UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 11th August 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

India’s Lion Population Rises to 891

Why in News?

In 2025, India reported a significant increase of 32.2% in its Asiatic lion population, rising from 674 in 2020 to 891, as per the findings of the 16th Lion Population Estimation.

Key Takeaways

• World Lion Day is celebrated annually on August 10 to raise awareness and promote actions for lion conservation globally.
• Asiatic lions are exclusively found in India and have a unique conservation status.

Additional Details

• About Asiatic Lion: The scientific name is Panthera leo leo, a subspecies that is only found in India.
• Historical Range: Once spread across West Asia and the Middle East, now extinct outside India.
• Current Range: Primarily located in Gir National Park and surrounding areas in Saurashtra, Gujarat.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN: Vulnerable 
  • CITES: Appendix I
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I
• 2025 Census Highlights:
  • Total lions: 891 (+32.2% from 2020)
  • Decadal Growth: +70.36% since 2015 (from 523 lions)
  • Adult Females: 330 (+26.9% from 2020)
  • Satellite Populations: 497 lions in 9 locations, including new groups in Barda WLS, Jetpur, and Babra-Jasdan
  • Corridor Records: 22 lions sighted for the first time
  • Regional Growth:
    • Mitiyala WLS: +100%
    • Bhavnagar Mainland: +84%
    • South Eastern Coast: +40%
  • Declines:
    • Girnar WLS: -4%
    • Bhavnagar Coast: -12%

Overall, the surge in the Asiatic lion population is a significant indicator of successful conservation efforts in India, highlighting the importance of continued protection for this endangered species.

UPSC 2019

Consider the following statements:

• 1. Asiatic lion is naturally found in India only.
• 2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

GS3/Science and Technology

Kauzmann’s Hypothesis on Protein Core Structure

Why in News?

New research challenges Walter Kauzmann’s 1959 hypothesis regarding protein folding, suggesting that the cores of proteins are more flexible than previously thought. This finding has significant implications for understanding protein structure and function.

Key Takeaways

• Proteins are biological macromolecules composed of 20 amino acids arranged in specific sequences.
• Sequence determines the 3D shape of proteins, which is essential for their functionality.

Additional Details

• Water Interaction:
  • Hydrophilic: Amino acids like lysine are located on the outer surface of proteins, attracting water.
  • Hydrophobic: Amino acids such as tryptophan are found buried in the core, avoiding water.
• Kauzmann Hypothesis (1959): Proposed that proteins fold due to a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic surface.
• 1960s X-ray Evidence: Supported the idea of hydrophobic residues being positioned inside the protein structure, while hydrophilic residues remained outside.
• Earlier Belief: It was thought that the protein core was highly sensitive to changes, with minor alterations potentially destabilizing the structure.

Recent Research Findings

• Study Design:Analyzed 78,125 combinations of amino acids across 3 proteins:
  • Human SH3 domain (FYN tyrosine kinase)
  • Barley CI-2A protein
  • E. coli CspA protein
• Findings: While many changes were detrimental, thousands of stable conformations were identified, with SH3-FYN exhibiting over 12,000 stable forms.
• Machine Learning Insights: Stability predictions were accurate even with less than 25% sequence similarity.

Implications

• Protein Engineering: Potential for modifying protein cores without compromising stability, which could benefit therapeutic applications.
• Evolutionary Insight: Suggests that protein cores may have had greater adaptability throughout evolution than previously assumed.

This new understanding of protein core flexibility opens avenues for advancements in biochemistry and molecular biology, particularly in the fields of drug design and protein engineering.

[UPSC 2010] Which one of the following processes in the bodies of living organisms is a digestive process?

• (a) Breakdown of proteins into amino acids *
• (b) Breakdown of glucose into CO2 and H2O
• (c) Conversion of glucose into glycogen
• (d) Conversion of amino acids into proteins.

GS2/Governance

The Difficult Path for Trump's 'One Big Budget Bet'

Why in News?

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, launched during Donald Trump’s second term, aims to reduce U.S. federal spending, deficit, debt, and interest burden while enhancing operational efficiency. With Elon Musk serving as an advisor, the initiative seeks to streamline government operations by cutting the number of federal agencies from over 400 to 99. This article discusses the DOGE initiative's cost-cutting measures, revenue challenges, and fiscal risks, especially in relation to the proposed One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB).

Key Takeaways

• The DOGE initiative focuses on reducing federal spending and improving efficiency.
• Chronic low revenue collection is a key contributor to the U.S. deficit and debt.
• Fiscal risks threaten the long-term goals of the DOGE initiative, especially with the OBBB proposal.

Additional Details

• Low Revenue Collection: From 2001 to 2022, U.S. government revenue averaged 30.55% of GDP, the lowest among major economies, resulting in a fiscal deficit of 6.0% of GDP and a debt burden of 119.5% of GDP in 2024.
• DOGE Reforms: The initiative has implemented various reforms, such as canceling unused office leases, recovering misallocated funds, and reducing the federal workforce, leading to an estimated $190 billion in savings.
• Fiscal Risks: The proposed OBBB tax cuts may add $3.2 trillion to U.S. debt over the next decade, raising concerns about long-term deficit reduction without increasing revenue.

In conclusion, while the DOGE initiative aims to create a leaner government and achieve significant savings, the challenges of low revenue collection and potential fiscal risks associated with the OBBB present serious obstacles to its success. Addressing these issues will be essential for the sustainability of the initiative and the broader economic health of the U.S.

GS1/Indian Society

Dard-Shin Tribe: Cultural Heritage and Current Status

Why in News?

In recent years, a few activists from the Dard-Shin community have emerged to document and preserve the rich heritage of the Dard-Shin tribe, highlighting its significance in the cultural tapestry of India.

Key Takeaways

• The Dard-Shin tribe is an ancient Indo-Aryan group with origins tracing back to migrations between 2000–1500 BCE.
• They are primarily located in Dardistan, which encompasses regions like Chitral, Yasin, Gilgit, Chilas, Bunji, Gurez Valley, Ladakh, and parts of northern Afghanistan.
• The tribe has a unique linguistic heritage, speaking Shina, which is distinct from the Kashmiri language.
• Current population estimates suggest around 48,440 individuals as per the 2011 Census.

Additional Details

• Historical Mentions: The Dard-Shin tribe has been referenced in historical texts by notable figures such as Herodotus, Pliny, Ptolemy, and in Kalhana’s 'Rajatarangini'.
• Political History: The Chak dynasty ruled Kashmir for over 25 years during the 16th century before the Mughal Empire took over.
• Current Location: They primarily reside in Gurez (Bandipora, J&K) and in smaller clusters in areas like Drass, Tulail, and Chanderkote.
• Cultural Significance: The Dard-Shin are among the last groups in the Himalayas preserving their language and cultural traditions. They played a historic role in the Gurez Valley as a Silk Route link between Kashmir, Central Asia, and Tibet.
• The tribe is known for their rich traditions, such as elaborate marriage customs, traditional wool attire, and the practice of burning juniper leaves for land purification.
• Architecturally, their homes reflect a blend of ancient wooden styles and modern influences, with tools suited to the mountainous climate.
• They have a rich oral history that includes migration legends, such as families moving from Gilgit to Ladakh.
• The religious beliefs of the Dard-Shin are diverse, primarily encompassing Islam and Buddhism, along with remnants of animism influenced by various cultural exchanges.

The Dard-Shin tribe's ongoing efforts to document and preserve their cultural heritage are essential for maintaining their identity and traditions in a rapidly changing world.

GS2/Polity

Nominations to J&K Assembly

Why in News?

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has informed the J&K High Court that the Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) holds the authority to nominate five members to the J&K Legislative Assembly without seeking the assistance or advice of the elected government.

Key Takeaways

• The L-G can nominate members directly, as per the provisions of the J&K Reorganisation Act.
• Assembly composition includes both elected and nominated members, ensuring representation for marginalized groups.

Additional Details

• Election Mode: Members are primarily elected directly from single-member constituencies.
• Assembly Size: The size of state assemblies varies from 60 to 500 members depending on the state; smaller states/UTs have fewer members as approved by parliament.
• Anglo-Indian Nomination: Previously, governors could nominate one Anglo-Indian member if necessary, but this provision was abolished by the 104th Constitutional Amendment Act in 2019.
• Rights of Nominated Members: Nominated members possess the same rights and duties as elected members, with certain exceptions regarding direct electoral mandates.
• Special Provisions for J&K:Under the J&K Reorganisation Act of 2019 (amended in 2023), the L-G can nominate:
  • 2 women if under-represented.
  • 2 Kashmiri migrants (including 1 woman).
  • 1 member from the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir community.
• The Assembly consists of 114 elected members plus the nominated members, with 24 seats from PoJK remaining vacant.
• Legal Basis: The powers for nomination are specified in Sections 15, 15A, and 15B of the J&K Reorganisation Act.
• MHA Clarification: The L-G's power to nominate is a statutory function that operates without the aid or advice of the elected government, similar to provisions in other territories like Puducherry.
• Counting Rule: Nominated members are included in the total sanctioned assembly strength.
• Purpose: The nominations aim to ensure representation for displaced communities, marginalized groups, and women.

In conclusion, the recent clarification by the MHA regarding the powers of the L-G highlights the unique legislative framework governing the J&K Assembly, ensuring representation for various communities while emphasizing the statutory nature of these nominations.

GS2/International Relations

Gaza War Puts IMEC’s Future in Doubt

Why in News?

India’s National Security Council Secretariat recently convened officials from various countries, including the U.S., UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Italy, Germany, Israel, Jordan, and the EU, to assess progress on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). This article explores the corridor's ambitions, challenges, and future prospects amid ongoing regional conflicts.

Key Takeaways

• The IMEC aims to enhance connectivity between Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe, announced during the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi.
• It includes two main segments: the India-Gulf corridor and the Gulf-Europe corridor.
• The project seeks to reduce shipping times by approximately 40% compared to existing routes.
• The progress of IMEC is severely impacted by the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Additional Details

• IMEC Overview:The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) consists of two segments:
  • India-Gulf corridor: Links India’s western ports to the UAE and from there to Haifa, Israel, via high-speed freight rail through Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
  • Gulf-Europe corridor: Connects Haifa to Greece and Italy by sea, followed by further transport through European rail networks.
• Geopolitical Context: Initially conceived during a period of relative stability in the Middle East, the IMEC was expected to benefit from Arab normalization with Israel, notably with Saudi Arabia's anticipated involvement.
• Economic Significance: The EU is India's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $137.41 billion in FY 2023-24, emphasizing the corridor's potential economic impact.
• Challenges: The war in Gaza has shifted the challenges of the IMEC from manageable to fundamental, notably affecting Jordan-Israel cooperation and diminishing Saudi-Israel normalization prospects.
• The conflict has raised insurance costs for regional trade, complicating the project's implementation.

While the IMEC holds significant potential for enhancing economic ties, its future is uncertain due to the ongoing conflicts. The restoration of regional stability is crucial for realizing the vision established in 2023, particularly regarding the Palestinian statehood issue. Until a lasting peace is achieved, efforts will remain focused on planning and trade facilitation rather than concrete progress.

GS3/Environment

Barda Wildlife Sanctuary

Why in News?

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in collaboration with the Forest and Environment Department of the Government of Gujarat, recently celebrated World Lion Day 2025 at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Devbhumi Dwarka district of Gujarat.

Key Takeaways

• Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is a vital biodiversity hotspot aimed at conserving the Asiatic Lion.
• The sanctuary is home to various ethnic tribes, including Maldharis, Bharvads, Rabaris, and Gadhvis.
• The 'Gir-Barda Project' was initiated in 1979 to develop Barda as a second home for the Asiatic Lion.

Additional Details

• Location: The sanctuary is situated in the state of Gujarat, India.
• Rivers: It features two rivers, the Bileshvary River and the Joghri River, along with two dams, Khambala and Fodara.
• Flora: Barda is rich in floral diversity, boasting around 650 plant species, including Rayan, Babul, Ber, Jamun, Amli, Gorad, Bamboo, Dhav, and Dhudhlo.
• Fauna: The sanctuary is home to various wildlife species, such as Leopards, Hyenas, Wild Boars, Wolves, Jackals, Blue Bulls, and rare birds like the Spotted Eagle and Crested Hawk Eagle.
• Conservation Status: The Asiatic Lion, also known as the Persian Lion or Indian Lion, is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN and is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.

In summary, the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in the conservation of the Asiatic Lion and supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an essential area for biodiversity in Gujarat.

GS3/Science and Technology

COCO 4.9 Ocean Circulation Model

Why in News?

Researchers utilized the COCO (Center for Climate System Research Ocean Component) version 4.9 ocean model to forecast the dispersion of tritium from the Fukushima nuclear disaster's 30-year wastewater release across the Pacific Ocean, examining both current and future climate scenarios.

Key Takeaways

• The COCO 4.9 ocean model is a computer-based simulator that analyzes seawater movement and mixing over time.
• It predicts how nuclear contaminants, like tritium, will disperse in the ocean, providing critical data for nuclear waste disposal.

Additional Details

• Model Purpose: A computer-based ocean simulator designed to study the dynamics of seawater movement, mixing, and changes over time.
• Methodology: The model divides the ocean into layers and grids, calculating current flows and mixing patterns.
• Resolution: Can operate in both low detail (with larger grid blocks) and high detail (capturing small swirling eddies).
• Climate Link: Capable of modeling the impacts of warming oceans, altered currents, and changing circulation patterns.
• Fukushima Application: Created a “virtual Pacific Ocean” to track the spread of tritium over decades, mapping dispersion pathways for radioactive materials.
• Key Findings:
  • Tritium levels are projected to remain well below natural background radiation levels across the Pacific.
  • While global warming might accelerate some currents, tritium levels will remain undetectable.
  • Tritium's natural half-life of 12 years ensures minimal long-term environmental impact.

This model serves as a critical tool for understanding the long-term implications of nuclear waste disposal and the environmental impact of radioactive materials in oceanic systems.

GS2/Governance

Signing Off on an Entrenched Symbol of Stigma

Why in News?

In April 2025, Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced in the Legislative Assembly a significant initiative to remove village names that end with "colony" or contain explicit caste references. This decision aims to eliminate public markers of caste identity and social stigma, reflecting a broader effort to address historical caste-based segregation in rural Tamil Nadu.

Key Takeaways

• The Tamil Nadu government plans to rename localities with caste-related names to promote social cohesion.
• This initiative is rooted in a historical context of caste segregation that dates back to the 12th century CE.
• Place names like "chery" and "colony" have evolved to signify caste divisions, particularly in rural areas.

Additional Details

• Historical Origins of Caste-Based Segregation: The practice likely began in the 12th century, compounded by religious movements and colonial influences that entrenched caste divisions.
• Evolution of Terms: Terms like "chery" initially had neutral connotations but became associated with untouchability over centuries, while "colony" shifted from elite settlements to derogatory labels for Dalit areas.
• The renaming initiative is not just a welfare scheme; it serves as a symbolic reform to address social stigma and promote dignity.

The stigma associated with place names is actively perpetuating caste discrimination in rural Tamil Nadu. The transition of words like "chery" and "colony" from neutral descriptors to markers of exclusion illustrates the power of language in shaping social hierarchies. By eliminating these derogatory names from official records, the Tamil Nadu government is making a historic gesture towards fostering a more inclusive society. While symbolic reforms cannot replace structural change, they can help reshape public consciousness and lay the groundwork for genuine social integration.

GS2/International Relations

UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries

Why in News?

The third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) recently commenced in Awaza, Turkmenistan, highlighting the unique challenges faced by the 32 landlocked developing nations, which together are home to over 600 million individuals.

Key Takeaways

• LLDC3 is held once every ten years and aims to draw global attention to the issues confronting landlocked developing countries.
• The conference focuses on creating partnerships and frameworks that enhance trade, investment, and infrastructure development.

Additional Details

• Awaza Programme of Action (2024–2034): This initiative serves as a central theme for LLDC3, having been adopted by consensus at the UN General Assembly on December 24, 2024. It provides a comprehensive strategy to address ongoing developmental hurdles faced by LLDCs.
• The APoA emphasizes five interconnected priority areas:
  • Structural Transformation, and Science, Technology, and Innovation
  • Trade, Trade Facilitation, and Regional Integration
  • Transit, Transport, and Connectivity
  • Enhancing Adaptive Capacity, Strengthening Resilience, and Reducing Vulnerability
  • Implementation, Follow-up, and Monitoring

This year's conference, themed "Driving Progress through Partnerships," aims to mobilize investments, tackle structural challenges, and implement the newly adopted Awaza Programme of Action to foster development in LLDCs.

GS2/Polity

Language Lessons and the National Education Policy 2020

Why in News?

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to restructure India's education system in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-4) by promoting universal access, equity, and quality in education. However, its implementation faces challenges stemming from India's diverse socio-cultural landscape.

Key Takeaways

• NEP 2020 aligns with SDG-4 through its focus on multilingualism and equitable access to education.
• Resistance from states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka highlights the tension between national policies and local linguistic identities.
• The debate emphasizes the need for balancing national educational reforms with state-specific needs.

Additional Details

• NEP 2020: Aims to promote linguistic diversity by recommending that students learn at least three languages, with at least two being native to India.
• Tamil Nadu's Approach: Maintains a two-language policy of Tamil and English, emphasizing critical thinking, digital literacy, and inclusivity in education, particularly for marginalized groups.
• Karnataka's Proposed Approach: Mandates Kannada (or mother tongue) and English, discontinuing the three-language policy, and emphasizes state-specific curriculum development.

The implementation of NEP 2020's three-language policy faces criticism, particularly regarding the perceived imposition of Hindi in non-Hindi speaking states, which has historical roots in the anti-Hindi agitations of the 1960s. This situation raises concerns about federalism, as education is a concurrent subject, leading states to argue for autonomy in language policy and curriculum design.

In conclusion, while language policies under NEP 2020 aim to enhance educational quality and inclusiveness, they must respect India's linguistic diversity. Collaboration between the Centre and state governments is essential to ensure that educational reforms meet local aspirations and improve overall educational outcomes.