Category: Society

Context:

• Denotified tribes, nomadic tribes, and semi-nomadic tribes across the country are coming together to push for a “separate column” for themselves in the 2027 Census.

About Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs):

• Nomenclature: Also known as Vimukta Jati, these are communities that were historically “notified” as “born criminals” by the British under the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871. They were “de-notified” by the Government of India in 1952.

• • Significance: The DNTs are among the most neglected, marginalised, and economically deprived communities, with most living a life of destitution.
  • Background: Historically, these communities never had access to private land or home ownership and used forests and grazing lands for their livelihood and residential use. 
  • Population: In India, roughly 10 percent of the population are DNTs.

• Challenges faced by them:

• Persistent Stigma: Despite the 1952 repeal, they are still often profiled by law enforcement under the Habitual Offenders Act, 1952.

• • • Lack of Identity: Many lack basic documents like Caste Certificates, Ration Cards, or Aadhaar, making it difficult to access welfare schemes.
    • Administrative Invisibility: Approximately 269 communities remain unclassified under any constitutional category (SC/ST/OBC), leaving them out of reservation benefits.
  • Key Commissions & Reports: The following commissions have been instrumental in identifying and recommending welfare for these tribes:
    • Ayyangar Committee (1949): Its report led to the repeal of the Criminal Tribes Act.
    • Renke Commission (2008): The first to estimate their population at around 10.74 crore and highlight that many “escaped the attention” of the Constitution-makers.

• Idate Commission (2014-2018): Identified 1,262 communities and recommended the creation of a Permanent Commission for DNTs.

• • • Anthropological Survey of India (ASI) Study (2022-2025): Recently systematically categorised 268 communities that were previously unclassified, recommending 179 for inclusion in SC/ST/OBC lists.

• Welfare Schemes & Boards:

• • Development and Welfare Board for DNTs, SNTs & NTs (DWBDNC): Established in 2019 under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to implement welfare programs.
  • SEED Scheme (Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs): Launched in February 2022 with a budget of ₹200 crore for five years. It aims to provide free competitive exam coaching, health insurance, housing assistance, and livelihood initiatives to the members of DNTs Communities.
  • Dr. Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarships: Specifically for DNT students not covered under SC/ST/OBC.

Source:

• The Hindu

Category: Environment and Ecology

Context:

• Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary has recorded over five lakh birds across 200 species in its latest census, a sharp 21% jump from 4.12 lakh in 2024.

About Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary:

• • Location: It is located approximately 64 km west of Ahmedabad in Gujarat.
  • Nomenclature: Nal Sarovar literally translates to ‘Tap Lake’. 
  • Nature: It is a natural lake with shallow waters and muddy lagoons, dotted by 36 islets.
  • Area: Spread over an area of 120.82 sq.km., this sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. 

• History: The history of Nalsarovar dates back to the 15th century, when the lake was created as a result of the construction of a check dam across the Sabarmati River.

• Evolution: The lake was initially used for irrigation and as a source of drinking water for nearby villages. Over time, the lake became an important habitat for a variety of bird species, and local communities recognized its ecological significance. 
• Protected area: In the early 20th century, the British colonial administration recognized the importance of Nalsarovar as a wetland ecosystem and established it as a protected area.
• Recognition: In 1969, the Gujarat government declared Nalsarovar a bird sanctuary to primarily protect its bird population. It was declared as a Ramsar site on 24 September 2012.
• Flora:  The sanctuary area has 48 species of algae and 72 species of flowering plants. The common aquatic plants are Cyperus sp., Scirpus sp., Typha ungustata, Eleocharis palustris, Ruppia, Potamogeton, Vallisnaria, Naias, Chara, etc. It also includes locally famous ‘pilu’ trees which harbor a red berry type edible fruit.
• Fauna: It is home to over 250 species of birds, including beautiful migratory birds that travel from places as far away as Europe and Siberia. Apart from these, typical species like pelicans, ducks, herons, and storks can be found easily.
• Other animals: On southern or southwestern fringes, small herds of wild ass can be seen. Mongoose, jungle cat, Indian fox, jackal, wolf, and hyena are also there.

Source:

• The Times of India

Category: Government Schemes

Context:

• The Union Cooperation Minister recently launched India’s first cooperative-based ride-hailing platform, “Bharat Taxi,” at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.

About Bharat Taxi:

• Nature: Bharat Taxi is India’s first cooperative-led ride-hailing platform.

• • Registration: It is registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002.
  • Nodal ministry: It is a government-supported initiative developed under the Union Ministry of Cooperation and the National e-Governance Division (NeGD).

• Significance: It is India’s first cooperative taxi network, allowing drivers to become shareholders and co-owners.

• Promoters: It is being jointly promoted by leading cooperative and financial institutions including NCDC, IFFCO, AMUL, KRIBHCO, NAFED, NABARD, NDD Band NCEL.

• Driver-Owned Fleet: Drivers can purchase shares and become cooperative members, giving them transparency and decision-making power.

• Zero Commission: Unlike private cab aggregators that take a large cut, Bharat Taxi transfers the full fare to the driver.

• • Transparent, No-Surge Pricing: Fares will remain predictable, with no surge charges.

• Platform Integration: Bharat Taxi platform will be integrated with national digital platforms such as DigiLocker, UMANG, and API Setu.

• Security: It ensures adherence to Government of India’s data protection norms and cybersecurity standards.

Source:

• PIB

Category: Science and Technology

Context:

• India is anchored in the vision of AI for Humanity and building a robust AI stack is both a technological priority and a social commitment for India.

About AI Stack:

• • Definition: An AI stack is the complete set of tools and systems that work together to build and run AI applications.
  • Objective: It makes artificial intelligence work in the real world, from the apps people use every day to the data, computing power, networks etc.
  • Composition: It is made up of five layers:
    • Application layer: It represents the user-facing component of the AI stack. It includes AI-powered apps and services such as health diagnostic tools, farming advisory platforms, chatbots, and language translation applications.
    • AI model layer: It acts as the brain of AI systems. AI models are trained on data to recognize patterns, make predictions, and take decisions. It is the core intelligence that determines how effectively applications can understand, predict, and respond to real-world needs.
    • Compute layer: It provides the computing power required to train and run AI models. During training, computers process vast amounts of data so the model can learn and improve. It is the critical enabler that determines the scale, speed, and sophistication of AI innovation.
    • Data centres and network infrastructure layer: Data centres are where AI systems are stored and operated, while networks like the internet, broadband, and 5G move data between users, computers, and AI models. They provide the foundational backbone that enables AI systems to operate in real time. 
    • Energy layer: It keeps the entire AI stack running. AI data centres consume large amounts of electricity because powerful computers are needed to train and operate AI systems.

• Strategic Significance for India:

• • Sovereign AI: Building an in-house stack ensures data sovereignty and prevents “Digital Colonialism” by keeping sensitive citizen data within local jurisdiction.
  • India Stack 2.0: The AI Stack is often viewed as the next evolution of India Stack (Aadhaar, UPI), aimed at democratizing high-tech access.
  • AI for Humanity: India’s philosophy focuses on inclusive growth, using AI to solve challenges in healthcare (e.g., TB screening), agriculture (crop yield prediction), and education.
  • Economic Impact: AI is projected to add approximately $967 billion to the Indian economy by 2035.

Source:

• PIB

Category: International Organisations

Context:

• Recently, India joined the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC) at Vanijya Bhavan, New Delhi.

About BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC):

• • Nature: It is a multilateral, public–private platform that supports manufacturing companies and MSMEs in adopting advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, and sustainable practices across BRICS and BRICS Plus countries.

• Launch: It was launched in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

• Establishment: It was established in 2024–25.

• Objective: It serves as a one-stop centre providing integrated support services to manufacturing companies and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across BRICS countries.

• • Implementation: The National Productivity Council (NPC) has been designated as the India Centre for BRICS Industrial Competencies.
  • Strategic alignment: The BCIC operates under the BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution (PartNIR), aimed at enhancing cross-regional cooperation and technology transfer.
  • Significance: It enables Indian firms to integrate into BRICS value chains and access new markets. It also encourages productivity, innovation, and global competitiveness.

• Focus areas:

• Digital & Industry 4.0 support: Helps manufacturers adopt advanced technologies and transition into Factories of the Future.

• • Partnership facilitation: Connects firms with technology providers, research institutions, and business partners across BRICS.
  • Market intelligence & advisory: Provides guidance on market access, scaling operations, sustainability, and access to finance.
  • Capacity building: Promotes productivity enhancement, skill development, and industrial modernisation.

Source:

• PIB

(GS Paper II – Judiciary & Constitution | GS Paper III – Environment & Sustainable Development)

Context

Recent judicial and policy developments reveal a gradual dilution of India’s environmental jurisprudence, where ecological safeguards are increasingly subordinated to developmental priorities, raising serious constitutional concerns regarding Article 21, environmental justice, and intergenerational equity.

Evolution of Environmental Jurisprudence in India

• Indian courts historically played a transformative role in environmental protection by expanding the scope of Article 21 (Right to Life) to include the right to a clean and healthy environment.
• Landmark doctrines such as the Precautionary Principle, Polluter Pays Principle, and Public Trust Doctrinewere judicially evolved.
• In Vellore Citizens’ Welfare Forum vs Union of India (1996), the Supreme Court firmly embedded the precautionary principle into Indian environmental law.
• In M.C. Mehta vs Kamal Nath (1996), the Court held that natural resources are held by the State in trust for the people and cannot be exploited for private gain.
• Courts emerged as custodians of environmental rights, particularly when executive enforcement was weak.

Recent Judicial Trends Indicating Dilution

• A policy shift allowing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) after land acquisition, even without clarity on location and extent, weakens preventive environmental scrutiny.
• The recall of Vanashakti vs Union of India (2025), which had banned retrospective environmental clearances, diluted deterrence against illegal mining and infrastructure violations.
• Earlier, in Common Cause vs Union of India (2017), the Court categorically held that post-facto environmental clearances undermine the rule of law and cannot legalise illegality.
• Despite this, judicial tolerance of conditional and retrospective clearances signals a departure from strict compliance-based environmental governance.

Aravalli Ranges: A Case Study in Jurisprudential Retreat

• The Aravallis are ecologically vital for groundwater recharge, climate moderation, soil stability, and desertification control in north-west India.
• In M.C. Mehta vs Union of India (2004), the Supreme Court imposed a ban on mining in the Aravalli region, recognising irreversible ecological damage.
• Subsequent orders culminating in 2010 rejected attempts to define Aravallis solely based on elevation, noting that low-lying ridges are ecologically crucial.
• The Court explicitly rejected the 100-metre height criterion, recognising the Aravallis as a geomorphological and hydrological system, not isolated peaks.
• However, in In Re: Issue Relating to Definition of Aravalli Hills and Ranges (2025), the Supreme Court accepted the height-based definition, excluding large ecologically significant areas from protection.
• This arbitrary classification lacks rational nexus with ecological objectives, violating Article 14 (non-arbitrariness) and weakening Article 48A (Directive Principle on environment protection).

Mangroves, Himalayas and Infrastructure Push

• Judicial approval for the destruction of 158 mangroves for Adani Cementation Ltd. (2025) in Raigarh reflects reliance on compensatory afforestation over ecological integrity.
• Mangroves act as natural flood buffers, carbon sinks, and biodiversity reservoirs, and cannot be replaced within short timeframes.
• In Citizens for Green Doon vs Union of India (2021), the Court acknowledged the fragility of the Himalayan ecosystem but permitted wider roads under the Char Dham highway project citing strategic needs.
• A 2025 study identifying 811 landslide-prone zones along the project raises concerns about this “balancing approach”.
• The Himalayan floods and landslides expose the long-term ecological costs of infrastructure-led development.

Procedural Fairness and Corporate Influence

• Environmental clearances for large corporations often pass with minimal scrutiny, while objections are labelled obstructionist.
• Public hearings are reduced to procedural formalities, undermining participatory governance envisaged under environmental laws.
• Preferential treatment to capital-intensive projects raises concerns under Article 14, as procedural fairness and equality before law are compromised.
• Environmental compliance risks becoming a checklist rather than a substantive safeguard.

Constitutional Implications

• Dilution of environmental safeguards directly affects Article 21, which guarantees the right to a clean and healthy environment.
• Article 48A (State’s duty to protect environment) and Article 51A(g) (citizens’ duty) are rendered ineffective without judicial enforcement.
• Selective ecological protection based on artificial criteria violates the constitutional principle of non-arbitrariness.
• Intergenerational equity — central to sustainable development — is increasingly ignored.

Way Forward: Reinvigorating Environmental Justice

• Restore ecosystem-based interpretations instead of narrow technical definitions.
• Strictly prohibit post-facto and conditional environmental clearances, in line with Common Cause (2017).
• Institutionalise regular Green Benches in the Supreme Court and High Courts with scientific and ecological expertise.
• Reaffirm foundational doctrines such as the Public Trust Doctrine and Precautionary Principle.
• Balance development and national security with ecological limits through transparent, science-based decision-making.

Conclusion

India’s environmental jurisprudence stands at a constitutional crossroads. Courts that once expanded ecological protections now risk legitimising environmental degradation. Reclaiming judicial leadership is essential to preserve constitutional morality, ecological resilience, and the rights of future generations.

Mains Question

1. Indian courts have historically strengthened environmental protection through constitutional interpretation and judicial doctrines. Discuss (250 words)

Source: The Hindu 

(GS Paper III – Infrastructure, Energy, Economic Reforms)

Context

India’s power distribution sector, long considered the weakest link in the electricity value chain, is showing early signs of recovery. Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) have recorded improvements in operational efficiency, financial discipline, and cost recovery. However, the turnaround remains uneven and heavily dependent on State support, raising questions about long-term sustainability.

Structural Problems in the Distribution Sector

• Chronic Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses due to outdated infrastructure, theft, and poor billing efficiency
• Persistent gap between Average Cost of Supply (ACS) and Average Revenue Realised (ARR) caused by non-cost-reflective tariffs
• Delayed or unpaid State government subsidies, worsening liquidity stress
• Rising accumulated losses and debt burden, with DISCOM losses increasing from ₹5.5 lakh crore (2020–21) to ₹6.47 lakh crore (2024–25) and debt touching ₹7.26 lakh crore
• Legacy issues inherited from State Electricity Boards (SEBs), despite Section 59 of the Electricity (Supply) Act, 1948 mandating profitability

Signs of Improvement and Recent Performance

• DISCOMs recorded a positive Profit After Tax (PAT) of ₹2,701 crore in 2024–25, reversing a loss of ₹67,962 crore in 2013–14
• AT&C losses declined from 22.62% to 15.04% over the same period
• ACS–ARR gap narrowed sharply from 78 paise per unit to 0.06 paise per unit (accrual basis), indicating near cost recovery
• Improved financial discipline reflected in timely payment of current dues to generators

Role of Central Reforms and Policy Interventions

• Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) links fund release to performance benchmarks such as loss reduction, smart metering, and infrastructure upgrades
• Late Payment Surcharge Rules (2022) enabled DISCOMs to clear legacy dues in up to 48 EMIs, arresting the accumulation of surcharges
• Outstanding legacy dues declined from ₹1.39 lakh crore (June 2022) to about ₹4,927 crore by January 2026
• Amendments to Electricity Rules improved payment security mechanisms and reduced stress on generators

Dependence on State Support: A Key Concern

• Financial turnaround in many States is largely driven by tariff subsidies and loss takeovers, not structural self-sufficiency
• Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd. (TNPDCL) recorded a PAT of ₹2,073 crore in 2024–25 only after receiving ₹15,772 crore in tariff subsidy and ₹16,107 crore in loss takeover
• Without State support, TNPDCL would have posted a loss of ₹14,034 crore (PFC Integrated Rating Exercise, 2026)
• Similar trends observed in Rajasthan’s JDVVNL, which reported profit only after receiving substantial State assistance

Sustainability Challenges Ahead

• Revenue surpluses may be temporary, especially with future pay revisions and rising operational costs
• Free or highly subsidised electricity, particularly for domestic consumers, distorts price signals and disproportionately benefits higher-income households
• Unmetered agricultural supply limits accurate assessment of consumption and losses

Way Forward

• Expand feeder segregation to States with unmetered farm supply to improve data accuracy and accountability
• Promote solar pumps in agriculture, as recommended by NITI Aayog (2021), to reduce procurement costs and peak demand
• Gradual transition to cost-reflective tariffs with targeted subsidies through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
• Accelerate smart metering and digital billing systems to curb losses and improve collection efficiency
• Strengthen regulatory independence of State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs)
• Political commitment to reform, combined with administrative capacity, is essential for long-term viability

Conclusion

The recent improvement in DISCOM performance reflects the impact of focused reforms and enhanced financial discipline. However, the continued reliance on State subsidies and loss absorption highlights unresolved structural weaknesses. Sustainable turnaround requires deeper efficiency gains, tariff rationalisation, and depoliticisation of electricity pricing.

UPSC Mains Question

1. Critically examine the status of DISCOMs and discuss the challenges that threaten its long-term sustainability. Suggest measures to ensure durable reforms in the distribution sector. (250 words)

Source: The Hindu