UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 12th July 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS1/History & Culture

Maratha Military Landscapes of India

Source: TOI

Why in News?

Recently, the 'Maratha Military Landscapes of India' has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking it as India's 44th property to receive this prestigious recognition.

Key Takeaways

• The Maratha Military Landscapes date from the 17th to 19th centuries CE.
• This network comprises twelve significant forts that showcase the strategic military vision and architectural ingenuity of the Maratha Empire.
• The forts are distributed across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.

Additional Details

• List of Forts:The twelve forts include:
  • Salher
  • Shivneri
  • Lohgad
  • Khanderi
  • Raigad
  • Rajgad
  • Pratapgad
  • Suvarnadurg
  • Panhala
  • Vijaydurg
  • Sindhudurg
  • Gingee Fort
• Protected Status: Many of these forts are protected, with Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee under the Archaeological Survey of India, while Salher, Rajgad, Khanderi, and Pratapgarh are protected by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums of the Government of Maharashtra.
• Geographical Diversity:The forts are located in various terrains:
  • Hill Forts: Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Rajgad, and Gingee.
  • Hill-Forest Fort: A fort nestled within dense woods.
  • Hill-Plateau Fort: A fort located on a plateaued hill.
  • Coastal Fort: Positioned along the shoreline.
  • Island Forts: Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, and Sindhudurg, which are surrounded by the sea.

In summary, the inscription of the Maratha Military Landscapes on the UNESCO World Heritage List highlights the historical significance and architectural brilliance of the Maratha Empire, ensuring the preservation of these cultural landmarks for future generations.

GS2/International Relations

America's Shift and India's Strategic Opportunities

Source: Money Control

Why in News?

Recent changes in U.S. domestic policies related to universities, companies, and immigration are causing short-term economic pain for India. However, these developments also present long-term strategic opportunities and may signify the end of Pax Americana.

Key Takeaways

• The U.S.-China tensions create a manufacturing opportunity for India.
• India can implement bold domestic reforms to strengthen its economy.
• Indian educational institutions can emerge as global leaders in research and innovation.
• Stricter U.S. immigration policies pose risks to India's remittance flow and student enrollment.

Opportunities for India

• Manufacturing Opportunity: As tensions between the U.S. and China disrupt global supply chains, companies may seek to diversify production to India. For example, Apple is shifting iPhone assembly to India, highlighting its emerging role as a China+1 manufacturing hub.
• Chance to Implement Bold Domestic Reforms: With reduced global dependence, India can focus on enhancing its internal systems through deregulation, decentralization, and investment in human capital. A proposed 180-day plan aims to cut compliance burdens, empower state governments, and grant autonomy to top institutions like IITs and IIMs.
• Higher Education and Innovation Ecosystem: As American universities face pressures, India can position its institutions as leaders in global research and innovation. Granting poorna swaraj (full autonomy) to institutions like IISc, Ashoka, and IITs can help them climb global university rankings and drive home-grown R&D.

Risks for India

• Decline in Remittances and Student Enrollment: Stricter U.S. immigration and visa policies may reduce the flow of Indian students and workers, affecting remittances and global exposure. The tightening of H-1B visas under Trump led to fewer Indian tech workers entering the U.S., impacting brain circulation.
• Disruption to Exports and Supply Chains: Protectionist trade measures and tariffs can disrupt India's export-dependent sectors such as software, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.

Impact of U.S. Research and Immigration on India's Growth

• Skilled Immigration: Indian immigrants in the U.S. significantly contribute to tech and scientific advancements, creating a reverse knowledge flow to India. Over 70% of H-1B visas in 2022 were granted to Indians, many of whom later founded companies or returned with valuable expertise.
• High Remittances Fueling Economic Stability: The Indian diaspora in the U.S. contributes a substantial share of remittance inflows, supporting India's foreign exchange reserves and rural economy. According to the World Bank (2023), the U.S. contributed over $23 billion in remittances to India, accounting for nearly 25% of India’s total remittance receipts.
• Advancing Indian R&D and Education: U.S. federal funding has indirectly boosted India’s scientific growth through collaborations and return migration. Research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) contributed to 99% of new drugs approved between 2010–2019. Indian researchers trained in U.S. labs or funded via the U.S.-India Science and Technology Forum (USISTEF) have driven innovation in biotech, vaccines, and AI in India.

Implications of a Weakening Pax Americana for India's Strategy

The term "Pax Americana" refers to the period of relative global peace and stability under U.S. dominance, particularly after World War II. With the decline of U.S. dominance, India must:

• Push for Strategic Autonomy and Multipolar Engagement: Strengthen ties with multiple global powers while maintaining independence in foreign policy. India's active role in BRICS, QUAD, and IMEC reflects its efforts to diversify strategic partnerships and avoid overdependence on any single nation.
• Accelerate Domestic Reforms for Economic Resilience: Focus on internal strength through investments in infrastructure and skills. Initiatives like PLI schemes, Digital Public Infrastructure, and Make in India exemplify moves toward economic resilience.
• Enhance Role in Global Governance and Norm Setting: A weakening U.S. opens space for India to shape the global agenda on issues such as climate change, digital governance, and international trade. India's G20 presidency and promotion of Digital Public Infrastructure as a global good underline its leadership in global norm-setting.

Key Reforms to Boost India's Global Economic Standing

• Simplification: Streamlining regulations for employers by reducing compliance burdens and eliminating redundant filings can foster a more business-friendly environment. A focused effort to cut red tape would significantly improve the ease of doing business and attract global investors.
• Decentralization: Empower local governments by transferring funds, functions, and personnel, enabling them to drive regional economic development and create globally competitive manufacturing ecosystems.
• Autonomy: Granting full autonomy to higher education and research institutions such as IITs, IISc, and IIMs allows them to innovate, form global collaborations, and improve their standings in international rankings.

In summary, the evolving geopolitical landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for India. By strategically leveraging its strengths and addressing potential risks, India can enhance its global economic standing and navigate the complexities of a changing world order.

GS1/History & Culture

Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra Resumes After Five Years

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

After a hiatus of five years caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing tensions between India and China, the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra has resumed in 2025. This year, the Ministry of External Affairs has selected 750 pilgrims to undertake the journey.

Key Takeaways

• The yatra involves five batches of 50 pilgrims traveling via Uttarakhand's Lipulekh Pass.
• Additionally, 10 batches of 50 pilgrims each are taking the route through Sikkim's Nathu La Pass.

Additional Details

• Mount Kailash: Rising to 6,638 meters in Tibet’s Ngari Prefecture, Mount Kailash is a significant religious site for multiple faiths, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Tibetan Bon traditions.
• Spiritual Significance: Hindus regard it as the abode of Lord Shiva, Jains see it as the place of enlightenment for their first leader, Buddhists view it as the center of the universe, while Bon adherents believe it is home to the sky goddess Sipaimen.
• Two sacred lakes, Manasarovar (freshwater) and Rakshastal (saltwater), lie south of the mountain and are integral to these spiritual traditions.
• Mount Kailash is the source of four major rivers: the Brahmaputra, Indus, Sutlej, and Karnali, enhancing its geographical importance.
• The Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage, once limited to advanced spiritual practitioners, became more accessible to ordinary Indians in the early 20th century, especially after the British opened Tibet for exploration.
• In 1905, Charles Sherring, a district collector, advocated for improvements to the pilgrimage route, significantly increasing interest among the Hindu community.
• By the 1930s, around 730 Indian pilgrims embarked on the journey annually, until political changes halted the pilgrimage after China's annexation of Tibet in 1950.
• The yatra resumed in 1981, allowing Indian pilgrims to return via Lipulekh.
• The pilgrimage includes a 90 km trek around Lake Mansarovar and a more challenging 52 km trek around Mount Kailash.
• In recent years, infrastructural developments have made the trek significantly easier, with reduced distances for trekking and the introduction of motorable roads.

The resumption of the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra marks a return to a cherished spiritual journey for many, reflecting the evolving accessibility and significance of this pilgrimage over time.

GS2/International Relations

Enforcement Crackdown in ‘U.S. Donkey Route’ Case

Source: TOI

Why in News?

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) of India have intensified their investigations into human trafficking networks exploiting the "Donkey Route." This illegal immigration pathway is primarily used by Indian migrants attempting to reach the United States. The ongoing probe has uncovered a complex network involving traffickers, agents, fake visa consultancies, and international conduits, posing serious risks to national security, human rights, and foreign relations.

Key Takeaways

• Increased ED and NIA actions against human trafficking.
• Understanding the "Donkey Route" and its implications.
• Economic impact of human trafficking on migrants.
• India's role in global illegal migration trends.
• Need for policy responses to address these issues.

Additional Details

• Recent ED and NIA Crackdown:
  • ED raids in Punjab and Haryana focus on money laundering linked to illegal immigration.
  • NIA has arrested key operatives connected to Gagandeep Singh, an alleged kingpin who trafficked over 100 Indians to the U.S. via Latin America, charging ₹45 lakh per person.
• The "Donkey Route" (or "Dunki") Explained:
  • This term refers to perilous and illegal migration routes involving multiple border crossings, popularized by the 2023 film Dunki.
  • Typical Journey Path: India → UAE → Latin America (Ecuador, Guyana, Bolivia) → Colombia → Panama (via Darién Gap) → Costa Rica → Nicaragua → Mexico → U.S.
  • Hazards include dense forests, risks of assault, extortion, and dangerous pathways under the U.S.-Mexico border.
• Economic Dimensions of Human Trafficking:
  • Migrants face costs ranging from ₹30-60 lakh, depending on the route.
  • Local agents in India collaborate with international traffickers, facilitating illegal crossings and fraudulent practices.
• India’s Position in Global Illegal Migration:
  • In 2022, 96,917 Indians were apprehended at the U.S. border, a significant increase from 30,662 in 2021.
  • Over 700,000 undocumented Indians reside in the U.S., ranking third after Mexicans and Hondurans.
• Variations of Illegal Migration Routes:
  • The student visa route through Canada involves agents arranging admissions to fake colleges, costing ₹50-60 lakh per person.
  • A recent case highlighted the tragic death of three members of a Gujarati family at the U.S.-Canada border, prompting investigations into fraudulent agencies.
• Implications for India:
  • National security risks associated with transnational criminal networks.
  • Diplomatic strains due to India being a major source of undocumented migrants.
  • Human rights violations faced by migrants, including extreme dangers and exploitation.
  • Policy responses needed include strengthening emigration laws and regulating travel consultancies.

The "Donkey Route" epitomizes deep socio-economic desperation and systemic regulatory failures. While agencies like the ED and NIA have increased enforcement efforts, a comprehensive policy approach addressing demand, enforcement, international cooperation, and public awareness is crucial for tackling this multifaceted issue.

GS1/Indian Society

India’s Gender Gap Report Ranking: A Warning Sign

Source: ​The Hindu

Why in News?

India finds itself at a critical juncture in its development trajectory. Despite being recognized as a global economic powerhouse, a leading digital innovator, and home to the world’s youngest population, the nation grapples with a stark contradiction. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report (2025) ranks India at 131 out of 148 countries, highlighting a persistent and structural gender inequality that impedes national progress.

Key Takeaways

• India's low ranking underscores significant gender disparities, particularly in health and economic participation.
• The country faces an alarming skew in health outcomes for women, including high rates of anaemia.
• Economic exclusion of women poses a risk to India's overall economic potential, with missed opportunities for GDP growth.
• The demographic shift in the population necessitates urgent action for gender inclusion.
• Policy frameworks exist, but real investment and systemic reforms are crucial for addressing gender inequality.

Additional Details

• Structural Failures: India's ranking is particularly concerning in health and survival, which are foundational to gender equity. Although educational attainment has improved, it has not led to increased workforce participation for women. The skewed sex ratio at birth reflects a dangerous cultural preference for sons.
• Skewed Health Outcomes: Approximately 57% of Indian women aged 15-49 suffer from anaemia, severely affecting their capacity for learning and economic contribution. Insufficient policy responses and a lack of investment in women's healthcare exacerbate this issue.
• Economic Exclusion: India ranks 143rd in Economic Participation and Opportunity, with women earning significantly less than men. Women’s underrepresentation in leadership roles further illustrates the depth of economic exclusion and the burden of unpaid domestic work.
• Demographic Transition: The shift in India's demographic profile, with a rising elderly population and declining fertility rates, highlights the urgent need for women to be empowered and economically active.
• Need for Real Investment: Addressing gender inequality requires comprehensive investment in public health, care infrastructure, and gender-sensitive budgeting. Women must be recognized as active contributors to economic growth.

In conclusion, India's aspirations of becoming a global superpower are at risk if gender disparities remain unaddressed. The issues of gender inequality in health and labor are not merely social concerns; they are significant obstacles to the nation's potential. Transformative action that places women at the center of economic and demographic planning is essential for sustainable development.

GS3/Economy

E-Truck Incentive Scheme

Source: TOI

Why in News?

The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has recently introduced the E-Truck Incentive Scheme as part of the PM E-DRIVE initiative, aimed at providing financial incentives for electric trucks (e-trucks).

Key Takeaways

• The scheme represents the first direct government support specifically targeted at promoting clean and efficient electric trucks.
• It focuses on N2 and N3 category trucks, which have a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) exceeding 3.5 tonnes.
• Applicants must scrap an old diesel truck to qualify for incentives.

Additional Details

• Overview: The E-Truck Incentive Scheme is designed to facilitate the adoption of electric trucks, contributing to sustainable freight mobility.
• Target Vehicle Categories:It includes trucks with a GVW above:
  • 3.5 tonnes up to 12 tonnes (N2 category)
  • 12 tonnes up to 55 tonnes (N3 category)
• Incentive for Articulated Vehicles: The incentive applies only to the puller tractor and not the trailer.
• Warranty Requirements:
  • Battery: 5 years or 5 lakh km, whichever comes first.
  • Motor & Vehicle: 5 years or 2.5 lakh km.
• Incentive Details:
  • Incentives are based on Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) with a maximum cap of ₹9.6 lakh per e-truck.
  • Support is provided as upfront discounts, reimbursed to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) via the PM E-DRIVE portal.
• Deployment Goal: The scheme aims to support the deployment of 5,600 electric trucks across India, with 1,100 trucks specifically allocated for Delhi, supported by an allocation of ₹100 crore due to high pollution levels.
• Sectoral Impact: Expected benefits include reduced fuel costs and improved air quality within sectors such as steel, ports, cement, and logistics.

The E-Truck Incentive Scheme is a significant step towards fostering an electric vehicle ecosystem in India, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070.

About PM E-DRIVE Scheme:

• Launched in September 2024, the PM E-DRIVE stands for Prime Minister’s Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement.
• It has a total budget allocation of ₹10,900 crore over two years, focusing on various electric vehicle categories including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, electric trucks, buses, and ambulances.

Demand Incentive:

Direct demand incentives will lower the upfront costs of EVs for buyers through OEMs.

Charging Infrastructure:

• ₹2,000 crore has been allocated to establish 72,300 public charging stations across the country.
• This includes fast chargers for four-wheelers, buses, two-wheelers, and three-wheelers.

Digital E-Voucher System:

Incentives will be claimed through Aadhaar-authenticated e-vouchers, ensuring transparency through digital signatures from both buyers and dealers.

Vehicle Scrappage Mandate:

Scrapping old vehicles is mandatory to claim certain incentives, promoting fleet modernization.

UPSC 2025 Question:

Consider the following types of vehicles:

• I. Full battery electric vehicles
• II. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
• III. Fuel cell electric hybrid vehicles

How many of the above are considered as alternative (powertrain) vehicles?

• (a) Only one
• (b) Only two
• (c) All the three*
• (d) None

GS2/Governance

Government Claims on Reducing Inequality in India: A Critical Analysis

Source: The Wire India

Why in News?

The Indian government recently asserted that India ranks among the world's most equal societies, citing a Gini Index of 25.5 from the World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Brief. This places India as the fourth most equal country globally. However, this assertion has triggered debates and criticisms from economists and researchers focused on inequality.

Key Takeaways

• The Gini Index is a statistical measure used to assess inequality in income or wealth.
• Critics argue that the Gini Index, particularly when based on consumption data, underrepresents the true extent of inequality.
• Alternatives to the Gini Index, like the Palma Ratio and Theil Index, provide a clearer picture of disparities.
• Misinterpreting inequality data can lead to misguided policy decisions and social unrest.

Additional Details

• Gini Index: This coefficient quantifies inequality within a population. While it is often used to measure income or wealth inequality, it may not accurately reflect consumption inequality.
• Flaws in Consumption-Based Gini:
  • Underestimation of Real Inequality: High-income individuals tend to save more and consume less, leading to a misleading portrayal of equality. For instance, a billionaire may appear similar to a middle-class consumer in spending surveys despite vast differences in wealth.
  • Poor Cross-Country Comparability: India’s consumption-based Gini can appear more equal than income-based measures from other countries, such as the OECD, which shows a Gini of 62.
  • Low Survey Participation: Surveys often miss the wealthiest individuals, underrepresenting their contribution to inequality. For example, the richest 1% may be inaccurately reported due to participation issues.
• World Inequality Database (WID): The WID is considered more reliable as it uses income and wealth tax data, capturing the top earners often missed in surveys. For instance, WID indicates India’s income Gini Index rose from 52 in 2004 to 62 in 2023, highlighting increasing inequality.
• Alternative Measures:
  • Palma Ratio: This ratio compares the income share of the top 10% to that of the bottom 40%, providing a direct measure of income inequality.
  • Theil Index: This index decomposes inequality within and between population groups, offering a more detailed analysis of disparities.
• Policy Risks of Underestimating Inequality:
  • Misguided Policy Design: Underestimating inequality may lead to policies focused solely on growth, neglecting the needs of marginalized groups.
  • Widening Socioeconomic Gaps: Failure to address real inequalities can exacerbate wealth concentration, particularly affecting low-caste and female-led households.
  • Social and Political Instability: Ignoring inequality can result in public discontent and instability, undermining trust in institutions.
  • Poor Targeting of Welfare Schemes: Inaccurate inequality measurements can lead to exclusion errors in welfare programs, failing to reach those in need.

To address these issues, it is crucial to improve data collection methods by integrating consumption data with income tax records. Moreover, adopting comprehensive inequality metrics and designing inclusive policy frameworks can help ensure that marginalized groups receive the support they require, ultimately reducing social and regional disparities.

GS2/Polity

Autonomous District Councils (ADC)

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Governor of Mizoram has imposed Governor’s Rule in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) due to prolonged political instability and frequent changes in leadership.

Key Takeaways

• ADCs are local self-governing bodies established under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
• They are primarily located in the tribal areas of northeastern states, including Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
• The main purpose of ADCs is to provide autonomy to tribal communities to maintain their culture and govern local affairs.

Additional Details

• Legal Basis: ADCs are formed through constitutional provisions specified in the Sixth Schedule, meaning they operate independently of state laws.
• Council Composition: Each ADC can have up to 30 members, with 26 elected by adult suffrage and 4 nominated by the Governor.
• Tenure: The term for an ADC lasts for 5 years from its date of establishment.
• Scope of Authority: ADCs possess legislative, executive, and limited judicial powers tailored to meet the needs of tribal communities.
• Applicability of Laws: Laws from the State and Central governments do not automatically apply within ADC jurisdictions unless explicitly extended.

Powers and Functions of ADCs

• Law-Making Powers: ADCs can create laws regarding land management, agriculture, and forest use (excluding reserved forests).
• Customary Regulations: They may regulate issues related to inheritance, marriage, divorce, and social customs, and can appoint traditional chiefs and headmen.
• Local Administration: ADCs oversee essential services including primary education, healthcare, infrastructure, and market regulation.
• Judicial Functions: They are empowered to establish village courts for civil and criminal cases involving tribal members, with sentencing authority up to five years.
• Regulation of Trade: ADCs can control trade activities and money lending by non-tribals, pending the Governor’s approval.
• Revenue Sources: ADCs can levy taxes on professions, trades, animals, vehicles, markets, ferries, and public infrastructure like roads and schools.

Autonomy and Limitations

• Degree of Autonomy: ADCs enjoy significant legislative and administrative independence within their defined territories.
• Non-Applicability of General Laws: State and Central laws only apply if directed by the Governor, which helps maintain their self-governance.
• Governor’s Oversight: The Governor retains the authority to approve, modify, or annul decisions made by the councils.
• Financial Constraints: ADCs often struggle with limited revenue generation, impacting their developmental initiatives.
• Administrative Challenges: Issues such as leadership instability, lack of trained personnel, and state-level interference hinder council operations.

In conclusion, the Autonomous District Councils play a crucial role in promoting tribal self-governance and preserving cultural identity, but they face various challenges that limit their effectiveness and autonomy.

GS2/Governance

India and the Global AI Race - A Call for Strategic, Democratic Governance

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

The United States and China are leading a new era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) competition while the European Union is establishing regulatory frameworks. In this context, India aims to position itself as a significant player in global AI governance. However, without a strong and politically supported national AI strategy, India's ambitions may be fragmented, risking its relevance on the global stage as governance norms around AI continue to evolve.

Key Takeaways

• India aims to represent the Global South in AI discussions through democratic legitimacy and digital capabilities.
• The IndiaAI Mission, with a budget of Rs. 10,000 crore, lacks a cabinet-endorsed national strategy.
• India faces structural challenges, including a weak R&D base and a lack of coordination in AI governance.

Additional Details

• India’s Strategic Position: India seeks to leverage its democratic legitimacy and digital capabilities to represent the Global South in AI forums. This ambition is crucial as global AI governance becomes more defined.
• Governance Gap: The IndiaAI Mission, currently operating under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, lacks a formal endorsement and political mandate, hindering effective coordination.
• Comparison with Global Peers: Unlike the US, China, UK, and EU, which have established formal AI strategies with roadmaps and institutional backing, India's approach remains fragmented.
• Research and Talent Deficit: There is a notable shortage of AI-specialized PhDs and poor collaboration between academia and industry, contributing to a brain drain of talent.
• Private Sector Limitations: The Indian IT sector primarily focuses on service provision rather than innovation, with low investment in foundational AI research.
• Democratic and Institutional Shortcomings: The absence of bipartisan consensus on AI and limited parliamentary engagement undermines the legitimacy and continuity of AI governance policies.

In conclusion, AI is not merely a technological advancement; it represents a profound transformation affecting national security, economic growth, social equity, and governance. India's youthful population and digital infrastructure present significant advantages, but without a coherent and democratic strategy, the country risks missing its opportunity to influence global AI standards.

GS2/International Relations

International Criminal Court (ICC) Issues Arrest Warrants for Taliban Leaders

Source: BBC

Why in News?

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has recently issued arrest warrants for senior leaders of the Taliban in Afghanistan. This action is taken in response to the systematic persecution of women, which constitutes a crime against humanity.

Key Takeaways

• The ICC operates as the first permanent international court focused on prosecuting individuals for severe crimes.
• Established in 2002, the ICC is governed by the Rome Statute, which outlines its jurisdiction and functions.

Additional Details

• About the ICC:The ICC was established in 2002 under the Rome Statute (1998) and is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands. It has a jurisdiction over four core crimes:
  • Genocide
  • Crimes against humanity
  • War crimes
  • Crime of aggression
• Membership: The ICC has 124 States Parties. Notable non-members include India, China, the USA, Russia, Israel, and Ukraine.
• Structure:
  • Office of the Prosecutor - responsible for investigating and prosecuting cases.
  • 18 Judges - elected for a term of 9 years.
  • Assembly of States Parties - oversees the administration of the ICC.
  • Trust Fund for Victims - provides assistance to victims of crimes.
  • Detention Centre - where suspects are held.
• Funding: The annual budget for 2025 is approximately €195 million, primarily sourced from member states.
• Jurisdictional Reach: The ICC can prosecute crimes committed by nationals of member states or those referred by the UN Security Council, extending its jurisdiction to non-member states like Libya and Darfur.
• Challenges: The ICC faces significant hurdles including a lack of independent enforcement mechanisms, non-cooperation from non-member states, and political constraints affecting the execution of arrest warrants.
• Special Mechanisms: To improve enforcement of warrants, the ICC established the Arrest Working Group in 2016, which focuses on enhancing intelligence-sharing.

In summary, the ICC's recent action against Taliban leaders highlights its ongoing role in addressing crimes against humanity, particularly concerning the treatment of women. However, the court continues to navigate complex political landscapes and operational challenges.

GS2/Governance

Sanchar Mitra Scheme

Source: TOI

Why in News?

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has recently expanded the Sanchar Mitra Scheme to engage engineering students as digital ambassadors. The initiative aims to enhance telecom literacy, promote digital safety, and encourage citizen engagement.

Key Takeaways

• The scheme is an initiative by the Government of India.
• It aims to involve student volunteers as "Sanchar Mitras" to raise awareness about telecom-related issues.
• The program seeks to bridge the communication gap between citizens and the telecom ecosystem.

Additional Details

• Primary Aim: Engage student volunteers to promote safe and informed use of telecom services and to foster public participation in India's digital transformation.
• Implementation Status: Initially piloted in select institutions, the scheme is now being scaled up for a nationwide rollout.
• Target Audience: Primarily targets students from engineering and technical backgrounds, including fields such as telecommunications, computer science, electronics, and cybersecurity.
• Selection of Volunteers: Students will be nominated in consultation with DoT field units and educational institutions.
• Training Modules: Volunteers will receive training on grassroots campaigns covering cyber fraud prevention, EMF radiation concerns, and responsible digital behavior.
• Training Institutions: Training will be conducted by the National Communications Academy–Technology (NCA-T) and the Media Wing of the DoT.
• Core Pillars: The scheme is structured around three main pillars: Connect, Educate, and Innovate.
• Tech Awareness Promotion: Sanchar Mitras will raise awareness about emerging telecom technologies such as 5G, 6G, and AI.
• Community Outreach: Students will engage with communities, NGOs, and schools to promote a culture of informed digital citizenship.
• Strategic Alignment: The scheme aligns with India's strengths in the "Four Ds": Democracy, Demography, Digitization, and Delivery.

This initiative not only empowers the youth by making them active participants in their communities but also plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall digital landscape of the country.

GS2/Polity

Maharashtra’s ‘Urban Maoism’ Bill: Key Concerns and Criticisms

​Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

The Maharashtra Assembly has recently passed the Special Public Security Bill, 2024, aimed at addressing the issue of 'urban Maoism' and left-wing extremism. This legislation criminalizes acts that disturb public order and promote disobedience to the law. A significant concern is the provision that allows for property forfeiture prior to conviction, which raises questions about vague definitions and potential abuse by law enforcement. The Bill is currently pending approval from the Legislative Council and awaits the Governor's assent.

Key Takeaways

• The Bill targets 'urban Maoism' and left-wing extremism.
• It allows pre-conviction property confiscation, raising concerns about misuse.
• The legislation is modeled after the UAPA, expanding the definition of unlawful activities.

Additional Details

• Urban Maoism: This term refers to the strategy employed by the CPI (Maoist) to enhance its influence in urban areas by mobilizing students, professionals, and religious minorities. Techniques include establishing NGOs, organizing protests, and engaging in media campaigns to gradually weaken state authority.
• Key Methods: Urban Maoists may not be armed insurgents but are accused of providing various forms of support, such as financial backing, legal defense, or resource mobilization.
• STIR Document: The 2004 Strategies and Tactics of Indian Revolution (STIR) document outlines objectives for urban base establishment to support rural armed struggles, mobilizing intellectuals, and forming secret alliances with anti-state organizations.

In conclusion, the Special Public Security Bill has sparked significant debate regarding its implications for civil liberties and the definition of unlawful activities, particularly in the context of urban Maoist networks. Critics argue that the vagueness of the terms used in the Bill could lead to the criminalization of legitimate dissent and protests.