetrating Power Extremely high Low Moderate to high Source: THE HINDU Dollar Is “Floored” in 2025 Category: ECONOMICS Context : The U.S. dollar has fallen nearly 10% in 2025, making it one of the weakest performers among major U.S. asset classes Decoding Context: The decline is driven primarily by a global surge in hedging activity among foreign investors, reflecting growing uncertainty in U.S. policy and market behaviour. Key Reasons for Dollar Weakness Rising Hedging by Global Investors: Investors are now hedging U.S. equity positions more aggressively—unlike in the past, where equities were seen as a natural hedge. This widespread increase in hedge ratios is reducing demand for the dollar. Fading U.S. Exceptionalism: Confidence in the U.S. economic narrative has waned amid shifting policies and global trade tensions, especially under the current administration. Broken Correlations: Typically, the dollar rises when U.S. stocks fall. However, in 2025, both have been falling together. This unusual behaviour has weakened the dollar’s status as a portfolio hedge. Hedging Trends from Global Funds: Large foreign pension funds have sharply increased their currency hedges on U.S. assets—some by over 10% in just months—leading to massive currency flows out of the dollar. Trade Tensions and Outflows: Persistent geopolitical frictions, especially U.S.-China tensions, have added to foreign investor caution, accelerating capital outflows from U.S. markets. Learning Corner: Currency Appreciation and Depreciation: Concepts and Impact on Trade Definitions Currency Appreciation When the value of a country’s currency rises relative to another currency (usually the US Dollar), it is called appreciation. → Example: ₹75/USD → ₹70/USD (1 USD now costs fewer rupees). Currency Depreciation When the value of a country’s currency falls relative to another currency, it is called depreciation. → Example: ₹75/USD → ₹80/USD (1 USD now costs more rupees).  Impact on Trade Impact Appreciation of Currency Depreciation of Currency Exports Becomes costlier in global markets → ↓ Becomes cheaper → more competitive → ↑ Imports Becomes cheaper → import bill ↓ Becomes expensive → import bill ↑ Trade Balance May worsen (exports ↓, imports ↑) May improve (exports ↑, imports ↓) Current Account Deficit Likely to increase May reduce Foreign Investment Appeal Attracts more capital (safe haven effect) May reduce unless higher returns offered Inflation Lower (cheaper imports, e.g., oil) Higher (costlier imports) Link to US Dollar (USD) Appreciation or Depreciation Since the US dollar is the dominant global reserve and trade currency, any movement in USD impacts almost every major economy, including India. If the US Dollar Appreciates (e.g., due to Fed rate hikes, risk aversion): Indian Rupee tends to depreciate → Makes oil, electronics, and other imports expensive. India’s exports become more competitive, boosting textile, IT, and pharma sectors. Worsens CAD if imports (especially crude oil) rise in value. FII outflows occur as investors shift to USD-denominated assets → weaker rupee. If the US Dollar Depreciates (e.g., due to US economic slowdown, Fed rate cuts): INR tends to appreciate → Imports become cheaper, easing inflation. Exports may lose price competitiveness in global markets. Encourages capital inflows into emerging markets like India. Source :  THE HINDU BHASHINI Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context : The Digital India Bhashini Division (DIBD) and Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) have signed an MoU to develop next-generation multilingual AI solutions for Indian Railways’ digital platforms Decoding Context Key Objectives: Language AI Integration: Technologies like Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR), Text-to-Text Translation, Text-to-Speech (TTS), and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) will be integrated into platforms like NTES and RailMadad. Support for 22 Indian Languages: Enhances access to services in native languages across mobile apps, websites, kiosks, and call centers. AI-Driven Passenger Services: Introduction of multilingual chatbots, voice assistants, and real-time voice interaction systems. Scalable Infrastructure: Uses both cloud and on-premise models to ensure reliable deployment across the vast railway network. Pilot Programs: Includes workshops and trial deployments to fine-tune the system before full-scale implementation. Strategic Importance: This collaboration supports the Digital India mission by removing language barriers in public services and enhancing digital inclusivity. It is expected to benefit millions of railway passengers, especially non-English speakers. This initiative marks a major leap in citizen-centric digital transformation for Indian Railways. Learning Corner: Brief Note on BHASHINI BHASHINI (BHASHa INterface for India) is a flagship initiative under the Digital India programme, launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India. Its core mission is to enable access to digital services in all 22 scheduled Indian languages, breaking the language barrier in technology adoption across the country. Key Features: National Language Translation Mission (NLTM): BHASHINI is the implementing arm of NLTM, aiming to create a unified digital public platform for multilingual language technologies. Technology Stack: It provides open-source tools for: Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) Machine Translation Text-to-Speech (TTS) Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Open Ecosystem: Encourages collaboration between startups, academia, industry, and government to develop language AI tools and datasets. Public Platform: Hosts a Bhashadaan portal to crowdsource language data, fostering AI model development for low-resource Indian languages. Significance: Promotes digital inclusion by ensuring non-English speakers can access government schemes, health services, education, and e-commerce in their own language. Supports Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat by building indigenous AI capabilities. Facilitates the creation of voice-enabled and language-neutral digital platforms for public services. Recent Applications: MoUs with CRIS (Railways), NPCI (UPI voice transactions), and other departments to integrate multilingual AI into public services. Empowering platforms like UMANG, MyGov, and DigiLocker with language support. Source: PIB Technical Textiles Category: ECONOMICS Context : Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared an article on the progress made in Technical textiles Decoding Context: India’s technical textiles sector is witnessing rapid growth, driven by two major government initiatives: the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. Together, these programs aim to transform India into a global leader in this high-value, innovation-driven segment. Key Outcomes (as of 2025) Indicator Value Domestic Market Growth (Annual) 10% Exports (Technical Textiles) $2.9 billion Total Investment Attracted ₹5,218 crore Employment Generated 8,500+ jobs Sector Turnover ₹3,242 crore Export Revenue (TT alone) ₹217 crore Conclusion NTTM and PLI have redefined India’s approach to technical textiles—from an import-dependent industry to one that is self-reliant, innovative, and globally competitive. The sector is now crucial to India’s strategic interests in defence, infrastructure, health, and sustainability. Learning Corner: National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) Launch & Vision: Introduced in 2020 with a budget of ₹1,480 crore to make India a global leader by 2026. Key Focus Areas: Research, innovation, market development, exports, and skill development. Achievements: 168 research projects supported. Training for over 50,000 individuals. Mandated use of 73 technical textile items in public projects. Strategic Sectors Covered: Aerospace, defence, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, and environment. Ecosystem Building: 17 startups incubated. Over 2,000 students trained. 16 industry-linked skilling modules developed. Global Presence: Participation in 30+ international events; man-made textile exports rose from $4.2B (2020–21) to $5.3B (2024–25).   Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme High-Value Manufacturing: Focuses on critical products like carbon fiber, glass fiber, and automotive safety textiles. Objective: Boost large-scale domestic production and reduce dependence on imports. Global Competitiveness: Aims to challenge key exporters like China and Vietnam in the technical textiles space. Source : THE ECONOMIC TIMES (MAINS Focus) Kerala Seeks Wildlife Law Reform to Tackle Rising Animal Attacks (GS Paper III - Environment) Introduction (Context) The Kerala government has sought the Centre’s approval to amend the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, to allow the state to cull wild animals that pose threats to human life and agricultural livelihoods. However, this issue is not confined to Kerala alone. Across India, human-animal conflicts are rising, with growing instances of crop damage, loss of life, and displacement caused by wildlife entering human habitats.  Human Animal Conflict Human-wildlife conflict refers to the negative interactions between humans and wild animals, often resulting in harm to both parties. The issue in Kerala: Wildlife attacks have emerged as a major issue in Kerala, with the government identifying 273 village local bodies, out of 941, as hotspots. The problem animals are mainly tiger, leopard, elephant, bison, wild boar, bonnet macaque and peafowl. Although bonnet macaque (a monkey species) and peafowl do not pose a threat to life, their repeated raids have forced farmers to abandon vast tracts of agricultural land. Crop damage, livestock predation, and damage to infrastructure can lead to significant economic losses for farmers and communities.  According to the government data, as many as 919 persons were killed and 8,967 others injured in wildlife attacks in Kerala from 2016-17 to 2024-25 (till January 31). Reason for the rise in cases Habitat degradation forcing wildlife into human settlements. Overgrazing by domestic cattle in forests. Changing cropping patterns and increased cultivation near forest areas. Population explosion of wild boars and monkeys, especially bonnet macaques. Challenges in Present laws The existing legal framework puts several constraints in taking timely action in emergency situations, , especially in the case of animals protected under Schedule I of the Act. Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 provides the highest level of protection to critically endangered species, prohibiting hunting, poaching, killing, and trading. This schedule covers species like the tiger, blackbuck, and various other animals and birds, with severe penalties for violating the law.  Hence for killing the animal during human animal conflict following procedure is followed: Before ordering the killing of dangerous wild animals, the state chief wildlife warden should be convinced that it cannot be captured, tranquilised or shifted to another place.  Such captured animals should not be held under confinement.  The government has to follow the advisory of the Tiger Conservation Authority and Project Elephant Scheme while dealing with human-wildlife conflict. While the district collector, who is the executive magistrate, can issue orders for removal of a public nuisance, there are court orders preventing the invoking of these powers with regard to wild animals. Demands of Kerala government Amend Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to: Allow culling of man-eating and crop-destroying animals under regulated conditions. Provide for seasonal and region-specific permissions for culling. Ease procedural barriers to taking action during emergencies. Declare wild boars as “vermin” under Section 62 of the Act — enabling easier culling. Remove bonnet macaques from Schedule I, restoring earlier provisions where the chief wildlife warden could take suo motu action.   Value Addition 1. Vermin Species  Section 62 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 empowers the Central Government to declare certain wild animals as vermin in specific areas and for a specified period. Vermin are usually considered problem or nuisance animals that attack humans, crops, livestock or property. Species which are classified as Vermin are placed under Schedule V of the Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972. Once declared vermin, these animals can be hunted or culled without penalty. Helps control overpopulated or crop-destroying species (e.g., wild boars, nilgai) and reduces human-wildlife conflict while still preserving protection in core habitats. 2. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 It is the principal legislation for the protection of wild animals, birds, and plants in India. Provides for the creation of protected areas (national parks, wildlife sanctuaries). Animals are listed under Schedules I to VI: Schedule I & II: Highest protection. Schedule V: Vermin category. The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, established several key bodies to aid in wildlife conservation and protection. These include the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), State Boards for Wildlife (SBWL), the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB).  3. National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) Constituted under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (amended 2006). A statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Mandated to: Implement Project Tiger. Ensure scientific monitoring, protection, and management of tiger reserves. Approve plans for mitigation of tiger-human conflict. Provide technical and financial support to states. 4. Project Elephant Launched in 1992 by MoEFCC to: Protect Asian elephants, their habitat, and corridors. Address man-elephant conflict through mitigation strategies and community participation. Support captive elephant welfare and eco-development. Includes financial and technical support to states for elephant protection and corridor management. Way forward Implement a dynamic conflict-mapping system to identify and monitor emerging wildlife hotspots in real-time. Ensure fast-track administrative and judicial approvals for emergency wildlife control actions. Explore non-lethal methods like sterilisation, translocation, and immunocontraception where feasible. Use technology-driven monitoring tools (drones, camera traps, GPS tagging) for population and movement tracking. Invest in restoring degraded forests and creating ecological buffer zones between wildlife habitats and agricultural fields. Promote the cultivation of non-palatable crops in high-conflict zones to deter herbivorous wildlife. Involve local communities, forest dwellers, and farmers in conflict mitigation planning through training and incentives. Strengthen eco-development committees (EDCs) and joint forest management (JFM) platforms. Ensure timely and adequate compensation for loss of life, livestock, and crops due to wildlife attacks. Promote crop and livestock insurance schemes specifically designed for wildlife-prone regions. Launch awareness campaigns to sensitise people on coexistence, conflict reporting, and risk mitigation practices. Conclusion Kerala’s push for legal flexibility in managing human-wildlife conflict underscores the need to harmonise conservation goals with ground realities. A rational and humane approach must guide reforms in the Wildlife (Protection) Act to ensure both ecological integrity and human security. Mains Practice Question Q The increasing frequency of human-wildlife conflict in India poses serious governance and legal challenges. Critically examine the limitations of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, in managing such conflicts. Should states be given more flexibility in responding to localized threats? (250 words, 15 marks)   Empowering women in agriculture (GS Paper II – Governance. GS Paper III - Agriculture) Introduction (Context) The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, supported by over 100 countries. This move recognizes the vital yet underappreciated role of women in agriculture and seeks to raise awareness about the challenges they face. Role of Women in Agriculture Women play a significant and crucial role in agricultural development and allied fields.  With growing rural to urban migration by men, there is ‘feminisation’ of agriculture sector, with increasing number of women in multiple roles as cultivators, entrepreneurs, and labourers.  Mainly rural women are engaged in agricultural activities in three different ways depending on the socio-economic status of their family and regional factors. They work as: Paid Labourers. Cultivator doing labour on their own land. Managers of certain aspects of agricultural production by way of labour supervision and the participation in post harvest operations. The types of agricultural activities taken up by women include the following : Sowing, Nursery management, Transplanting, Weeding, Irrigation, Fertilizer application, Plant protection, Harvesting, winnowing, storing etc. Data: As per Census 2011, out of total female main workers, 55 per cent were agricultural labourers and 24 per cent were cultivators. However, only 12.8 per cent of the operational holdings were owned by women, which reflect the gender disparity in ownership of landholdings in agriculture. Moreover, there is concentration of operational holdings (25.7 per cent) by women in the marginal and small holdings categories. The workforce participation rate for rural females is higher at 30.5 percent against urban women participation rate of 20.20 percent (MoSPI, 2022-23).  As per the Annual Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Report 2022-23, agriculture had the highest estimated percentage distribution of female workers, i.e. 64.3 %, with 76.2 % in rural areas and 11.7 % in urban areas. In India, 80% of economically active women are employed in agriculture. Only 14% of agricultural landowners in India are women. As per NFHS-5, female land ownership is only 8.3%. Issues faced by Women in agriculture 1. Land Ownership and Financial Access Limited land ownership prevents women from accessing credit, insurance, and government subsidies. Microfinance and SHGs offer small-scale support, but are insufficient for larger investments. 2. Access to Information and Technology Women have limited access to mobile phones and agricultural advisories. This leads to low adoption of technology and poor resilience-building. 3. Impact of Climate Change Women face greater climate vulnerability due to added domestic responsibilities and fewer resources. Their exposure to agriculture-related climate risks is disproportionately higher. 4. Lack of Infrastructure A large number of women farmers operate at the subsistence and smallholder level, and a disproportionate share of the agricultural production is left in their hands.  With little or no access to modern improved technologies, there is a huge problem to secure them reasonable investments in capital, inputs and labor. Government Initiatives 1. Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP): Aims to upgrade skills, enhance resource access, and promote sustainable agriculture among women farmers. 2. Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation: Provides 50%–80% subsidies for machinery purchase by women farmers. 3. National Food Security Mission: Allocates 30% of its budget to women farmers in various States/UTs. 4. National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF): Promotes sustainable farming practices through women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) like Krishi Sakhis and Pashu Sakhis. Empowers women by involving them in the entire agricultural value chain—from pre-production to post-production. 5. Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Scheme: Targets the gender gap in agricultural extension services. Promotes Farm Women’s Food Security Groups (FSGs) – 2 per block annually with ₹10,000 support per group. Reserves 30% of scheme beneficiaries and resources for women farmers. 6. Central Sector Scheme of Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business Centres (AC&ABC) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare: Women entrepreneurs are eligible for a 44% subsidy, compared to 36% for others. Case Study: Project ENACT, Assam Implemented in Nagaon district, Assam, ENACT empowers women farmers through access to climate-resilient solutions and localized advisories. Key Features: Weekly mobile advisories sent to 300+ women farmers in 17 villages. Climate Adaptation Information Centres support video conferencing and agri-awareness. Promotion of flood-resistant rice varieties and nutrition-sensitive crops. Collaboration with agricultural universities and government departments for climate-resilient seeds and knowledge. Value addition Women’s empowerment in agriculture index The Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI) measures the empowerment, agency, and inclusion of women in the agriculture sector in an effort to identify ways to overcome those obstacles and constraints.  The Index is a significant innovation in its field and aims to increase understanding of the connections between women’s empowerment, food security, and agricultural growth.  It measures the roles and extent of women’s engagement in the agriculture sector in five domains:  decisions about agricultural production,  access to and decision making power over productive resources,  control over use of income,  leadership in the community, and  time use.  It also measures women’s empowerment relative to men within their households. It is published by International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) in collaboration with USAID and Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI). Gender Parity Index (GPI): WEAI includes a Gender Parity Index that measures the relative empowerment of women compared to men in the same household. Helps assess whether women have equal decision-making power. Way Forward 1. Gender-Sensitive Policy Design Policies must incorporate gender-disaggregated data to reflect women’s realities. Farming tools, extension services, credit products must be designed for women. 2. Strengthening Agri-Value Chains Women-managed value chains should be supported and scaled. Collective action and SHGs can be strengthened to enhance market access. 3. Promoting Resilience and Sustainability Invest in climate-smart practices, livelihood diversification, and nutrition-focused farming. Promote community seed systems and localized advisory networks. Conclusion The declaration of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer offers a historic opportunity to recognize and support women in agriculture. Strengthening their role can ensure food security, climate resilience, and gender equality, making agriculture truly inclusive and sustainable. Mains Practice Question Q “Land ownership and access to institutional support remain the biggest barriers to empowering women in Indian agriculture.” Examine the challenges faced by women farmers and evaluate the effectiveness of government initiatives in addressing them.(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  Daily Current Affairs Quiz for UPSC IAS Prelims | IASbaba  

Jun 10, 2025 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th June – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) India’s Progress in Food Safety Standards Category: POLITY Context: India has transformed its food safety system from adulteration control to a science-based, consumer-focused framework under the FSSAI, established by the 2006 Act. Decoding Context:  Key Reforms Risk-Based Regulation: Standards now align with global benchmarks, with defined limits for residues and additives. Scientific Strengthening: India is conducting Total Diet Studies to reflect local diets and exposures. Global Harmonization: Regulations increasingly match international norms. Institutional Initiatives Digital Oversight: Platforms like FoSCoS manage licensing and compliance. Training & Certification: Programs like FoSTaC enhance industry standards. Public Campaigns: Initiatives like Eat Right India and SNF promote healthy diets. Sustainability Focus: Jaivik Bharat, RUCO, and food waste reduction tackle broader health and environmental goals. Challenges Data Gaps: Need for India-specific studies. Poor Risk Communication: Technical language limits public understanding. Trust Deficit: More transparency and engagement needed. Learning Corner: Brief Note on Food Safety Initiatives by FSSAI The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex body responsible for regulating and supervising food safety in India. It adopts a multi-dimensional approach to ensure the availability of safe and nutritious food through the following key initiatives: Eat Right India Movement A flagship initiative aimed at transforming the country’s food system. It promotes: Safe, healthy, and sustainable food Reduction in salt, sugar, and trans fats Awareness on food labeling and fortification FoSTaC (Food Safety Training and Certification) Provides structured training to food handlers and supervisors across the food value chain Mandatory for licensed food businesses to have at least one certified supervisor FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) A digital platform for licensing, registration, and compliance monitoring of food businesses Replaced the earlier FLRS (Food Licensing and Registration System) RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil) Promotes safe disposal and repurposing of used cooking oil into biodiesel Addresses health and environmental hazards of reusing oil Jaivik Bharat Certifies and promotes organic food products Helps consumers identify authentic organic food through the Jaivik Bharat logo Clean Street Food Hub and Eat Right Campus Targets hygiene and safety improvements in specific environments: Street Food Hubs: Upgrades clusters of street food vendors Campuses: Encourages institutions to serve safe and healthy food Safe and Nutritious Food (SNF) Campaign Spreads food safety awareness in homes, schools, and workplaces Encourages safe food practices and dietary diversity Save Food, Share Food Focuses on minimizing food wastage Encourages redistribution of excess food to those in need Source : THE HINDU Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context The launch, initially scheduled for June 10, 2025, was postponed due to poor weather. The revised launch time is June 11 at 8:00 a.m. EDT (5:30 p.m. IST). Decoding Context: Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4): Overview Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is a private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), organized by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. The mission will launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center, Florida. Crew Composition Commander: Peggy Whitson (former NASA astronaut) Pilot: Shubhanshu Shukla (India, ISRO) Mission Specialists: Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski (Poland, ESA) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary) This marks the first ISS mission involving astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary, and their return to government-sponsored spaceflight after four decades. Mission Goals Duration: ~14 days Over 60 experiments in areas like human research, biology, materials science, and Earth observation Promotes international cooperation and advances microgravity research Viewing Options Live coverage of the launch, docking, and ISS arrival will be available via NASA, SpaceX, and Axiom Space platforms. Docking is expected at 12:30 p.m. EDT (10:00 p.m. IST) on June 11. Source: THE HINDU Drones in Modern Warfare Category: INTERNATIONAL Context The significance of drones have increased during Russia-Ukraine war Decoding Context: Decisive Role: By 2025, drones are responsible for 60–70% of damage to Russian military equipment, becoming a dominant tool in battlefield operations. Mass Production: Ukraine produces around 200,000 First Person View (FPV) drones monthly. These affordable ($200–$400) drones are highly effective against costly Russian tanks and systems. Advanced Capabilities: Ukrainian drones now serve multiple roles—bombing, reconnaissance, relay, and AI-enabled targeting—demonstrating high adaptability. Strategic Innovation: Ukraine’s GOGOL-M “mothership” drone can autonomously deploy two FPV drones over 300 km, targeting critical assets deep in Russian territory. Russian Response: Russia has developed drones like the Tyuvik (resistant to jamming) and fiber-optic models, though they face issues with AI autonomy, as seen in Lancet-3 glitches. Drone Boats: Ukraine introduced armed naval drones like the Magura V7, reportedly used to shoot down Russian aircraft—an unprecedented feat in maritime drone warfare. Tactical Evolution: Ukraine employs “drone walls” along front lines to disrupt enemy troops and conducts long-range strikes against airfields and military hubs. Global Impact: The Ukraine conflict has reshaped global military doctrine, with countries like Taiwan, Israel, and NATO members now prioritizing drone and counter-drone strategies. Learning Corner: First Person View (FPV) Drones – Ukraine Type: Low-cost, manually piloted attack drones. Cost: Approx. $200–$400 per unit. Roles: Reconnaissance Precision strike (kamikaze mode) Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Relay and jamming missions AI-enabled variants under development Impact: Account for 60–70% of the damage to Russian assets by early 2025. Significance: Mass-produced (approx. 200,000/month); extremely effective against high-value Russian targets like tanks. GOGOL-M “Mothership” Drone – Ukraine Type: Advanced autonomous drone platform. Capabilities: Can carry and launch two FPV drones Autonomous target identification, tracking, and strike Range: Up to 300 km Targets: Deep strike against aircraft, fuel depots, infrastructure Innovation: Combines AI with long-range precision warfare; still undergoing battlefield testing. Magura V7 Naval Drone – Ukraine Type: Unmanned surface vessel (USV). Unique Feature: Reportedly the first naval drone to shoot down a fighter jet using surface-to-air missiles. Capabilities: Autonomous navigation Carries missile payloads Long-range maritime operations Impact: Expands drone warfare to sea-to-air combat, a new domain in drone deployment. Tyuvik Light Attack Drone – Russia Type: Compact attack drone. Key Features: Autopilot and target-homing system Designed to withstand electronic warfare (EW) High maneuverability in contested zones Use Case: Deployed as an answer to Ukraine’s FPV threat. Fiber-Optic Drones – Russia Type: Tethered or wired drones. Capabilities: Less vulnerable to jamming or signal interference Reliable in dense EW environments Application: Increasingly used in areas where radio signals are disrupted.   Lancet-3 Kamikaze Drone – Russia Type: Loitering munition. Function: Autonomous targeting of enemy equipment Dive-attack strike Challenges: Reported issues with AI-based targeting Occasional malfunctions in high-intensity EW zones   Summary Table Drone Country Type Notable Features Role FPV Drones Ukraine Multirole Cheap, mass-produced, high damage potential ISR, attack, jamming GOGOL-M Ukraine Mothership AI-enabled, launches 2 FPVs up to 300 km Long-range strike Magura V7 Ukraine Naval Missile-capable USV, downed jet Naval + airstrike hybrid Tyuvik Russia Light attack EW-resistant, autopilot, target homing Frontline attack Fiber-optic drones Russia Recon/Attack Signal-proof due to wired control EW zones, stable operations Lancet-3 Russia Loitering Autonomous, sometimes glitchy Precision strike Source :  THE HINDU Rare Earth metals Category: ECONOMICS Context : Impact of China’s Rare Earth Export Ban: Suzuki Suspends Swift Production Decoding Context China’s rare earth mineral export ban has disrupted global supply chains, prompting Suzuki to halt production of its Swift hatchback in Japan—the first such move by a Japanese automaker due to this issue. Key Highlights: Production Halt: Suzuki suspended Swift production (excluding Swift Sport) at its Sagara plant from May 26 to June 6, 2025, due to parts shortages. Root Cause: China’s April 2025 export curbs on rare earths and related magnets affected key components like motors and sensors, which are essential for automotive manufacturing. Wider Impact: Other automakers and European suppliers are also facing disruptions. Companies like Mercedes-Benz are seeking to diversify supply chains. Geopolitical Angle: The ban is seen as retaliation against US tariffs and has implications beyond the auto sector, affecting aerospace, defense, and electronics industries. Recovery Plan: Suzuki aims to resume partial production on June 13 and fully by June 16 as supplies stabilize. Learning Corner: some of the key rare earth metals (REMs), grouped as Light and Heavy rare earths: Light Rare Earth Elements (LREEs): Lanthanum (La) – Used in camera lenses, battery electrodes Cerium (Ce) – Used in polishing agents, catalytic converters Praseodymium (Pr) – Used in magnets, aircraft engines Neodymium (Nd) – Vital for high-strength permanent magnets (used in EV motors, wind turbines) Promethium (Pm) – Radioactive; used in nuclear batteries Samarium (Sm) – Used in magnets and nuclear reactors Europium (Eu) – Used in phosphors for TV and LED screens Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs): Gadolinium (Gd) – MRI contrast agents, nuclear reactors Terbium (Tb) – Used in green phosphors, solid-state devices Dysprosium (Dy) – Added to magnets to improve performance at high temperatures Holmium (Ho) – Strongest magnetic field among elements; used in magnets Erbium (Er) – Used in fiber-optic communication, lasers Thulium (Tm) – Portable X-ray devices Ytterbium (Yb) – Used in stress gauges, certain lasers Lutetium (Lu) – Used in PET scan detectors, catalysts Scandium (Sc) – Lightweight alloys in aerospace Yttrium (Y) – Used in superconductors, LEDs, and ceramics Source: THE INDIAN EXPRESS Election Commission of India Category: POLITY Context : Opposition leaders, particularly Rahul Gandhi, regarding the conduct of elections after the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly polls. Decoding Context: Key issues include unexplained spikes in voter rolls, unusually high voter turnout post-5 p.m., and limited access to CCTV footage of polling stations. While past data shows similar trends in voter roll expansion, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is urged to verify new additions thoroughly. The claim of post-5 p.m. turnout anomalies has been countered by official data, yet transparency remains a pressing issue. Certainly! Here’s the rewritten brief note on the Election Commission of India (ECI), with all citations removed and information presented concisely for UPSC preparation: Learning Corner: Election Commission of India (ECI) – Brief Overview Mandate & Structure The Election Commission of India is a constitutional body under Article 324 of the Constitution. It is responsible for administering elections to the Lok Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and the offices of the President and Vice President. The Commission consists of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners. Functions Supervise, direct, and control the entire process of elections. Prepare and revise electoral rolls. Monitor election campaigns and enforce the Model Code of Conduct. Regulate political parties and ensure transparent use of EVMs and VVPATs. Decide matters related to disqualification of members and recognition of political parties. Tenure & Independence The CEC and Election Commissioners hold office for 6 years or until the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. The CEC can only be removed through a process similar to that of a Supreme Court judge, ensuring independence. Recent Changes in Appointment Process Supreme Court Interim Directive (March 2023) Mandated that the appointment of the CEC and ECs be recommended by a Collegium consisting of the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition (Lok Sabha), and the Chief Justice of India, to ensure neutrality and transparency. Chief Election Commissioner and Other ECs (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023 Replaced the Supreme Court’s interim arrangement with a new appointment process. A Search Committee led by the Law Minister shortlists candidates. A Selection Committee, headed by the Prime Minister and including the Leader of Opposition and a Cabinet Minister, recommends names to the President. The role of the Chief Justice of India was excluded from the selection panel. Additional Provisions in the 2023 Law Salary and service conditions of the CEC and ECs are now equivalent to that of the Cabinet Secretary. The Act restricts CEC and ECs to a single term, with no reappointment. Concerns & Criticism The exclusion of the judiciary from the selection process has raised concerns over executive dominance. Legal challenges are ongoing regarding the constitutional validity of the 2023 law. Critics argue the changes may weaken the independence and credibility of the ECI. Comparison table – Evolution of appointment of election commissioners in India Aspect Before March 2023 Post-March 2023 Ruling After 2023 Act Appointment Body Sole Executive discretion Interim Collegium (PM, LoP, CJI)) Search & Selection committees (PM, LoP, Cabinet Minister)  CJI’s Role NIL Appointing authority within Collegium Excluded from Selection Committee  Safeguards No institutional checks SC transparency measure pending formal law Executive-heavy structure; executive influence reintroduced Legal Status Largely Executive decision-making Court-mandated till a law was passed Legal, but judicial verdicts pending review   Source : THE HINDU (MAINS Focus) Axiom -4 Mission Date: 10-06-2025 Mainspedia TOPIC:  Axiom -4 Mission GS Paper III – Science and Technology Introduction (Context)   National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), as part of its collaborative efforts with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is set to launch Axiom Mission 4. This will be the fourth private astronaut flight from Axiom Space and the first to carry an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS). The four-member crew also has astronauts from Poland and Hungary – countries that, like India, are sending their nationals to space after 40 years — underlining the very diverse nature of participation in this mission. Background In June 2023, India and the United States announced a strategic partnership on human spaceflight, enabling an Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station (ISS) by 2024. Axiom Space, a private U.S. firm, invited India (along with Hungary and Poland) to participate in Axiom-4, themed “Realize the Return”. India signed the Artemis Accords, committing to responsible space exploration and cooperation, especially for lunar and deep-space missions. About Axiom 4 mission  The Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) aims to advance commercial spaceflight, conduct scientific research, and promote international collaboration. The mission will focus on scientific experiments in microgravity, space tourism, and demonstrations of commercial space stations as viable platforms for business and research.  Key missions:  Scientific Research: Conducting experiments in areas like health, materials science, and space technology to enhance understanding of space environments.  Commercial Space Initiatives: Promoting commercial activities in low Earth orbit (LEO), including space tourism and the development of commercial space stations.  International Collaboration: Fostering global cooperation in space exploration through a multinational crew.  Outreach and Education: Engaging in educational and public outreach programs to inspire the next generation of space explorers.  Demonstration of Feasibility: Demonstrating the viability of commercial space stations as platforms for business and research.  Specific Research Projects: The Ax-4 research team will conduct numerous studies, including investigations into:  The effects of microgravity on the human body, including bone and muscle loss.  The potential of space-based agriculture.  The effects of space on the human brain and vision.  The potential of microalgae for long-duration space missions.  The resilience of tardigrades in space.  Mission specific to ISRO 1. Biological Experiments: Muscle Behaviour: Study of muscle degeneration in zero gravity, isolating variables impossible to control on Earth. Moong Dal and Sprouts: Examining plant behavior in space, tailored to Indian nutritional and agricultural goals. Micro-algae research: Potential applications in food security, space farming, and sustainability. 2. Technological Experiments: First-time opportunity for ISRO to run customised tech and life sciences experiments in space. Results from Axiom-4 can be followed up in Gaganyaan and later deep-space missions. Significance for India The mission is a stepping stone towards Human Moon mission by 2040. Help in establishing an Indian space station May help in encouraging private sector participation in space. Value addition About Artemis Accords    The Artemis Accords are a set of non-binding international principles and guidelines initiated by NASA and the U.S. government in 2020 to promote safe, transparent, and peaceful space exploration, especially for the Moon, Mars, and beyond. India signed the Artemis Accords in June 2023, enabling deeper collaboration with NASA in human spaceflight, lunar missions, and planetary exploration. Key Features: Promote peaceful uses of outer space under the framework of the Outer Space Treaty (1967). Encourage international cooperation, transparency, and sharing of scientific data. Emphasize responsible behavior, including deconfliction of space activities and preservation of space heritage sites. Allow for the utilization of space resources (like lunar minerals) for sustainable exploration. About  Shubhanshu Shukla Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is a distinguished pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF). He has been handpicked as one of the four astronauts for the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) historic Gaganyaan mission—the nation’s inaugural human space flight endeavor. His journey began when he was commissioned into the IAF fighter wing in June 2006. As a combat leader and seasoned test pilot, he boasts an impressive 2,000 hours of flight experience across various aircraft, including the Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier, and An-32.  About Tardigrades Also called “water bears” or “moss piglets” are microscopic (0.5 mm), aquatic, 8-legged organisms with claws. Existed for ~600 million years, predating dinosaurs. Found in diverse habitats from mountaintops to ocean depths, especially in mosses and lichens. Known for extreme resilience: Survive temperatures from -272.95°C to +150°C. Tolerate vacuum of space, UV radiation, and deep-sea pressure (up to 40,000 kPa). Can revive after 30 years of deep freezing. Mechanism of Survival: Survive through cryptobiosis (near-zero metabolism) and anhydrobiosis (95% water loss). Enter a shrunken, durable state called tun. Produce CAHS proteins (Cytoplasmic-Abundant Heat Soluble proteins): Form a gel-like matrix that protects cells from damage. Tardigrades sent to International Space Station in tun state. Aims to Study effects of space radiation and microgravity and identify genes and proteins responsible for survival. Relevance: Enhance astronaut protection during long space missions Aid in preserving biological materials for space travel. Conclusion   The Axiom-4 mission featuring Shubhanshu Shukla marks a pivotal moment in India’s space journey. This mission provides tangible knowledge, operational experience, and global visibility. It strengthens the pipeline to Gaganyaan, Moon missions, and beyond, positioning India as a serious contender in the new space age — scientifically, strategically, and economically. Mains Practice Question Q Critically examine the significance of the Axiom-4 mission for India’s space programme and its broader implications for space diplomacy and the space economy. (250 words, 15 marks) Declining Poverty in India: Trends, Data and Policy Implications Date: 10-06-2025 Mainspedia TOPIC:  Declining Poverty in India: Trends, Data and Policy Implications GS Paper III – Economy Introduction (Context)   According to latest World Bank estimates, extreme poverty in India has sharply declined from 27.1% in 2011-12 to 5.3% in 2022-23, despite the benchmark for extreme poverty being raised from $2.15/day to $3/day. The findings are backed by new household consumption expenditure surveys (HCES) of 2022-23, released after a data gap since 2011-12. What is Poverty? Poverty is a state of deprivation in which an individual lacks the financial resources to meet basic living needs like food, shelter, education, and healthcare. It can be measured in monetary (income/consumption-based) or multidimensional terms (access to health, education, standard of living). Types of Poverty  Absolute Poverty: Defined by fixed income or consumption thresholds (e.g., global poverty lines). Relative Poverty: Compares income distribution within a society. Multidimensional Poverty: Includes indicators like health, education, housing, sanitation, etc. Chronic Poverty: Persisting over long periods across generations. Transient Poverty: Short-term poverty due to sudden shocks. What is Extreme Poverty? As per World Bank, extreme poverty refers to individuals living below the international poverty line, which has been revised to $3/day (PPP) in 2022-23. It captures the minimum consumption needed to survive in low-income contexts. How is Poverty Calculated? Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) by NSSO/NSO These surveys are conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO) (formerly known as NSSO) and are the primary source of data to estimate poverty in India. They collect data on the spending patterns of households on various goods and services like food, education, health, clothing, etc. Based on this consumption data, a poverty line is drawn, households spending below this threshold are considered poor. The surveys are generally quinquennial (every 5 years), but the latest rounds (2022-23 and 2023-24) were conducted to update the long gap since 2011-12. International Poverty Lines and Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) International poverty lines are set by the World Bank to compare poverty across countries. As of 2022-23, the extreme poverty line was updated from $2.15/day to $3/day, and the lower-middle-income poverty line was raised from $3.65 to $4.2/day. These values are adjusted using Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) — a method that equalizes the purchasing power of different currencies by accounting for differences in the cost of living across countries. In India, this means the amount of money needed in Indian rupees to buy the same basket of goods that $3 would buy in the US. Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) Developed by UNDP and Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI), and adopted in India by NITI Aayog, MPI goes beyond income to measure poverty in terms of multiple deprivations. It uses 12 indicators grouped under three broad dimensions: Health: Child mortality, nutrition Education: Years of schooling, school attendance Standard of Living: Electricity, drinking water, sanitation, housing, cooking fuel, assets, and bank accounts A person is considered multidimensionally poor if they are deprived in at least one-third of these indicators. Gini and Theil Indices – Measures of Inequality These are statistical tools used to measure economic inequality, often alongside poverty metrics. The Gini coefficient ranges from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (maximum inequality) and measures the distribution of income or consumption among individuals or households. The Theil Index is an entropy-based measure of inequality that is sensitive to changes at both ends of the income distribution. It allows decomposition to study inequality within and between population groups. While poverty measures how many people fall below a threshold, inequality measures how wealth or consumption is distributed across society. Key trends and data Extreme poverty fell from 344.47 million (2011-12) to 75.24 million (2022-23). Even with $4.2/day threshold for lower-middle income countries, poverty declined from 57.7% to 23.9%. Inequality (Gini, Theil) also declined between 2011 and 2022. Multidimensional Poverty fell from: 55.34% (2005-06) 24.85% (2015-16) 14.96% (2019-21) – NITI Aayog Value addition Government schemes for Poverty alleviation MGNREGS (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme) Provides 100 days of guaranteed wage employment annually to rural households. Aims to enhance livelihood security and create rural infrastructure through unskilled manual work. Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) Promotes self-employment and women-led SHGs in rural areas. Focuses on capacity building, financial inclusion, and sustainable livelihoods. PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) Provides ₹6,000 per year in three equal installments to small and marginal farmers. Offers direct income support to reduce distress and ensure basic farming sustainability. National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 Legally entitles 75% of rural and 50% of urban population to receive subsidized food grains. Implements welfare schemes like PDS, Mid-Day Meal, and ICDS under a unified law. POSHAN Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission) Aims to reduce stunting, undernutrition, and anemia among children and women. Uses data-driven monitoring and community-based health practices. PM Awas Yojana (PMAY) Provides affordable housing with basic amenities to the rural and urban poor. Offers credit-linked subsidies and infrastructure support under “Housing for All”. Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) Focuses on eliminating open defecation and improving sanitation infrastructure. Encourages construction of household and community toilets with behavioral change campaigns. Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) Offers health insurance cover up to ₹5 lakh/family/year for 50 crore poor citizens. Covers secondary and tertiary care hospitalization at empaneled hospitals. Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan Integrates SSA, RMSA, and Teacher Education for holistic school education from pre-primary to Class 12. Focuses on equity, access, and quality learning with infrastructural support. Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) Aims to reduce urban poverty through self-employment, skill training, and SHG support. Promotes economic empowerment of the urban poor and street vendors. One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) Enables nationwide portability of food entitlements under NFSA. Benefits migrant workers and ensures uninterrupted access to subsidized food anywhere in India. Way forward Improve quality and frequency of consumption & income data for better policy design. Expand social security nets for vulnerable populations post-pandemic. Enhance urban poverty tracking, often left out of rural-focused surveys. Promote inclusive growth, particularly through job creation and skill development. Strengthen data transparency and standardisation across surveys. Conclusion   The sharp decline in extreme poverty in India is a positive socio-economic milestone, yet continued focus is needed on multidimensional poverty, urban vulnerability, and inclusive development. Data-backed policymaking, grounded in transparency and regularity, will be critical to sustaining and accelerating this progress. Mains Practice Question Q Despite a sharp decline in extreme poverty levels, income and opportunity inequality persist in India. Examine the implications of this paradox for inclusive growth policies. (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  Daily Current Affairs Quiz for UPSC IAS Prelims | IASbaba  

Jun 10, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 10th June 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

Jun 9, 2025 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 9th June 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

Jun 9, 2025 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 9th June – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) Satellite based Internet Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context: Elon Musk’s Starlink has officially received a key licence from India’s Department of Telecommunications to offer satellite internet services in the country. Decoding Context:  This licensing clears a major regulatory hurdle and brings Starlink closer to launching commercial operations in India. Starlink is now the third company to secure a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) licence in India, following Eutelsat’s OneWeb and Reliance Jio The government has opted for administrative allocation of spectrum for satellite communication, supporting Starlink’s stance over the auction-based approach favored by some Indian telecom operators like Jio. This decision is based on the technical challenges of auctioning shared satellite spectrum. Once spectrum is allocated, Starlink will be able to begin commercial roll-out. The service is expected to significantly expand internet access, particularly in remote and underserved regions where traditional infrastructure is difficult to deploy.  Learning Corner: Starlink: A Brief Note Starlink is a satellite internet constellation project developed by SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk. Its primary goal is to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access across the globe, especially in remote and underserved areas where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited or unavailable. Launched in 2019, Starlink operates by deploying thousands of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which communicate with user terminals (dishes) on the ground. As of 2025, it has become one of the largest satellite networks in the world. Starlink has now received approval to operate in India, marking a major step in expanding internet connectivity in rural regions. It competes with other global satellite internet providers like OneWeb and Amazon’s Project Kuiper. Comparison between Administrative Allocation of Spectrum and Auctioning of Spectrum: Feature Administrative Allocation Auctioning of Spectrum Definition Government directly assigns spectrum to an entity Spectrum is sold through a competitive bidding process Process Non-competitive; based on application and policy Competitive; bidders offer prices for spectrum blocks Purpose Used for public interest, strategic or technical reasons To generate revenue and promote market competition Cost to Operator Often lower or nominal charges Market-driven; can be expensive Suitability Ideal for satellite communications, defence, or research Common for mobile telecom (4G/5G services) Spectrum Sharing Facilitates easier coordination and sharing Difficult to manage shared use post-auction India’s Recent Preference Chosen for satellite communication like Starlink Still used for terrestrial telecom operators like Jio and Airtel Summary: Administrative Allocation is preferred for services like satellite internet, where spectrum is shared globally and auctioning is technically unfeasible. Auctioning is suited for mobile services, where exclusive spectrum rights are required and revenue generation is a priority. Source : THE HINDU Stratospheric Aerosol Injection Category: ENVIRONMENT Context A new study has made the controversial idea of stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI)—a form of solar geoengineering—more realistic by proposing innovative methods to reduce its costs and technical barriers Decoding Context: SAI involves injecting tiny reflective particles, inspired by volcanic eruptions, into the earth’s stratosphere at around 20 km altitude to reflect sunlight and cool the planet. While this could help reduce the impacts of climate change, the approach is contentious because its effects would be global, with potential risks and side effects for all countries. Key Points from the Study: Mechanism: SAI aims to cool the planet by spraying aerosols into the stratosphere, mimicking the cooling effect observed after major volcanic eruptions. Technical Advances: The research explores how the type of material used, the timing, and the location of injections impact effectiveness and cost. Technical challenges are greater at higher altitudes but can be addressed by optimizing these factors. Scale: The study found that 12 million tonnes of sulfur aerosols over six years at an altitude of 13 km could produce the desired cooling effect. This is comparable to the amount released by the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption. Risks and Challenges: SAI does not require new aircraft, but modifying existing planes is technically challenging. There are concerns about side effects, such as delayed recovery of the ozone layer, changes in rainfall, and geopolitical issues. Some effects, like regional droughts or altered weather patterns, could be severe. Global Impact: Since SAI would affect the entire planet, any country’s actions would have worldwide consequences, not always beneficial for all regions. Conclusion: The study brings SAI closer to practical implementation by addressing cost and technical hurdles, but significant scientific, ethical, and governance challenges remain. The debate continues as researchers weigh the potential benefits against the risks of large-scale climate intervention. Learning Corner: Artificial Weather-Tweaking Ideas Artificial weather-tweaking, or weather modification, refers to deliberate human interventions in natural weather processes to alter climatic conditions. These ideas aim to mitigate climate change, enhance rainfall, or prevent extreme weather events. Major Techniques: Cloud Seeding: Spraying chemicals like silver iodide or salt into clouds to induce rainfall. Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI): Injecting reflective particles into the stratosphere to reflect sunlight and cool the Earth. Marine Cloud Brightening: Spraying sea salt into marine clouds to make them more reflective and enhance their cooling effect. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Though not weather modification directly, CCS removes CO₂ to influence long-term climate. Space-Based Reflectors: Placing mirrors or shields in orbit to reflect a portion of incoming solar radiation. Concerns: Unpredictable Side Effects: May lead to regional droughts, altered monsoons, or ozone depletion. Ethical & Geopolitical Issues: Global consequences from local actions could lead to conflicts or disputes. Governance Vacuum: Lack of international laws or consensus on who controls such powerful technologies. Source :  THE HINDU MagIC Microscopy Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context : MagIC Microscopy (Magnetic Isolation and Concentration cryo-electron microscopy) is a cutting-edge advancement in the field of structural biology, particularly in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) Decoding Context Cryo-EM is a powerful imaging technique used to visualize biomolecules like proteins, viruses, and complexes at near-atomic resolution by flash-freezing samples and imaging them with an electron beam. Challenges Addressed: Traditional cryo-EM requires relatively high concentrations of biological samples to obtain clear images. This requirement poses a major limitation when studying rare or difficult-to-purify molecules, which are often available only in tiny amounts or very dilute solutions. Low sample concentrations typically result in poor signal-to-noise ratios, making it difficult to capture detailed structural information. Innovations Introduced by MagIC: Magnetic Bead Attachment: In MagIC microscopy, target molecules are chemically bound to tiny magnetic beads. These beads serve as handles to isolate and concentrate the molecules from extremely dilute solutions. Magnetic Concentration: By applying external magnetic fields, the beads along with the attached molecules are concentrated into a small area, dramatically increasing local concentration without increasing overall sample volume. Cryo-EM Imaging: The concentrated molecules on beads are then flash-frozen and imaged using standard cryo-EM techniques, allowing high-resolution structural data collection from much more dilute samples. DuSTER Workflow: To further enhance data quality, a computational pipeline named DuSTER is employed. It filters out background noise and artifacts, improving the clarity and accuracy of the images obtained. Advantages of MagIC: Enables Study of Rare Samples: Researchers can now analyze molecules present at concentrations 100 times lower than previously possible, opening doors to study rare biological complexes, transient intermediates, or hard-to-express proteins. Reduces Sample Volume: Since the technique concentrates molecules locally, the total amount of biological sample required is reduced, which is cost-effective and less resource-intensive. Speeds Up Data Collection: Concentrated samples yield better-quality images faster, accelerating the pace of structural biology research. Broader Applications: This method can aid drug discovery, vaccine development, and understanding fundamental biological processes by providing detailed structural insights into molecules previously inaccessible by cryo-EM. Potential Impact: MagIC microscopy represents a major step forward in overcoming a longstanding bottleneck in structural biology. It expands the usability of cryo-EM to a wider range of biological questions, especially those involving scarce or precious samples. By improving both the efficiency and accessibility of molecular imaging, MagIC microscopy has the potential to significantly advance biomedical research and innovation. Learning Corner: Overview of different microscopy techniques commonly used  Light Microscopy Uses visible light and lenses to magnify samples. Types: Bright-field, Phase-contrast, Differential Interference Contrast (DIC), Fluorescence microscopy. Used for observing live cells, tissues, and stained samples. Resolution limit: ~200 nm. Electron Microscopy (EM) Uses electron beams instead of light for much higher resolution. Types: Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM): Electrons pass through ultra-thin samples; reveals internal structures. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM): Scans the surface with electrons; gives 3D surface images. Resolution limit: ~0.1 nm (TEM). Cryo-Electron Microscopy (Cryo-EM) Samples are flash-frozen to preserve native structure. Used for studying biological macromolecules at near-atomic resolution. Includes single-particle analysis, electron tomography. Confocal Microscopy Uses laser light and optical sectioning for sharper 3D images. Minimizes out-of-focus light by using pinholes. Common in cell biology for imaging fluorescently labeled specimens. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) Uses a sharp tip scanning the surface to create a topographic map. Can image surfaces at atomic resolution. Useful for materials science and biological samples. Super-Resolution Microscopy Breaks the diffraction limit of light microscopy. Techniques include STED (Stimulated Emission Depletion), PALM (Photo-Activated Localization Microscopy), and STORM (Stochastic Optical Reconstruction Microscopy). Enables imaging of cellular structures at nanometer scale. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Though primarily a medical imaging technique, MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves for detailed soft tissue images. Not a traditional microscope but important for imaging internal structures non-invasively. Source: THE HINDU Manipur Unrest Category: POLITY Context : Violence erupted in Manipur after the arrest of Kanan Singh, a Meitei leader linked to ethnic violence in 2023. Decoding Context: Protests quickly turned violent, prompting curfews and internet shutdowns in key districts. The unrest reflects deep-rooted ethnic tensions between the Meitei majority and the Kuki-Zomi tribes, which escalated after a court order favouring Scheduled Tribe status for Meiteis—triggering fears among Kukis of marginalization. Underlying issues include disputes over land rights, political representation, and access to government benefits. Despite security measures and political calls for peace, the conflict remains unresolved, with periodic flare-ups highlighting fragile communal relations in the region. Learning Corner: Geography and Location of Manipur (Concise & Focused) Location: Northeastern India, part of the Seven Sister States. Borders Nagaland (N), Assam (W), Mizoram (S), and Myanmar (E). Area: Covers around 22,327 sq km. Topography: Mostly hilly terrain surrounding the central Imphal Valley. Imphal Valley — main population and agricultural hub. Example: Imphal city, the capital, is in this valley. Rivers & Water Bodies: Imphal River and Barak River basin support agriculture. Loktak Lake: Largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, famous for floating islands called phumdis. Strategic Location: Borders Myanmar, serving as an important corridor for India-ASEAN connectivity. Example: Stillwell Road links India to Myanmar and China, crucial for trade and military. Climate & Biodiversity: Subtropical climate with rich forests and biodiversity. Example: Keibul Lamjao National Park on Loktak Lake — the only floating national park in the world, habitat of the endangered Sangai deer. Source : THE HINDU UMEED PORTAL Category: POLITY Context : The Government of India has launched the UMEED (Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development) portal This acts as a centralized digital platform for the real-time registration, verification, and monitoring of Waqf assets nationwide. The portal, inaugurated by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, is designed to create a comprehensive digital inventory of all Waqf properties, featuring geo-tagging and detailed documentation for each asset. Key features include: Mandatory Registration: All Waqf properties must be registered on the portal within six months of launch, with detailed information such as ownership documents, exact measurements, and geotagged locations. Transparency and Accountability: The portal aims to ensure greater transparency, accountability, and public participation by making Waqf data digitally traceable and accessible. Grievance Redressal: An online grievance redressal system is included for prompt resolution of issues related to Waqf property management. Integration with GIS: The platform integrates with GIS mapping and e-governance tools for efficient tracking and management. The initiative is aligned with the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, and is intended to streamline administration, curb misuse, and empower beneficiaries—especially women, children, and economically weaker sections—by ensuring fair and effective utilization of community-owned assets. Learning Corner: Brief Note on Waqf Board Definition: A Waqf Board is a statutory body established by the government under the Waqf Act to manage and regulate Waqf properties—religious endowments made by Muslims for charitable, religious, or community purposes. Purpose: The board ensures the proper administration, protection, and utilization of Waqf assets for the benefit of the community, preventing misuse or illegal occupation. Functions: Registering Waqf properties and maintaining records. Supervising management and resolving disputes related to Waqf properties. Developing and maintaining Waqf properties to generate revenue for charitable activities. Protecting the rights of beneficiaries, often including vulnerable groups. Working closely with the Central Waqf Council for policy guidance. Legal Framework: Governed by the Waqf Act, 1995 (amended several times), which mandates the constitution of State Waqf Boards and defines their powers and responsibilities. Significance: Waqf Boards play a critical role in preserving Muslim heritage, managing mosques, graveyards, schools, and other community assets, contributing to social welfare. Certainly! Here’s the rewritten brief note on the Waqf Board in India with recent changes, without citations: Recent Legislative Changes: Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which came into effect in April 2025, introduces several reforms to improve transparency, accountability, and governance in Waqf administration. Key features include: Centralized Management: Creation of a Central Waqf Portal for real-time registration, verification, and monitoring of Waqf properties across the country. Mandatory registration of all Waqf properties within six months, with each assigned a unique identification number. Governance Reforms: Introduction of mandatory elections for Waqf Board members; nominated members must step down, and elected members must form the majority. Inclusion of non-Muslim members on Waqf Boards to promote inclusivity and diverse viewpoints. Property Classification: Ending the practice of declaring ‘Waqf by user’ for properties without formal documentation. Government properties previously claimed as Waqf are now protected from such declarations. Women’s Rights: Strengthened provisions ensuring inheritance rights for women in Waqf properties, promoting gender equity aligned with Islamic principles. Appeal Mechanism: Establishment of an appeal process allowing High Court review of decisions made by Waqf tribunals within 90 days. Challenges and Controversies Some Muslim organizations have opposed the amendments, viewing them as a threat to religious autonomy and fearing possible misuse of Waqf properties. Implementation varies across states, with some facing administrative and legal challenges adapting to the new governance structure. Protests and unrest have occurred in certain regions in response to the amendments. Source: THE HINDU (MAINS Focus) Boosting India’s Apparel Exports Date: 9-06-2025 Mainspedia TOPIC:  Boosting India’s Apparel Exports  GS Paper III – Economy Introduction (Context)   India has a deep-rooted tradition in textiles and apparel (T&A). India’s textiles and apparel (T&A) sector employs 45 million people and contributes 2.3% to GDP.  Despite this, India’s share in global textile trade is only 4.2% ($37.8 billion out of $897.8 billion). In the apparel segment, India’s share is just 3% ($15.7 billion of $529.3 billion). The share has remained stagnant over two decades. India has set a $40 billion export target for 2030, but exports are declining at –2% AAGR recently.  These numbers make it clear that without a significant shift in policy and strategy, the $40-billion goal will remain a pipe dream. Fundamental constraint:  India’s lack of scale. India’s T&A is dominated by over 80% MSMEs small, fragmented, and dispersed. In contrast, competitors like China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh have built large, export-focused, vertically integrated factories.  Global buyers prefer large, integrated factories that offer volume, consistency, and low costs. Scale not only drives efficiencies but also facilitates mass formal employment as the training a garment worker takes just 60 days, making this a potential job-rich sector. Case study Shahi Exports Started in 1974 by Sarla Ahuja with just 15 women stitching 200 garments/day. Today: India’s largest apparel exporter with 50+ factories and 3 mills in 8 states. Employs 1,00,000+ people—70% women; revenue >$1 billion annually. Key strategies: Professionalized operations 80% in-house fabric production (vertical integration) Focus on women’s employment and environmental sustainability The case study is the example that scale and ethical practices can coexist and succeed in India. Large-scale enterprises are essential to boost export capacity and employment Targeting multiple Shahi-type models is key to creating competitive Indian global brands. Reforms needed Reforms needed are: 1. Capital Access & Affordability Introduce structured capital subsidies (25–30%) linked to unit size (e.g., ≥1,000 machines). Implement 5–7 years of tax holidays to help firms become globally competitive. India’s capital cost (9%) is much higher than in China (3–3.5%) and Vietnam (4.5%). Thin margins (~4–5%) in garment sector necessitate low-cost capital support. 2. Labour Reforms & Skilling Rationalise 52 central labour laws to make formal hiring easier and scalable. Overtime wage mandate (2× hourly wage) should be revised to align with ILO standard (1.25×). Labour costs form ~30% of garment production costs. Link 25–30% of MGNREGA funds to garment units to subsidise employment. Significantly expand SAMARTH for quick, demand-based skilling, especially for women. India’s low female labour force participation and youth unemployment need focused job creation. 3. Infrastructure: PM MITRA Parks as Hubs Designate at least 2 out of 7 PM MITRA parks as apparel-focused hubs. Priority states: Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh—lower labour costs, high outmigration. Setting up hubs near the labour source reduces logistics costs and regional inequality. Supports inclusive and decentralised industrialisation. 4. Export-Focused Incentives Shift from Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) to Export-Linked Incentives (ELI). Reward firms for global market success, not just for domestic output. Reorient schemes like MEIS, RoDTEP, RoSCTL to focus on export competitiveness. Incentives should encourage firms to compete and win in international markets. Value addition Terminologies   PM MITRA (Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel Parks): A flagship scheme to establish seven world-class textile parks with integrated facilities—from spinning to garmenting—aimed at boosting scale, competitiveness, and employment in the sector. PLI for Textiles (Production Linked Incentive): Incentivizes companies to boost production of man-made fibres (MMF) and technical textiles by offering financial rewards based on incremental turnover and investment. RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products): Replaces MEIS to refund embedded taxes and duties not reimbursed under other schemes, ensuring tax neutrality for exporters under WTO-compliant norms. RoSCTL (Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies): Specifically for the textile sector, it provides refunds on central and state taxes/levies on garment exports to boost cost competitiveness. SAMARTH (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector): Focused on skilling and training youth, especially women, in industry-relevant textile trades through short-term, demand-driven courses. AAGR (Average Annual Growth Rate): It measures the average yearly growth over a given period; in this context, it shows the rise or decline in India’s apparel export performance. Way forward Scale, integration, and export orientation are critical to apparel sector reform. Hence steps needed are: Provide cheap, targeted capital and tax breaks. Reform labour regulations for flexibility and formalisation. Set up inclusive garment hubs under PM MITRA. Incentivise export success through performance-linked schemes. Conclusion   India’s textile and apparel sector holds immense potential for employment generation, value addition, and global market penetration. However, this potential remains underutilized due to lack of scale, high cost of capital, rigid labour laws, and fragmented supply chains. To transform the industry and achieve the ambitious $40 billion apparel export target by 2030, India must adopt bold, targeted reforms—enabling large-scale, export-oriented manufacturing units, especially in underdeveloped regions. Mains Practice Question Q Discuss the interplay between industrial hubs like PM MITRA parks, export incentives, and labour policy reforms in strengthening India’s garment sector within the global trade framework.. (250 words, 15 marks) ULLAS program for literacy Date: 9-06-2025 Mainspedia TOPIC:  ULLAS program for literacy GS Paper II – Governance Introduction (Context)   Goa and Mizoram have declared themselves “fully literate” under the ULLAS scheme (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society), following Ladakh, which became the first UT to achieve this in June 2023. ULLAS targets foundational literacy and numeracy for adults aged 15 and above, aiming for 100% literacy by 2030 as per the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). What Does “Full Literacy” Mean? Literacy includes not just reading, writing, and numeracy, but also comprehension and life skills such as digital and financial literacy.  A state or UT achieving a 95% literacy rate can be considered “fully literate.” This definition aligns with NEP 2020, which emphasizes adult education as a critical pathway to inclusive development.  It also supports the SDG Target 4.6, which aims to ensure that all youth and a significant proportion of adults achieve literacy and numeracy by 2030. What is the ULLAS scheme? ULLAS, also known as the New India Literacy Programme, is a centrally sponsored initiative launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Education.  The scheme will run until 2027 and aims to empower five crore adults aged 15 years and above with foundational literacy and numeracy skills.  This includes the ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic, along with life skills such as digital and financial literacy. The scheme emphasizes community participation by involving volunteers such as school students, college youth, teacher trainees, and local citizens as educators.  The learning materials are designed by NCERT and translated into local languages.  Both online and offline modes are available, with a mobile app facilitating digital learning. Implementation mechanism Working with schools and officials, states and Union Territories have identified people who need such education through door-to-door surveys. These individuals are then educated by registered volunteers.  After completing their learning, they take the Functional Literacy Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT), a 150-mark test conducted in various Indian languages.  Upon passing, learners are certified by the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) as having acquired foundational literacy and numeracy. Status of ULLAS Since March 2023, over 1.77 crore learners have appeared for the FLNAT across 33 states and Union Territories.  The scheme has so far registered 2.43 crore learners, out of which around 1.03 crore have been certified.  The national average pass percentage is approximately 90%.  Some states like Tamil Nadu, Goa, Delhi, and Rajasthan have reported near-perfect pass rates.  On the other hand, states like Gujarat, Tripura, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand have recorded below-average performance. Participation of women is very high.  In several states including Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Mizoram, more than 70% of test-takers were women. Similar trends were observed in Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Rajasthan, Sikkim, and Delhi. State wise achievements State-wise Achievements Ladakh was the first region to declare full literacy under ULLAS in 2023, having trained and assessed more than 32,000 people over three phases of FLNAT.  Goa followed in 2024, achieving a 99.72% literacy rate after training over 2,000 non-literate individuals identified across its panchayats.  Mizoram declared itself fully literate with a 98.2% rate, backed by data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023–24. Challenges Elderly non-literates unable or unwilling to participate in learning. Disparities in state-wise literacy outcomes and FLNAT pass rates. Difficulty in tracking non-literate populations at grassroots level accurately. Value addition Census 2011   According to the 2011 Census, India’s overall literacy rate was 74.04%, with the adult (15+) literacy rate at 69.3%.  At that time, around 25.76 crore Indians were non-literate, with women making up nearly two-thirds of this figure.  Goa and Mizoram had higher literacy rates in 2011—88.7% and 91.3% respectively. Kerala topped the list with 94%. Government schemes 1. Farmer’s Functional Literacy Project (1960s) Targeted farmers to equip them with basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills. Aimed to integrate literacy with agricultural extension services and productivity improvement. 2. Women’s Functional Literacy Project (1970s) Focused on empowering rural and urban women by enhancing their literacy and awareness. Included health, hygiene, childcare, and nutrition in the curriculum. 3. National Adult Education Programme (NAEP) – 1978 First major centrally sponsored scheme for adult education. Targeted the 15–35 age group. Emphasized functional literacy along with civic consciousness. 4. National Literacy Mission (NLM) – 1988 to 2009 Aimed at imparting functional literacy to 100 million non-literates in the 15–35 age group. Key sub-programme: Total Literacy Campaigns (TLCs) which mobilized communities at the district level. Promoted self-reliance in literacy and continuing education. 5. Saakshar Bharat Mission – 2009 to 2018 Launched by the UPA Government to improve female literacy and achieve 80% adult literacy. Targeted adults aged 15+, especially women, SCs, STs, minorities, and other disadvantaged groups. Integrated literacy with vocational skills and digital empowerment. 6. Padhna Likhna Abhiyan – 2020 A short-term literacy scheme to make 57 lakh adults literate by 2021. Emphasis on volunteer-based teaching, aligned with the ethos of “Each One Teach One”. Way forward Strengthen digital learning infrastructure and app usability. Encourage more local volunteers and awareness campaigns. Integrate ULLAS with skill development, financial inclusion, and adult education initiatives. Increase accountability through periodic assessments and third-party audits. Leverage ULLAS to achieve SDG 4.6 and NEP 2020 targets by 2030. Conclusion   The ULLAS scheme represents a modern, technology-enabled, and inclusive approach to adult education, aligning with both national priorities like NEP 2020 and global commitments such as the SDG 4.  While the recent declarations of “full literacy” by states like Goa, Mizoram, and Ladakh are promising, the real success of ULLAS will lie in sustained learning, meaningful participation, and lifelong empowerment, especially for marginalized groups. Mains Practice Question Q Literacy is foundational for inclusive development. Discuss how adult literacy initiatives can contribute to women’s empowerment and social equity. (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  Daily Current Affairs Quiz for UPSC IAS Prelims | IASbaba