2025 for January 1970

Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

July 9, 2025

Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park are major components of India’s protected area network. Both aim to conserve flora, fauna, and natural habitats, but they differ in their level of protection, permissible human activities, and management objectives. While Wildlife Sanctuary allows some degree of human interaction, National Parks offer stricter regulations to preserve ecosystems in their clean form.

Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park Overview

A Wildlife Sanctuary is primarily focused on conserving particular species of animals and birds in their natural habitat with minimal human interference. In contrast, a National Park has broader objectives, protecting entire ecosystems, offering recreational opportunities, and preserving landscapes. National Parks enforce stricter rules and usually cover a larger area than Wildlife Sanctuaries, making them more ecologically comprehensive. Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks are both crucial for protecting the natural heritage of a country. While both aim to conserve biodiversity and provide safe habitats for flora and fauna, they differ in purpose, management, and the level of human interference allowed.

Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

Both Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks serve crucial yet distinct roles. Wildlife Sanctuaries are primarily established to protect specific species, with controlled human activity to minimize disturbance to their natural habitat. On the other hand, National Parks aim for a more holistic approach, conserving entire ecosystems, promoting ecological research, protecting natural landscapes, and allowing regulated tourism. The complete Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park is presented below:

Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park
Aspect	Wildlife Sanctuary	National Park
Main Purpose	Protection of specific species and their natural habitats	Broader conservation of entire ecosystems and landscapes
Human Activities	Limited and regulated to avoid disturbance	Heavily restricted; some eco-tourism allowed under strict rules
Ownership/Control	Often government-owned or supported by research institutions	Completely under government protection and control
Size & Coverage	Varies in size; often smaller and species-specific	Usually larger, covering a variety of terrain and biodiversity
Legal Status	Less stringent protection under the Wildlife Protection Act	Stricter legal protection and management policies

Wildlife Sanctuary

A Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area designated to provide a safe haven for wild animals, birds, and other organisms in their natural habitats. These sanctuaries aim to prevent illegal activities like poaching, hunting, and trafficking. Although they are government-regulated, some are privately maintained by research institutions and environmental organizations.

Key Features and Importance:

Wildlife sanctuaries play a vital role in protecting endangered species, allowing them to breed and thrive without human threats.
These areas offer undisturbed landscapes for wild species to flourish naturally, free from urban or industrial encroachment.
By restricting human interference, sanctuaries help maintain ecological balance and preserve the diversity of life.
These zones are important for ecological research and studies related to flora, fauna, and environmental patterns.
Wildlife Sanctuaries encourage regulated ecotourism, providing educational opportunities for visitors while promoting wildlife conservation awareness.
As of now, India has over 543 wildlife sanctuaries covering approximately 118,918 square kilometers.

National Park

A National Park is a government-notified area dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity, ecosystems, and historical heritage. Unlike sanctuaries, national parks offer stricter protection, no human activity, such as grazing or logging, is allowed within their boundaries. The focus is on preserving entire ecosystems and promoting scientific research. Key Features and Importance:

National Parks conserve a wide variety of plant and animal species, helping prevent extinction.
These areas are critical for the survival and recovery of species at risk of extinction.
National Parks protect complete ecosystems, ensuring minimal human-induced damage to natural habitats.
They act as centers for environmental education and also preserve historical and cultural artifacts.
National Parks attract tourists from around the world, supporting local economies through sustainable ecotourism.

Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park Interesting Facts

Hemis National Park in Ladakh is Largest National Park in India home to the elusive Snow Leopard.
Northeast Greenland National Park is the world's largest, spanning 972,000 sq. km.
Some sanctuaries serve as gene pools, preserving genetic diversity.
Sanctuaries allow activities like regulated tourism; parks are more restrictive.
India's first national park was Jim Corbett, established in 1936 in Uttarakhand.

Also Check
Kaziranga National Park	Dudhwa National Park
Nagarhole National Park	Tadoba Andhari National Park
Kanha National Park	Manas National Park
Bandipur National Park	Sundarbans National Park
Pench National Park	Bandhavgarh National Park

Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park FAQs

Q1: What is the main difference between a wildlife sanctuary and a national park?

Ans: National Parks aim to preserve entire ecosystems and prohibit all human activities, while Wildlife Sanctuaries allow limited activities and focus on specific species.

Q2: Can humans live in or use resources from wildlife sanctuaries?

Ans: Yes, in some cases, regulated activities like grazing or collection of forest products may be permitted.

Q3: Are both governed under the same law?

Ans: Yes, both are governed under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, but national parks are more stringently protected.

Q4: Which is more extensive in area, sanctuaries or parks?

Ans: Generally, national parks cover a larger area than wildlife sanctuaries.

Q5: How many national parks are there in India as of 2025?

Ans: India has over 107 national parks, with many new areas being notified as protected zones every year.

UPSC Daily Quiz 9 July 2025

July 9, 2025

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 17]

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.

Plastic Parks Scheme, Features, Challenges, Objective

July 9, 2025

The Plastic Parks Scheme, introduced by the Government of India and approved by the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, aims to establish 10 Plastic Parks across India. These parks aim to create industrial zones for plastic enterprises and allied industries, marking growth and innovation in the sector. India’s share in the $1 trillion global plastic exports market. To promote environmentally sustainable growth through innovative waste management and recycling, Plastic Parks Scheme was introduced and Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) were appointed with the responsibility of setting up the Plastic Parks in the span of 3 years.

Plastic Parks Scheme Features

The Central Government provides 50% of the project cost (up to ₹40 crore per project). The remaining cost is provided by State Governments, beneficiary industries, and loans from financial institutions.
Approval has been granted for 10 Plastic Parks across India, with 6 parks in advanced stages of implementation in the following states:
- Madhya Pradesh: Two parks at Tamot and Bilaua
- Odisha: Paradeep
- Tamil Nadu: Thiruvallur
- Jharkhand: Deoghar
- Assam: Tinsukia

Plastic Parks Scheme Challenges

60% of plastic waste is recycled; segregation and re-aggregation of waste streams remain major challenges.
Pollution from plastic waste impacts the environment and aquatic ecosystems.
Lack of innovation in product quality and range.
India has committed to phasing out single-use plastic by 2022, intensifying the need for sustainable practices.

Plastic Waste Industry in India

The Plastic Waste Industry in India is growing significantly since recent years, which is playing a crucial role as a key economic driver, by contributing to various industries, including automotive, construction, electronics, healthcare, textiles, and FMCG. Globally, India ranks among the top 10 consumers of plastic, yet awareness of its recyclability remains low. The country generates over 15,000 tonnes of plastic waste daily, with 6,000 tonnes remaining littered.

Plastic Parks Scheme FAQs

Q1: What is the plastic park scheme?

Ans: The Plastic Parks Scheme, introduced by the Government of India and approved by the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, aims to establish 10 Plastic Parks across India.

Q2: Which is the first plastic park in India?

Ans: Tamot is the first plastic park in India.

Q3: Which district is a plastic park in Karnataka?

Ans: Ganjimutt, Mangaluru is a plastic park in Karnataka

Q4: Which is India's first plastic banned tourist places?

Ans: Back in 1998, single-use plastic bags were banned in Sikkim.

National Biopharma Mission, Launch Date, Objectives, Vision

July 9, 2025

The National Biopharma Mission (NBM) is an industry-academia collaboration implemented by Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) is an initiative which got launched on 30th June 2017 having a total cost of Rs 1500 crore and 50% co-funded by World Bank loan having a vision of accelerating the development of biopharmaceuticals in India. BIRAC is a Public Sector Enterprise established by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology. The National Biopharma Mission aims to make India a global leader in biopharmaceuticals in the coming years.

National Biopharma Mission Objectives

To develop affordable Biopharmaceutical including vaccines, biosimilars, medical devices, and diagnostics to meet public health needs.
To create affordable and efficient diagnostic tools.
To increase manufacturing and promote entrepreneurship in the biopharma sector through the Innovate in India (i3) Programme.

National Biopharma Mission Vertical

The National Biopharma Mission majorly focused on the 4 verticals which are mentioned below:

Product Development of vaccines, biosimilars, and medical devices relevant to public health.
Established and upgraded various centres for product discovery, validation, and manufacturing.
Development of human capital by providing specialized training for critical skills in the biopharma value chain.
Strengthening industry-academia links and promoting innovation translation.

National Biopharma Mission Achievements

India's first DNA vaccine for COVID-19 (ZyCoV-D).
The first Injectable Non-Insulin Antihyperglycemic Biosimilar for diabetes.
Developed India’s first MRI scanner.
Established 21 shared facilities for research and manufacturing, critical during COVID vaccine trials.
The mission supports 150 organizations and 300 MSMEs, strengthening India's healthcare ecosystem.
India’s rank in the Global Innovation Index shifted from 81 in 2015 to 40 in 2024.
The NBM, initiated as the Innovate in India (i3) program, is an Industry-Academia Collaborative Mission aimed at accelerating discovery research and the development of bio-pharmaceuticals, vaccines, biosimilars, and diagnostics
Set up 7 technology transfer offices, conducted 450 IP awareness campaigns, with over 25 licensed technologies.

National Biopharma Mission Vision

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted initiatives like the Genome India Programme (a technique to determine the DNA sequence of an organism's genome), which aims to sequence 10,000 genomes to revolutionize healthcare strategies worldwide. He specifically mentioned that India, now a frontline nation in preventive healthcare, is a testament for transformative growth in the bio-pharma sector in the coming years.

National Biopharma Mission FAQs

Q1: What is the National Bio Mission?

Ans: The National Biopharma Mission (NBM) is an industry-academia collaboration having a vision of accelerating the development of biopharmaceuticals in India.

Q2: When was the National Biopharma Mission launched?

Ans: 30th June 2017

Q3: What is the National Biopharma Mission 2017?

Ans: The National Biopharma Mission (NBM) is an initiative which got launched on 30th June 2017 having a total cost of Rs 1500 crore and 50% co-funded by World Bank loan

Q4: Which ministry has the National Biopharma Mission?

Ans: The National Biopharma Mission is an Industry-Academia Collaborative Mission of Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology, Govt.

Q5: Who is the mission director of the National Biopharma Mission?

Ans: Dr Raj Shirumalla, is the Mission Director of National Biopharma Mission.

Kapila Kalam Program, Significance, Objectives, Key Details

July 9, 2025

On the 89th anniversary of the late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam on October 15, 2020, the Union Education Ministry launched the Kalam Program for Intellectual Property Literacy and Awareness Campaign (KAPILA) which was inaugurated by the Union Education Minister, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’. The Ministry celebrates the week of October 15 to October 23 as “Intellectual Property Literacy Week” every year to raise awareness. This program aims to enhance awareness about the protection and utilization of Intellectual Property (IP) among Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The initiative also includes funding support to encourage filing of IP, such as patents, trademarks, and copyrights.

Kapila Kalam Program Objectives

Recognizing and facilitating intellectual property innovations and best practices in higher educational institutions (HEIs).
The program seeks to address the lack of awareness among students and young researchers regarding Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), including the processes and benefits of filing patents for their inventions.
KAPILA aims to empower innovators in HEIs to protect and benefit from their intellectual contributions.
Development of credit courses on IPR, which provide in-depth knowledge about IP rules, the filing process, and the importance of protecting intellectual property.
KAPILA highlights the gap in awareness among young researchers who consistently work on innovative projects under the guidance of their teachers but often lack the knowledge or resources to file patents effectively.

Kapila Kalam Program Significance

The Kalam Program for Intellectual Property Literacy and Awareness Campaign (KAPILA) plays an important role in India's journey towards becoming a 15 trillion US dollar economy by 2024-25 by focusing on innovation and strengthening intellectual property awareness among students and researchers.
Under KAPILA, students in higher education institutions are provided with detailed information about the patent application process, ensuring they understand the correct system for filing patents to protect their inventions.
The program facilitates colleges and institutions promoting patent filing and the preservation of intellectual property.

Kapila Kalam Program FAQs

Q1: Which ministry is the Kapila Kalam program?

Ans: Ministry of Education

Q2: What is the Kapila scheme?

Ans: Kapila Kalam Program aims to enhance awareness about the protection and utilization of Intellectual Property (IP) among Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).

Q3: Which Union Ministry of India has launched the Kapila campaign?

Ans: APJ Abdul Kalam, Union Education Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal `Nishank' launched "Kalam Program for IP Literacy and Awareness (KAPILA)" towards education campaign awareness for patent inventions held from 15-23 October 2020.

Q4: What is the meaning of kapila?

Ans: The meaning of Kapila is : Yellowish brown coloured.

SFURTI Scheme, Launch Date, Objectives, Significance

July 9, 2025

The Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI Scheme) was introduced in 2005 by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, to promote the cluster-based development of traditional industries. The SFURTI Scheme was introduced to make these industries more competitive, productive, and economically viable as well as generating long-term employment opportunities for rural artisans and entrepreneurs. Several other related schemes have been integrated into SFURTI for better implementation. It also focuses on promoting innovation, improved designs, and access to domestic and global markets.

SFURTI Scheme Objectives

To enhance the productivity, competitiveness, and profitability of traditional industries.
To provide employment for traditional industry artisans and rural entrepreneurs.
To create Common Facility Centres (CFCs) to support artisans and generate sustainable employment opportunities.
To support new product development, design improvements, and market promotion.
To focus on innovative skills, improved technologies, and encourage new public-private partnership models to replicate successful cluster-based traditional industries.

Merged Schemes with SFURTI

Under the revised guidelines, several related schemes have been integrated into SFURTI for better implementation:

Enhancing Productivity and Competitiveness of Khadi Industry and Artisans.
Product Development, Design Intervention, and Packaging (PRODIP).
Rural Industries Service Center (RISC).
Smaller initiatives like Ready Warp Units and Ready to Wear Mission.

SFURTI Scheme Significance

Provides artisans with the tools, infrastructure, and skills to enhance productivity and income.
Promoting traditional industries like khadi, bamboo, and honey, ensuring their survival.
Encourages rural artisans to transition into self-sustaining entrepreneurs.
Helps artisans and traditional industries leverage modern design, packaging, and branding for domestic and international markets.

SFURTI Scheme Types of Interventions

The SFURTI Scheme includes three types of interventions:

Soft Interventions

Activities such as general awareness, skill development, capacity building, counseling, exposure visits, and market promotion initiatives.
Includes participation in technology upgrade workshops, seminars, and design development programs.

Hard Interventions

Creation of physical infrastructure such as Common Facility Centres (CFCs), Raw Material Banks (RMBs), warehouses, training centers, and value addition facilities.
Upgrading production tools, infrastructure, and technologies.

Thematic Interventions

Sector-level initiatives like brand-building, marketing campaigns, e-Commerce integration, and innovations targeting domestic and international markets.

SFURTI Scheme Achievement

From 2015 to November 2021, 513 clusters have been approved.
The scheme has directly benefited around 2.50 lakh artisans.
77 clusters approved in the North Eastern Region.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, 96 clusters became functional in 2020-21.
51 clusters became functional in 2023-24.
374 clusters are functional till today.

SFURTI Scheme FAQs

Q1: What is the scheme of Sfurti?

Ans: The Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI Scheme) was introduced to promote the cluster-based development of traditional industries.

Q2: What are the objectives of Sfurti?

Ans: The objective of Sfurti is to enhance the productivity, competitiveness, and profitability of traditional industries.

Q3: Who is eligible to apply for funding under the Sfurti scheme?

Ans: 500 beneficiary families, including micro-enterprises, artisans, service providers, traders, and raw material suppliers, are eligible.

Q4: What is the limit of the Sfurti scheme?

Ans: 8 Crore to support Soft, Hard and Thematic interventions.

Q5: Which ministry launched the Sfurti scheme?

Ans: Ministry of MSME has launched this scheme in the year 2005

National Nutrition Mission (Poshan Abhiyaan), Features, Objectives

July 9, 2025

The National Nutrition Mission which was launched on March 8, 2018 is now known as Poshan Abhiyaan introduced to improve the nutritional status of children (0-6 years), adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers, aiming to reduce stunting, wasting, and anemia. This scheme was implemented across all 36 States/UTs, including Tamil Nadu and Odisha, it majorly focused on the use of technology, convergence, and behavior change through Jan Andolan.

National Nutrition Mission Objectives

The scheme was launched to increase the level of nutritional status of children (0-6 years), adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers within a timeframe from 2017-18.
Ensure integrated efforts by Aligning with programs like Anganwadi Services, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, Janani Suraksha Yojana, National Health Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission, PDS, and MGNREGS.
Tackles stunting, under-nutrition, and anemia in women and adolescents, providing direct cash transfers as a transformative approach to eradicate malnutrition.

National Nutrition Mission Features

This scheme focuses on maternal nutrition, child feeding practices, treatment of severe acute malnutrition, and wellness through AYUSH.
Provide access to nutritious fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Provide the food which is diet diverse, food fortified, using millets, and doing rice allocation.
Poshan Tracker ensures real-time monitoring and better governance.
Over 10 lakh Anganwadi Workers trained with growth monitoring devices deployed for effective implementation.

National Nutrition Mission Challenges

Though the policy was introduced with a strong intention, addressing malnutrition requires a multi-dimensional approach, making effective implementation challenging.
Ministries and departments involved in healthcare often function independently, affecting collaboration.
Only 16% of the allocated funds for 2018-19 were utilized, highlighting inefficiencies in resource deployment.
Absence of real-time data monitoring and gaps in sustainability and accountability mechanisms can weaken the impact of the National Nutrition Mission (NNM).
Effective implementation demands substantial human resources, and challenges such as power supply, literacy, and sensitive use of technology in low-and-middle-income regions require extensive capacity-building efforts.

National Nutrition Mission Achievements

Stunting has decreased from 38.4% (NFHS-4) to 35.5% (NFHS-5).
Wasting has reduced from 21.0% to 19.3%.
Underweight prevalence has dropped from 35.8% to 32.1%.
Ministries and departments prepare nutrition-related action plans and align them with ongoing activities.
State, district, and block-level convergence meetings ensure coordinated implementation.
Over 1 crore millet-focused activities were organized in 2023 to promote nutritious diets.

National Nutrition Mission FAQs

Q1: What is the National Nutrition Mission Scheme?

Ans: The National Nutrition Mission Scheme was launched in March 2018 to achieve improvement in nutritional status of Children from 0-6 years adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers, aiming to reduce stunting, wasting, and anemia.

Q2: When was Mission Poshan 2.0 launched?

Ans: It was launched in February 2021 by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman

Q3: What is the National Nutrition Mission Upsc 2024?

Ans: This scheme focuses on maternal nutrition, child feeding practices, treatment of severe acute malnutrition, and wellness through AYUSH.

Q4: What are the aims of Poshan Abhiyan?

Ans: The scheme was launched to enhance the nutritional status of children (0-6 years), adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers within a time-bound framework starting from 2017-18.

Q5: What is the full form of PM Poshan?

Ans: Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman

Ekalavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS)

July 9, 2025

Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) Latest News

Nearly 600 students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across 12 states have cleared top entrance examinations for undergraduate studies in medicine and engineering this year, according to the Tribal Affairs Ministry's performance assessment.

About Eklavya Model Residential Schools

It is a flagship intervention of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, to provide quality residential education to Scheduled Tribes students from Class 6th to 12th in remote areas to enable them to access the best opportunities in education and to bring them at par with the general population.
The programme has been in operation since 1998 and was revamped during the year 2018-19 to expand the geographical outreach and enhance the quality of facilities.
EMRSs will be set up in every block with more than 50% ST population and at least 20,000 tribal persons.
Accordingly, the Ministry has set the target to set up 728 EMRSs across the country by the year 2026.
The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous organization, has been set up under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to establish and manage EMRS across the country.

Eklavya Model Residential Schools Features

EMRSs are co-educational residential schools from Class VI to XII.
Eklavya schools will be on par with Navodaya Vidyalayas and will have special facilities for preserving local art and culture besides providing training in sports and skill development.
The school infrastructure will include classroom, administrative block, hostels for boys and girls, playground, accommodation for teaching and non-teaching staff, Labs etc. facilities catering to the need of academic education as well as extracurricular activities.
CBSE curriculum is followed in these schools, and education is completely free.
Each school has a capacity of 480 students with an equal number of seats for boys and girls.
Non-ST students can be admitted in these schools on seats up to 10% of the total seats.Reservation of 20% of seats under sports quota for deserving ST students who have excelled in the field of sports.

Source: TH

Eklavya Model Residential Schools FAQs

Q1: What is the main objective of the Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) scheme?

Ans: Provide quality residential education to Scheduled Tribes students in remote areas.

Q2: Under which ministry does the Eklavya Model Residential Schools scheme operate?

Ans: Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Q3: From which class levels do Eklavya Model Residential Schools provide residential education?

Ans: Class VI to XII

Q4: Which organisation is responsible for establishing and managing Eklavya Model Residential Schools?

Ans: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous organization, under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Daily Editorial Analysis 9 July 2025

July 9, 2025

The Election Commission of India does not have Unfettered Power

Context:

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in November, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.
Opposition parties allege that the move is intended to disenfranchise thousands by questioning their citizenship status. The ECI has rejected these claims, asserting its legal authority to conduct the revision.
With multiple petitions now before the Supreme Court, the focus has shifted from political motives to the legality and constitutional validity of the ECI’s power to initiate such a revision so close to the elections.

Legal Grounds for Voter Disqualification and the Scope of ECI's Powers

Constitutional Basis for Voting Eligibility
- Article 326 of the Constitution mandates elections based on adult suffrage, allowing every Indian citizen aged 18 or above to vote, unless disqualified on specific grounds.
Disqualifications under the Representation of the People Acts
- The RPA, 1950 outlines disqualifications such as:
  - Being of unsound mind (as declared by a competent court), and
  - Disqualification under Section 11A of the RPA, 1951.
Conditions for Voter Registration
- Section 19 of the RPA requires a person to be:
  - At least 18 years of age, and
  - Ordinarily resident in the constituency.
- Section 20 of the Act clarifies the meaning of "ordinarily resident."
  - Simply owning or having a house in a constituency does not make someone an ordinary resident there.
  - At the same time, if a person is temporarily away from their usual place of living, they still remain an ordinary resident of that place.
ECI’s Constitutional Authority
- - Under Article 324, the Election Commission of India is entrusted with the preparation of electoral rolls and conduct of elections.
  - The Supreme Court calls this a “reservoir of power”, essential for ensuring free and fair elections—a part of the Constitution’s basic structure.
Limits on ECI’s Powers
- Despite its broad mandate, the ECI’s powers are not unlimited.
- As held in Mohinder Singh Gill v. CEC (1978), the Commission must adhere to existing laws where they apply.
- It can exercise its discretion only in areas not covered by statute, solely to advance the objective of free and fair elections.

Legality of Electoral Roll Revision and the ECI’s Powers Under Scrutiny

Legal Provisions for Electoral Roll Revision
- Section 21 of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1950 outlines four types of electoral roll revisions:
  - Before Lok Sabha or Assembly elections;
  - Before by-elections;
  - On ECI’s annual direction, and
  - Special revision for a constituency or part of it (with the ECI recording reasons for doing so.)
- Revisions under points (1) to (3) must use January 1 as the qualifying date, per Section 14.
- Only special revisions (point 4) can be conducted anytime, but only for a constituency or part thereof, not an entire state.

The Controversial Bihar SIR and Qualifying Date Issue

The ECI’s June 24 order set July 1, 2025 as the qualifying date under Section 21(2)(b).
However, this contradicts the legal mandate that requires January 1 as the qualifying date.
Furthermore, the term “Special Intensive Revision (SIR)” does not exist in the RPA.
Therefore, the current revision in Bihar does not conform to legal provisions, since Section 21(3) allows special revision only for part of a constituency—not for an entire state.
Citizenship Proof and Voter Applications
- As per Rule 8 of the Registration of Electors Rules, citizens must submit information “to the best of their ability.”
- Electoral registration officers cannot reject applications solely due to lack of "foolproof" citizenship documents.
- The ECI is expected to uphold this legal safeguard during the revision process.

Conclusion

While the Election Commission of India does have the power under Section 21 of the RPA to revise electoral rolls, that power under Section 21(3) is specifically limited to a constituency or part of it—not an entire state.
Despite the wide powers granted under Article 324, the ECI remains bound by statutory law and is accountable to the principles of natural justice, as affirmed by the Supreme Court.

What the ‘Neutral Clean-Up’ of Bihar’s Poll Rolls Really Is?

Context

In recent years, India has witnessed a quiet but profound transformation in how citizenship, belonging, and democratic participation are defined.
At the heart of this shift lies a growing preoccupation with documentation and verification, especially visible in the domain of electoral politics.
Nowhere is this more apparent than in Bihar, where a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls by the Election Commission of India (ECI) threatens to disenfranchise millions of eligible voters.
This bureaucratic exercise, cloaked in the language of electoral integrity, risks undermining constitutional principles of equality, justice, and fraternity.

The Unsettling Nature of the ‘Routine’ and Its Impact

The Unsettling Nature of the ‘Routine’
- On paper, the SIR in Bihar appears to be a routine administrative update but in practice, however, it marks a dramatic departure from precedent.
- Nearly 4.74 crore voters, approximately 60% of Bihar’s electorate, are now required to provide new documentation to prove their eligibility.
- Unlike earlier processes where self-declaration was accepted as sufficient, voters must now present hard-to-obtain documents such as birth certificates, land deeds, or school-leaving certificates.
- This new threshold ignores the ground realities in a state where access to such documentation is limited, especially in rural and marginalized communities.
- The burden of proof is now squarely on the individual, despite the state’s historic failure to provide widespread, accessible civil documentation.
Disproportionate Impact on Marginalised Communities
- The implications of this overhaul are deeply uneven. Migrant workers, the poor, and Muslims, groups already marginalised, are likely to be disproportionately affected.
- Migrants, who make up about 20% of Bihar's population, may be away from their homes during the 30-day verification period, coinciding with the monsoon season that floods much of the state.
- Many of them lack the required documentation, despite possessing widely accepted government-issued IDs such as Aadhaar or MGNREGA cards, which are now being rejected.

The Debate on Legality vs. Legitimacy of the Revision

The ECI justifies the revision as an effort to remove duplicate entries and include newly eligible voters, tasks well within its legal mandate.
However, questions of legality must also contend with issues of practicality and fairness. The scale, speed, and method of the Bihar revision are highly problematic.
There is neither enough time nor sufficient infrastructural support to carry out a verification process of this magnitude without compromising accuracy and inclusiveness.
Moreover, the ECI’s decision to not accept its own voter ID cards as valid documents raises serious questions about institutional consistency and credibility.

Broader Implications of the Exercise

A Democratic Encroachment
- By engaging in what amounts to a citizenship verification drive, the ECI is encroaching upon responsibilities constitutionally vested in the judiciary and designated tribunals.
- Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) may now refer individuals suspected of being foreigners to appropriate authorities, a power previously outside the Commission’s remit.
- This shift is alarming not only because it violates established legal boundaries but also because it introduces a punitive, exclusionary logic into what should be an inclusive democratic process.
- The Supreme Court has, in the past, warned against placing the burden of proof on individuals already listed on electoral rolls.
National Implications and the Threat of Precedent
- What is unfolding in Bihar may not remain confined to the state. ECI officials have indicated that similar revisions are being considered in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and West Bengal.
- If adopted widely, this document-heavy model of verification could be institutionalised across India.
- This would represent a systemic shift in electoral policy, one that favours exclusion over inclusion and bureaucratic rigidity over democratic access.
- Critics have rightly described the Bihar revision as a subtler form of gerrymandering. It does not redraw constituency lines but alters the demographic landscape by determining who gets to vote.
- This threatens not just electoral fairness but the very fabric of Indian pluralism, particularly by casting suspicion on the loyalty of certain communities, most notably Muslims, whose political power is already under strain.

Conclusion

The Bihar voter roll revision is currently under judicial scrutiny for violating fundamental rights such as the right to vote, equality before law, and human dignity.
If allowed to proceed unchecked, it could disenfranchise lakhs, distort electoral outcomes, and severely damage public trust in democratic institutions.
What is at stake is not merely the technical accuracy of electoral rolls but the foundational principle of inclusive democracy.

What the ‘Neutral Clean-Up’ of Bihar’s Poll Rolls Really Is? FAQs

Q1. What is the main concern with the voter roll revision in Bihar?

Ans. The main concern is that it could lead to the wrongful exclusion of lakhs of eligible voters, undermining the democratic process.

Q2. Who is most affected by the new documentation rules?

Ans. Migrant workers, Muslims, and economically disadvantaged citizens are most affected, as they often lack the required documents.

Q3. Why is the voter ID card now seen as inadequate?

Ans. The Election Commission of India is no longer accepting voter ID cards as valid proof of citizenship, despite having issued them.

Q4. What larger political concern does this revision raise?

Ans. The revision raises concerns that it could be politically motivated to influence election outcomes by excluding opposition-leaning voters.

Q5. How does this process threaten democracy?

Ans. This process threatens democracy by restricting access to voting, thereby violating constitutional values of equality and fair representation.

Source: The Hindu

Daily Editorial Analysis 9 July 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.

Nyangai Island

July 9, 2025

Nyangai Island Latest News

In less than a decade, Nyangai island has lost two-thirds of its surface area, and now measures only about 200 metres long and 100 metres wide.

About Nyangai Island

It is a small island off the coast of Sierra Leone.
It is one of a cluster of islands that make up the Turtle Islands archipelago.
It is low-lying and situated off a part of the coastline subject to strong currents. As such, they have always been vulnerable to erosion.
In less than 10 years, the island has lost two-thirds of its surface area, and now measures only about 200 metres long and 100 metres wide (approximately 650 by 330 feet).
The island has traditionally been a crossroads for trade, agriculture, fishing and maritime transport in addition to a tourist spot, particularly for its ruins dating back to the slave trade.

Key Facts about Sierra Leone

It is a tropical country in West Africa, on the Atlantic coast.
Borders: It is bordered on the north and east by Guinea, on the south by Liberia, and on the west by the Atlantic Ocean.
Geography: The nation is largely made up of lightly wooded hills with a concentration of mangrove swampsalong the coast.
Rivers: Some of the major ones include the Rokel River, Taia River, Moa River, and Sewa River.

Source: TH

Nyangai Island FAQs

Q1: What is known as an archipelago?

Ans: An archipelago is an area that contains a chain or group of islands scattered in lakes, rivers, or the ocean.

Q2: What is a mangrove swamp?

Ans: Mangrove swamps are coastal wetlands found in tropical and subtropical regions. They are characterized by halophytic (salt loving) trees, shrubs and other plants growing in brackish to saline tidal waters.

Vera C Rubin Observatory

July 9, 2025

Vera C Rubin Observatory Latest News

The Vera C Rubin Observatory in Chile has released its first breathtaking images, showcasing the power of its 3,200-megapixel digital camera—the largest ever built.

About Vera C Rubin Observatory

It is located 8,684 feet above sea level atop the Cerro Pachónmountain in the Chilean Andes.

Cerro Pachón was selected as the site for Rubin Observatory because it’s an excellent place to conduct high-quality astronomical and astrophysical science.
It is named after American astronomer Vera C Rubin, who provided evidence about dark matter for the first time in the 1970s
It is partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and National Science Foundation (NSF).
This observatory will provide comprehensive images of the night sky unlike anything astronomers have seen before.
It will constantly scan the sky of the southern hemisphere for 10 years, gathering 20 terabytes of astronomical data each night.
The observatory’s software will automatically compare new images with older ones and generate an estimated 10 million alerts per night for each change detected in the sky.
The centrepiece of the observatory is the Simonyi Survey Telescope. This device is unique for three main reasons.
- Wide Field View: Astronomers typically use the size of the visible surface of the full Moon to describe a telescope’s field of view. The Hubble Space Telescope observes around 1% of the full Moon’s disc, and the James Webb Space Telescope around 75% — using such telescopes is like looking into space through a straw.
- Largest Digital Camera:The telescope has the world's largest digital camera, which is the size of a small car, weighs 2,800 kg, and boasts a staggering resolution of 3,200 megapixels.
- Rapid Movement: The Simonyi Survey Telescope is the fastest-slewing telescope in the world, and takes just five seconds to move and settle from one target to another. This speed is due to the telescope’s compact structure (owing to the three-mirror design), and its mount which floats on a film of oil.

The observatory will also play a crucial role in expanding our knowledge about the nature of dark matter and dark energy.
While galaxies, stars, and planets make up 5% of the universe, dark energy makes up about 68%, and dark matter about 27%.

Source: IE

Vera C Rubin Observatory FAQs

Q1: Where is Vera Rubin telescope?

Ans: Northern Chile

Q2: Who discovered dark matter?

Ans: Fritz Zwicky

Miniature Plasma Loops

July 9, 2025

Miniature Plasma Loops Latest News

Astronomers at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), and their collaborators used high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy to catch miniature plasma loops elusive structures in action.

About Miniature Plasma Loops

These miniature loops are about 3,000–4,000 kilometers long and have a width of less than 100 kilometers.
These are so small and short-lived, that they have stayed hidden until now.
They hold clues to one of the Sun’s deepest mysteries --how it stores and unleashes magnetic energy.
They offer a new window into how magnetic energy is stored and released in the solar atmosphere on small scales.
Among the most intriguing features of the Sun’s outer layer are coronal loops, arc-like beautiful structures of hot plasma that glow at a temperature over a million degrees.
While these large loops in the solar corona, or outer atmosphere, have long been studied, scientists are now also paying attention to miniature counterparts of these loops.
This makes them challenging to study, as they stay hidden in the lower layers of the Sun's atmosphere and are mostly unresolved by earlier telescopes.

Source: PIB

Miniature Plasma Loops FAQs

Q1: What are plasma loops that connect two sunspots called?

Ans: Solar prominences are the plasma loops that connect two sunspots.

Q2: What is corona in the Sun?

Ans: The Sun's corona is the outermost part of the Sun's atmosphere. The corona is usually hidden by the bright light of the Sun's surface.

Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket

July 9, 2025

Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket Latest News

Recently, user trials of Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) were successfully carried out from INS Kavaratti.

About Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket

It was designed for the indigenous rocket launcher (IRL) of Indian naval ships.
It was completely built in India. It is an anti-submarine rocket which can combat submarines.
It is fired from the onboard IRLs of naval ships.
It was designed and developed by the DRDO’s Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, in association with High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and Naval Science & Technological Laboratory.

Features of Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket

It has twin-rocket motor configuration to meet a wide spectrum of range requirements with high accuracy and consistency.
The ERASR uses an indigenously developed Electronic Time Fuze.
A total of 17 ERASRs were successfully test evaluated at different ranges.
All the specified objectives of the trials such as Range performance, Electronic Time Fuze functioning and Warhead functioning were successfully demonstrated.
Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad and Solar Defence& Aerospace Limited, Nagpur are the Production Partners for ERASR Rockets.
With successful completion of User Trials, Indian Navy is expected to induct the ERASR System soon.

Source: PIB

Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket FAQs

Q1: What is the long range anti-submarine?

Ans: LRAW can be described as a missile that will be fired from Mk 41 VLS cell capable of delivering an ASW torpedo beyond the range of existing submarine-launched heavyweight torpedoes.

Q2: Is BrahMos hypersonic or supersonic?

Ans: Supersonic cruise missile

Great Hornbill

July 9, 2025

Great Hornbill Latest News

In a rare and remarkable sighting, the Malamuzhakki Vezhambal (Great Hornbill), Kerala’s State bird, was spotted in the coastal belt of Kakkampara, near Ezhimala in Kannur, an area far from its usual forested habitats.

About Great Hornbill

The great hornbill, also known as the concave-casqued hornbill, great Indian hornbill, or great pied hornbill, is a large bird and one of the larger members of the hornbill family.
Scientific Name: Buceros bicornis
Distribution:
- It is found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
- In the subcontinent they are found in a few forest areas in the Western Ghats and in the forests along the Himalayas.
Habitat: Great hornbills reside in wet evergreen and deciduous old-growth forests at elevations of 600 to 2000 meters (1968.5 to 6561 feet). For nesting, they prefer trees that tower above the canopy level.
Features:
- They are fairly large, ranging from 95 to 120 cm in length and featuring a wingspan of 151 to 178 cm. On average, they weigh 3 kg.
- They are vividly colored and easily recognizable. The body, head, and wings are primarily black; the abdomen and neck are white. The tail is white and is crossed by a subterminal black band.
- A preen gland near the tail secretes tinted oil, which is spread across the feathers by the bird during grooming. This may give the bill, neck, casque, and tail and wing feathers coloration varying from yellow to red.
- The most recognizable feature of hornbills is the casque, which is a hollow structure located on top of the bill. It may be used by males to fight with other males and attract females.
- Like many other hornbills, these birds have prominent eyelashes.
- Males and females are similar except that the irises of males are red while those of females are white, and males have slightly larger bills and casques.
- It is predominantly frugivorous, but is an opportunist and will prey on small mammals, reptiles, and birds.
Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

Source: TH

Great Hornbill FAQs

Q1: Where is the Great Hornbill found in India?

Ans: Western Ghats and in the forests along the Himalayas.

Q2: What is the IUCN Red List status of the Great Hornbill?

Ans: Vulnerable

Q3: What is the scientific name of the Great Hornbill?

Ans: Buceros bicornis

Q4: What type of forests does the Great Hornbill prefer for nesting?

Ans: Old-growth wet evergreen and deciduous forests.

Magnetometer

July 9, 2025

Magnetometer Latest News

Researchers at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), an autonomous institution of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have devised a novel Raman-Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy method for magnetometry in an all-optical quantum magnetometer that could address these challenges.

About Magnetometer

A magnetometer is a passive instrument that measures changes in the Earth’s magnetic field.
The most promising methods for magnetic field measurement are based on detecting polarization rotation of a probe light passing through alkali atoms in a very weak magnetic field.
Magnetometers based on this method, referred to as Optically pumped atomic magnetometers (OPAMs) and Spin Exchange Relaxation Free (SERF) magnetometers.
Typically have high sensitivity but demand sophisticated magnetic shielding and have a lower dynamic range.
Magnetometers are useful devices with applications in areas ranging from fundamental physics to medical imaging and navigation.

What is Raman-Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy (RDSNS)?

It uses laser light to listen to the tiny quantum jitters of Rubidium atoms.
These jittery movements, called spin noise, are random fluctuations in the spin of atoms—fundamental quantum properties like tiny bar magnets.
When exposed to a magnetic field, the pattern of this spin noise shifts in predictable ways. By shining lasers and analyzing the noise, researchers can accurately measure the magnetic field without touching or disturbing the atoms.
RDSNS enhances the dynamic range considerably without significant loss of sensitivity.
This method could transform the way we measure magnetic fields—making the process faster, portable and precise even in noisy, real-world environments.
This method exhibits potential for field-deployable applications of magnetic field measurement with broadband capability and fast time response, extending across various scientific, industrial and exploratory fields.

Source: PIB

Magnetometer FAQs

Q1: What is a Magnetic Field?

Ans: Magnetic Field is the region around a magnetic material or a moving electric charge within which the force of magnetism acts.

Q2: What is rubidium used for?

Ans: It has been used as a component of photocells, to remove traces of oxygen from vacuum tubes and to make special types of glass.

Erasmus+ Programme

July 9, 2025

Erasmus+ Programme Latest News

A total of 101 Indian students, including 50 women, recently received the Erasmus+ scholarship for master's programs in Europe.

About Erasmus+ Programme

The Erasmus+ programme, launched in 1987, is the European Union’s flagship initiative supporting international academic mobility.
The scholarship allows students to study at two or more European universities and earn joint, double, or multiple degrees.
It covers tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
It will support young people, students, and adults in education, training, traineeships, or volunteering abroad, enabling them to expand their skills and competence.
Erasmus+ also offers educational institutions and organisations opportunities for European cooperation with their international partners.
In addition to offering grants, Erasmus+ also supports teaching, research, networking and policy debate on EU topics. The sports chapter promotes grassroots activities in sports.
The objectives of the Erasmus+ programme are to
- support people’s educational, professional, and personal development in the fields of education, training, youth, and sport in Europe and the partner countries;
- promote growth, employment, social cohesion, and innovation;
- strengthen European identity and active citizenship.
In addition, Erasmus+ promotes:
- learning mobility of pupils, students, teachers, and trainers, and cooperation, participation, excellence, creativity, and innovation at the level of organisations in the field of education and training;
- non-formal learning and active participation of young people and youth workers, and the cooperation, participation, creativity, and innovation of youth organisations;
- learning mobility of sport coaches and staff, and cooperation, inclusion, creativity, and innovation at the level of sport organisations;
As a student, you have the possibility to:
- Study abroad (2 to 12 months)
- Do an internship abroad (2 to 12 months)
- Take part in Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (1 to 2 academic years)
The programme is managed by the European Commission (the EU's executive body), the Education, Audiovisual, and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), a series of National Agencies in Program countries, and a series of National Offices in some partner countries.

Source: ET

Erasmus+ Programme FAQs

Q1: What is the main objective of the Erasmus+ Programme?

Ans: Support international academic mobility and cooperation in education, training, youth, and sport.

Q2: In which year was the Erasmus Programme launched?

Ans: The “Erasmus” programme was originally established by the European Union in 1987. It looked to promote closer cooperation between universities ...

Q3: Which body primarily manages the Erasmus+ Programme?

Ans: European Commission (the European Union's executive body)

National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project

July 9, 2025

National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project Latest News

The Indian Navy recently signed a contract with M/s Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru for the implementation of National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project.

About National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project

It is aimed at strengthening maritime and coastal security.
The project will bring in an integrated approach to data collation, analysis, and information sharing amongst the various maritime stakeholders.
The project entails upgradation of the existing National Command, Control, Communication, and Intelligence (NC3I) Network to the NMDA Network along with the incorporation of AI-enabled software for smarter surveillance and decision-making.
As part of the project, the existing Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) at Gurugram, which is the nodal centre of the NC3I Network, will also be upgraded into a Multi-Agency NMDA Centre.
This upgraded centre will host personnel from 15 agencies spanning seven key ministries — including Defence, Shipping, Petroleum, Fisheries, and others — to ensure seamless coordination and information sharing.
The NMDA project will link various maritime agencies, coastal states, and union territories for a unified operational picture of India’s vast coastline and surrounding seas.
It will also integrate data from sectors such as commercial shipping and fisheries, improving response capabilities to maritime threats, search-and-rescue missions, and environmental incidents.
The project, set to be executed on a turnkey basis, will be administered by the Indian Navy.
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will serve as the lead integrator, providing state-of-the-art hardware and AI-enabled software solutions.

Source: PIB

National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project FAQs

Q1: Which network will be upgraded as part of the National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project?

Ans: The project entails upgradation of the existing National Command, Control, Communication, and Intelligence (NC3I) Network to the NMDA Network.

Q2: Where is the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC), the nodal centre of NC3I Network, located?

Ans: Gurugram

Q3: Which organization is responsible for administering the National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project?

Ans: Indian Navy

Q4: Which company is the lead integrator for the National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project?

Ans: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)

FATF Highlights Digital Platforms in Terror Financing: Pulwama & Gorakhnath Attacks

July 9, 2025

FATF Terror Financing Report Latest News

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), in a report, highlighted that digital platforms—including online payments, VPNs, social media, and e-commerce—were misused in the Pulwama (2019) and Gorakhnath Temple (2022) terror attacks.
The report, titled ‘Comprehensive Update on Terrorist Financing Risks’, serves as a global alert on the evolving and increasingly complex methods of terrorist financing.
It warned that such platforms are increasingly being exploited for terror financing.

Financial Action Task Force (FATF)

FATF is an intergovernmental policy-making body established in 1989 at the G7 Summit in Paris.
Its primary objective is to develop policies to combat money laundering (ML), terrorist financing (TF), and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system.
Headquarters - FATF is headquartered in Paris, France, and functions out of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) headquarters.
Members
- FATF comprises 39 members, including 37 jurisdictions and 2 regional organizations (European Commission and Gulf Cooperation Council).
- India became a full member of the FATF in 2010, which enhanced its global financial credibility.
Key Functions & Roles
- Setting International Standards for combating Money Laundering and Terror Financing through its famous 40 Recommendations.
- Monitoring Compliance of member and non-member countries with those standards.
- Conducting Mutual Evaluations to assess effectiveness of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing measures.
- Issuing Public Statements to identify high-risk and non-cooperative jurisdictions (also known as the FATF Grey List and Black List).
- Encouraging Legal, Regulatory, and Operational Reforms in financial systems globally.

FATF Flags Rising Misuse of Digital Platforms for Terror Financing

The FATF report highlights how terrorists involved in the Pulwama (2019) and Gorakhnath Temple (2022) attacks used online payment services, VPNs, and e-commerce platforms.
It warns that social media, messaging apps, and crowdfunding sites are increasingly being exploited for financing terrorism.

State-Sponsored Terror Financing

Without naming countries, the report notes that some national governments continue to financially and materially support terrorist organisations.
This includes direct funding, logistical support, training, and sanctions circumvention via trade and smuggling.

Complex Financial Schemes

The FATF also points to commodity-based schemes, such as oil-to-gold-to-cash transactions involving multiple jurisdictions, used to move terror funds while evading detection.

Decentralisation of Terror Networks

The FATF report flags a global shift in terror operations towards decentralised structures, with regional financial hubs and self-financed cells adapting to local contexts.
These cells use criminal proceeds, business investments, and local resources to sustain activities.

Pahalgam Attack and FATF's Prior Warning

The FATF condemned the April 22 Pahalgam attack, stating that such terror acts are not possible without financial support and money transfer mechanisms.
It had announced plans for a detailed analysis on terrorist financing.

Storage and Trade-Based Terror Financing

FATF also noted gold and jewellery being used for storing small funds by ISIL or Al-Qaeda-inspired individuals in India.
Trade-based financing schemes and decentralised decision-making—like Al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent (AQIS) managing operations independently—reflect an evolving strategy in terror financing globally.

Other Channels of Terror Financing

The report identified various other funding methods:
- Human trafficking, wildlife smuggling, drugs, and virtual assets.
- Donations, shell entities, shell accounts, and mobile apps.
- Hawala routes, crowdfunding, extortion, and ransom collection.
- Misuse of non-profit organisations.

Pulwama Attack: E-Commerce Misuse

In the 2019 Pulwama attack, aluminum powder—a key component of the IED—was procured via Amazon, revealing how e-commerce platforms can be exploited for acquiring materials used in terror attacks.
Authorities attributed the attack to Jaish-i-Mohammed, with evidence of cross-border movement of explosives.

Gorakhnath Attack: VPNs and Online Payments

The 2022 Gorakhnath Temple attacker, influenced by ISIL ideology, used VPNs to hide his identity and PayPal to transfer ₹6.69 lakh ($7,736) internationally.
He also received foreign funds and sent money to ISIL-linked individuals abroad. PayPal later suspended the account due to suspicious activity.

Conclusion: Exploitation of Digital Infrastructure

The report underscores a growing trend of misusing digital tools—e-commerce, VPNs, and online payment systems—for planning, funding, and executing terrorist acts.
This highlights the urgent need for regulatory oversight and monitoring.

Source: IE | TH | HT

FATF Terror Financing Report FAQs

Q1: What is FATF’s role in terror financing?

Ans: It monitors global financial systems, issuing warnings on terror financing risks and compliance among member countries.

Q2: Which Indian attacks were cited by FATF?

Ans: Pulwama (2019) and Gorakhnath Temple (2022) attacks highlighted misuse of digital platforms for terror-related transactions.

Q3: How were digital tools misused in Pulwama?

Ans: Aluminum powder for IEDs was bought via Amazon, showing how e-commerce aids terror equipment procurement.

Q4: What did FATF reveal about Gorakhnath attacker?

Ans: He transferred ₹6.69 lakh via PayPal using VPNs to fund ISIL-linked terror activities and hide digital identity.

Q5: What other methods does FATF mention?

Ans: Terrorists use gold storage, smuggling, crowdfunding, wildlife trafficking, and virtual assets to fund decentralized operations.

Kerala HC Arrests Ship Over ₹9,531 Crore Oil Spill Claim Under Admiralty Law

July 9, 2025

Kerala Ship Oil Spill Case Latest News

The Kerala High Court has conditionally arrested the Liberian container ship MSC Akiteta II, docked at Vizhinjam port, following an admiralty suit filed by the Kerala government.

The action seeks Rs 9,531 crore in compensation for environmental damage caused by the sinking of MSC Elsa III on May 25 near Alappuzha.

The sunken vessel, also linked to the Mediterranean Shipping Company, reportedly carried over 600 containers with hazardous materials, including plastic pellets and diesel, polluting Kerala’s marine ecosystem.

Law Governing Maritime Disputes in India

The Admiralty (Jurisdiction and Settlement of Maritime Claims) Act, 2017 governs maritime disputes in India.
It allows admiralty suits for claims involving ship damage, ownership, wage disputes, environmental harm, and loss of life.
This Act replaced outdated colonial laws — the Admiralty Court Act, 1861 and the Colonial Courts of Admiralty Act, 1890.
While earlier jurisdiction was limited to the High Courts of Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras, the 2017 law extends it to the High Courts of Kerala, Karnataka, Odisha, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
These courts have authority over maritime disputes within 12 nautical miles from the coast, including the seabed, subsoil, and airspace above.

Legal Provisions for Environmental Damage Claims from Ships

Under Section 4 of the Admiralty Act, 2017, High Courts can hear maritime claims for environmental damage caused by vessels, including claims for compensation and damage removal measures.
In addition to the Admiralty Act:
- The Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 holds shipowners liable for oil pollution due to leaks.
- The Environment Protection Act, 1986 empowers authorities to act against environmental polluters.
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) also addresses such claims.
  - In 2016, it ordered a Panama-based firm to pay ₹100 crore for an oil spill after M V Rak sank near Mumbai.

Kerala's Admiralty Suit and Ship Arrest

The Kerala government filed an admiralty suit seeking the arrest of the vessel MSC Akiteta II to secure a compensation claim of ₹9,531 crore over environmental and economic damages caused by the sinking of MSC Elsa III.
Allegations of Corporate Structuring to Evade Claims
- The state alleged that MSC Elsa 3 and MSC Akiteta II are “sister vessels” under the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), despite being registered under different shell companies, all operating from the same Geneva address.
- This corporate setup, it claimed, is a fraudulent device to frustrate genuine maritime claims.

Court Order and Justification

The Kerala High Court ordered the detention of MSC Akiteta II until the vessel’s owners either deposit the compensation amount or furnish adequate security.
The court found merit in Kerala’s maritime claims, which include oil and cargo pollution.

Breakdown of Compensation Sought

₹8,626.12 crore: Environmental damage due to the shipwreck.
₹378.48 crore: Cost of remediation and pollution control.
₹526.51 crore: Economic loss suffered by Kerala’s fishermen.
The compensation was calculated as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines, according to the government’s plaint.

Legal Grounds and Representation

Citing Section 5 of the Admiralty Act, 2017, the petition argued the High Court’s authority to arrest the ship even if MSC is a demise charterer.
- A demise charterer, also known as a bareboat charterer, is a party that leases a vessel from its owner and assumes full control and responsibility for its operation, including crew, maintenance, and insurance, for a specific period.
- Effectively, the demise charterer becomes the "owner for the time being," though the legal title remains with the original owner.

Source: IE | HT | ToI

Kerala Ship Oil Spill Case FAQs

Q1: Why was MSC Akiteta II arrested?

Ans: Kerala HC ordered its arrest in a ₹9,531 crore environmental damage suit after MSC Elsa III sank.

Q2: What law governs the arrest?

Ans: The Admiralty Act, 2017 allows arrest of vessels for maritime claims including environmental harm and compensation.

Q3: What compensation is Kerala seeking?

Ans: ₹9,531 crore—₹8,626.12 crore for pollution, ₹526.51 crore for fishermen’s losses, ₹378.48 crore for restoration work.

Q4: What are 'sister vessels'?

Ans: Ships operated by the same company under different registrations, alleged to evade liability for maritime claims.

Q5: Which other laws apply here?

Ans: Merchant Shipping Act, Environment Protection Act, and NGT rulings support environmental damage compensation claims.

PARAKH RS Survey – India’s Learning Gaps in School Education

July 9, 2025

PARAKH RS Survey Latest News

The 2025 PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan (RS) survey has revealed significant learning deficits among students in Grades 3, 6, and 9 across India, prompting urgent calls for reforms in foundational education and subject-wise learning outcomes.

Introduction

The recently released findings of the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan (PARAKH RS) have revealed critical insights into student learning outcomes across India’s school system.
Conducted across 781 districts and involving over 21 lakh students in Grades 3, 6, and 9, the national survey sheds light on learning levels in core subjects like language, mathematics, science, and social science.
The survey results indicate significant deficits in basic competencies, particularly in mathematics and science, among students in higher grades.
States like Punjab, Kerala, and Himachal Pradesh emerged as top performers, while several districts in Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Meghalaya lagged behind.

About PARAKH RS

PARAKH RS, formerly known as the National Achievement Survey (NAS), is administered by the Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development (PARAKH), an autonomous institution under the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).
The 2025 edition of PARAKH RS covered:
- 21,15,022 students
- 74,229 schools
- 781 districts
Subjects tested included:
- Grades 3, 6, and 9: Language and Mathematics
- Grades 3 and 6: Environmental Studies
- Grade 9: Science and Social Science
In addition, 2.7 lakh teachers and school leaders participated through questionnaires to provide contextual data.

Key Findings: Grade-wise Performance

Grade 3 Highlights
- Language:
  - 67% of students could effectively use and guess new words.
  - 60% could comprehend short stories independently.
  - 61% could read news, instructions, and basic materials.
- Mathematics:
  - 68% could classify objects based on multiple properties.
  - 55% could arrange numbers up to 99 in order.
  - Only 54% understood multiplication as repeated addition.
  - Half of the students struggled with basic geometry and simple financial transactions.

Grade 6 Highlights
- Mathematics:
  - Only 54% could use the place value structure accurately.
  - Just 29% could understand and represent common fractions.
  - Only 38% could solve real-life puzzles involving operations on whole numbers.
- Environmental Studies:
  - 44% could identify elements in their immediate surroundings.
  - Just 38% asked questions and made predictions about observable patterns in nature.
  - 56% could explain the functioning of local institutions like markets, schools, and panchayats.

Grade 9 Highlights
- Social Science:
  - 45% understood constitutional principles and national movement ideals.
  - Only 54% could identify key points in news reports or editorials.
- Mathematics:
  - 31% understood number sets like integers and fractions.
  - Only 28% could apply percentage calculations effectively.
- Science:
  - 37% could explain natural phenomena like winds or pressure differences.
  - One-third could demonstrate understanding of simple circuits and electricity.
  - 34% could distinguish between characteristics of living and non-living things.

State-wise Performance Trends

Top Performers:
- Grade 3: Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala
- Grade 6: Kerala, Punjab, Dadra Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu
- Grade 9: Punjab, Kerala, Chandigarh
Low Performing Districts:
- Grade 3: Sahebganj (Jharkhand), Reasi and Rajouri (J&K)
- Grade 6 & 9: Multiple districts in Meghalaya, including North and South Garo Hills
Interestingly, Kendriya Vidyalayas recorded low performance in Grade 3 Mathematics but were the best performing in Grade 9 Language, indicating intra-institutional disparities.

Policy Implications and Concerns

The PARAKH RS results underline a serious concern: learning deficits are widening as students progress to higher grades, especially in conceptual subjects like mathematics and science. These findings suggest the urgent need to:
- Strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy in primary education.
- Improve pedagogy and teacher training, particularly in underperforming regions.
- Integrate formative assessment tools for early detection of learning gaps.
- Reorient school curricula to foster critical thinking and contextual understanding.

Source: TH

PARAKH RS Survey FAQs

Q1: What is PARAKH RS?

Ans: PARAKH RS is a national learning assessment survey conducted by NCERT to evaluate student performance in Grades 3, 6, and 9.

Q2: Which states performed best in the 2025 PARAKH RS?

Ans: Punjab, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, and Dadra Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu ranked among the top performers.

Q3: What subjects were assessed in the survey?

Ans: The survey tested students in language and mathematics (Grades 3, 6, 9), environmental studies (Grades 3, 6), and science and social science (Grade 9).

Q4: What were the major learning deficits identified?

Ans: Students showed weak understanding in fractions, percentage, electricity, geometry, and scientific reasoning across Grades 6 and 9.

Q5: What is the significance of the survey findings?

Ans: The results highlight the need to improve foundational learning and support evidence-based education reforms to bridge critical knowledge gaps.