Category: ENERGY

Context:  India’s Union Budget 2025-26 announced a major push to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047

Key Highlights:

India’s Nuclear Power Journey:

• Early Start: India was a pioneer in Asia, with its first research reactor in 1956 and power reactor at Tarapur in 1969.
• Setbacks: Progress slowed after:
  • Refusal to sign the NPT (1968).
  • Pokhran nuclear tests (1974, 1998).
  • Denial of international cooperation and fuel supply.
• Recovery:
  • Civil nuclear deal with the US in 2005.
  • NSG waiver in 2008 helped resume international collaboration.

Challenges in Meeting 100 GW Target:

1. Current Constraints:
   • Existing capacity is just 8.2 GW.
   • New capacity addition (5.4 GW) still in progress.
   • All plants are owned by the public sector NPCIL; private and foreign participation is not allowed under existing law.
2. Policy & Legal Reforms Required:
   • Amendments to:
     • Atomic Energy Act (1962) – to allow private sector ownership/control.
     • CLND Act (2010) – to address liability and insurance concerns.
     • Electricity Act (2003) – to enable dispute resolution and open access.
   • Revisit nuclear regulation: separate regulatory body needed (like AERB being independent).
3. Finance & Economics:
   • High capital costs (₹60-₹90 crore/MW) make nuclear power less attractive.
   • Delay in returns, safety concerns, and risk management require viability gap funding, public-private partnerships, and financial guarantees.

Learning Corner:

India’s Energy Mix (2025)

India’s total installed power generation capacity stands at around 485 GW. The energy mix is evolving with a strong shift towards clean energy, though coal remains dominant in electricity generation.

Installed Capacity (by source):

• Coal & thermal: ~50–55%
• Renewables (solar, wind, biomass): ~35–40%
• Large Hydro: ~10%
• Nuclear: ~2%

Electricity Generation Share:

• Coal & thermal: ~70–75%
• Renewables + Hydro: ~20–22%
• Nuclear: ~3%

Key Trends:

• India has achieved over 50% of its installed capacity from non-fossil sources.
• Solar and wind are the fastest-growing sectors.
• Despite growth in capacity, coal still contributes the bulk of actual electricity generation.
• Around 56 GW of clean energy projects are under construction.
• Target: ~35–40% clean energy in generation mix by 2030.

Source: THE HINDU

Category: AGRICULTURE

Context: Bio stimulants, now under Agri Ministry’s scrutiny

What are Bio stimulants?

• Definition: Substances that stimulate physiological processes in plants to enhance nutrient uptake, yield, growth, and stress tolerance.
• Components: Derived from natural sources—botanical extracts, seaweed, vitamins, bio-chemicals.
• Exclusion: Not classified as pesticides or fertilizers under current law.

Why Under Scrutiny?

• Farmers complained retailers were bundling bio stimulants with subsidized fertilizers like urea and DAP.
• Concerns raised over ineffectiveness of many products.
• ~30,000 unchecked products existed until recently; now reduced to ~650 after stricter checks.

Legal Framework

• Previously unregulated, unlike fertilizers/pesticides.
• Regulated under:
  • Fertiliser Control Order (FCO), 1985 – amended in 2021 to include bio stimulants.
  • Essential Commodities Act, 1955 – allows periodic updates to FCO.
• 2021: Government created a 5-year Central Bio stimulant Committee for scientific assessment.

Learning Corner:

Biofortification

• Definition: Process of increasing the nutritional value of food crops through agronomic practices, conventional plant breeding, or modern biotechnology.
• Example: Iron-rich pearl millet, zinc-rich wheat.
• Objective: Address hidden hunger (micronutrient deficiency).

 Biofertilizers

• Definition: Microorganisms that fix nutrients (like nitrogen, phosphorus) in the soil and make them available to plants.
• Examples: Rhizobium (legumes), Azospirillum, Mycorrhiza.
• Benefit: Reduce chemical fertiliser dependency.

Precision Farming

• Definition: Use of technology and data analytics to deliver nutrients and water in precise amounts needed by crops.
• Tools: GPS, remote sensing, drones.
• Outcome: Efficient nutrient delivery, reduced wastage.

Nutrient Use Efficiency (NUE)

• Definition: Ratio of crop yield to the amount of nutrient applied.
• Goal: Increase yield with minimal nutrient loss.
• Enhanced Through: Balanced fertilization, slow-release fertilizers.

Integrated Nutrient Management (INM)

• Definition: Combined use of chemical fertilizers, organic manures, and biofertilizers to maintain soil fertility and productivity.
• Advantage: Sustainable nutrient supply.

Nanofertilizers

• Definition: Fertilizers developed using nanotechnology to enhance nutrient availability and uptake.
• Example: Nano Urea (by IFFCO).
• Pros: Lower doses, reduced environmental impact.

Foliar Nutrition

• Definition: Application of nutrients directly to plant leaves in liquid form.
• Use Case: Quick correction of micronutrient deficiencies (like Zn, Fe).

Source:  THE INDIAN EXPRESS

Category: POLITY

Context : The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre and all States based on a presidential reference seeking clarity on the powers and timelines for the President and Governors to act on state legislature Bills.

Key Issues:

• Whether the judiciary can impose timelines on constitutional authorities where the Constitution is silent.
• Whether the President’s and Governors’ actions or inactions under Articles 200 and 201 are subject to judicial review.
• Whether the Supreme Court can use its powers under Article 142 to “deem” assent in cases of inaction.
• Whether delays or refusals based on irrelevant reasons are unconstitutional.

Presidential Reference:

President Droupadi Murmu, under Article 143(1), has asked the Supreme Court 14 key legal questions regarding:

• Judicial scrutiny of constitutional discretion.
• Legal validity of judicially imposed timelines.
• Grounds for deeming assent and limiting executive delays.

Learning Corner:

Article 143 – Advisory Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

• Purpose: Empowers the President of India to seek the opinion of the Supreme Court on any question of law or fact of public importance.
• Types:
  • Article 143(1): Advisory opinion on any question of law or fact.
  • Article 143(2): Opinion on disputes arising out of pre-Constitution treaties or agreements.

Notable Cases:

• Re Berubari Union Case (1960):
  • First use of Article 143.
  • SC opined that a constitutional amendment is needed to cede Indian territory to Pakistan.
• Re Kerala Education Bill (1958):
  • Clarified constitutional provisions regarding minority education rights.
• Re Special Courts Bill (1979):
  • SC upheld the constitutionality of special courts for trying politicians for corruption.

Article 200 – Assent to Bills by Governor

• Purpose: Empowers the Governor to:
  • Give assent to a Bill.
  • Withhold assent.
  • Reserve the Bill for the President’s consideration.
  • Return the Bill (if not a money bill) for reconsideration by the legislature.

Key Observation:

• Governor cannot sit on a bill indefinitely; expected to act in a reasonable time frame.

Notable Issue:

• Tamil Nadu NEET Exemption Bill (2021):
  • Governor delayed action, raising questions about misuse of Article 200.

Article 201 – President’s Power on Reserved Bills

• Purpose: When a Bill is reserved by the Governor, the President can:
  • Give assent.
  • Withhold assent.
  • Direct the Governor to return the Bill for reconsideration.

Notable Cases/Issues:

• Shamsher Singh v. State of Punjab (1974):
  • Reiterated that constitutional functionaries like the Governor and President act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers.
• Recent Debates:
  • Several State Bills (like Telangana’s reservation bill) pending with the President for years — raises federalism and accountability issues.

Source :  THE HINDU

Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Context: Indian Army Inducts First Batch of Apache Helicopters

• Deployment: The Apaches will be deployed in Jodhpur, enhancing the Army’s offensive and reconnaissance power, especially along the western border.
• Features:
  • Equipped with Hellfire missiles, 30mm chain gun, Stinger air-to-air missiles, and Longbow radar.
  • Capable of day/night operations and high-precision strikes in complex terrain.

Learning Corner:

Apache Helicopters (AH-64E)

The Apache AH-64E is an advanced multi-role attack helicopter developed by Boeing, widely regarded as one of the most powerful and versatile combat helicopters in the world.

Key Features:

• Armament:
  • 30mm chain gun
  • AGM-114 Hellfire missiles (laser/radar-guided)
  • Stinger air-to-air missiles
  • Hydra rocket pods
• Avionics and Sensors:
  • Longbow radar for all-weather targeting
  • Modern target acquisition and night vision systems
  • Secure data and communication links
• Performance:
  • Operates in day/night and all-weather conditions
  • Capable of high-precision strikes
  • Suitable for reconnaissance, close air support, and anti-armor missions

Source: THE HINDU

Category: INTERNATIONAL

Context: U.S. to Withdraw from UNESCO

The U.S. will exit UNESCO by December 2026, citing ideological concerns, opposition to Palestine’s membership, and alignment with its “America First” policy. This marks the third U.S. withdrawal (after 1984 and 2017), despite rejoining in 2023. The move may reduce U.S. influence in global education, culture, and tech governance. UNESCO has expressed regret but is prepared to continue without U.S. support.

Learning Corner:

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is a specialized agency of the UN, founded in 1945. It aims to promote peace and sustainable development through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.

Key Functions:

• Protects cultural heritage through the World Heritage Sites program
• Promotes education for all, including literacy and girls’ education
• Supports scientific collaboration and freedom of expression
• Works on ethical AI, climate education, and preservation of intangible cultural heritage

Headquarters: Paris, France
Members: 194 countries (as of 2025)

Key Reports by UNESCO:

• Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report
  • Tracks progress on education targets under SDG 4.
  • Formerly known as the Education for All Global Monitoring Report.
• State of the Education Report for India
  • Focuses on India-specific themes like teacher education, vocational education, digital learning, etc.
• World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development
  • Assesses global press freedom, journalist safety, and media viability.
• Global Report on Culture for Sustainable Development
  • Highlights the role of culture in achieving sustainable development.
• UNESCO Science Report
  • Published every 5 years.
  • Analyses trends in global science, research, and innovation.
• Global Report on the Futures of Education
  • Strategic outlook on education’s role in shaping future societies.
• World Heritage Outlook (in collaboration with IUCN)
  • Evaluates the conservation status of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Internet Universality Indicators Report
  • Measures internet development across countries based on rights, openness, accessibility, and multistakeholder participation.

Source: THE HINDU

Introduction (Context)

In 2015, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified SO2 norms for coal-based thermal power plants. The establishment of flue gas desulphurisation (FGD system) for all 600-odd power plants in the country was made compulsory. However, in 2025, Ministry has reversed its decision. Hereby, analysing the issue. 

What is Flue Gas Desulphurization?

• Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) is a set of technologies used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO2) from the exhaust gases (flue gas) produced during the combustion of fossil fuels, primarily coal. 
• FGD systems typically involve using a sorbent material, such as limestone or lime, to react with and neutralize the SO2 in the flue gas.  
• It’s a crucial process for reducing harmful emissions that contribute to acid rain and respiratory problems. 

In 2015, the Indian government has mandated the installation of FGD systems in coal-fired power plants to meet emission standards.

However, experts had raised many questions related to it. Such as:

• Capital expenditure on FGD installation in old and new plants estimated to Strain financial resources which lead to an additional tariff burden of Rs 0.25 – 0.30 per kWh.
• As Indian coal has a low sulphur content, experts argued that an FGD system was not necessary for most of the plants.
• NEERI Study (initiated by NITI Aayog) studied the viability of FGD and stated that ambient SO₂ concentrations at monitoring stations were well below prescribed norms (80 μg/m³) even without widespread FGD installation.
• FGD systems use limestone and water as inputs. Mining and transportation of limestone increases carbon emissions. (CO₂ has a longer atmospheric lifetime than SO₂, raising climate concerns.)

Revised guidelines

• Plants retiring before 2030 exempted from installing FGDs.
• Plants near NCR or cities with >1 million population: deadline extended to Dec 2027.
• Plants near critically polluted areas: compliance by 2028, decided case-by-case.
• Other plants outside polluted clusters need not install FGDs if chimney height norms are met.

Concerns regarding FGD:

• Economic costs of FGD installation do not lead to proportional improvement in particulate matter levels in cities.
• The Environment Ministry’s note specifically on the potential for emissions states that Indian coal contains “very low” (less than 0.5%) sulphur content compared with imported coal, which has more than 2% sulphur content. Thus, the ministry argues, the lower sulphur content combined with India’s tropical climate ensure sulphur dioxide concentrations are “a fraction” of the permitted standards.  
• According to Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), immobile stations cannot capture the directional flow of the pollutants or gauge their source. Additionally, it cannot account for chemical reactions that convert sulphur dioxide into other pollutants such as PM 2.5.  

Why is FGD technology referred to as economically unviable?

• In India is that there are limited vendors bearing limited capacity to supply and install FGD components, with the technology being new to the country. 
•  Standardisation is difficult to attain considering different sites have different requirements relating to space constraints, lay-out, orientation etc.
• Presently, FGD requires imported technology, critical equipment and skilled manpower from other countries, which increases cost.

Way Forward

• Conduct independent environmental impact assessments before diluting emission norms.
• Encourage domestic manufacturing of FGD components to reduce import dependence.
• Integrate pollution control with India’s net-zero targets, ensuring decisions align with SDG 7 (Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Conclusion

The rollback of FGD norms reflects India’s persistent dilemma between economic feasibility and environmental responsibility. It is critical to adopt a balanced policy ensuring public health protection without undermining energy security and economic viability.

Mains Practice Question

“Critically analyse the recent decision of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to relax Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) norms for thermal power plants. Discuss its implications for environmental protection and India’s energy sector.” (250 words, 15 marks)

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/the-reform-indias-power-sector-needed-10143372/

Introduction (Context)

Post pandemic there has been rise in remote work. Once hailed as the future of labour, ‘Work from Home’ has become far more complicated than imagined.

Analysing the topic based on the “Global Survey of Working Arrangements” (Ifo Institute + Stanford University, 2024–25) covering 16,000 college-educated workers across 40 countries.

Work from Home

It involves performing job duties outside of a traditional office setting, typically from one’s home. This arrangement offers flexibility and can improve work-life balance for many employees.

Benefits:

• Greater autonomy
• Better work-life balance,
• Less commuting stress
• Higher job satisfaction.

Global Survey of Working Arrangements” findings

The “Global Survey of Working Arrangements”, conducted by the Ifo Institute and Stanford University, covering over 16,000 college-educated workers across 40 countries between 2024 and 2025 stated:

Regional variations:

• United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, people average 1.6 remote workdays per week. 
• In much of Asia, the figure is only 1.
• Africa and Latin America fall somewhere in between.

Global average

• The global average for ‘ideal’ remote days is now 2.6 days per week. 
• However, in reality just 1.27 days in 2024, a drop from 1.33 days the year before, and sharply down from 1.61 days in 2022.

Reasons for lag in Asia

• In India, China, Japan, South Korea and elsewhere, physical presence in the office still signals loyalty, discipline and seriousness. 
• The old culture of ‘presenteeism’ endures stubbornly. 
• Further there are cramped living conditions, shared spaces and unreliable Internet, all of which make remote work unattractive or even unfeasible, for many urban dwellers.

Gender data

• In most countries, women, particularly mothers, tend to work from home more often than men.
• Mothers desire highest remote days (2.66/week), followed by childless women (2.53/week).
• It is only in Europe that men do report slightly more actual remote workdays than women.
• Many men (especially without children) seek remote work for freedom, hobbies, health, or relief from office life.

 Reluctance from people itself

• Work from home make people worry about falling team spirit, lost oversight, and declining innovation. 
• Some industries lack the tools or the systems for remote success. 
• Deep-rooted habits of office-centric management.

Health concerns

• Data from Statista Consumer Insights (2023) reveal that remote workers are more prone to physical ailments: backaches, headaches, eye strain and joint pains, more so than their factory- or office-bound counterparts. 
• The mental toll is significant as well due to isolation, blurred boundaries and constant digital connection.

Way forward

• • Combines home and office work for maximum flexibility and productivity.

• Role of companies:

• Invest in making home offices ergonomically safe and productive.
• Support healthy routines and scheduled breaks.
• Create clear digital boundaries to avoid employee burnout and maintain mental well-being.

• Role of government:

• Universal broadband access to ensure connectivity for all.
• Stipends or subsidies for home-office upgrades (furniture, technology, internet).
• Enforceable health and safety standards for remote work environments.

Mains Practice Question

1. Analyse the implications of the remote work paradigm on gender equality, work culture, and public policy in India.” (250 words, 15 marks)

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/realities-behind-the-global-experiment-of-remote-work/article69843766.ece