Articles on 28 October 2025

by Vajiram & Ravi - 28 October 2025

Vajiram & Ravi provides Daily articles for 28 October 2025, tailored for aspirants. We cover all relevant news and events crucial for the exam, ensuring you stay updated & well-prepared.

Plato’s Theory of Justice, Concept, Principle and Criticism

October 28, 2025
Plato's Theory of Justice

Plato’s Theory of Justice is one of the most influential ideas in Western philosophy, forming the foundation of his political thought as presented in his famous work The Republic. According to Plato, justice is not just about laws or punishment but a moral and social order where everyone performs their proper role. He envisioned justice as harmony within both the individual soul and the state. For Plato, justice represents the highest virtue, ensuring balance and moral perfection in society

Plato's Theory of Justice

Plato’s Theory of Justice emerged from a period of social unrest and political chaos in Athens. He believed that moral decay and lack of virtue were the root causes of state instability. Unlike the conventional legal definitions of justice that focused on rights and retribution, Plato presented an unconventional moral and social theory of justice. He viewed justice as both an individual virtue and a virtue of social institutions, arguing that harmony within the individual and the state was essential for true justice. Thus, he shifted the focus from legal obligations to moral duties, emphasizing that justice concerns the duties individuals owe to society rather than the rights they claim from it.

Concept of Justice According to Plato

Plato believed that justice means “doing one’s own work and not meddling with what does not concern one.” He explained this idea through his concept of the ideal state, which mirrors the structure of the human soul. In both, justice is achieved when each part performs its function without interfering with others. Plato opposed the Sophists’ idea that justice is simply the interest of the stronger. Instead, he viewed it as a principle of balance and virtue that brings order to both individuals and the community. Plato explained that the human soul has three parts, and justice arises when these parts are in harmony:

  • Rational Part (Reason): Seeks truth and governs the soul with wisdom.
  • Spirited Part (Will): Represents courage and emotional drive, supporting reason in maintaining discipline.
  • Appetitive Part (Desire): Concerns physical needs and pleasures, which must be controlled by reason.

Traditional Theories of Justice

Before developing his own theory, Plato examined and rejected three existing notions of justice prevalent in his time:

(a) Cephalus and Polemarchus: Traditional Theory

  • Cephalus, a wealthy elder, defined justice as “doing one’s duty and paying one’s dues.” Plato accepted the idea of duty but rejected the mechanical repayment of dues. For instance, returning a weapon to a madman is not just, even if it’s owed.
  • Polemarchus defined justice as “doing good to friends and harm to enemies.”Plato refuted this, arguing that justice cannot cause harm to anyone and that identifying true friends or enemies is uncertain.

(b) Thrasymachus: Radical Theory

The sophist Thrasymachus claimed that “justice is the interest of the stronger.” In this view, might equals right, and rulers define justice to serve their power. Plato dismissed this, asserting that true justice is universal and moral, not relative to power or politics.

(c) Glaucon: Pragmatic Theory

Glaucon, Plato’s interlocutor, described justice as a social compromise, a way for the weak to protect themselves from the strong. Plato disagreed, saying justice is natural, eternal, and not man-made. It transcends conventions and benefits both individuals and the community equally.

Plato's Justice Theory

After rejecting these theories, Plato presented his own conception of justice, using his dialectical method in The Republic. He explained justice at two interrelated levels- the individual and the state. He believed the state is a magnified reflection of the individual soul. Therefore, justice in the individual and justice in the state are structurally similar, each dependent on harmony and order among their components.

(a) Justice in the State

According to Plato, the state has three classes, each representing a part of the human soul:

  1. Rulers (Philosopher Kings)- Represent reason and should govern with wisdom and truth.
  2. Soldiers (Guardians)- Represent spirit and are responsible for courage and defense.
  3. Producers (Farmers, Artisans, Traders)- Represent appetite and fulfill material needs.

Justice is achieved when each class performs its own function without interfering with others. Thus, justice is functional specialization and harmony, every class performing its natural role for the common good.

(b) Justice in the Individual

Plato extended this model to the human soul, which also has three parts:

  1. Rational Faculty- Seeks truth and knowledge; its virtue is wisdom.
  2. Spirited Faculty- Upholds courage and ambition; its virtue is courage.
  3. Appetitive Faculty- Desires pleasure and material needs; its virtue is temperance.

When these parts act in balance, with reason governing, spirit supporting, and desire obeying, justice arises in the individual.

Plato's Theory of Justice Principle

Plato’s theory is built on three fundamental principles:

  1. Functional Specialization- Each person performs tasks suited to their abilities.
  2. Non-Interference- No class or part of the soul intrudes into another’s domain.
  3. Harmony- Balance between wisdom, courage, and temperance results in justice.

Plato's Theory of Justice Features

The key features of the Plato’s theory for Justice has been listed below:

  • Justice as Virtue: It is both a personal and public virtue ensuring order and moral excellence.
  • Universal and Moral: Justice applies equally to all, not favoring rich or powerful individuals.
  • Social Harmony: Justice creates interdependence and unity among citizens.
  • Duties over Rights: Plato emphasizes responsibilities of individuals to the state over personal entitlements

Plato's Theory of Justice and Education

Plato viewed education as the cornerstone of justice. Through a rigorous educational system, the state identifies individuals’ natural aptitudes. This merit-based system ensures that everyone contributes according to capability, producing a balanced and just society, a principle comparable to modern administrative specialization in governance.

  • Those best in reasoning become Philosopher Kings.
  • The brave and loyal become Soldiers.
  • Others become Producers, fulfilling economic roles.

Plato’s The Allegory of the Cave and Justice

In The Republic, Plato’s Allegory of the Cave illustrates his idea of justice and knowledge. The cave symbolizes ignorance and illusion, while the journey out of the cave represents enlightenment through knowledge. A just ruler, according to Plato, is like the philosopher who escapes the cave and sees the truth. He must then return to guide others toward justice and wisdom, even if it is difficult.

Plato's Theory of Justice Criticism

Despite its philosophical depth, Plato’s theory has drawn significant criticism:

  1. Lack of Individual Freedom: It emphasizes duties, not rights, undermining liberty.
  2. Hierarchical Society: The class division creates inequality and subordination.
  3. Totalitarian Tendencies: Concentration of power in philosopher kings may lead to autocracy.
  4. Moral, Not Legal Justice: It lacks enforceable legal mechanisms.
  5. Privilege of the Elite: Critics like Karl Popper argued that Platonic justice justifies class privileges rather than abolishing them.
  6. Neglect of Democracy: Plato’s distrust of democracy contradicts modern egalitarian ideals.
  7. Popper called Plato’s ideal state a “closed society”, warning that such hierarchical justice could lead to totalitarianism.

Plato's Theory of Justice UPSC

Plato’s theory remains a cornerstone of political philosophy. It laid the groundwork for concepts of moral governance, ethical leadership, and institutional harmony. His idea that rulers should be wise and virtuous resonates with modern constitutionalism, where leaders are expected to act in public interest. Even John Rawls, in his modern theory of Justice as Fairness (1971), drew inspiration from Plato’s harmony-based model. In modern terms, Plato’s justice emphasizes rule of law, moral education, and public responsibility.

Plato's Theory of Justice FAQs

Q1: Who was Plato, and when was he born?

Ans: Plato was a Greek philosopher born in Athens around 427 BCE. He was a student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle.

Q2: What is the main idea of Plato’s Theory of Justice?

Ans: Justice means harmony, each person performing their proper function without interfering in others’ roles.

Q3: What are the three classes in Plato’s ideal state?

Ans: Rulers (wisdom), soldiers (courage), and producers (temperance) together form a just and balanced state.

Q4: Why did Plato reject democracy?

Ans: Plato rejected Athenian democracy after witnessing Socrates’ execution, believing only wise rulers could ensure justice.

Q5: How is Plato’s Justice relevant today?

Ans: His emphasis on moral leadership, education, and ethical governance still shapes modern political and philosophical thought.

Seismic Waves, Definition, Types, Formation, Shadow Zone

October 28, 2025
Seismic Waves

Seismic waves, also called Earthquake Waves, are energy waves generated by the sudden release of energy during an earthquake, volcanic activity, or explosion. They travel through the Earth’s layers, providing vital information about its internal structure. The study of seismic waves forms the foundation of seismology, which helps in understanding earthquakes, predicting hazards, and investigating the Earth’s crust, mantle, and core composition.

Seismic Waves

Seismic waves can be broadly classified into body waves and surface waves, depending on how they travel through the Earth. They are recorded using instruments called seismographs, which measure ground motion. These records, known as seismograms, help geologists locate the epicenter, determine the magnitude, and study the internal structure of the Earth through the analysis of wave speed and path variation.

Read About: Tsunami

Seismic Waves Classification

Seismic waves are categorized into two main types: Body Waves and Surface Waves, based on their mode of propagation through the Earth.

1. Body Waves

Body waves move through the interior of the Earth and are further divided into Primary (P) waves and Secondary (S) waves.

(a) Primary or P Waves

    • Also called compressional or longitudinal waves.
    • They are the fastest seismic waves, travelling at speeds between 5 to 14 km/s, depending on the medium.
    • Can travel through solids, liquids, and gases.
    • Cause particles to move parallel to the direction of wave propagation.
    • Recorded first on a seismogram, hence used to estimate the distance to the epicenter.
    • Types-
      • Pn Waves: Travel along the upper mantle and are refracted back to the surface.
      • Pg Waves: Move through the Earth’s crust, often recorded in near-surface seismic studies.
      • Pp Waves: Travel deeper through the mantle, providing insights into mantle structure.

(b) Secondary or S Waves

    • Also known as shear waves or transverse waves.
    • Travel slower than P waves, with speeds of 3-8 km/s.
    • Can move only through solid materials, not liquids or gases, because they require rigidity to propagate.
    • Cause particles to move perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
    • Their absence in the Earth’s outer core proved the liquid nature of the outer core.
    • Types-
      • Sn Waves: Travel through the upper mantle, refracted similarly to Pn waves.
      • Sg Waves: Move within the crust, detected in shallow seismic surveys.
      • ScS Waves: Reflect from the outer core, confirming its liquid nature since S-waves cannot pass through liquids.

2. Surface Waves

Surface waves travel along the Earth’s surface and are responsible for most of the destruction during earthquakes. They are slower than body waves but have higher amplitudes. Surface waves are typically last to arrive but cause maximum damage, especially in densely built urban areas.

(a) Love Waves

  • Move in a horizontal, side-to-side motion.
  • Cause ground shaking and structural damage to buildings.
  • Named after British mathematician A.E.H. Love (1911).

(b) Rayleigh Waves

  • Move in a rolling motion, similar to ocean waves.
  • Cause both vertical and horizontal ground movement.
  • Named after Lord Rayleigh, who first mathematically described them.

Seismic Waves Formation Process

Seismic waves are generated when energy stored in the Earth’s crust is suddenly released due to a rupture or displacement along a fault line. This energy release causes vibrations that propagate through the Earth’s layers in all directions. Stages in the Formation Process:

  1. Stress Accumulation: The tectonic plates of the Earth are in constant motion. Over time, immense stress builds up along faults due to plate interactions such as collision, subduction, or lateral movement.
  2. Elastic Deformation: Rocks near the fault zone deform elastically as stress increases, storing potential energy within the rock layers.
  3. Rupture and Energy Release: When the stress exceeds the elastic limit of rocks, they break suddenly, releasing the accumulated energy in the form of seismic or earthquake waves.
  4. Propagation of Seismic Waves: The released energy travels outward from the focus (hypocenter), where the rupture starts. The epicenter is the point directly above the focus on the Earth’s surface.
    • Body Waves (P and S) travel through the Earth’s interior.
    • Surface Waves (Love and Rayleigh) travel along the crust and cause maximum damage.

According to the Elastic Rebound Theory proposed by H.F. Reid (1911), earthquakes result from the elastic strain energy that is suddenly released when rocks fracture and return to their original shape.

Emergence of Shadow Zone

A shadow zone is a region on the Earth's surface where no direct seismic waves from a particular earthquake are detected. It occurs due to refraction, reflection, and absorption of seismic waves as they travel through layers of different densities within the Earth. The study of shadow zones was instrumental in discovering the liquid nature of the outer core and the solid inner core.

P-Wave Shadow Zone

  1. Nature of P-Waves: P-waves (Primary waves) can travel through both solids and liquids, but their speed and direction change when they pass through different mediums.
  2. Reason for Shadow Zone Formation:
    • When P-waves pass from the mantle (solid) to the outer core (liquid), they slow down and refract sharply due to a sudden drop in density and rigidity.
    • This refraction bends the waves away from a certain region on the opposite side of the Earth, creating a shadow zone.
  3. Shadow Zone Range:
    • Found between 103° and 142° angular distance from the earthquake’s epicenter.
    • Within this zone, no direct P-waves are recorded on seismographs.
  4. Scientific Significance: The existence of the P-wave shadow zone helped scientists confirm the liquid composition of the outer core and estimate its depth (~2,900 km).

S-Wave Shadow Zone

  1. Nature of S-Waves: S-waves (Secondary or shear waves) can only move through solid materials; they cannot propagate through liquids or gases.
  2. Reason for Shadow Zone Formation:
    • As S-waves reach the liquid outer core, they are completely absorbed or stopped because liquids do not support shear stress.
    • This creates a large zone where no S-waves are recorded.
  3. Shadow Zone Range:
    • Found beyond 103° from the epicenter on both sides of the globe.
    • Covers almost 40% of the Earth’s surface, making it larger than the P-wave shadow zone.
  4. Scientific Significance: This absence of S-waves provided conclusive proof that the outer core is in a liquid state.

Surface Wave Shadow Zone

  1. Nature of Surface Waves: Surface waves (Love and Rayleigh) travel only along the Earth’s crust and lose energy rapidly with depth.
  2. Reason for Shadow Zone Formation:
    • Since surface waves are confined to the outermost layer, they do not penetrate the Earth’s interior.
    • The curvature of the Earth and attenuation of energy with distance cause limited propagation around the globe.
  3. Shadow Zone Range:
    • Surface waves typically dissipate after traveling a few thousand kilometers.
    • Beyond this range, their amplitude drops below detectable levels, forming a practical shadow zone rather than a fixed angular one.
  4. Scientific Significance: Surface wave attenuation patterns are used to assess local crustal structure and earthquake intensity distribution, crucial for seismic hazard mapping.

Read About: Continental Drift Theory

Seismic Waves Properties

The major properties and features of the Seismic Wave has been discussed here:

  1. Velocity Variation: The speed of seismic waves depends on the density and elasticity of the medium.
    • Higher density and elasticity = higher velocity.
    • P-waves generally travel faster than S-waves.
  2. Refraction and Reflection: Seismic waves bend (refract) and bounce (reflect) at boundaries between layers of different densities, helping scientists study internal Earth layers.
  3. Attenuation: Wave energy decreases with distance due to absorption and scattering in the medium.
  4. Shadow Zones:
    • P-wave shadow zone: Between 103°-142° from the epicenter.
    • S-wave shadow zone: Beyond 103°, as S-waves cannot pass through the liquid outer core.
       These zones were crucial in discovering the layered structure of the Earth.

Seismic Waves in Earth’s Interior

The study of seismic waves has helped scientists understand the three major layers of the Earth- crust, mantle, and core.

  • Crust: The outermost layer where seismic waves first originate. P and S waves travel fastest through the continental crust.
  • Mantle: The layer below the crust, extending to about 2,900 km deep. Seismic wave velocity increases here due to higher density and rigidity.
  • Core: Divided into an outer liquid core (where S-waves disappear) and a solid inner core (where P-waves speed up).

This forms the basis of the seismic discontinuities, these are boundary layers inside the Earth where seismic wave velocity suddenly changes due to variations in composition and density. These discontinuities together reveal Earth’s layered internal structure and are essential for understanding plate tectonics and seismic behavior.

  • Mohorovičić Discontinuity (Moho): Discovered by Andrija Mohorovičić in 1909, it marks the boundary between the crust and mantle, found at depths of 30-50 km beneath continents and 5-10 km under oceans.
  • Gutenberg Discontinuity: Located at about 2,900 km depth, it separates the mantle and the liquid outer core. P-waves slow sharply, while S-waves disappear completely here, confirming the outer core’s liquid nature.
  • Lehmann Discontinuity: Identified by Inge Lehmann in 1936, it lies around 5,100 km deep, marking the boundary between the liquid outer core and the solid inner core, where P-wave velocity increases again.

Seismic Waves Measurement

The analysis and measurement of the Seismic Waves can be done by using the below listed instruments and methodologies:

  1. Seismograph: A seismograph is an instrument that records seismic waves. It consists of a mass-spring system that detects ground motion and produces a seismogram, showing the amplitude and frequency of waves.
  2. Richter Scale: Developed by Charles F. Richter (1935), it measures the magnitude of an earthquake based on the amplitude of seismic waves. It is logarithmic in nature, each whole number increase represents a tenfold increase in amplitude.
  3. Moment Magnitude Scale (Mw): Adopted by seismologists as a more accurate measure of total energy released, replacing the Richter scale for large quakes.
  4. Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) Scale: Assesses the intensity of shaking and damage caused by an earthquake, ranging from I (not felt) to XII (total destruction).

Seismic Waves Monitoring in India

India has set up various organizations and bodies for the monitoring of the Seismic Waves. According to NCS Annual Report 2023, India recorded 109 seismic events above magnitude 4.0, with the Himalayan region being the most active zone due to plate tectonics.

  1. National Center for Seismology (NCS)
  • Operates under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
  • Maintains a network of 155 seismic stations across India.
  • Provides real-time earthquake monitoring and epicenter mapping.
  • Data from NCS is used for earthquake hazard zoning and early warning systems.
  1. Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)
  • Started earthquake observation in 1898.
  • Currently operates 115 digital broadband seismograph stations nationwide.
  • Issues alerts for seismic activity through its Earthquake Monitoring Network.
  1. Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)
  • Monitors undersea earthquakes and provides tsunami early warnings, especially for the Indian Ocean region.

Seismic Zones in India

India is divided into four seismic zones based on the frequency and intensity of earthquakes (as per Bureau of Indian Standards, IS 1893:2016). More than 58% of India’s land area is prone to moderate to severe seismic hazard, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

Seismic Zones in India
Seismic Zone Zone Factor (Z) Regions Covered Risk Level
Zone II 0.10 Peninsular India, Deccan Plateau Low
Zone III 0.16 Central India, Western Coast Moderate
Zone IV 0.24 Delhi, Northern Bihar High
Zone V 0.36 Kashmir, Northeast, Andaman-Nicobar, Uttarakhand Very High

Seismic Waves Applications

The various applications for analysis and measurement of the Seismic Waves has been given below

  1. Earthquake Prediction and Hazard Assessment: Seismic data help assess fault lines and potential earthquake-prone zones.
  2. Oil and Mineral Exploration: Reflection seismology is used by ONGC and GSI to locate oil, gas, and mineral deposits.
  3. Nuclear Test Monitoring: Seismic waves detect underground nuclear tests, monitored by Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO).
  4. Structural Engineering: Seismic designs are based on expected ground motion patterns from wave studies.
  5. Geophysical Research: Helps map subsurface structures for understanding plate tectonics and crustal deformation.

Seismic Waves Study Challenges

Despite numerous advancements, the study for Seismic Waves face several challenges and criticisms:

  • Lack of Dense Monitoring Networks: Sparse coverage in rural and hilly areas affects real-time data accuracy.
  • Unpredictable Nature: Despite advancements, precise earthquake prediction remains scientifically uncertain.
  • Data Sharing Barriers: Limited international collaboration restricts cross-border data exchange in seismically active regions.
  • Infrastructure Vulnerability: Non-compliance with building codes increases disaster risks.

Way Forward:

  • Strengthen Seismic Networks: Expand digital seismograph coverage in the Himalayas and northeast India.
  • Promote Research and Collaboration: Encourage partnerships with USGS, JMA, and European seismic agencies.
  • Integrate AI and Big Data: Use machine learning for real-time pattern recognition in seismic signals.
  • Public Awareness and Preparedness: Conduct earthquake drills, school education, and building code enforcement.
  • International Coordination: Engage in global seismic observation initiatives for data sharing and rapid response.

Seismic Waves UPSC

The Seismic Waves Study has elaborated through several recent advancements. These developments aim to make India a global leader in earthquake risk management and seismic resilience.

  • NCS and IIT Roorkee Collaboration (2023): Established an advanced Seismic Microzonation Framework for Himalayan urban centers.
  • NDMA’s 2024 Earthquake Risk Mitigation Project: Targets 50 high-risk cities with improved structural safety audits.
  • ISRO’s Remote Sensing Support: Provides satellite-based crustal deformation mapping.
  • India’s inclusion in the Global Seismographic Network (GSN): Strengthens international data cooperation.

Seismic Waves FAQs

Q1: What are Seismic Waves?

Ans: Seismic waves are energy waves generated by earthquakes or explosions that travel through the Earth’s layers.

Q2: Which Seismic Waves cause the most damage?

Ans: Surface waves, especially Love and Rayleigh waves, cause the most damage during earthquakes.

Q3: What is the speed of P and S waves?

Ans: P-waves travel between 5-14 km/s, while S-waves move between 3-8 km/s.

Q4: How do Seismic Waves help in understanding the Earth’s interior?

Ans: Their refraction and reflection reveal layer composition and boundaries like the Moho and Gutenberg discontinuities.

Q5: Which region in India is most earthquake-prone?

Ans: The Himalayan belt, including Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Northeast India, lies in Zone V, the highest seismic risk zone.

UPSC Daily Quiz 28 October 2025

October 28, 2025
UPSC Daily Quiz

The Daily UPSC Quiz by Vajiram & Ravi is a thoughtfully curated initiative designed to support UPSC aspirants in strengthening their current affairs knowledge and core conceptual understanding. Aligned with the UPSC Syllabus 2025, this daily quiz serves as a revision resource, helping candidates assess their preparation, revise key topics, and stay updated with relevant issues. Whether you are preparing for Prelims or sharpening your revision for Mains, consistent practice with these Daily UPSC Quiz can significantly enhance accuracy, speed, and confidence in solving exam-level questions.

[WpProQuiz 8]  

UPSC Daily Quiz FAQs

Q1: What is the Daily UPSC Quiz?

Ans: The Daily UPSC Quiz is a set of practice questions based on current affairs, static subjects, and PYQs that help aspirants enhance retention and test conceptual clarity regularly.

Q2: How is the Daily Quiz useful for UPSC preparation?

Ans: Daily quizzes support learning, help in revision, improve time management, and boost accuracy for both UPSC Prelims and Mains through consistent practice.

Q3: Are the quiz questions based on the UPSC syllabus?

Ans: Yes, all questions are aligned with the UPSC Syllabus 2025, covering key areas like Polity, Economy, Environment, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.

Q4: Are solutions and explanations provided with the quiz?

Ans: Yes, each quiz includes detailed explanations and source references to enhance conceptual understanding and enable self-assessment.

Q5: Is the Daily UPSC Quiz suitable for both Prelims and Mains?

Ans: Primarily focused on Prelims (MCQ format), but it also indirectly helps in Mains by strengthening subject knowledge and factual clarity.

Taal Volcano

October 28, 2025
Taal Volcano

Taal Volcano Latest News

Recently, the Taal Volcano in the Philippines reportedly erupted three times.

About Taal Volcano

  • Location: It is located in Batangas province about 70 kilometers south of Manila, Philippines.
  • Taal is classified as a “complex” volcano by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
  • Previous eruptions: Taal is an active volcano within a massive caldera, with at least 38 recorded eruptions in the last 450 years.
  • The caldera is believed to have formed during a series of prehistoric eruptions between 140,000 and 5,380 BCE.

Features of Taal Volcano

  • It is a stratovolcano with a crater lake on a 5-km-wide volcanic island within a large caldera.
  • It does not rise from the ground as a distinct, singular dome but consists of multiple stratovolcanoes, conical hills and craters of all shapes and sizes.

What is a Complex Volcano?

  • It is also called a compound volcano, is one that consists of a complex of two or more vents, or a volcano that has an associated volcanic dome, either in its crater or on its flanks. Examples: Vesuvius, besides Taal.

Source: India TV

Taal Volcano FAQs

Q1: Where is Taal Volcano located?

Ans: Philippines

Q2: What type of volcano is Taal Volcano?

Ans: Complex volcano

Loktak Lake

October 28, 2025
Loktak Lake

Loktak Lake Latest News

Recently, a Nagaland University study has flagged an environmental worry for Manipur’s Loktak Lake.

About Loktak Lake

  • Location: It is located in the state of Manipur.
  • It is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. 
  • It is famous for the phumdis floating over it. 
  • The Keibul Lamjao National Park, home to the rare brow-antlered deer, is an integral part of the lake.
  • Rivers like Khuga, Western, Nambul, Imphal, Kongba, Iril, Thoubal, Heirok, and Sekmai drain into this lake.
  • It was designated as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention in 1990. 
  • It features under the Montreux Record in 1993, “a record of Ramsar sites where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur”.
  • Flora and Fauna: Loktak Lake is home to 132 plant species and 428 animal species.
  • It supports hydropower, fisheries, transport, and tourism.

Issues Highlighted by the Study

  • Changes in land use, agriculture, settlements, and shifting cultivation have been deteriorating the water quality of rivers feeding the lake.
  • These activities are threatening its biodiversity and the livelihoods of the local communities.

Source: TH

Loktak Lake FAQs

Q1: What is the unique feature of Loktak Lake?

Ans: It has floating phumdis (biomass)

Q2: Where is Loktak Lake located?

Ans: Manipur

Dilmun Civilization

October 28, 2025
Dilmun Civilization

Dilmun Civilization Latest News

Kuwait's Failaka Island has just yielded one of its most significant secrets in decades: a 4,000-year-old temple belonging to the powerful Bronze Age Dilmun civilization.

About Dilmun Civilization

  • Dilmun (Telmun) was a civilization located in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula.
  • Dilmun was mainly located on the islands of Bahrain and Failaka Island in Kuwait. 
  • It also had a presence in parts of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and the nearby Iranian coast in the Persian Gulf.
  • Although this was quite an old civilization, it is much less famous than the four cradles of civilization of the Old World, i.e., Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, the Indus Valley Civilization, and the Yellow River Civilization.
  • Growth: 
    • The Dilmun civilization first took shape towards the end of the 4th millennium BCE, around 3200 to 3000 BCE, starting out as a modest trading hub. 
    • By the early 3rd millennium BCE, it had grown into a recognised power in the region. 
    • Dilmun acted as a central point for trade between two of the biggest ancient civilizations: Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) and the Indus Valley Civilization (modern-day Pakistan and India). 
    • Goods like copper, pearls, and other materials passed through Dilmun. This made it a rich and powerful place.
  • The Land of Copper: 
    • One of Dilmun's most important roles was providing copper. Copper was a vital metal in the Bronze Age, used for tools, weapons, and art. 
    • Dilmun helped supply this important metal to Mesopotamia, which needed it for its growing cities and armies.
  • Decline: 
    • After 1600 BCE, the empire began to dwindle, then slowly declined like many other empires. 
    • It was eventually absorbed into Mesopotamia and Persia at a later date.
  • Archaeologists have found many ancient sites in Bahrain and Kuwait that match the descriptions of Dilmun.
    • These sites include old settlements, burial mounds, and artifacts like unique stamp seals.

Source: TOI

Dilmun Civilization FAQs

Q1: The Dilmun Civilization was primarily located in which part of the world?

Ans: Eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula.

Q2: The main centers of the Dilmun Civilization were located on which islands?

Ans: Dilmun was mainly located on the islands of Bahrain and Failaka Island in Kuwait.

Q3: Around which period did the Dilmun Civilization first take shape?

Ans: The Dilmun civilization first took shape towards the end of the 4th millennium BCE, around 3200 to 3000 BCE.

Q4: The Dilmun Civilization acted as an important trading link between which two ancient civilizations?

Ans: Mesopotamia and Indus Valley Civilization.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

October 28, 2025
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Latest News

Goa’s only zoo, located within the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, is set to welcome new animals after 12 years—a barking deer and a pair of sloth bears.

About Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

  • It is located in the northeastern portion of Goa.
  • It is spread over an area of approximately 8 sq.km. and is located 3000 ft. above on the lush foothills of the Western Ghats. 
  • Because of the fact that it is very small in size, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is better known as a wildlife resort. 
  • This sanctuary was initially set up as a refuge for orphaned and injured animals. 
  • Today, apart from the wildlife species, the sanctuary houses a deer safari park, a rose garden, a zoo, and a botanical garden too.
  • The Rangado river flows on the eastern side, while the Madhel flows across the northern side.
  • Vegetation: The sanctuary is mostly covered with moist deciduous forest with small patches of semi-evergreen forest and cane along streams. 
  • Flora: The dominant trees in this Sanctuary are Terminalia crenulata (Matti, the state tree of Goa) and Rosewood.
  • Fauna: 
    • It is home to animals like Panthers, Leopard Cats, Deer, Wild Boar, Gaur, and Malabar Giant Squirrel.
    • The bird species include Common Grey Hornbills, Golden-Backed Woodpeckers and  Ruby-Throated Yellow Bulbuls.

Source: TOI

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary FAQs

Q1: In which Indian state is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary located?

Ans: Goa

Q2: What is the approximate area of the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary?

Ans: It is spread over an area of approximately 8 sq.km.

Q3: The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary was initially set up for what purpose?

Ans: As a refuge for orphaned and injured animals.

Q4: Which type of forest vegetation dominates the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary?

Ans: Moist deciduous forest with patches of semi-evergreen forest.

INS IKSHAK

October 28, 2025
INS IKSHAK

INS IKSHAK Latest News

The Indian Navy’s indigenously built Survey Vessel (Large), Ikshak, is set to be commissioned at Naval Base Kochi. 

About INS IKSHAK

  • It is the indigenously built Survey Vessels (Large) (SVL) which will study underwater hydrography.
  • The ship’s name, Ikshak, meaning “The Guide”, symbolises its purpose: to chart unexplored waters, ensure safe navigation for mariners.
  • It is constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, Kolkata.

Features of INS IKSHAK

  • It boasts over 80% indigenous content.
  • The Survey Vessel (Large) ships are 110 m long, 16 m wide with deep displacement of 3400 tons.
  • The propulsion system of the ship consists of two Main Engines in twin shaft configuration and is designed with cruise speed of 14 knots and maximum speed of 18 knots.
  • Role: Beyond its primary role in hydrographic survey operations, Ikshak is equipped with dual-role functionality, enabling it to operate as a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) platform and a hospital ship during emergencies.
  • It is the first vessel in the SVL class to feature dedicated accommodation for women officers and sailors

Source: PIB

INS IKSHAK FAQs

Q1: What is the primary role of INS Ikshak?

Ans: Hydrographic survey operations

Q2: What is the significance of INS Ikshak's design?

Ans: It has a dedicated women-specific accommodation.

Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project

October 28, 2025
Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project

Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project (HEP) Latest News

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken cognisance of a complaint alleging illegal dumping of muck into the Sutlej during blasting activities for the construction of the Sunni Dam hydroelectric project in Shimla district’s Sunni tehsil.

About Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project (HEP)

  • It is a 382 MW run-of-the-river hydroelectric project.
  • It is being developed on the Satluj River in the Shimla and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh.
  • The project is owned by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN), a collaborative venture between the government of India and the state government of Himachal Pradesh.
  • Sunni HEP will involve building a concrete gravity dam across the Satluj River and an underground powerhouse on the right bank of it.
  • The project will generate 1,382 million units of electricity annually.
  • The project is a part of the larger Luhri HEP, which is being developed in three distinct stages along the Satluj River within the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
    • The stages comprise the 210 MW Luhri Stage-1, the 172 MW Luhri Stage-II, and the 382 MW Sunni HEP.

Source: TI

Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project (HEP) FAQs

Q1: On which river is the Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project (HEP) being developed?

Ans: Satluj River

Q2: The Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project is located in which Indian state?

Ans: Himachal Pradesh

Q3: What is the total installed capacity of the Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project?

Ans: 382 MW

Benzene

October 28, 2025
Benzene

Benzene Latest News

Two centuries after Benzene discovery, the simple yet revolutionary molecule benzene continues to shape our world.  

About Benzene

  • Benzene is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor.
  • Discovered by: In 1825, the English scientist Michael Faraday, isolated a new substance from the oily residue of the illuminating gas used to light London and August Kekulé proposed a revolutionary cyclic structure for benzene.

Properties of Benzene

  • It evaporates into the air very quickly and dissolves slightly in water.
  • It is highly flammable and is formed from both natural processes and human activities.
  • Natural sources of benzene include volcanoes and forest fires.
  • It forms the base for styrene, phenol, cyclohexane, nylon, and polystyrene.
  • It belongs to the BTEX family (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylene) of so called aromatics because of their sweet, pleasant smell.

Applications of Benzene

  • Some industries use benzene to make other chemicals which are used to make plastics, resins, and nylon and synthetic fibers.
  • Benzene is also used to make some types of rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides.
  • Impact on Health: Long-term exposure to Benzene leads to acute myeloid leukaemia, aplastic anemia, and myelodysplastic syndrome.

Source: TH

Benzene FAQs

Q1: What is benzene classified as?

Ans: Aromatic hydrocarbon

Q2: What is a major use of benzene?

Ans: Production of plastics and synthetic fibers

Need for Preserving Dogri Language – Explained

October 28, 2025
Dogri Language

Dogri Language Latest News

  • A recent study has highlighted the sharp decline in the use and literacy of the Dogri language in Jammu and Kashmir, raising concerns over the erosion of regional linguistic heritage despite its official recognition.

Preserving Dogri Language: Reviving India’s Endangered Linguistic Heritage

  • The Dogri language, once a vibrant symbol of Jammu’s cultural identity, is now at a critical juncture. 
  • Despite being recognised as one of the 22 official languages of India and one of the five official languages of Jammu and Kashmir, the language is experiencing a gradual erosion from public life, particularly among the younger generation and urban populations.
  • According to a recent study, the decline of Dogri reflects a broader global trend of linguistic homogenisation, where smaller regional and indigenous languages are disappearing under the dominance of global and national tongues. 
  • India, as per UNESCO’s report, leads the world in the number of dialects at risk of extinction, having lost over 220 languages in the past five decades.

The Cultural and Linguistic Significance of Dogri

  • Dogri belongs to the Indo-Aryan branch of the Indo-European language family and is mainly spoken in the Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir, parts of Himachal Pradesh, and by diaspora communities across North India. 
  • It is written in both Devanagari and Takri scripts, and is deeply embedded in the Dogra culture, expressed through its literature, folklore, crafts, and oral traditions.
  • The inclusion of Dogri in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution in 2003 and its recognition under the Jammu and Kashmir Official Languages Act, 2020, marked significant milestones in its journey. 
  • However, linguistic recognition on paper has not translated into functional visibility. Dogri remains largely absent from school curricula, administrative communication, and media content.

Causes Behind the Decline

  • The decline of Dogri in Jammu and surrounding regions can be understood through three interlinked factors: policy neglect, generational disconnect, and urban influence.
  • Policy Gaps and Limited Institutional Support
    • Dogri received formal recognition much later than other regional languages such as Urdu and Hindi. 
    • This delay resulted in a lack of infrastructure for linguistic promotion, from teacher training to the development of textbooks and cultural programming.
    • A survey conducted across 20 locations in the Jammu region revealed that 48% of respondents believed the government had failed to provide adequate support for Dogri’s inclusion in education and public discourse. 
    • 43% said the language offered little economic relevance, which disincentivised younger generations from learning it.
  • Generational Disconnect
    • Dogri’s decline is particularly visible across generations. Respondents above 60 years of age showed full proficiency in speaking and moderate reading and writing skills, while the 21-40 age group showed near-zero literacy in Dogri. 
    • Among those under 20 years of age, no proficiency in reading or writing Dogri was recorded, signalling a complete breakdown in intergenerational transmission.
  • The Rural-Urban Divide
    • The linguistic divide between rural and urban populations further compounds the issue. 
    • While 56% of rural respondents said they actively speak Dogri, only 45% of urban respondents reported the same. 
    • Writing proficiency was even lower, 15% in rural areas and merely 4% in urban settings. 

Broader Linguistic Context in India

  • Dogri’s decline is part of a wider linguistic crisis in India. 
  • The People’s Linguistic Survey of India (PLSI) estimates that nearly half of India’s 780 languages could vanish in the next 50 years if current trends persist. 
  • Factors such as migration, economic aspirations, and cultural homogenisation have weakened local linguistic ecosystems.
  • Experts argue that the hegemony of English as the academic and aspirational language has pushed regional languages to the periphery. 
  • This has created a cultural paradox where multilingualism thrives superficially, but linguistic diversity weakens structurally.

Revival Strategies and the Way Forward

  • Reviving Dogri requires a multi-pronged cultural and policy approach that focuses on education, awareness, and community engagement.
  • Integration into Education
    • Dogri must be introduced at the primary and secondary education levels, ensuring that children develop early familiarity with the language. 
    • The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 already advocates the use of mother tongues as mediums of instruction, a provision that could benefit Dogri if implemented effectively in Jammu’s schools.
  • Digital and Media Promotion
    • Dogri’s visibility can be enhanced through digital archives, online courses, and media content in Dogri, including films, radio shows, and social media platforms. 
    • The Dogri Sanstha and the Sahitya Akademi have made notable contributions, but a sustained state-backed effort is necessary to expand their reach.
  • Cultural Incentives and Employment Opportunities
    • Language preservation efforts must tie linguistic skills to economic and cultural incentives. 
    • Government jobs, tourism initiatives, and creative industries could reward bilingualism in Dogri and Hindi, reinforcing the idea that preserving one’s language can have practical advantages.
  • Census and Linguistic Data Updates
    • The absence of updated linguistic data due to the delay in the 2021 Census has hindered precise policy formulation. 
    • Reviving census-based linguistic mapping is essential to identify endangered dialects and allocate funding accordingly.

Source: TH

Dogri Language FAQs

Q1: What is the Dogri language?

Ans: Dogri is an Indo-Aryan language spoken primarily in the Jammu region and recognised in India’s Eighth Schedule.

Q2: When did Dogri receive constitutional recognition?

Ans: Dogri was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003.

Q3: What are the key reasons for Dogri’s decline?

Ans: Lack of government support, generational disconnect, and urban preference for Hindi and English are major causes.

Q4: How does Dogri proficiency differ between rural and urban areas?

Ans: Around 56% of rural residents actively speak Dogri, compared to only 45% in urban areas.

Q5: What steps can help revive Dogri?

Ans: Integrating Dogri into education, expanding media presence, and linking language skills with employment opportunities can help its revival.

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

October 28, 2025
Indian Council of Agricultural Research

Indian Council of Agriculture Research Latest News

Expressing concern over the large number of vacant posts in agricultural institutions, Union Agriculture Minister recently directed the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) to immediately fill all vacant posts.

About Indian Council of Agriculture Research

  • It is an autonomous organisation under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. 
  • It is the apex body for coordinating, guiding, and managing research and education in agriculture, including horticulture, fisheries, and animal sciences, throughout the country.
  • Formerly known as the Imperial Council of Agricultural Research, it was established on 16 July 1929 as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, in pursuance of the report of the Royal Commission on Agriculture. 
  • The ICAR has its headquarters in New Delhi. 
  • With 101 ICAR institutes and 71 agricultural universities spread across the country, this is one of the largest national agricultural systems in the world. 
  • ICAR’s primary mandate focuses on the thematic areas of Crop Science, Horticultural Science, Natural Resource Management, Agricultural Engineering, Animal Science, Fisheries Science, Agricultural Education and Agricultural Extension.
  • The ICAR has played a pioneering role in ushering in the Green Revolution and subsequent developments in agriculture in India through its research and technology development. 
  • It has played a major role in promoting excellence in higher education in agriculture. 
  • It is engaged in cutting-edge areas of science and technology development and its scientists are internationally acknowledged in their fields.

Source: TH

Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) FAQs

Q1: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) functions under which ministry?

Ans: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

Q2: When was the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) established?

Ans: Formerly known as the Imperial Council of Agricultural Research, ICAR was established on 16 July 1929

Q3: Where is the headquarters of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) located?

Ans: The ICAR has its headquarters in New Delhi.

Coffee

October 28, 2025
Coffee

Coffee Latest News

Recently, the Prime Minister of India said that Indian coffee is gaining popularity globally.

About Coffee

  • It is a tropical plant generally grown under shady trees.
  • Types of Coffee:  Robusta and Arabica
  • Major Coffee growing states: It is largely cultivated in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, among which, Karnataka produces the most with over 70% of the total output.
  • Europe is the top destination for India’s coffee exports.
  • The major countries which import the commodity from India include Italy, Germany, Belgium, Middle East nations, Korea, and Japan.

Required Climatic Conditions for Coffee Cultivation

  • It is grown on hill slopes at elevations from 600 to 1,600 metres above sea level.
  • Climate: It requires a hot and humid climate for its growth.
  • Temperature: 15°C and 28 °C
  • Rainfall: It requires 150 to 250 cm of rainfall.
  • Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil containing a good deal of humus and minerals like iron and calcium are ideal for coffee cultivation.
  • Dry weather is necessary at the time of ripening of the berries.

Source: IE

Coffee FAQs

Q1: What type of soil is ideal for coffee cultivation?

Ans: Well-drained loamy soil

Q2: Which state is the largest producer of coffee in India?

Ans: Karnataka

India – Spain Bilateral Relationship

October 28, 2025
India – Spain Bilateral Relationship

What’s in today’s article?

  • Why in the News?
  • Historical Ties
  • Bilateral Trade
  • Strategic Significance and Cooperation
  • Common Groupings and Multilateral Cooperation
  • Indian Diaspora in Spain
  • News Summary

Why in the News?

  • Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is reaching Vadodara, Gujarat where he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold bilateral talks and inaugurate the Final Assembly Line (FAL) plant of the C295 medium-lift tactical transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force.

Historical Ties

  • India and Spain established diplomatic relations in 1956.
  • Though limited historical interaction existed prior, both nations’ shared democratic values, commitment to global peace, and respect for multiculturalism have formed a strong foundation for bilateral ties.
  • High-level visits, including by heads of state, have helped solidify this relationship over the years.

Bilateral Trade

  • Spain is India’s 6th largest trade partner in the European Union.
  • Total Trade (2023): US$ 8.25 billion, a 4.2% increase from the previous year.
  • India’s Exports to Spain: US$ 6.33 billion (growth of 5.2%).
  • India’s Imports from Spain: US$ 1.92 billion (growth of 1.05%).
  • Top Indian Exports: Mineral fuels, chemical products, iron and steel, electrical machinery, apparel, nuclear reactors, marine products, and articles of iron and steel.
  • Foreign Direct Investment:
    • Spanish FDI in India:
      • US$ 3.94 billion (April 2000 - December 2023), with Spain as India’s 16th largest investor.
      • Over 280 Spanish companies in India, focusing on metallurgical industries, renewable energy, automotive, ceramics, and infrastructure.
      • Major destinations: Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka.
    • Indian FDI in Spain:
      • ~US$ 900 million; 80 Indian companies in Spain, primarily in software & IT services, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and logistics.
      • India is among Spain’s top 30 investors globally and top 5 from Asia.
  • Trade and Economic Cooperation Framework:
    • India-Spain Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation (JCEC): Established in 1972; has met 12 times, with the latest meeting in April 2023 in New Delhi.
    • India-Spain CEOs Forum: Established in 2015; first formal meeting held in May 2017 in Madrid.

Strategic Significance and Cooperation

  • The strategic relationship between India and Spain is steadily expanding, encompassing areas like defense, counter-terrorism, and cybersecurity:
  • Defense:
    • Spain is a key partner in India’s defense modernization, providing expertise in aerospace and naval technology.
    • Spanish companies are involved in defense projects, including submarine technology transfer and collaborations for military aircraft.
  • Counter-Terrorism:
    • India and Spain actively cooperate in counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing, recognizing mutual concerns regarding global terrorism.
  • Sustainable Development and Climate Action:
    • Both nations are committed to the Paris Agreement and actively collaborate on climate change and sustainable development goals.
    • Spain’s expertise in renewable energy aligns with India’s goal of increasing clean energy sources.

Common Groupings and Multilateral Cooperation

  • India and Spain engage collaboratively through several multilateral platforms, including:
  • United Nations: Both countries work together on issues of global peace, sustainable development, and humanitarian aid.
  • G20: As members of the G20, India and Spain share a commitment to addressing global economic challenges, trade reforms, and climate action.
  • International Solar Alliance (ISA): Spain is a member of the ISA, aligning with India’s initiative to promote solar energy and sustainable development.

Indian Diaspora in Spain

  • The Indian community in Spain is relatively small but has been growing in recent years.
  • Population: As of 2023, approximately 55,000 Indians reside in Spain, contributing actively to sectors like hospitality, retail, IT, and healthcare.

News Summary

  • Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is visiting India from October 28 to 30, marking the first visit by a Spanish PM in 18 years.
  • Sanchez will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Vadodara, Gujarat, where they will inaugurate the Final Assembly Line (FAL) plant for the C295 tactical transport aircraft.
    • It is India's first private military transport aircraft production facility, developed by Tata Advanced System Limited (TASL) in partnership with Airbus Defence and Space.
  • Under the $2.5 billion contract, 56 C295 aircraft will be supplied, with the first 16 delivered from Spain and the remaining 40 assembled in Vadodara.
  • This plant is expected to produce its first "Made-in-India" C295 in 2026, with all deliveries by 2031.
  • The project aims to build a complete industrial ecosystem in aerospace manufacturing in India, with contributions from Bharat Electronics Ltd, Bharat Dynamics Ltd, and private MSMEs.
  • Sanchez will also visit Mumbai, engaging with industry leaders and film personalities to strengthen collaborations in trade, media, and entertainment.
  • Several MoUs are expected to be signed, furthering cooperation in trade, IT, infrastructure, renewable energy, defence, pharma, and tourism.

Q1. What do you mean by Diplomacy and Foreign Policy?

Diplomacy focuses on conducting international relations through diplomatic channels, while foreign policy encompasses the broader framework of a state's strategies, goals, and approaches in its interactions with other countries.

Q2. What is the difference between Statecraft and Diplomacy?

Diplomacy (using non-lethal means to manage interstate relations and foreign threats) and statecraft (managing state power to promote national interests) are the key tools by which a nation? s foreign policy is implemented.

Source: Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez to visit India from October 27-29: MEA | EOI

Special Intensive Revision (SIR) – Election Commission Launches SIR of Electoral Rolls in 12 States and UTs

October 28, 2025
Special Intensive Revision sir

Special Intensive Revision (SIR) Latest News

  • The Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in 12 states and Union Territories, covering 51 crore electors, to ensure the purity and accuracy of electoral rolls. 
  • This is the first nationwide SIR since 2002–2005, aimed at eliminating duplicate, migrated, or ineligible entries and verifying voter eligibility.

Background and Significance

  • Evolution of SIR:
    • The ECI’s order (June 2025) mandated all registered electors to fill new enumeration forms, while those added after the last intensive revision (2002–2005) must submit eligibility and citizenship-related documents.
    • The first phase began in Bihar, where Assembly elections are due, serving as a pilot model for future nationwide implementation.
  • Constitutional and legal basis:
    • The ECI cites Article 326 of the Constitution — which restricts voting rights to Indian citizens aged 18 and above — to justify verifying eligibility (not citizenship cancellation).
    • The process is governed by the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
    • This ensures free and fair elections, one of the basic features of the Constitution.
  • Need for SIR: 
    • Political parties have repeatedly complained about the “impurity” in electoral rolls due to - 
      • Migration and multiple registrations.
      • Non-removal of deceased voters.
      • Wrongful inclusion of non-citizens.
    • The SIR had been conducted 8 times since 1951 and the last intensive revision was conducted between 2002–2005, followed by only summary revisions.

Coverage and Implementation

  • States and UTs involved: The SIR will be conducted in A&N Islands, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Lakshadweep, MP, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, UP, and West Bengal.
  • Key dates:
    • Enumeration period: Begins November 4, 2025.
    • Draft roll publication: December 9, 2025.
    • Final roll publication: February 7, 2026.
  • Excluded state: Assam is excluded due to ongoing NRC process and distinct Citizenship Act provisions.

Operational Details

  • Enumeration process:
    • 5.33 lakh Booth Level Officers (BLOs) to conduct house-to-house verification.
    • All electors must submit enumeration forms by December 4 to remain on the draft roll.
    • Eligibility proof required for those not traceable to 2002–2005 SIR rolls.
  • Documents accepted:
    • 13 types of documents, including Aadhaar and extracts from Bihar’s SIR roll.
    • Aadhaar to be used only for identity verification, not citizenship proof.
    • Electors born after July 1, 1987 must submit proof of parents’ eligibility.

Special Cases and Administrative Coordination

  • Bihar’s experience:
    • Bihar’s SIR concluded on September 30, 2025, with electors reducing by 6% (to 7.42 crore).
    • No appeals were filed against Electoral Registration Officers’ (ERO) decisions.
    • This model will guide the second phase of SIR.
  • State-specific considerations:
    • Urban areas like Delhi and Chandigarh have low linkage with old rolls due to migration.
    • Weather conditions and local body elections have also influenced state selection and timelines.

Challenges and Controversies

  • Legal challenge: The Supreme Court is hearing petitions questioning -
    • ECI’s authority to verify citizenship of registered voters.
    • The procedure adopted in Bihar’s SIR.
  • Political opposition:
    • West Bengal CM termed it an “NRC through the backdoor”.
    • However, ECI maintains that constitutional bodies will carry out their respective roles independently.
  • Administrative: Tight timelines and document verification may burden BLOs and EROs.
  • Social: Risk of disenfranchisement if citizens lack documentary proof.

Way Forward

  • Transparency and technology: Use of the Voter Portal to help citizens trace old roll entries.
  • Electoral integrity: Purified rolls could reduce bogus voting and increase public trust.
  • Awareness campaigns: To ensure mass participation and timely documentation.
  • Data synchronization: Integration of digital databases to prevent duplication.
  • Periodic SIRs: Institutionalizing regular intensive revisions to maintain credibility.
  • Stakeholder engagement: Institutionalised consultations with political parties, civil society, and local administration before rollout.
    • Legal clarity: Seek SC guidance to define ECI’s powers under Article 326 and the RPA, 1950.
    • Document access facilitation: Simplify and digitise the process of submitting eligibility proofs, especially in rural and migrant-heavy areas.
  • Phased implementation: Adopt Bihar’s learnings for gradual state-by-state rollout instead of a single nationwide push.

Conclusion

  • The SIR of electoral rolls marks a major administrative reform to restore public trust in the electoral process. 
  • By verifying eligibility and updating voter lists, the EC aims to strengthen democratic legitimacy. 
  • However, political concerns and legal scrutiny highlight the delicate balance between ensuring voter purity and protecting voter rights.

Source: IE | IE

Special Intensive Revision (SIR) FAQs

Q1: What is the rationale behind the ECI’s decision to conduct a SIR of electoral rolls after two decades?

Ans: The SIR aims to ensure electoral purity by identifying duplicate, migrated, or ineligible entries.

Q2: How does the ECI’s power under Article 326 of the Constitution relate to its authority to conduct the SIR?

Ans: Article 326 empowers the ECI to justify verification of eligibility without infringing on citizenship status.

Q3: What administrative and political challenges are associated with implementing a nationwide SIR of electoral rolls?

Ans: The SIR faces challenges like document verification burdens, potential disenfranchisement due to lack of proof, political allegations of exclusion, etc.

Q4: What is the significance of involving political parties and CEOs in the preparation for the nationwide SIR?

Ans: Consultations with political stakeholders enhance transparency, reduce suspicion of bias, and promote collective ownership of electoral integrity.

Q5: How the SIR of electoral rolls aligns with the principles of free and fair elections in India?

Ans: By cleansing voter lists of inaccuracies while maintaining inclusiveness and transparency, the SIR upholds the constitutional principle of free and fair elections.

PM-SHRI Schools Scheme: Kerala’s U-turn and Political Row Explained

October 28, 2025
PM-SHRI

PM-SHRI Latest News

  • The PM-SHRI schools scheme has sparked a fresh political controversy in Kerala, as the CPI(M)-led LDF government reversed its earlier stance and agreed to implement the scheme by signing an MoU with the Centre.
  • The move has faced criticism from both the opposition and within the LDF itself, with the CPI objecting that it was not consulted and reminding that the Left had previously opposed the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, under which the scheme operates.

PM-SHRI Schools: Model Institutions for Implementing NEP 2020

  • Approved in 2022, the PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme aims to develop 14,500 schools across the country as model institutions showcasing the core principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. 
    • So far, 13,070 schools have been selected, including 1,533 Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas.
  • The scheme covers existing government and local body schools at the elementary, secondary, and senior secondary levels. 
  • These schools are expected to adopt innovative learning methods such as art-based and toy-based learning, introduce vocational education, and establish skill labs. 
  • They must ensure foundational literacy and numeracy, zero dropouts, and improved learning outcomes.
  • Curriculum will follow either the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) or the State Curriculum Framework (SCF) aligned with NEP 2020. 
  • Schools will be assessed through a School Quality Assessment Framework, with funding linked to their performance.
  • The scheme follows a 60:40 funding ratio between the Centre and states, aiming to transform schools into exemplars of modern, inclusive, and competency-based education.

States Implementing the PM-SHRI Scheme

  • With Kerala now agreeing to join, most Indian states have come on board with the PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme.
  • Congress-ruled states such as Karnataka, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh have implemented the scheme, along with AAP-ruled Punjab and Delhi, which had earlier relented after the Education Ministry stopped Samagra Shiksha funds.

States Opposing the Scheme

  • Only Tamil Nadu and West Bengal continue to hold out.
  • West Bengal objects to prefixing “PM-SHRI” to school names despite sharing project costs.
  • Tamil Nadu opposes the scheme because it implies adopting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 “in entirety.”

Conditions for Implementing the PM-SHRI Scheme

  • The implementation of the PM-SHRI scheme is closely linked to the Centre’s Samagra Shiksha programme, which shares the same 60:40 funding ratio between the Centre and states.

Link Between PM-SHRI and Samagra Shiksha Funding

  • The Centre has made PM-SHRI participation a condition for the release of Samagra Shiksha funds, which support key education initiatives such as:
    • Implementation of the Right to Education Act (RTE),
    • Provision of uniforms and textbooks for government school students,
    • Support for children with disabilities, and
    • Reimbursements to private schools for EWS admissions.
  • States that refused to implement PM-SHRI — including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal — did not receive Samagra Shiksha funds.

Kerala’s Funding Shortfall

  • Kerala has received no central funds for Samagra Shiksha in 2024-25 and 2025-26, and only a partial allocation in 2023-24, amounting to about ₹1,150 crore. 
  • The state has used its own share of funds to cover essential expenses like RTE entitlements, textbooks, and salaries, but scholarships, uniforms, and school grants remain pending.

Signing the MoU and NEP Clause

  • To access funds, Kerala recently signed an MoU with the Centre, which requires states to implement the NEP 2020 in entirety. 
  • However, Kerala’s General Education Minister clarified that the state will adopt only selective provisions of NEP, retaining control over its curriculum and textbooks while complying with central funding norms.

Source: IE

PM-SHRI FAQs

Q1: What is the PM-SHRI Schools Scheme?

Ans: Approved in 2022, it aims to develop 14,500 model schools showcasing NEP 2020 principles, focusing on innovation, inclusivity, and skill-based education.

Q2: Which states are implementing the scheme?

Ans: Most states, including Karnataka, Telangana, Punjab, and Delhi. Only Tamil Nadu and West Bengal continue to resist implementation.

Q3: Why is Kerala’s decision controversial?

Ans: Kerala’s LDF government reversed its earlier opposition to NEP-linked reforms, sparking criticism from CPI and Congress over political compromise.

Q4: What are the funding conditions for the scheme?

Ans: It follows a 60:40 Centre-state funding ratio. Non-implementing states risk losing Samagra Shiksha funds for school education.

Q5: How does the scheme link to NEP 2020?

Ans: PM-SHRI schools must adopt NEP guidelines, focusing on competency-based assessments, vocational training, and digital infrastructure to improve learning outcomes.

Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses: India’s Push for Self-Reliance in Food Security

October 28, 2025
Aatmanirbharta in Pulses

Aatmanirbharta in Pulses Latest News

  • The Ministry of Agriculture has issued operational guidelines to launch the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses from the current rabi season, aiming to boost domestic pulses production and reduce import dependence.

Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses: India’s 6-Year Plan for Self-Reliance

  • Launched by PM Modi on October 11, and first announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Union Budget 2025-26, the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses aims to make India self-sufficient in pulse production.
  • The six-year mission (2025-26 to 2030-31) has a total outlay of ₹11,440 crore. Its key focus areas include:
    • Developing and promoting climate-resilient, high-protein pulse varieties,
    • Enhancing productivity and expanding the area under pulses,
    • Improving post-harvest storage and management, and
    • Ensuring fair and remunerative prices for farmers.
  • By 2030-31, the mission targets: 
    • a 45% rise in production — from 242 lakh metric tonnes in 2023-24 to 350 lakh metric tonnes;
    • a 13% expansion in area (from 275 to 310 lakh hectares) and 
    • a 28% boost in yield (from 881 kg/ha to 1,130 kg/ha).

Current Status of Pulses Cultivation and Production in India

  • During 2023-24, pulses were cultivated over 275 lakh hectares across India. 
  • Rajasthan had the largest share with 54.67 lakh hectares, followed by Madhya Pradesh (51 lakh ha), Maharashtra (44 lakh ha), and Uttar Pradesh (30 lakh ha).
  • In terms of production, Madhya Pradesh led with 59.74 lakh metric tonnes, followed by Maharashtra (40 lakh MT), Rajasthan (33 lakh MT), and Uttar Pradesh (31 lakh MT), together contributing a major share of the total 242 lakh metric tonnes produced nationwide.
  • Nearly half of the total cultivated area and over 60% of production occur during the rabi season.
  • Among crops, gram (chana) dominates both in area and output, mainly grown in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. 
  • Moong ranks second, largely cultivated in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, followed by tur (arhar) grown in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. 
  • Urad is mainly produced in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, while masoor (lentil) is concentrated in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Significance of the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses

  • India is both the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses, yet domestic output falls short of demand.
  • Therefore, India is forced to rely on imports from Myanmar, Mozambique, Tanzania, Australia, and Canada — a trend that has grown in recent years.
  • According to NITI Aayog’s report, India’s pulses demand is projected to reach 268 lakh metric tonnes by 2030 and 293 lakh metric tonnes by 2047. To bridge this gap, boosting domestic production is essential.
  • Currently, India’s average yield (881 kg/hectare) lags far behind Canada (2,200 kg/ha) and China (1,815 kg/ha). 
  • The mission, therefore, seeks to raise productivity to 1,130 kg/hectare, making India self-reliant in pulses and reducing import dependence.

Focus on Tur, Urad, and Masoor in the Pulses Mission

  • The Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses prioritises tur (arhar), urad, and masoor (lentil) as these three crops together account for about 34% of India’s total pulses area and make a major contribution to national production.
  • However, a large yield gap persists in these crops, which the mission aims to close through targeted interventions.
  • Out of the proposed 35 lakh hectare expansion, about 9 lakh hectares will be added for tur, mainly in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Jharkhand, along with new cultivation in the Northeast.
  • Urad cultivation will expand by using rice fallow lands in Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, while masoor will be promoted in rice fallows of West Bengal, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh.

How the New Pulses Mission Differs from the Earlier NFSNM Scheme

  • The Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses replaces and expands upon the pulses component of the National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM), introducing broader interventions and stronger farmer support.
  • Under the new framework, assistance for Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) has been increased to ₹10,000 per hectare, up from ₹9,000 earlier, to promote advanced agricultural technologies.
  • A key change is the provision for 100% procurement of tur, urad, and masoor by NAFED and NCCF under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) of PM-AASHA for the next four years.
    • PM-AASHA, which stands for Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan, is an integrated scheme by the Indian government to ensure farmers receive remunerative prices for their produce and to make essential commodities affordable for consumers.
  • Procurement will be done directly from registered farmers through formal agreements, verified using Aadhaar-based biometric or facial authentication. Procurement of other pulses will continue as per regular PSS norms.

Implementation Strategy of the Pulses Mission

  • The Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses will adopt a cluster-based approach to strengthen the entire agriculture value chain — from inputs to markets.
  • Each cluster will cover a minimum of 10 hectares (or 2 hectares in hilly and northeastern regions). 
  • These clusters and districts will be chosen from potential pulses-growing areas across India.
  • Selection will follow NITI Aayog’s classification of districts —
    • High Area–High Yield (HA–HY)
    • High Area–Low Yield (HA–LY)
    • Low Area–High Yield (LA–HY)
    • Low Area–Low Yield (LA–LY)
  • Priority will also be given to:
    • Rice fallow, rainfed, and watershed areas,
    • Districts under PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana,
    • Aspirational, border, and Left Wing Extremism (LWE)-affected districts,
    • Areas under Adarsh Gram Yojana,
    • Regions in the Northeast, Himalayan states, islands, and other backward areas,
    • And any other region approved by the State Steering Committee or notified by the Centre.

Source: IE | PIB | TH

Aatmanirbharta in Pulses FAQs

Q1: What is the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses?

Ans: A six-year initiative (2025–31) with ₹11,440 crore outlay to boost pulse production, productivity, and farmer income, reducing import dependence.

Q2: Why is the pulses mission significant?

Ans: India, the world’s largest pulses consumer, imports heavily. The mission targets yield improvement to make the country self-sufficient by 2030–31.

Q3: Which pulses are prioritised under the mission?

Ans: Tur, urad, and masoor — covering 34% of the total pulses area — are prioritised for area expansion and productivity improvement.

Q4: How does the mission differ from NFSNM?

Ans: It subsumes NFSNM’s pulses component, raises demonstration aid to ₹10,000/ha, and mandates 100% procurement of tur, urad, and masoor.

Q5: How will the mission be implemented?

Ans: Through a cluster-based approach across 10-hectare blocks, focusing on high-yield and aspirational districts, rainfed areas, and NE regions.

Daily Editorial Analysis 28 October 2025

October 28, 2025
Daily Editorial Analysis

Big Tech’s Contempt for Indian Public Health

Context

  • Drug advertising has been a matter of public concern in India since 1927, when Sir Haroon Jaffer raised the issue of control of the craze for medicinal drugs in the Council of State.
  • The concern eventually led to the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act (DMRA), 1954, which prohibits advertisements for drugs claiming to cure or prevent a list of 54 diseases and medical conditions.
  • The purpose of this law was to protect citizens from misleading claims and pseudo-medical treatments.
  • However, the digital age has transformed the advertising landscape. The rise of social media, search engines, and online marketplaces has created an environment where the spirit of the DMRA is routinely violated.

The Evolution of Drug Advertising: From Legislative Vigilance to Digital Evasion

  • The DMRA was crafted at a time when government oversight could effectively target print and broadcast media.
  • In the digital era, this model no longer holds. Online advertising operates across borders, managed by algorithms and corporations based outside India.
  • As a result, unverified medical advertisements, especially those promoting ayurvedic, homeopathic, or miracle” cures, have multiplied on the Internet.
  • Searches for products such as ayurveda blood pressure tablets or homeopathy diabetes cures routinely display paid promotions under sponsored tags.
  • Many of these advertisements claim to treat serious conditions like diabetes and cancer, violating the DMRA’s explicit prohibitions.
  • The situation is made worse by promotional videos featuring spiritual figures who claim to cure all diseases using traditional medicine.
  • Such practices have turned online platforms into powerful vehicles for misinformation that can endanger public health.

Double Standards in Global Corporate Behaviour and Legal Evasion

  • Double Standards in Global Corporate Behaviour

    • A striking contrast exists between the conduct of technology companies in India and their behaviour in the United States. In the U.S., health-related advertisements are tightly controlled.
    • Platforms employ pre-screening systems and adhere to detailed content guidelines to ensure compliance with laws enforced by agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
    • False or unapproved therapeutic claims are swiftly removed, and violations invite criminal prosecution.
    • In India, the same companies apply no such rigour. Their advertising policies make no mention of the DMRA or its prohibitions, enabling advertisers to promote unverified medical products.
    • This double standard exposes a clear hierarchy in corporate compliance. Companies obey strong regulations in Western nations but neglect similar responsibilities in developing ones.

  • Legal Evasion and Institutional Weakness

    • Technology companies often justify their inaction by claiming intermediary status under Indian law, a designation that shields them from liability for user-generated content.
    • Yet this argument collapses in the context of paid advertising.
    • Advertisements are not user-generated; they are actively solicited, approved, and monetised by the platforms themselves. Contracts are signed, payments are accepted, and advertising slots are deliberately allocated.
    • These are the actions of publishers, not passive intermediaries.
    • Regulatory weakness compounds the problem. The Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2008 over violations of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994 (PNDT) offers a telling example.
    • Accountability is further weakened by the legal separation between Indian subsidiaries and their S.-based parent companies.

The Way Forward: Reclaiming Sovereignty through Reform

  • Addressing these failures requires firm regulatory and legal reform.
  • Criminal proceedings against responsible managerial personnel would mark a decisive step toward enforcement.
  • Mandating that key decision-makers for advertising and content operations in India be citizens based in India would ensure accountability to domestic courts and laws.
  • Such measures would align India’s digital governance with its sovereign right to protect public health.
  • Another necessary reform is the conditional revocation of intermediary immunity.
  • Platforms that disregard laws like the DMRA should not benefit from the protections granted to neutral intermediaries.
  • Immunity must be contingent on compliance with Indian law. Without this condition, the privilege becomes an instrument of impunity rather than innovation.

Conclusion

  • The history of India’s struggle against misleading medical advertisements, beginning in 1927 and codified in 1954, reveals a continuous tension between public welfare and commercial exploitation.
  • The digital era has intensified this conflict, as foreign corporations exploit legal loopholes and weak enforcement to profit from misinformation.
  • The unchecked spread of unverified health claims not only undermines the DMRA but also endangers millions who rely on such remedies in good faith.
  • Restoring accountability demands a reassertion of legal authority, the creation of transparent enforcement mechanisms, and the political will to treat violations as serious crimes rather than administrative oversights.

Big Tech’s Contempt for Indian Public Health FAQs

Q1. What is the main purpose of the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954?
Ans. The main purpose of the DMRA is to prohibit advertisements that make false or misleading claims about curing or preventing certain diseases and to protect the public from deceptive medical promotions.

Q2. How has the rise of the Internet affected drug advertising in India?
Ans. The rise of the Internet has made it easier for companies to spread unverified medical claims through digital platforms that operate beyond India’s legal control.

Q3. Why do Big Tech companies face criticism in the context of Indian drug advertisement laws?
Ans. Big Tech companies face criticism because they enforce strict health advertising rules in countries like the United States but ignore similar laws such as the DMRA in India.

Q4. What legal loophole allows technology companies to avoid punishment for violating Indian laws?
Ans. Technology companies use the “intermediary” status under Indian law to claim immunity from liability, even though they actively manage and profit from paid advertisements.

Q5. What reforms are suggested to make Big Tech accountable in India?
Ans. Suggested reforms include prosecuting responsible executives, requiring India-based managers for advertising decisions, and revoking intermediary immunity for non-compliant platforms.

Source: The Hindu

A Start for North-South Carbon Market Cooperation

Context

  • The European Union (EU) and India’s New Strategic EU–India Agenda, announced on September 17, 2025, marks a significant milestone in their evolving partnership.
  • Structured around five key pillars; prosperity and sustainability, technology and innovation, security and defence, connectivity and global issues, and cross-cutting enablers, the agenda seeks to deepen collaboration across economic and geopolitical domains.
  • Among its most consequential features lies a seemingly technical but transformative proposal: linking India’s Carbon Market (ICM) with the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).

The Promise of the Linkage and the Structural Weakness of India’s Carbon Market

  • The Promise of the Linkage

    • At its core, the proposed linkage between the Indian Carbon Market and CBAM offers a pragmatic solution to a pressing challenge: the risk of double carbon penalties for Indian exporters.
    • Under CBAM, the EU imposes a carbon levy on imports based on the embedded emissions in goods, ensuring a level playing field with domestic producers who already pay carbon prices under the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS).
    • By allowing carbon costs paid within India to be deducted from CBAM charges at the EU border, exporters would be spared the unfair burden of dual payments.
    • This arrangement could incentivise early decarbonisation, align domestic emissions reductions with global trade competitiveness, and reflect a rare case of climate justice in practice, recognising rather than penalising developing country efforts in carbon pricing.

  • The Structural Weakness of India’s Carbon Market

    • Yet this vision rests on a shaky institutional foundation. India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), commonly called the Indian Carbon Market (ICM), remains underdeveloped compared to the EU’s mature ETS.
    • While the EU ETS has a two-decade track record of auction mechanisms, strict emission caps, and independent verification, India’s system is fragmented and experimental.
    • Its current credits often rely on project-based offsets or efficiency improvements rather than binding absolute emission caps.
    • For CBAM’s tonne-for-tonne accounting to work credibly, the EU must trust that India’s carbon credits represent verifiable emission reductions.
    • However, the absence of strong regulators, transparent registries, and compliance enforcement undermines that trust.
    • Unless India upgrades its carbon market to a compliance-grade mechanism with legal enforceability, the EU is unlikely to accept Indian carbon prices as valid deductions.

The Carbon Price Gap and Political Economy Risks

  • Even if institutional reforms succeed, a major price disparity The EU ETS carbon price fluctuates between €60 and €80 per tonne, while India’s nascent market trades at €5 to €10 per tonne.
  • Without price parity or alignment, EU regulators will deduct only minimal amounts, undermining the intended relief for exporters.
  • This creates serious political and industrial risks in India. Exporters could face double burdens, paying both the domestic compliance cost and the full CBAM levy, leading to industrial resistance and pressure to dilute carbon rules.
  • The resulting political economy tension, between industrial competitiveness and environmental ambition, is a central obstacle.
  • Possible solutions such as sectoral carbon contracts or a negotiated carbon price floor are technically feasible but politically delicate, requiring long-term coordination between New Delhi and Brussels.

The Geopolitical Contradictions of CBAM and the Way Forward

  • The Geopolitical Contradictions of CBAM

    • Beyond economics, the CBAM–ICM linkage raises geopolitical and sovereignty concerns.
    • India, along with other developing nations, has opposed CBAM at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and in international climate dialogues, labelling it unilateral and protectionist.
    • By agreeing to integrate its carbon market with CBAM, India risks legitimising a mechanism it has formally resisted.
    • This contradiction could trigger future disputes: if the EU deems India’s carbon prices insufficient, exporters may face partial or full CBAM penalties, prompting political escalation or legal challenge.

  • The Way Forward: Toward a Cooperative Future

    • Despite its challenges, the CBAM–ICM linkage holds transformative potential.
    • If implemented successfully, it could become a global model for North–South carbon market cooperation.
    • It would protect Indian exporters, accelerate industrial decarbonisation, and strengthen EU–India climate diplomacy.
    • Achieving this outcome requires a phased and transparent approach, where India strengthens its market integrity and the EU provides technical and policy support.
    • Only through collaborative design, clear equivalence criteria, and joint monitoring mechanisms can the two sides translate ambition into action.

Conclusion

  • The proposed linkage between India’s carbon market and the EU’s CBAM represents both a visionary step toward global carbon fairness and a minefield of practical and political challenges.
  • Its success depends on reconciling divergent regulatory standards, closing price gaps, and navigating geopolitical sensitivities.
  • Without careful coordination, this breakthrough risks remaining a symbolic gesture, a promising clause buried in diplomacy.
  • But if India and the EU commit to mutual trust, transparency, and shared responsibility, this initiative could redefine global climate cooperation and set a precedent for equitable transitions in the 21st century.

A Start for North-South Carbon Market Cooperation FAQs

Q1. What is the main purpose of linking the Indian Carbon Market (ICM) with the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)?
Ans. The main purpose is to prevent Indian exporters from paying double carbon costs and to encourage early industrial decarbonisation.

Q2. Why is India’s carbon market considered underdeveloped compared to the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS)?
Ans. India’s carbon market lacks binding emission caps, independent verification, and strong regulatory institutions, unlike the EU’s well-established ETS.

Q3. What major challenge arises from the carbon price gap between India and the EU?
Ans. The large price gap means EU regulators may deduct very little at the border, causing Indian exporters to face both domestic carbon costs and full CBAM levies.

Q4. Why is CBAM politically controversial for India?
Ans. CBAM is controversial because India has opposed it as a protectionist and unilateral measure, and linking with it could appear to legitimise a mechanism it previously resisted.

Q5. What could make the EU–India carbon market linkage successful in the future?
Ans. The linkage could succeed if India strengthens its carbon market integrity and the EU provides technical support and flexibility in recognizing India’s carbon pricing efforts.

Source: The Hindu

Daily Editorial Analysis 28 October 2025 FAQs

Q1: What is editorial analysis?

Ans: Editorial analysis is the critical examination and interpretation of newspaper editorials to extract key insights, arguments, and perspectives relevant to UPSC preparation.

Q2: What is an editorial analyst?

Ans: An editorial analyst is someone who studies and breaks down editorials to highlight their relevance, structure, and usefulness for competitive exams like the UPSC.

Q3: What is an editorial for UPSC?

Ans: For UPSC, an editorial refers to opinion-based articles in reputed newspapers that provide analysis on current affairs, governance, policy, and socio-economic issues.

Q4: What are the sources of UPSC Editorial Analysis?

Ans: Key sources include editorials from The Hindu and Indian Express.

Q5: Can Editorial Analysis help in Mains Answer Writing?

Ans: Yes, editorial analysis enhances content quality, analytical depth, and structure in Mains answer writing.

Global Diplomacy on the Responsible Use of AI in Warfare: India, US, and China’s Stand

October 28, 2025
Global Diplomacy on the Responsible Use of AI in Warfare: India, US, and China’s Stand

What’s in today’s article?

  • Why in News?
  • Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain (REAIM)
  • The AI Debate in Warfare
  • Stand of India, China, US and UN on AI use in weapons 

Why in News?

As military use of artificial intelligence (AI) expands, efforts to regulate its application in warfare are also intensifying. Conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza are becoming testing grounds for AI in combat.

India, despite its active role in promoting the development and safe use of AI in the civilian sector, has been largely absent from the global discussion on restricting its military applications. As international frameworks for AI arms control begin to take shape, it is crucial for India to engage and influence these discussions rather than remain on the sidelines.

Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain (REAIM)

  • About the summit
    • The Summit on Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain (REAIM) is part of a growing global effort to establish norms for AI's military applications.
    • This is the second iteration of the summit. It begins on September 9 in Seoul, co-hosted by Kenya, the Netherlands, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.
  • Objectives of the Korea Summit
    • The second REAIM summit in South Korea aims to build on the progress from the first summit and achieve a three-fold objective:
    • Understand the implications of military AI on global peace and security.
    • Implement new norms for using AI systems in military affairs.
    • Develop ideas for long-term global governance of AI in the military domain.
  • Outcome of the first summit
    • The first summit, held in February 2023 in The Hague, broadened the debate on military AI, focusing on issues like autonomous weapons or "killer robots."
    • A key concern is keeping humans in the decision-making loop on the use of force.
    • Discussions on lethal autonomous weapon systems (LAWS) have been ongoing at the United Nations since 2019.

The AI Debate in Warfare

  • Increased use of AI in warfare
    • The REAIM process has broadened the discussion on military AI beyond just "killer robots" to recognize the increasing role of AI in various aspects of warfare.
    • While AI has long been used for tasks like inventory management and logistical planning, its application in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) on the battlefield has significantly grown in recent years.
    • Leading militaries are now leveraging AI to process vast amounts of data, enhance situational awareness, speed up decision-making on the use of force, improve precision in targeting, limit civilian casualties, and increase the overall tempo of warfare.
  • Concerns Over AI in Warfare
    • Despite these perceived benefits, many critics caution that the allure of AI in warfare could be illusory and dangerous.
    • The rise of AI decision-making support systems (AI-DSS) is a critical area of debate under the REAIM process, with concerns over the risks and ethical implications of relying on AI for battlefield decisions.
  • Promoting responsible use of AI in military affairs
    • The REAIM process has shifted its focus from trying to reverse the AI revolution in military affairs to advocating for the responsible use of AI in warfare.
    • It is part of several global efforts—national, bilateral, plurilateral, and multilateral—aimed at promoting responsible AI.
    • At the end of the Hague summit, the United States issued a draft political declaration on responsible AI use, formalizing it in November 2023.
    • In 2020, the US had already released national guidelines for the military use of AI and has encouraged NATO allies to adopt similar standards.
    • NATO's 2021 strategy identified six principles for responsible AI use in military settings and released corresponding guidelines in July 2023, aiming to accelerate AI deployment in warfare while ensuring safety and responsibility.
    • As part of this effort, the US is also conducting a bilateral dialogue with China to discuss limiting AI’s impact on nuclear deterrence.

Stand of India, China, US and UN on AI use in weapons

  • US introduced resolution at the UNGA
    • The United States introduced a resolution on the responsible use of AI at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), co-sponsored by 123 countries and adopted by consensus.
    • While the UN's focus is broad, the REAIM process fosters more detailed discussions on military AI and aims to build a wide international coalition to establish new global norms.
    • Over 50 countries have endorsed the US's political declaration on responsible AI use in the military, and the US is reaching out to Global South countries for support.
  • India’s stand
    • India has taken a 'watch-and-wait' approach to this debate, carefully evaluating the long-term significance of these developments without fully committing to the new AI initiatives.
    • It did not endorse the “call to action” at The Hague summit and may or may not support the global AI blueprint expected at the Korea summit.
    • However, India risks being left behind if it remains passive in shaping these crucial norms.
    • India’s negative experience with nuclear arms control, where hesitation cost it the opportunity to shape global rules, serves as a reminder that it’s easier to influence global norms during the design phase rather than trying to change them after they are established.
  • Stand of China
    • China has been proactive, engaging in both strategic and regulatory discussions on military AI.
    • China talks about "intelligised warfare" and released a White Paper on military AI regulation in 2021. It also supported the Hague summit’s call to action.

Q.1. What is the objective of the REAIM summit on responsible AI use in warfare?

The REAIM summit seeks to establish norms for the responsible use of AI in military operations, focusing on global peace, security, and long-term governance, with input from various stakeholders including governments and tech companies.

Q.2. How does India’s stance on military AI differ from other major countries like the US and China?

While the US and China are actively shaping military AI policies, India has adopted a cautious, 'watch-and-wait' approach, analyzing the long-term implications of AI arms control before fully committing to global initiatives.

Source: Expert Explains: What is the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in war; where India, US and China stand

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