UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 16th June 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Governance

India Needs a Sincere Aircraft Accident Investigation

Why in News?

The aviation safety framework in India has shown significant shortcomings, leading to a lack of accountability and transparency in aircraft accident investigations. This situation necessitates an examination of the existing systems and calls for reforms to enhance safety and integrity.

Key Takeaways

• India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) lacks true autonomy due to its operational ties with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA).
• The investigative framework is reactive, often responding to incidents rather than preventing them.
• Past recommendations, such as those from the Seth Committee Report, have been ignored, perpetuating systemic issues.

Additional Details

• Conflict of Interest: The AAIB, while intended to function independently, is controlled by the MoCA, which also regulates the aviation sector, leading to a significant conflict of interest.
• Reactive Nature: Recent aircraft accidents highlight that the system is more focused on responding to incidents rather than implementing proactive safety measures.
• Ignored Lessons: The 1997 Seth Committee Report identified critical issues within the aviation sector, but its findings have been largely disregarded, resulting in unresolved problems.
• Contradictory Reports: Investigations often produce contradictory findings, such as misreported causes of accidents, indicating a tendency to obscure uncomfortable truths.
• Misuse of Findings: The AAIB's findings are frequently misapplied in legal settings, leading to a focus on pilot error rather than systemic failures.
• Lack of Accountability: Investigations are often influenced by powerful institutions, leading to a failure to provide real answers to victims' families and perpetuating public distrust.

To enhance aviation safety, it's crucial for India to establish an independent investigative framework that prioritizes truth and accountability over institutional protection. By embracing reforms that ensure transparency and integrity, the country can rebuild trust in its aviation safety protocols.

GS2/Governance

Centre Caps MGNREGS Spend at 60%

Why in News?

The Union Finance Ministry has announced a cap on spending under the Mahatma Gandhi National Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), limiting it to 60% of its total annual allocation for the first half of FY 2025-26.

Key Takeaways

• The spending cap is aimed at controlling expenditure and preventing mid-year shortages.
• Previous trends indicated over 70% of funds were utilized by September, leading to significant dues.

Additional Details

• About MGNREGS: The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme is a rights-based Centrally Sponsored Scheme established under the MGNREGA Act of 2005, ensuring the Right to Work for rural households.
• Origins: The concept of employment guarantee in India was first introduced in Maharashtra with the Employment Guarantee Scheme in 1965 and later proposed nationally in 1991 by then PM P. V. Narasimha Rao.
• Legal Obligation: MGNREGS is the first law in India that requires the government to provide employment and compensate for non-compliance.
• Key Features:
  • Employment is a legal entitlement, not merely a welfare scheme.
  • Eligibility includes any rural adult aged 18 or above, who must be offered work within 15 days.
  • Work must be within 5 km of the residence, with minimum wage delays attracting compensation.
  • An unemployment allowance is payable by the state if timely work is not provided.
  • The scheme is demand-driven, initiated by workers, requiring government responsiveness.
  • Transparency is maintained through social audits and online updates about job cards and fund usage.
  • Local implementation is decentralized, led by Gram Panchayats, with support from block and state officials.
  • At least one-third of beneficiaries are women, promoting gender equity.
  • Projects focus on creating sustainable rural infrastructure such as ponds, roads, canals, and plantations.
• Rationale Behind the Spending Cap: The cap is part of a Monthly/Quarterly Expenditure Plan aimed at preventing the front-loading of funds and mid-year shortages.
• Current Status: As of June 2025, 28% of the budget has been utilized, with ₹19,200 crore in dues remaining from FY25.
• Criticism: Experts argue that the spending cap undermines the demand-driven design of the act and could violate the legal right to work.

In conclusion, the recent cap on MGNREGS spending raises concerns about its implications for rural employment and the rights of citizens, amidst ongoing challenges in fund allocation and management.

GS3/Environment

Indian Rat Snake: Proposed Official Reptile of Kerala

Why in News?

The State Board for Wildlife is set to meet next week to discuss a proposal to designate the Indian Rat Snake as the official reptile of Kerala.

Key Takeaways

• The Indian Rat Snake is a non-venomous species commonly seen across India.
• It is known for its impressive speed and larger size compared to many other snake species in the region.

Additional Details

• Common Names: The Indian Rat Snake is also referred to as Manja Chera and Karinchera in Kerala.
• Diet: This species is carnivorous and preys on small animals, including the hatchlings of venomous snakes like cobras.
• Behavior: It is a diurnal snake, exhibiting both arboreal and terrestrial behaviors based on its foraging and resting needs.
• Habitat: The Indian Rat Snake thrives in diverse environments including forests, clearings, savannas, plantations, and even human settlements.
• Distribution: This species is widespread across India, as well as in South and Southeast Asia, including areas in China, Pakistan, and Turkmenistan.
• Ecological Role: The Indian Rat Snake is vital for controlling rodent populations, which helps protect agricultural crops from damage and reduces the spread of diseases.
• Conservation Status: It is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN and categorized under Schedule One of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.

The Indian Rat Snake, often termed a "friend of farmers," plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, demonstrating its conservation value and importance to agricultural practices.

GS3/Economy

What are Special Economic Zones (SEZs)?

Why in News?

The Government has recently relaxed key regulations concerning Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to further promote domestic manufacturing of semiconductors and electronics.

Key Takeaways

• SEZs are designated areas within a country that offer various incentives to encourage business and trade.
• They aim to boost economic activity, promote exports, attract investment, and create employment opportunities.
• As of March 31, 2024, India has 280 operational SEZs.

Additional Details

• Definition of SEZ: Special Economic Zones are specific regions within a country that have different economic regulations than the rest of the country. These zones provide businesses with benefits such as duty-free exports, tax incentives, and improved infrastructure.
• Objectives:The primary goals of SEZs include:
  • Generating additional economic activity
  • Promoting the export of goods and services
  • Encouraging both foreign and domestic investment
  • Creating job opportunities
  • Enhancing infrastructure development
• Types of Zones:The SEZ category encompasses various types such as:
  • Free Zones (FZs)
  • Industrial Estates (IEs)
  • Free Ports
  • Free Trade Zones (FTZs)
  • Export Processing Zones (EPZs)
• SEZs in India: Asia's first EPZ was established in Kandla, Gujarat, in 1965, leading to the introduction of SEZ policy in April 2000. The SEZ Act was enacted in May 2005, with implementation starting on February 10, 2006.
• Regulatory Amendments:On June 9, 2025, the Indian government announced amendments aimed at enhancing SEZs for semiconductor and electronic component production, including:
  • Reduction of the minimum land requirement for semiconductor-focused SEZs from 50 hectares to 10 hectares.
  • Allowing SEZ units to sell domestically, subject to applicable duties.
  • Empowering the SEZ Board of Approval to waive certain land requirements.

In conclusion, SEZs play a crucial role in India's economic landscape, facilitating growth in key sectors such as electronics and semiconductors while driving investment and job creation.

GS2/International Relations

Who Takes Responsibility When a Ship Sinks?

Why in News?

Two recent maritime accidents off the coast of Kerala have highlighted issues surrounding shipping safety, ecological threats, and the role of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in global maritime regulation.

Key Takeaways

• The IMO is a UN specialized agency focused on regulating international shipping and preventing marine pollution.
• Ship owners are generally held liable for cargo loss and environmental damage under international law.

Additional Details

• About the International Maritime Organisation (IMO): The IMO was established in 1948 during a UN conference in Geneva and officially came into existence in 1958. It is headquartered in London, UK, with 175 member states and 3 associate members, including India, which joined in 1959.
• Objective: To develop a fair and effective global regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is universally adopted and consistently implemented.
• Legal Functions: The IMO addresses liability and compensation issues and facilitates international maritime traffic through legal frameworks.
• World Maritime Day: Celebrated on the last Thursday of September each year to raise awareness about the significance of maritime activities.
• Governance Structure: The IMO has a governing Assembly that meets every two years, a Council of 40 members serving two-year terms, and several committees that draft and adopt regulations for maritime operations.

India's involvement with the IMO includes overseeing agency functions through the Directorate General of Shipping. As a Category B member of the IMO Council, India is enhancing its maritime influence and aims to establish a dedicated IMO cell under its Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 plans. However, India has yet to ratify the 2004 Ballast Water Convention and the 2010 HNS Convention.

Liability in Maritime Accidents

• Owner Liability: Ship owners are liable for cargo loss and environmental damage according to international law, which is often detailed in a bill of lading—a legal contract between the ship owner and cargo holder.
• Marine Insurance: Protection & Indemnity (P&I) Clubs provide coverage for liabilities related to loss of life and other maritime incidents.
• Polluter Pays Principle: Under the MARPOL Convention, polluters are required to bear the costs of environmental damage, regardless of national laws that might limit compensation.
• Wreck Liability: The Nairobi Convention (2007) holds ship owners responsible for wreck removal and associated financial liabilities within 200 nautical miles of a nation's coast.

Recent maritime incidents, such as those involving the Wan Hai 503 and ELSA 3, underscore the necessity for robust legal frameworks to address issues of toxic spills and lost containers.

Quiz Question:

With reference to the ‘Polar Code’, which one of the following statements best describes it?

• (a) It is the international code of safety for ships operating in polar waters.
• (b) It is the agreement of the countries around the North Pole regarding the demarcation of their territories in the polar region.
• (c) It is a set of norms to be followed by the countries whose scientists undertake research studies in the North Pole and South Pole.
• (d) It is a trade and security agreement of the member countries of the Arctic Council.

GS2/Governance

Why the Centre Capped MGNREGS Spending — And Why It’s a Problem

Why in News?

The Union Finance Ministry has implemented a spending cap of 60% of its annual budget for the first half of FY 2025-26 on the MGNREGS scheme, which was previously exempt due to its demand-driven nature. This change means that the scheme is now subject to the Monthly/Quarterly Expenditure Plan (MEP/QEP), a financial control tool established in 2017 to monitor and manage government spending.

Key Takeaways

• The Finance Ministry aims to regulate cash flow to prevent premature exhaustion of funds.
• Spending caps may lead to significant legal and operational challenges in fulfilling employment guarantees.
• Current fiscal constraints could exacerbate existing issues within the MGNREGS framework.

Additional Details

• MGNREGS Spending Cap: The cap is intended to ensure that cash flow is managed effectively, but it raises concerns about the ability to meet employment demands that fluctuate based on agricultural cycles and climate conditions.
• Chronic Budget Overruns: Historically, over 70% of the MGNREGS budget is used by September, leading to supplementary allocations that are often depleted by January.
• Pending Dues: Over the past five years, pending dues have varied from ₹15,000 crore to ₹25,000 crore, with an average of 20% of the next year's budget allocated to settle these dues.
• Legal Rights Issues: MGNREGS is a statutory scheme that guarantees employment, and the spending cap could hinder the state's ability to fulfill these legal obligations, potentially violating key rights established under the MGNREG Act, 2005.
• Judicial Precedents: Courts have reiterated that financial constraints should not be used to justify the failure to meet statutory obligations, as seen in landmark cases like Swaraj Abhiyan v Union of India (2016).
• Consequences of Spending Cap: The government has not clarified the implications once the spending limit is reached, which could lead to states denying employment or causing wage delays, both of which are in violation of the MGNREG Act.

In summary, while the Finance Ministry's intention may be to manage fiscal pressures, the implementation of a spending cap on MGNREGS undermines the scheme's fundamental purpose of providing timely and legally guaranteed employment, particularly in times of rural distress.

GS3/Science and Technology

Spartaeus karigiri: New Jumping Spider Species Discovered in Karnataka

Why in News?

Researchers from Chennai have identified a new species of jumping spider named Spartaeus karigiri. This species belongs to the Spartaeinae subfamily within the Salticidae family, marking a significant discovery in India.

Key Takeaways

• Location of Discovery: First identified in the Karigiri (Elephant Hill) region of Devarayanadurga, Karnataka.
• Significance: This is the first recorded instance of the genus being found in India, extending its known range from Southeast Asia.
• Habitat Insights: Field specimens were also collected from Villupuram district in Tamil Nadu, indicating a broader habitat.

Additional Details

• Genus Identification: The genus is recognized for its intelligent predation and unique visual hunting tactics.
• Habitat: Prefers rocky outcrops and forested terrains, often found in crevices and other protected microhabitats.
• Hunting Behaviour: Likely employs web-invasion hunting methods and exhibits prey mimicry, akin to other members of the Spartaeinae.

This discovery not only enriches our understanding of spider biodiversity in India but also highlights the ecological importance of the regions where these species are found.

Regarding the Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements:

• I. It is an omnivorous crustacean.
• II. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.
• III. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) I only
• (b) I and III
• (c) II only
• (d) II and III *

GS2/International Relations

What is the G7 Grouping?

Why in News?

The Prime Minister recently traveled to Canada to attend the G7 summit at the invitation of his counterpart, Mark Carney.

Key Takeaways

• The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal grouping of seven of the world’s advanced economies.
• Member countries include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
• The European Union (EU) also participates, represented by the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission.

Additional Details

• History: The G7 was founded in 1975 in response to the oil crisis. It briefly became the G8 in 1998 with the inclusion of Russia, but returned to the G7 format in 2014.
• Agenda: Initially focused on global economic development, the G7 has expanded its agenda to include issues like foreign and security policy, trade, climate change, and development.
• Governance Structure: The G7 does not have a formal secretariat or established administrative structure. The presidency rotates annually among member states, except for the EU, which does not hold the presidency.
• The G7 Summit, the centerpiece of the presidency, is attended by Heads of State and Government from member nations, along with representatives from the EU and invited international organizations.
• The thematic priorities of the G7 are determined through consensus and are reflected in the communiqués adopted at the end of each summit, which outline key political commitments.

The decisions and communiqués produced by the G7 significantly influence global governance and international decision-making processes.

GS1/Indian Society

UNESCO Creative Cities Network

Why in News?

Lucknow has recently submitted its nomination to be recognized as a “City of Gastronomy” under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). This nomination highlights the city’s rich culinary heritage and its potential to contribute to sustainable urban development through creativity.

Key Takeaways

• The UCCN was established in 2004 to foster collaboration among cities that prioritize creativity for sustainable development.
• The initiative aims to promote cultural diversity and enhance resilience against issues like climate change and urbanization.

Additional Details

• Aim of UCCN: The network seeks to harness the creative, social, and economic potential of cultural industries, encouraging innovative urban planning solutions.
• Objective of the UCCN: It enables cities to recognize creativity as vital for urban development, fostering partnerships among public and private sectors and civil society.
• Member cities are encouraged to develop hubs of creativity and broaden opportunities for cultural professionals, aligning with the UN's sustainable development goals.

Currently, ten Indian cities are part of the UCCN, including Kozhikode (Literature) and Gwalior (Music). Previously, cities such as Jaipur (Crafts and Folk Arts), Varanasi (Music), Chennai, Mumbai (Film), Hyderabad (Gastronomy), and Srinagar (Crafts and Folk Arts) have also been recognized.

GS3/Economy

What is the SCORES Portal?

Why in News?

Recently, the capital markets regulator, SEBI, resolved 4,493 investor complaints through its online grievance redressal platform, SCORES, in the previous month.

Key Takeaways

• SCORES stands for SEBI Complaints Redress System.
• It is an online platform established in 2011 for filing and tracking complaints against listed entities and SEBI-registered market intermediaries.
• The upgraded SCORES 2.0 framework automatically directs complaints to the relevant entities.
• Entities are required to respond with an Action Taken Report (ATR) within 21 days.
• Investors can request a First Level Review if they are dissatisfied with the response within 15 days.

Additional Details

• First Level Review: Complaints are classified as pending during this review, even if an ATR has been submitted.
• Escalation Options: If the grievance remains unresolved, investors can escalate the issue to SEBI or request a Second Level Review.
• Complaints can also be closed if the investor chooses to resolve the matter using the Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) mechanism.
• Investors unfamiliar with SCORES or lacking access can submit physical complaints at SEBI offices, which will then be scanned and uploaded for processing.

The SCORES Portal facilitates the online submission and resolution of investor complaints, enhancing the efficiency of the grievance redressal process for both investors and market intermediaries.

GS3/Science and Technology

Ahmedabad Air India Crash: The Role of DNA in Victim Identification

Why in News?

The recent crash of an Air India Boeing 787 in Ahmedabad has led authorities to employ DNA analysis as a crucial tool for identifying victims' remains. Family members have contributed DNA samples, resulting in some successful matches. Given that each individual's DNA is unique (with the exception of identical twins), it stands out as the most dependable method for identifying bodies, particularly in mass fatality situations where visual identification is often compromised.

Key Takeaways

• DNA analysis is vital for identifying victims in mass disasters.
• Unique DNA profiles assist in differentiating individuals, except for identical twins.
• Challenges include degradation of remains and contamination of samples.
• Different methods are available for DNA analysis based on the condition of the samples.

Additional Details

• DNA Structure: DNA consists of two long strands forming a double helix, made of repeating units called nucleotides. Each nucleotide is composed of a sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases: Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), or Guanine (G). The sequence of these bases encodes genetic information.
• DNA Location: DNA is primarily found in the nucleus of cells (known as nuclear DNA), with a smaller amount located in mitochondria (mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA). Nuclear DNA is unique to individuals, whereas mtDNA is maternally inherited and present in multiple copies within cells.
• Function of DNA: DNA governs cellular functions by coding for proteins and facilitates the transmission of genetic traits across generations. In incidents like plane crashes, where physical identification is often impractical, DNA serves as the most reliable method.
• Challenges in DNA Identification:
  • Decomposition and Damage: Disasters can severely affect human remains, complicating DNA extraction.
  • Contamination: Samples can become contaminated, hindering analysis.
  • Time and Resources: The identification process can be lengthy and resource-intensive, especially in large-scale incidents.
• Ideal Storage Conditions: DNA is best preserved in cold, dry environments. Samples should ideally be frozen at -20°C or stored in 95% ethanol, especially for soft tissues. Bones and teeth are preferred due to their durability against decomposition.
• Importance of Reference Samples: To facilitate the matching of unidentified remains, DNA samples from biological relatives (especially parents or children) are collected, as they share significant genetic material with the victim.
• DNA Analysis Methods:
  • Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis: Analyzes repeating DNA sequences unique to individuals, requiring non-degraded nuclear DNA for effective results.
  • Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Analysis: Utilized when nuclear DNA is damaged, mtDNA is easier to recover and helps identify victims through maternal relatives.
  • Y Chromosome Analysis: Examines STRs on the Y chromosome, identifying male victims via paternal relatives.
  • Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) Analysis: Used for highly degraded DNA, identifying variations at single base points, though less precise than STR analysis.

The utilization of DNA technology is crucial in ensuring that victims of disasters like the Air India crash can be identified with accuracy, providing closure to families during tragic circumstances.

GS2/International Relations

Strategic Convergence and Defence Industrial Cooperation Between India and EU

Why in News?

The European Commission's Joint White Paper (WP) on European Defence Readiness 2030 outlines a detailed strategy to bolster the EU's collective defence capabilities in light of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the shifting dynamics of trans-Atlantic security. This document emphasizes the importance of strategic autonomy, industrial cooperation, and technological leadership, thereby opening new avenues for defence collaboration between India and the EU.

Key Takeaways

• The EU aims for full defence readiness by 2030, with a proposed increase in defence spending to 1.5% of GDP.
• Seven priority areas for investment include air defence systems, military mobility, and advanced technologies like AI and cyber warfare.
• Opportunities for India include defence equipment exports and collaborative R&D in dual-use technologies.

Additional Details

• Strategic Objectives: The EU plans to increase its defence budget to approximately €800 billion over four years, while maintaining strong ties with NATO and the US.
• Global Outreach: The WP advocates for defence-industrial cooperation with nations like Japan and Australia, and proposes a Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) with India.
• Challenges Addressed: The WP discusses terrorism, cybercrime, and the influence of China on Europe, underscoring the need for robust defence strategies.
• Opportunities for India: India’s defence exports have reached approximately ₹23,622 crore (~$2.76 billion), with potential for growth in areas such as advanced artillery and NATO-compliant systems.
• Collaborative R&D: India can engage in joint research on critical technologies and integrate with European startups and SMEs in the defence sector.
• Regulatory Engagement: To successfully navigate the EU defence ecosystem, India must align with evolving regulatory frameworks and explore cross-certification of defence products.
• Broader Engagement Prospects: Opportunities exist in space technology, cybersecurity, and infrastructure projects, particularly in engineering and military mobility.

This strategic engagement with the EU presents India with a significant opportunity to enhance its defence exports, forge robust partnerships, and advance self-reliance in defence manufacturing. By positioning itself as a key security partner, India can navigate the evolving Euro-Atlantic security landscape effectively.