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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  

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

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

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  

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 7th June – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) Insolvency Bankruptcy Code (IBC) Category: ECONOMICS Context: The recent developments in the Bhushan Power and Steel Ltd. case have reignited concerns around the finality of resolution outcomes and the predictability of the framework. Learning Corner: Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016  The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 is India’s landmark legislation aimed at consolidating and streamlining the insolvency resolution process for individuals, companies, and partnership firms in a time-bound manner. Objectives: To ensure time-bound resolution of insolvency and bankruptcy cases (within 330 days). To maximize the value of assets of insolvent persons. To promote entrepreneurship and availability of credit. To balance the interests of all stakeholders, including creditors, debtors, and employees. To improve India’s ease of doing business ranking and promote credit discipline. Key Features: Single framework for insolvency and bankruptcy covering individuals, companies, and LLPs. Establishes institutional mechanisms such as: Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) – regulatory body National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) – adjudicating authority for corporates Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) – for individuals and partnership firms Resolution Professionals (RPs) – manage the resolution process Creditors can initiate the process on default of ₹1 crore or more (earlier ₹1 lakh). Control of the defaulting firm is transferred from management to creditors via Committee of Creditors (CoC). Achievements: Helped reduce non-performing assets (NPAs) – e.g., NPA ratio declined from 11.2% (2018) to 2.8% (2024). Promoted credit discipline among borrowers. Recovered over ₹3.89 lakh crore by 2024. Enhanced investor confidence and improved business ecosystem.   Challenges: Delays in resolution beyond 330 days due to judicial backlog. Low recovery rates in recent years (around 28.6%). Inadequate infrastructure, valuation disputes, and multiple legal appeals. Lack of clear treatment for operational creditors and complex business models. Conclusion: The IBC is a transformative reform in India’s economic governance. While it has improved resolution efficiency and credit discipline, its effectiveness depends on judicial efficiency, legal clarity, and institutional capacity building. Source : THE HINDU Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) reduces repo rate Category: ECONOMICS Context The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its June 2025 Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, announced two major steps to support economic growth and liquidity Decoding Context: Repo Rate Cut: The RBI reduced the repo rate by 50 basis points (bps) to 5.5%, marking a cumulative reduction of 100 bps in recent months. This move is expected to lower borrowing costs across the economy, benefiting both retail and corporate borrowers through reduced loan EMIs and cheaper credit. CRR Reduction: The RBI also decided to cut the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) by 100 bps, from 4% to 3%, in four quarterly tranches starting September 2025. This phased reduction is projected to inject approximately ₹2.5 lakh crore of liquidity into the banking system, enabling banks to lend more and further easing interest rates for consumers and businesses. These steps are aimed at boosting credit growth, encouraging spending, and supporting India’s GDP, which is projected at 6.5% for FY26. The inflation outlook for the year has also been revised downward to 3.7%. The RBI’s policy stance has shifted from ‘accommodative’ to ‘neutral’, providing flexibility for future monetary actions. Learning Corner: Bank Rates & Monetary Policy Tools – Quick Comparison Table Type of Rate Definition Duration Collateral Key Purpose/Usage Important Notes Bank Rate Rate at which RBI lends long-term funds to banks Long-term No Signals monetary policy stance Higher bank rate → costlier loans → reduced liquidity Repo Rate Rate at which RBI lends short-term funds to banks against securities Short-term Government Securities Main tool to control inflation & liquidity Lower repo → cheaper loans → more investment & consumption Reverse Repo Rate Rate at which RBI borrows from banks using securities Short-term Government Securities Used to absorb excess liquidity Higher rate → banks park funds with RBI → reduced lending Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) Rate for emergency overnight borrowing from RBI Overnight Government Securities For banks exceeding normal borrowing limits MSF > Repo (by 25 bps) – emergency window Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) Facility to absorb excess liquidity without collateral Variable No Primary tool for liquidity absorption (since 2022) Replaced Reverse Repo for liquidity control Call Money Rate Rate of 1-day borrowing/lending in the interbank market Intraday / Overnight No Indicates short-term liquidity conditions Market-determined, highly volatile Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)  What is MPC? The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a statutory and institutional body constituted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to determine the policy interest rate (repo rate) required to achieve the inflation target set by the Government of India. Background Constituted under the RBI Act, 1934 (Amended in 2016). Introduced as part of the monetary policy framework agreement between the RBI and Government of India in 2015. Objectives Maintain price stability (control inflation). Support economic growth. Ensure transparency and accountability in monetary policy decisions. Composition of MPC Total 6 members: Members Appointed By RBI Governor (Chairperson ex-officio) RBI RBI Deputy Governor (in charge of MPC) RBI One RBI official nominated by Central Board RBI 3 external members Appointed by Government of India The Governor has a casting vote in case of a tie. Members have a term of 4 years, not eligible for reappointment. Functions of MPC Sets the repo rate (key policy rate). Reviews monetary policy bi-monthly (every two months). Publishes Monetary Policy Statements. Aims to keep CPI inflation at 4% (+/- 2%) as per the inflation targeting framework. Significance Brings objectivity and independence to monetary policy. Helps in containing headline inflation. Balances growth and inflation trade-off through informed decision-making. Source :  THE HINDU G7 (Group of Seven) Category: INTERNATIONAL Context : Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted an invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. Decoding Context This development comes amid previously strained India-Canada relations following the 2023 controversy involving the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. In a phone call on June 6, the two leaders discussed the longstanding bilateral relationship, underlining strong people-to-people ties and significant commercial linkages. Both agreed to continue law enforcement cooperation and address security concerns. Carney emphasized India’s global economic importance and its critical role in global supply chains as reasons for the invitation. The move is widely seen as a signal of improving ties, despite ongoing challenges. Modi acknowledged the invitation on social media, highlighting shared democratic values and expressing hope for stronger cooperation between the two countries. Learning Corner: G7 – Group of Seven  Overview The G7 is an intergovernmental political and economic forum of the world’s most advanced and industrialized democracies, formed to coordinate responses to global challenges—economic, security, climate, and more. Current Members (7 Nations + EU Participation) Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, United States NOTE: European Union (EU): Participates but is not a formal member. Historical Background Established in 1975 (initially G6; Canada joined in 1976 to form G7). Created in response to the oil crisis and global economic recession in the 1970s. Became the G8 with Russia in 1997 but reverted to G7 in 2014 after Russia’s annexation of Crimea. Objectives and Role Objective Description Economic Coordination Harmonize policies among major economies to foster global economic stability Global Governance Set the agenda on climate, health, digital taxation, development aid, etc. Security & Geopolitics Address issues like terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and war (e.g., Ukraine) Humanitarian Support Focus on food security, pandemic response, gender equality, education Annual G7 Summit Hosted annually by a rotating member country. Features participation of heads of state/government. Includes guest invitees from other countries (e.g., India) and organizations like UN, IMF, WTO. Decisions are not legally binding but carry high political weight. Recent Key Themes (2022–2025) Year Host Country Major Agenda Themes 2022 Germany Climate protection, global health, food security, Ukraine 2023 Japan Economic resilience, AI governance, nuclear disarmament 2024 Italy Africa partnerships, climate financing, energy security 2025 Canada Global supply chains, democratic resilience, tech ethics Criticism of G7 Seen as elitist and non-representative of emerging economies. Limited enforcement power — recommendations are not binding. Overshadowed by G20 in global economic matters due to broader representation. India–Canada Relations  Overview India and Canada share historically cordial relations based on democratic values, multiculturalism, people-to-people ties, education, and trade. However, the relationship has witnessed periodic strains, especially on issues related to Khalistani separatism.   Key Dimensions of Bilateral Relations Political Relations Diplomatic relations established in 1947. Periodic engagements at bilateral and multilateral forums (UN, G20, Commonwealth). Relations have been impacted by Canada’s stance on internal Indian matters, including Khalistan extremism. Economic & Trade Relations Bilateral trade (2023–24): ~USD 10 billion. Canada is a major source of potash, pulses, and energy products. India exports pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering goods. Ongoing negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). People-to-People Ties Over 1.8 million Indo-Canadians (~5% of Canada’s population). India is the largest source of international students in Canada. Strong diaspora influence on bilateral ties and politics. Energy & Technology Cooperation Collaboration in civil nuclear energy under the 2010 nuclear cooperation agreement. Joint initiatives in clean energy, AI, climate action, and innovation.   Recent Issues & Strains Khalistan issue and pro-separatist activities in Canada. Diplomatic tensions in 2023 following Canadian allegations regarding the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Strained intelligence and security cooperation due to trust deficit.   Way Forward Strengthen counter-terror cooperation and avoid politicization of diaspora. Focus on education, clean tech, and economic partnerships. Build mutual trust through high-level visits and track-II diplomacy. Source: THE HINDU 800-Year-Old Shiva Temple Unearthed Category: CULTURE Context : 800-Year-Old Shiva Temple Unearthed near Madurai Overview An 800-year-old Shiva temple has been discovered near Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The structure dates back to the reign of Pandya king Maravarman Sundarapandian I (early 13th century CE). Historical Significance The temple reflects Pandya-style architecture, known for its intricate stone work and structural temples. Inscriptions found on the site may offer details on: Land grants and endowments Temple administration Taxation systems under the Pandya dynasty Role of Community & Experts The temple was partially buried and lay in neglect for centuries. Local villagers and archaeologists played a key role in unearthing the temple. Experts believe the find could reshape understanding of medieval South Indian temple networks. Pandya Dynasty Context One of the three ancient Tamil dynasties (alongside Cholas and Cheras). Known for promoting Shaivism, Tamil culture, and temple patronage. Maravarman Sundarapandian I was a notable ruler who expanded the Pandya realm and supported temple construction. Learning Corner: Temple Architecture in India  Definition & Importance Temple architecture refers to the style and structure of Hindu temples built over centuries, reflecting religious, cultural, and regional diversity. Temples were not just places of worship but also centers of art, culture, and community life. Major Styles of Temple Architecture Style Region Key Features Examples Nagara Northern India Curvilinear shikhara (spire), no boundary walls, multiple towers Kandariya Mahadev (Khajuraho), Lingaraja (Odisha) Dravida Southern India Pyramid-shaped vimana (tower), enclosed courtyard, large gopurams (gateway towers) Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur), Meenakshi Temple (Madurai) Vesara Deccan region (Central-South) Combination of Nagara and Dravida features, intricate carvings Temples at Pattadakal, Badami   Basic Components of a Hindu Temple Garbhagriha (Sanctum sanctorum): The innermost chamber housing the deity’s idol. Mandapa: Pillared hall or pavilion where devotees gather. Shikhara / Vimana: The rising tower above the sanctum. Pradakshina Patha: Circumambulatory path around the sanctum. Gopuram: Monumental entrance tower (mainly in Dravida style). Significance Reflects religious symbolism, cosmology, and Indian aesthetics. Temples were royal projects showcasing dynastic power and artistic patronage. Serve as records of history through inscriptions and sculptures. Source : THE HINDU INS Arnala Category: DEFENCE Context : The Indian Navy is set to commission its first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), named INS Arnala, at Visakhapatnam Details of Warship: INS Arnala is the lead ship in a series of 16 vessels designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, in partnership with L&T Shipbuilders under a Public-Private Partnership model. Key Features: Over 80% indigenous content, with systems integrated by major Indian defence firms and contributions from more than 55 MSMEs, boosting India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Length of 77 meters and displacement over 1,490 tonnes, making it the largest Indian warship powered by a diesel engine–waterjet propulsion system. Designed for anti-submarine warfare, subsurface surveillance, search and rescue, and low-intensity maritime missions to enhance coastal defence. Named after the historic Arnala Fort off Maharashtra, symbolizing India’s maritime heritage. The crest features a stylized Auger Shell, symbolizing resilience and vigilance, with the motto “Arnave Shauryam” (Valour in the Ocean). Strategic Importance: INS Arnala will strengthen the Navy’s ability to detect and counter undersea threats in shallow coastal waters, crucial amid increasing submarine activity in the region.  Learning Corner: Anti-Submarine Warfare Ships of India INS Kamorta-class (Project 28) India’s first indigenously designed and built stealth ASW corvettes. Equipped with advanced sonar systems, torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, and anti-ship missiles. Key ships: INS Kamorta, INS Kadmatt, INS Kiltan, INS Kavaratti. Operate primarily in coastal and offshore areas to detect and neutralize submarines. INS Kora-class Corvettes Multi-role corvettes with strong ASW capabilities alongside surface warfare. Fitted with torpedoes, depth charges, and anti-submarine rocket launchers. Pondicherry-class (Kilo-class) Submarines Though submarines themselves, these also perform ASW roles by hunting enemy subs. Acquired from Russia, these diesel-electric submarines enhance underwater warfare. INS Shivalik-class Frigates Multi-role stealth frigates with strong ASW sensors and weapons. Equipped with towed array sonar, torpedoes, and rocket launchers for submarine hunting. Other ASW Assets Indian Navy operates various ASW helicopters (e.g., HAL Dhruv, Sea King) and maritime patrol aircraft (e.g., P-8I) for anti-submarine detection and engagement. Source: THE HINDU (MAINS Focus) Water management in India: Source to Sea approach Date: 7-06-2025 Mainspedia TOPIC:  Water management in India: Source to Sea approach GS Paper III – Environment   GS Paper II – Governance Introduction (Context)   India is grappling with a water crisis marked by pollution, scarcity, overexploitation, and fragmented governance. In light of growing scientific consensus and global commitments—such as the UN’s International Year of Glacier Preservation 2025—a Source-to-Sea (S2S) approach to water governance is emerging as a critical alternative to the current fragmented systems. Different commitments for Water management World Water Day 2025, observed annually on March 22, focused on the theme ‘Glacier Preservation’, emphasizing the urgent need to protect the earth’s cryosphere. The United Nations designated 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation, and March 21 was marked for the first time as the World Day for Glaciers. This also marked the launch of the Decade of Action on Cryospheric Science (2025–2034) to study and protect the frozen parts of the planet. The UN World Water Development Report 2025 highlighted ‘Mountains and Glaciers – Water Towers’ as its central theme, underlining the significance of alpine glacier systems in sustaining mountain ecosystems and supplying water to downstream populations. The year 2025 also marks the midpoint of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030). This initiative promotes the agenda ‘Science we need for the ocean we want’, calling attention to pressing marine challenges such as coastal pollution, rising sea temperatures, coastal hazards, sea level rise, and the decline in marine biodiversity. What is Source to Sea Approach? The Source-to-Sea (S2S) approach aims to bridge upstream and downstream water governance, recognizing that mountainous cryosphere, freshwater systems, coastal zones, and oceans are ecologically interconnected.  It seeks integrated solutions across land, freshwater, estuarine, and marine systems. Recognizes hydrological and ecological interdependence of river basins and marine systems. Addresses impacts of land-based activities (e.g., agriculture, waste discharge) on coastal and ocean health. Promotes stakeholder coordination across geographies and sectors. Why needed? Water acts as a link between upstream and downstream ecosystems, forming a continuous hydrological connection from source to sea. Human activities upstream—such as damming, diversion for agriculture, extraction from water bodies and aquifers, and pollution—significantly alter the natural freshwater flow, impacting downstream areas and coastal/marine ecosystems. Although the hydrological cycle is a natural process, it is disrupted at the sub-system level due to anthropogenic interventions. These disruptions contribute to reduced freshwater inflows to the coasts and oceans, leading to marine degradation, including pollution, eutrophication, and biodiversity loss. Current water management systems often treat land, freshwater, and marine domains in isolation, ignoring their interconnectedness, which has emerged as a critical global concern. To address this, the Source-to-Sea (S2S) approach was introduced under the Manila Declaration in January 2012. Formalization of S2S approach The S2S approach was formalized under the Manila Declaration (2012), which emphasized protecting the marine environment from land-based activities. It called for integrated land-to-sea solutions under the framework of ‘ridge-to-reef’ management. In 2014, the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) launched the Action Platform for Source-to-Sea Management to enable cooperation among freshwater and marine experts. Since January 2025, this platform has been hosted by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The approach is built on two key scientific insights:  First, it opposes the conventional fragmentation of water governance into isolated units like rivers, lakes, and oceans.  Second, it supports applying a socio-ecological system framework through tools like causal chain analysis and transboundary diagnostics. The United Nations University, under the Global Environmental Facility’s International Water Science project, also recommended using science-driven diagnostics to improve international water project outcomes. Challenges in India India’s water governance suffers from spatial disparities in availability, unequal access, overexploitation of resources, and increasing pollution. According to NITI Aayog’s 2018 report, nearly 600 million Indians face high water stress, which could lead to a 6% loss in GDP. The World Resources Institute’s Aqueduct Atlas places India among countries facing extreme water stress, which threatens food and economic security. In 2022, the Central Pollution Control Board identified 311 polluted river stretches in 30 States and Union Territories, reflecting severe water quality issues. India produces about 1.7 lakh tonnes of solid waste daily, but only 53% is treated. A significant portion of the untreated waste contaminates surface water and groundwater bodies. On average, 60.5% of India’s extractable groundwater is used, with several States like Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan already crossing 100% extraction levels. Groundwater contributes over 60% to irrigation and 85% to drinking water, yet its quality is declining, raising alarms about long-term water security. The fragmented and sectoral approach to water governance, involving different authorities and regulations for rivers, lakes, aquifers, and coastal zones, undermines cohesive policymaking. Jurisdictional overlaps further complicate matters. Governance occurs at multiple levels village, State, national, and global and coordinating actions across these tiers remains a major challenge. Initiatives in India India’s first national water policy was introduced in 1987, with successive versions incorporating new concerns like sustainability and climate resilience. In 2015, a committee was formed to restructure the Central Water Commission and Central Ground Water Board into a National Water Commission. In 2019, the Ministry of Jal Shakti formed a committee to draft a new national water policy with expert input. Several States have also formulated their own policies. However, the Source-to-Sea approach has not yet found space in mainstream water policy planning. Two case studies currently under exploration in India show early signs of S2S uptake.  One focuses on nutrient management in Delhi’s waterbodies.  The second examines human settlements and their link to the S2S landscape in the Indo-Gangetic basin under the S2S Futures Programme. Issues with current apporach Water management in India remains heavily siloed. Surface water, groundwater, and marine systems are managed by different departments, leading to duplication and policy mismatch. There is a significant disconnect between scientific research and policy implementation, especially in translating global best practices to local action. Stakeholder coordination is weak across Ministries, State departments, and local bodies. Civil society and scientific communities are often not involved in planning. Poor enforcement of pollution norms and ineffective waste treatment mechanisms add to the degradation of water bodies. The lack of a common institutional platform for upstream and downstream coordination undermines long-term sustainability goals. Value addition SDGs related to water   SDG 6.5: Implement Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) at all levels. SDG 14.1: Prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution from land-based activities by 2025. SDG 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts—especially via cryosphere protection. SDG 15: Sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation. Way forward India must integrate the Source-to-Sea approach into its national water policy to ensure holistic and inclusive water governance. There should be institutional mechanisms to link freshwater goals under SDG. Multi-stakeholder platforms involving government agencies, scientists, local communities, and private actors must be created to plan and implement basin-wide actions. Project planning should include science-based tools like trans-boundary diagnostics and causal chain analysis to assess and mitigate upstream-downstream impacts. Actions across governance levels—local to national—must be synchronized under a nested governance framework, especially for inter-State river basins. Promoting a circular water economy through wastewater reuse, pollution control, and community-based conservation will support both water security and ecological integrity. Conclusion   India’s current water governance model, fragmented and jurisdictionally scattered, is ill-equipped to deal with the complex realities of the 21st-century water crisis. The Source-to-Sea (S2S) approach offers a timely and transformative pathway, recognizing the ecological unity from glaciers to oceans. By aligning scientific research, policy frameworks, and multi-tiered governance systems, India can ensure sustainable and resilient water systems that serve both people and nature. Mains Practice Question Q India’s water crisis is not just about scarcity but about fragmented governance. In this context, discuss the significance of the Source-to-Sea (S2S) approach for water management in India.   (250 words, 15 marks) Food Safety Date: 7-06-2025 Mainspedia TOPIC:  Food Safety GS Paper II – Governance Introduction (Context)   World Food Safety Day 2025, observed on June 7, highlights the theme “Food Safety: Science in Action”. It serves as an opportunity to reflect on India’s shift from basic anti-adulteration laws to a modern, science-based food safety framework led by the FSSAI. However, critical gaps remain in risk assessment, communication, and regulatory coherence. India’s journey on Food safety India’s food safety journey began with the Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Act, 1954, focusing on a binary adulterated/non-adulterated view. A major shift occurred with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, establishing the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), adopting a risk-based, scientific approach aligned with Codex Alimentarius standards. By 2020, India’s standards were comparable to many advanced nations India’s food safety framework has evolved into a science-based system addressing contaminants, additives, pesticide residues, and veterinary drugs through risk analysis It is supported by Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), Acceptable Daily Intakes (ADI), and food additive safety norms. Why food safety is important? Public Health Protection: Ensures that food is free from harmful contaminants, reducing the risk of food borne illnesses, long-term health issues like cancer, and malnutrition. Consumer Trust & Awareness: Builds public confidence in the food system and empowers citizens to make informed and healthy dietary choices. Economic Impact: Prevents productivity loss due to illness, reduces healthcare costs, and supports sectors like hospitality, exports, and retail. Global Trade Compliance: Aligns India’s food standards with international norms (e.g., Codex), enabling export growth and preventing rejection of Indian food products abroad. Sustainable Development & Nutrition: Promotes safe, fortified, and nutritious food, contributing to national goals like “Zero Hunger” and improving child and maternal health indicators. Challenges Lack of India-Specific Data: MRLs and ADIs based on international datasets may not reflect Indian dietary diversity, agricultural patterns, or climatic conditions. Absence of a Total Diet Study (TDS) restricts understanding of cumulative exposure from food. Poor Risk Communication: Concepts like MRLs (e.g., 0.01 mg/kg to 0.1 mg/kg) and ADIs are poorly understood by the public. Technical changes are often misinterpreted as compromises on safety. Legacy Regulatory Problems, Example of MSG Despite global acceptance of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) as safe (as early as 1971 by JECFA), India mandates warning labels on foods containing MSG. Glutamates naturally occur in many common Indian foods like tomatoes and garlic, causing consumer misinformation and fear. Institutional Weaknesses: Inadequate trained manpower in toxicology, food science, and risk analysis. Fragmented implementation across state food safety departments. Value addition Terminologies   MRLs (Maximum Residue Limits): The highest level of a pesticide residue legally allowed in food, based on safety assessments to ensure no harm to human health. ADIs (Acceptable Daily Intakes): The maximum amount of a substance (like a food additive or pesticide) that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without health risk. Total Diet Study (TDS): A scientific assessment that estimates a population’s exposure to various contaminants through all foods commonly consumed in a typical diet. Codex Alimentarius Standards: International food safety and quality standards developed by the FAO and WHO to protect consumer health and facilitate fair trade. Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 Replaced multiple outdated food laws (like the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954) to create a single, comprehensive legislation for food safety in India. Created the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) as the apex body to regulate and monitor food safety and standards nationwide. Roles and Powers of FSSAI: Frame regulations and guidelines for food safety Grant licenses and registration to food businesses Conduct surveillance, audits, and inspections Promote food safety awareness and research Mandated the use of modern, science-based risk analysis—including setting standards for food additives, contaminants, pesticide residues, and labelling. Shifted from a reactive, punishment-based model to a preventive, risk-based approach focused on food safety throughout the supply chain. Empowered consumers by mandating labelling, promoting transparency, and ensuring the right to safe, wholesome, and properly labelled food. Way forward Strengthen scientific foundations by conducting India-specific toxicological studies and implementing a nationwide Total Diet Study (TDS). Improve communication strategies to translate complex scientific metrics into consumer-friendly language and remove misleading or outdated labels such as those on MSG. Build institutional capacity by training more food scientists, inspectors, and risk analysts, while ensuring uniform implementation across states. Revise regulations regularly based on emerging science, and promote transparency in decision-making. Enhance stakeholder engagement through continuous dialogue with industry, researchers, and consumers to foster trust and collaborative compliance. Conclusion   India’s food safety framework has evolved into a modern, risk-based system backed by FSSAI’s leadership. However, the journey forward must be anchored in scientific evidence, clear communication, institutional competence, and public trust. Eliminating outdated regulations and strengthening India-specific research are essential to ensure that food safety is not just about compliance but about confidence and informed choices. Mains Practice Question Q India’s food safety transformation has been significant but not without its gaps. Critically examine the role of FSSAI and suggest a roadmap for making India’s food safety framework more scientific, transparent, and citizen-friendly. (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  

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 7th 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

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UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 6th 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

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 6th June – 2025

Archives (PRELIMS Focus) Census Category: POLITY Context: The next nationwide census of India, which was originally due in 2021 but repeatedly postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is now scheduled to conclude by March 1, 2027 The government has announced that the census will be conducted in two phases, similar to previous exercises, and will include caste enumeration for the first time since 1931. For snow-bound and non-synchronous regions such as Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, the reference date will be October 1, 2026, with data collection starting earlier in these areas. The official notification outlining these reference dates is expected to be published in the official gazette on June 16, 2025, as per the Census Act, 1948. The census process is expected to begin in earnest in early 2026, with the first phase involving house listing and the second phase focusing on population enumeration—both to be completed before the reference date of March 1, 2027. This census is highly significant as it will provide up-to-date demographic, social, and economic data, influence electoral boundary delimitation, and serve as the basis for implementing new policies, including women’s reservation in legislatures. Learning Corner: History of Census in India The Census of India is one of the world’s largest administrative exercises, providing comprehensive demographic, social, and economic data. Its history dates back to the colonial period. Early Attempts (Pre-1872) Sporadic population counts were conducted in various parts of India by British administrators, but they were not systematic or nationwide. The first such effort was in 1687–1688 by Governor Aungier in Bombay. Later, some provincial censuses were attempted in Madras (1822) and Punjab (1855). First Systematic Census – 1872 A more organized attempt was made in 1872 under Viceroy Lord Mayo. It was not conducted simultaneously across India, but it laid the foundation for future censuses. First Synchronous Census – 1881 The first synchronous and modern census was conducted in 1881 under W.C. Plowden (Census Commissioner of India). It is considered the first complete census of India, covering all regions simultaneously with standardized methodology. Decadal Practice Since 1881, a decadal (every 10 years) census has been conducted without interruption, even during wars and emergencies. Each census has built on previous data, refining questions and methodology. Post-Independence Censuses After independence in 1947, India continued the decadal census tradition under the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (established in 1949). The first post-independence census was held in 1951, which also helped in planning India’s Five-Year Plans. Recent Censuses The 2011 Census was the 15th National Census and the 7th after Independence. It provided data on population, literacy, urbanization, language, disability, migration, and more. The 2021 Census has been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the first such delay in over 140 years. Significance The Census provides a foundation for policymaking, resource allocation, planning welfare schemes, and electoral processes (e.g., delimitation). It is also a key source for academic research, economic planning, and social analysis. Source : THE HINDU Greater Flamingo Sanctuary Category: ENVIRONMENT Context The Tamil Nadu government has notified the Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi, Ramanathapuram district, covering 524.8 hectares. Announced on World Environment Day 2025, the sanctuary lies within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve and is a key stopover along the Central Asian Flyway. It hosts 128 bird species, including Greater and Lesser Flamingos, and supports mangroves, marine life, and sea turtle nesting. The initiative aims to conserve biodiversity, promote eco-tourism, and support local livelihoods. The forest department will be strengthened for better protection and management. Learning Corner: Flamingo – Key Facts Scientific Classification Order: Phoenicopteriformes Family: Phoenicopteridae Species in India: Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) and Lesser Flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) Habitat & Distribution Found in shallow saline lagoons, mudflats, estuaries, and salt pans. In India, major habitats include: Rann of Kutch (Flamingo City) Chilika Lake (Odisha) Pulicat Lake (Tamil Nadu–Andhra) Sambhar Lake (Rajasthan) Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu) Physical Traits Known for their pink coloration, which comes from carotenoid pigments in their diet (algae, brine shrimp). Long legs and necks adapted to wading. Downward-bent bill helps filter-feed in water. Migration Flamingos are migratory birds. They migrate along the Central Asian Flyway, wintering in India. The Greater Flamingo is the largest and most widespread among all flamingo species. Breeding They breed in large colonies in remote, undisturbed wetlands. Build mud mound nests where a single egg is laid. Conservation Status Greater Flamingo: Least Concern (IUCN Red List) Lesser Flamingo: Near Threatened (IUCN Red List) Protected under Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India). Threats Habitat loss (due to saltpan expansion, pollution) Disturbance during breeding Climate change affecting wetland ecosystems Greater Flamingo vs Lesser Flamingo Feature Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) Lesser Flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) Size Largest flamingo species Smallest flamingo species Height Up to 150 cm Around 80–90 cm Color Pale pink with reddish wings Deep pink with crimson-red bill Bill Tip Colour Black-tipped Deep black Range in India Widely distributed (Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Rajasthan) Primarily in Gujarat (Rann of Kutch) Migration Regular winter visitor; some resident colonies Highly migratory; forms massive flocks Diet Crustaceans, algae, small organisms Mainly blue-green algae (Spirulina) IUCN Status Least Concern Near Threatened Legal Protection (India) Schedule IV – Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 Schedule IV – Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 Breeding in India Occasionally breeds in Flamingo City, Kutch Breeds in large numbers in Flamingo City, Kutch Extra Facts for Exam Edge: Flamingo City in Rann of Kutch is the only regular breeding site of Lesser Flamingos in South Asia. Their iconic pink color is due to carotenoids in their diet. Play a role as bioindicators of wetland health. Source :  THE HINDU Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) to produce the fuselage of the Rafale in India Category: DEFENCE Context : Dassault Aviation, the French manufacturer of the Rafale fighter aircraft, has partnered with India’s Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) to produce the fuselage of the Rafale in India for the first time outside France. As part of this landmark collaboration, Tata will set up a cutting-edge production facility in Hyderabad to manufacture key structural sections of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section. The first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in the financial year 2028, with the facility projected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month for both Indian and global markets. This initiative is seen as a major step in strengthening India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and supporting global supply chains, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiatives. The partnership also positions India as a key player in high-precision aerospace manufacturing and could have significant implications for future Indian Air Force requirements, including the potential production of more Rafale fighters under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program. Notably, the Hyderabad facility’s output will support not only India’s existing Rafale fleet and new naval orders but also international demand for the aircraft. Learning Corner: Rafale Fighter Jet – Key Facts  Origin & Manufacturer Country: France Manufacturer: Dassault Aviation Name Meaning: “Rafale” means “gust of wind” in French Type & Role Category: 4.5-generation multi-role fighter aircraft Roles: Air supremacy, ground support, reconnaissance, nuclear deterrence, anti-ship, electronic warfare Variants Rafale B – Twin-seat (used for training and missions) Rafale C – Single-seat (land-based version) Rafale M – Carrier-based naval version Key Features Delta wing with canards – for high agility Fly-by-wire system – improves stability and maneuverability Radar: AESA radar (RBE2) Weapons: Meteor (Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile – BVRAM) SCALP cruise missile MICA air-to-air missile HAMMER precision-guided bombs Speed: Mach 1.8 (2,222 km/h) Combat range: ~1,850 km (without refueling)  India-Specific Customizations ‘India-specific enhancements’ include: Israeli helmet-mounted display Low-band jammers Infrared search and track (IRST) system To handle nuclear payload delivery Cold start capability for high-altitude (e.g., Ladakh) Brief note on 4.5 generation and 5th generation fighter aircraft: 4.5 Generation Fighter Aircraft Represents an evolutionary upgrade over 4th generation fighters. Incorporates advanced avionics, sensors, and weapons systems while retaining a similar airframe. Features include: Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar Improved stealth features (reduced radar cross-section, but not full stealth) Enhanced network-centric warfare capabilities (data sharing, situational awareness) Advanced electronic warfare (EW) systems and precision-guided munitions Better engine performance and maneuverability than 4th generation jets Examples: Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, Su-35, F-16 Block 60, Mirage 2000-9 5th Generation Fighter Aircraft Represent a major leap in technology with full stealth design and cutting-edge features. Key characteristics: Stealth capability with minimal radar cross-section and infrared signature Advanced sensor fusion integrating radar, infrared, electronic warfare, and communications into a single display Supercruise — ability to fly at supersonic speeds without afterburners Highly agile with thrust vectoring engines Network-centric warfare with real-time data sharing across platforms Integrated artificial intelligence and advanced avionics for pilot assistance Examples: F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, Su-57, Chengdu J-20 Source: THE HINDU Amendments to Nuclear energy laws Category: ENERGY Context : India is considering significant amendments to its nuclear energy laws India is considering significant amendments to its nuclear energy laws, specifically the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA) of 2010, to facilitate greater private sector participation and to align liability regimes with international standards. Key Drivers Behind the Proposed Amendments: Encouraging Private and Foreign Investment: The current legal framework restricts the construction and operation of nuclear power plants primarily to government entities. This has limited the participation of private and foreign companies. Proposed reforms aim to open the nuclear sector to private players and allow foreign firms to hold minority stakes, thereby attracting capital and advanced technology. Capping Supplier Liability: Under the current CLNDA provisions, suppliers of nuclear equipment face potentially unlimited liability in the event of an accident. This has deterred global vendors, especially from countries like the United States. Amending the law to cap supplier liability—bringing it in line with global norms—is expected to reassure foreign suppliers and boost project execution. Scaling Up Nuclear Capacity: India’s long-term goal is to expand nuclear energy capacity from the current ~8 GW to 100 GW by 2047. Meeting this target demands both regulatory reforms and substantial investments, which the proposed legal amendments are expected to enable. Supporting Energy Transition and Climate Goals: Nuclear power plays a vital role in India’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. Involving the private sector could accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), enhancing energy security and sustainability. Learning Corner: History of India’s Nuclear Energy Programme India’s nuclear energy programme began in the late 1940s, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha, often called the “father of India’s nuclear programme.” The programme was conceptualized with a strong focus on peaceful uses of atomic energy and self-reliance in nuclear technology. Key Milestones: 1948 – Establishment of Atomic Energy Commission (AEC): Formed under the Department of Scientific Research to develop nuclear technology and policy. 1954 – Department of Atomic Energy (DAE): Set up directly under the Prime Minister to consolidate atomic research and energy development. Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme (1950s): Conceived by Dr. Bhabha to utilize India’s limited uranium and vast thorium reserves:   Stage 1: Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium. Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) using plutonium produced in Stage 1. Stage 3: Thorium-based reactors (Advanced Heavy Water Reactors or AHWRs). 1969 – Establishment of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL): A public sector enterprise to manage nuclear power plant construction and operation. 1974 – Pokhran-I (Smiling Buddha): India conducted its first underground nuclear test, marking a strategic shift and attracting global sanctions, impacting nuclear commerce. 1998 – Pokhran-II: A series of five nuclear tests established India as a nuclear weapons state, followed by further international isolation. 2008 – Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement: A major breakthrough that ended India’s nuclear isolation. India was granted a waiver by the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), enabling nuclear trade despite being a non-signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Current Status (as of 2025): India operates 22 nuclear reactors with an installed capacity of around 7,800 MW. Reactors are mainly PHWRs; Fast Breeder Reactor development is ongoing. India aims to reach 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047. Source : THE HINDU Disinflation is a Greater Force Right Now than Inflation’ Category: ECONOMICS Context : Despite concerns about potential inflation due to tariffs later in the year, global economic trends currently show that disinflation (a slowdown in the rate of price increases) is a more significant force than inflation. Key Points: OECD Outlook: The OECD expects headline inflation in G20 economies to moderate to 3.6% in 2025 and further to 3.2% in 2026, down from 6.2% in 2024. However, the U.S. is an exception, with inflation expected to rise above target. U.S. Inflation: U.S. inflation is expected to remain above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, with consumer inflation at 2.1% in April, the slowest in four years. The Fed has paused its rate hikes, but bond yields remain high. Eurozone: Inflation in the eurozone cooled to 1.9% in May, below the European Central Bank’s (ECB) 2% target, suggesting the ECB may cut rates further. China: China faces deflationary pressures, with weak consumer demand and a depreciating currency. Despite government stimulus, deflation and low bond yields persist, and tariffs on exports to the U.S. add uncertainty. Global Impact: The combination of easing inflation, weak demand in China, and potential ECB rate cuts points to disinflation as the dominant global economic trend, outweighing inflationary pressures for now. Conclusion: While inflation risks remain, especially in the U.S., the prevailing global trend is disinflation, driven by cooling inflation in major economies and persistent deflationary forces in China. This trend is expected to shape economic and policy decisions in the near future. Learning Corner: Inflation Inflation refers to a sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services in an economy over a period of time. It reduces the purchasing power of money. Disinflation Disinflation is a slowdown in the rate of inflation. Prices are still rising, but at a slower rate than before. It is not the same as deflation. Example: Inflation falling from 6% to 3% — prices are still rising but more slowly. Deflation Deflation is a decline in the general price level of goods and services. It often leads to reduced consumer spending, lower production, and job losses. Example: Negative inflation rate, such as -1.2%. Stagflation Stagflation is a situation where inflation is high, economic growth slows, and unemployment remains high. It presents a policy dilemma. Example: Observed in the 1970s oil crisis. Core Inflation Core inflation excludes volatile components like food and fuel prices to provide a clearer picture of long-term inflation trends. Helps policymakers understand underlying price pressures. Headline Inflation Headline inflation measures the total inflation in the economy, including all items like food and fuel. This is what consumers experience in real life. Creeping Inflation Also called mild inflation, it refers to low and predictable inflation, usually below 3%. It is considered healthy for the economy. Walking Inflation Moderate inflation ranging between 3% to 10%, which can start affecting economic stability if unchecked. Galloping Inflation High and often double-digit inflation (above 10%), eroding the value of currency quickly and destabilizing the economy. Hyperinflation An extreme case of inflation, where the inflation rate exceeds 50% per month. It leads to the collapse of currency and often requires drastic reforms. Example: Zimbabwe (2008), Germany (1920s). Built-in Inflation Also called wage-price inflation, it occurs when workers demand higher wages, which businesses pass on as higher prices, leading to a feedback loop. Source: THE HINDU (MAINS Focus) State of India’s Tiger Prey Date: 6-06-2025 Mainspedia TOPIC:  State of India’s Tiger Prey GS Paper III – Environment Introduction (Context)   A first-of-its-kind detailed assessment of ungulates (hoofed mammals like deer, antelopes, pigs, and bison) across India has revealed a decline in prey base in several states such as Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh, despite healthy populations in other regions. This poses a threat to tiger conservation and the ecological balance of forests. What are ungulates? Ungulates are hoofed mammals, their feet are adapted for running and walking with hard hoof coverings instead of claws or nails.  They are herbivorous animals and play a crucial role in forest ecosystems. Types of Ungulates in India: Deer species: Chital (spotted deer), Sambar, Barasingha (swamp deer), Hog deer Antelopes: Nilgai (blue bull), Blackbuck Wild pigs Bovines: Gaur (Indian bison), Wild buffalo Rare species: Pygmy hog (critically endangered) Significance of Ungulates Tigers rely heavily on ungulates like chital, sambar, and gaur for food. Without a healthy prey base, tiger populations decline or move outside protected areas, leading to human-animal conflicts. By grazing and browsing, ungulates help regulate plant growth, promote forest regeneration, and maintain species diversity. Their movements and feeding patterns help disperse seeds and recycle nutrients into the soil. A thriving ungulate population indicates a healthy ecosystem with proper vegetation, water, and predator-prey balance. Their dung and movement enrich forest soil and create microhabitats for other small organisms. Grazing in moderation prevents overgrowth of grass, reducing forest fire risks. Ungulates are part of a complex food web involving predators, scavengers, decomposers, and plants. Their survival supports the broader web of life in forest ecosystems. Significance for tigers Tigers rely on abundant prey base for survival and territorial spread. Poor prey availability in east-central India restricts tiger dispersal, despite its high potential. Carrying capacity has been reached in states like MP & Maharashtra, pushing tigers to migrate. Low prey density results in livestock predation leads to retaliatory killings of tigers. Data by NTCA Report prepared by National Tiger Conservation Authority & Wildlife Institute of India using data from the 2022 All-India Tiger Estimation using Camera traps, field surveys, dung evidence states that:   Major Prey Species are: Chital – most abundant, highly adaptable Sambar – stable in Central India, Western Ghats Wild Pig – widespread, resilient Nilgai & Gaur – healthy in multiple zones Declining species: Hog deer – grassland and wetland fragmentation Barasingha (swamp deer) – restricted to select protected areas Wild buffalo & pygmy hog – facing genetic bottlenecks due to isolation Why population decreasing? Habitat Degradation – due to deforestation, mining, infrastructure. Fragmentation – linear infrastructure (roads, railways, power lines). Left-wing extremism – affecting conservation efforts in eastern states. Subsistence Hunting – by local communities for meat and livelihood. Human-Wildlife Conflict – competition with livestock, crop damage. Wetland Loss – conversion of floodplains and swampy areas to agriculture/urban use. Way forward Prey scarcity affects forest ecology, predator balance, and biodiversity conservation. Steps needed are:   Control land-use changes and encroachments. Expanding protected areas and strengthening corridor connectivity is crucial Need for on-site breeding and rewilding of prey species in degraded areas. Wetland and grassland rejuvenation Integrated landscape-level planning in vulnerable regions Monitor & Augment Prey Base by Scientific surveys, in-situ breeding, controlled relocation. States with declining populations must enhance anti-poaching, habitat restoration, and community engagement. Conclusion   Ungulates are not just prey, but keystone species that influence the survival of tigers, the stability of forests, and the well-being of tribal and rural communities that live close to nature. Protecting them is central to India’s forest conservation, tiger protection strategies, and ecological sustainability. Mains Practice Question Q What are Ungulates? Discuss the significance of prey base for tiger conservation in India.  (250 words, 15 marks) Stampede: Lessons in Crowd Management Date: 6-06-2025 Mainspedia TOPIC:  Stampede: Lessons in Crowd Management GS Paper III – Disaster Management Introduction (Context)   A tragic stampede occurred at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru following Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) victory celebration.  What is stampede? A stampede is a sudden, uncontrolled rush of a crowd, often triggered by panic, excitement, or perceived threats. Such incidents can lead to serious injuries or fatalities due to trampling or asphyxiation. Causes Major Causes of Stampedes   Overcrowding: Exceeding the venue’s capacity increases pressure and the likelihood of panic. Poor Planning: Lack of designated entry and exit points often leads to chaos. Trigger Events: Sudden noises or rumors can cause panic. Inadequate Facilities: Insufficient medical aid, water, and sanitation exacerbate the situation. Inadequate Infrastructure: Many venues lack proper infrastructure, such as multiple entry and exit points, proper barricading, or emergency evacuation routes. Causes of the Bengaluru Stampede Preliminary investigations suggest the following factors contributed to the incident: Overcrowding: Exceeding the stadium’s safe capacity. Inadequate Exits: Limited and poorly marked exit routes. Lack of Communication: Absence of real-time updates and guidance for crowd dispersal. Insufficient Security: Understaffed security personnel unable to manage the crowd effectively. What is crowd management and its basic principles? Crowd Management refers to the planned and strategic handling of large gatherings of people to ensure safety, order, and smooth movement.  Basic Principles/features Assessment of Venue Capacity Planning of Entry and Exit Routes Security Personnel Deployment Use of Barricades and Signage Surveillance and Crowd-Monitoring Technologies Emergency Medical Services (EMS) On-Site Public Awareness and Communication Coordination with Police, Fire, and Disaster Teams Shortcomings in Crowd Management Inefficient Deployment of Staff and Resources: Poor allocation of human and material resources leads to inadequate management during emergencies. Unclear Chain of Command and Supervision: Ambiguities in leadership roles hinder effective decision-making and response. Missing Inter-Agency Coordination: Lack of cooperation among agencies delays response efforts. Ad Hoc Planning and Lack of Accountability: Unplanned, impromptu responses without accountability or training result in chaos. Improper Communication Plan: Ineffective communication causes confusion and worsens the situation. Lack of Systematic Risk Assessment: Failure to assess risks disrupts systematic planning, communication, and resource utilization. No Integration of Community Resources: Neglecting to involve local communities, NGOs, and professionals limits the effectiveness of response efforts. Value addition: NDMA guidelines NDMA guidelines for Crowd Management Pre-Event Planning Assess crowd size and venue capacity. Prepare event-specific risk analysis and contingency plans. Identify vulnerable groups (elderly, children, disabled). Venue Layout & Risk Mapping Mark entry/exit points, chokepoints, evacuation routes. Map high-risk areas (narrow lanes, weak structures). Install barriers for crowd control. Personnel Deployment Trained police, volunteers, home guards, medical staff. Briefing on crowd behavior and emergency handling. Use of high-visibility clothing for key personnel. Infrastructure Readiness Adequate lighting, signage, barricades, PA systems. First aid, ambulances, water and sanitation facilities. Fire safety and backup power. Technology Use CCTV surveillance and drone monitoring. Real-time crowd density tracking tools. Public info via SMS, digital boards, loudspeakers. Public Awareness Clear signage and crowd directions. Awareness of do’s and don’ts through announcements. Multilingual communication materials. Emergency Response Incident Command System (ICS) with clear hierarchy. On-site control rooms for coordination. Rapid Response Teams with ambulances/fire services. Inter-Agency Coordination District administration, police, health, fire services, local bodies must act in unison. Regular coordination meetings pre-event and during. Post-Event Review Conduct audits and submit incident reports. Incorporate learnings into future planning. Way forward Systematic and Comprehensive Planning Process Defined leadership roles streamline decision-making and enhance supervision. Mandatory Safety Audits for all mass gathering venues before event approvals. Use of AI and real-time analytics for crowd density and movement predictions. Regular training and mock drills for local officials, police, and volunteers. Community participation in crowd control through local volunteers and NGOs Strict enforcement of NDMA norms with accountability for event organizers. A system to integrate independent agencies while maintaining their autonomy ensures cohesive efforts with coordinated communication. Conclusion   Crowd management is not just about logistics—it is about saving lives, ensuring dignity, and building public confidence in governance. With India witnessing frequent large-scale gatherings, proactive implementation of NDMA guidelines is essential to prevent stampedes and uphold public safety as a fundamental right (Article 21). Mains Practice Question Q Stampedes at mass gatherings in India highlight the gaps in crowd management planning and coordination. Discuss and suggest measures to ensure effective implementation of NDMA Guidelines at the ground level.  (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  

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IASbaba Achieves 73% Hit Ratio in UPSC Prelims 2025: Trusted Strategy and Proven Results

Dear Aspirants, IASbaba just achieved a phenomenal 73% hit ratio in UPSC Prelims 2025. Let that sink in for a moment. Out of 100 questions that appeared in your Prelims paper, 73 questions were directly(56) or indirectly(15) covered through our classes, materials, and programs. This isn't just a number we're throwing around – this is concrete proof (refer to the below-provided PDF document) of how our content aligns with what UPSC actually asks. It's a testament to the thousands of hours we spend analysing patterns, anticipating trends, and crafting content that truly matters. The PDF Document, Which Contains All The Questions & Sources From IASbaba Which Were Asked in UPSC Prelims 2025 Click Here To Download How Did We Achieve This Consistent Strike Rate? This kind of accuracy doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from years of refining strategy, understanding UPSC trends, and building systems that work. Our Winning Programs That Made the Difference: Baba's Gurukul Programme - The ultimate classroom+mentorship experience for freshers, online and offline. ILP (Integrated Learning Programme) - The most comprehensive self-study program for UPSC, recommended by toppers PEP (Prelims Exclusive Programme) - Thematic Classes backed by PYQ Analysis, Trend Tracking, and Elimination Techniques. Babapedia, Daily News Analysis & Daily Quizzes - Making Current Affairs a consistent habit, not a last-minute scramble. Why Does Our Hit Rate Matter to YOU? This isn't us bragging (okay, maybe a little ), but it's about building TRUST and showing you a PROVEN PATH to success. It’s Proof of Predictive Content: Our programs aren't just based on textbooks; they mirror UPSC's evolving trends. We study, we strategise, and we deliver content that aligns with what UPSC is looking for. It's Strategy in Action: This hit rate isn't about rote learning. It's about smart work over scattered effort. It's about knowing what to study and how to study it for maximum impact. It’s a Promise Delivered: We don’t just make claims; we prove them. This is our commitment to you, materialised in your Prelims paper. Follow The Plan That Gets Results! This 73% isn’t just a statistic for us; it's a beacon of hope and a massive confidence booster for all of you. It's your dedication to meeting our strategy, resulting in a proven path to success. The journey to LBSNAA starts here. Are you ready to be part of the success story? Team IASbaba

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UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 5th 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