UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 29th July 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

India Notifies Environment Protection Rules to Address Chemically Contaminated Sites

Why in News?

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has officially announced the Environment Protection (Management of Contaminated Sites) Rules, 2025, marking a significant advancement in India's approach to managing sites contaminated by hazardous chemicals.

Key Takeaways

• Introduction of a legally binding framework to identify, assess, and remediate contaminated sites.
• Codification of procedures for addressing historically polluted areas, enhancing public health and ecosystem safety.
• Initial identification of 103 contaminated sites, with remediation efforts only underway at seven.

Additional Details

• Contaminated Sites:These are locations where hazardous and other wastes have been dumped historically, often before appropriate regulatory measures were established. Common examples include:
  • Defunct industrial landfills
  • Waste storage and chemical spill sites
  • Abandoned chemical handling facilities
• Key Features of the Environment Protection Rules:
  • The rules provide a structured, time-bound process for remediation.
  • Steps include identification, preliminary assessment, detailed site surveys, remediation planning, and cost recovery.
• Scope and Exemptions: The rules do not apply to radioactive waste, mining-related contamination, marine oil pollution, or municipal solid waste dump sites to avoid regulatory overlap.
• Significance: This new legal framework represents a shift from fragmented enforcement to a more systematic approach to environmental remediation, defining responsibilities and timelines for action.
• Challenges in Implementation:Successful execution depends on:
  • Scientific capacity for hazardous chemical assessment
  • Institutional coordination among various agencies
  • Funding support for remediation efforts
  • Public awareness and community participation

In conclusion, the introduction of these rules is a pivotal step for India in tackling the serious issue of contaminated sites, aiming to protect public health and the environment through structured and legally enforced actions.

GS3/Environment

Marbled Cat: A Rare Discovery in Northeast India

Why in News?

In a significant development for wildlife research in Northeast India, camera traps have successfully captured the first-ever images of the elusive Marbled Cat in the Kakoi Reserve Forest, Assam.

Key Takeaways

• The Marbled Cat is a small wild cat found in South and Southeast Asia.
• Its scientific name is Pardofelis marmorata.
• It has a distribution range from the Eastern Himalayas to the Indochinese region.
• The IUCN Red List classifies it as Near Threatened.

Additional Details

• Habitat: Marbled Cats inhabit various environments, including mixed deciduous-evergreen forests, secondary forests, and rocky scrub, ranging from sea level to altitudes of 3,000 meters.
• Physical Characteristics: They are about the size of a domestic cat, measuring approximately 45-60 cm (18-24 inches) long, with tails of equal length. Their fur is soft, brownish-yellow with large, pale blotches outlined in black.
• Behavior: These cats are solitary and nocturnal, known for being excellent climbers. They primarily feed on small animals and birds.
• Distribution: In India, they are mainly found in the forests of the Northeastern states, including regions like Assam.

This groundbreaking observation highlights the importance of conservation efforts for the Marbled Cat and underscores the rich biodiversity present in India's northeastern forests.

GS1/History & Culture

Paithani Sarees

Why in News?

Recently, the Prime Minister of India praised the traditional craftsmanship of Paithani sarees during his monthly radio programme, highlighting their significance in Indian culture.

Key Takeaways

• Paithani sarees are acclaimed as the 'mahavastra' of Maharashtra.
• They are characterized by rich, vibrant colors woven from pure silk and gold zari.
• Their origin traces back to the town of Paithan, situated by the River Godavari.

Additional Details

• Features of Paithani Sarees:
  • Handmade from pure silk, dyed in traditional colors.
  • Distinctive motifs on the kath (border) and padar (pallu), often featuring designs like parrots, lotuses, and peacocks.
  • Available in six or nine-yard lengths, traditionally favored by Maharashtrian brides.
  • Awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2010.
• Paithani sarees are recognized for their exquisite quality and are among the most expensive sarees in India, symbolizing Maharashtrian heritage and craftsmanship.

In conclusion, Paithani sarees not only represent a rich tradition but also embody the skilled artistry of Maharashtra, making them a cherished garment in Indian society.

GS1/History & Culture

Divya Deshmukh Becomes New Chess World Champion

Why in News?

Divya Deshmukh has made history by becoming India’s first Women’s World Cup Champion and only the fourth Indian woman Grandmaster. She achieved this remarkable feat by defeating Koneru Humpy in the final held in Batumi, Georgia.

Key Takeaways

• Divya Deshmukh won the FIDE Women’s World Cup in 2025.
• She is recognized as India’s 4th woman Grandmaster.
• Her significant victories include the U-20 Girls’ World Champion in 2024 and the Asian Women’s Champion in 2023.
• She was a key contributor to India’s gold medal at the 2025 Chess Olympiad in Budapest.
• Divya became India’s youngest Woman FIDE Master (WFM) at the age of 7 in 2013.

Additional Details

• About FIDE: The Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE) is the global governing body of chess, established in 1924 and headquartered in Switzerland.
• World Championship Format: The championship is conducted over 14 classical games, requiring a player to score 7.5 points to win. If tied at 7-7, rapid and blitz games serve as tiebreakers.
• Qualification Path: Players qualify through Zonal and Continental Championships, the FIDE World Cup, and the Candidates Tournament, where the top player faces the reigning champion.
• Key FIDE Events: The FIDE World Cup features a knockout format, while the Women's World Cup follows a similar structure for top female players.
• Title Hierarchy: The highest titles include Grandmaster (GM), International Master (IM), and FIDE Master (FM), along with Women’s titles such as Woman Grandmaster (WGM).

Divya Deshmukh's achievements not only highlight her individual talent but also signify a momentous occasion for women in chess, inspiring future generations.

Trivia Question

Consider the following statements:

• I. In the finals of the 45th Chess Olympiad held in 2024, Gukesh Dommaraju became the world’s youngest winner after defeating the Russian player Ian Nepomniachtchi.
• II. Abhimanyu Mishra, an American chess player, holds the record of becoming the world’s youngest ever Grandmaster.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) I only
• (b) II only *
• (c) Both I and II
• (d) Neither I nor II

GS2/Governance

The Medical Boundaries for AYUSH Practitioners

Why in News?

A recent controversy on X (Twitter) involving a hepatologist and an Indian chess Grandmaster has reignited the long-standing debate over whether practitioners of traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda and Unani, can legitimately claim the title of “doctor” and prescribe modern medicine.

Key Takeaways

• Concerns about lack of scientific training among Ayurvedic practitioners.
• Legal ambiguities due to conflicting state orders regarding prescribing rights.
• Risks posed to patient safety in critical care settings.
• Impacts on public health insurance and the integration of traditional medicine.

Additional Details

• Lack of Scientific Training: Ayurvedic doctors often lack formal training in modern pharmacology and diagnostic methods, which can lead to inappropriate prescriptions. For instance, there have been cases where Ayurvedic practitioners prescribed steroids and antibiotics without understanding their side effects or appropriate dosages.
• Violation of Legal Norms: According to the Supreme Court judgment in the Dr. Mukhtiar Chand case, non-MBBS practitioners are not permitted to prescribe allopathic medicines. However, some states have passed conflicting executive orders, resulting in legal ambiguity.
• Consumer Deception: Patients may mistakenly believe they are consulting an MBBS-qualified doctor when receiving treatment from Ayurvedic practitioners, leading to misrepresentation and potential legal challenges.
• Endangerment in Critical Care: The employment of Ayurvedic doctors in emergency wards poses risks to patient safety, as treatment delays or incorrect interventions have been reported.
• Undermining Rational Drug Use: The unregulated prescription of allopathic medicines by Ayurvedic practitioners contributes to issues such as antibiotic resistance, as highlighted by a Uttar Pradesh health audit revealing significant instances of AYUSH doctors prescribing modern medications without proper oversight.
• Evolution of Traditional Medicine Regulation: Post-independence, India recognized traditional systems like Ayurveda and Unani, culminating in the establishment of the Ministry of AYUSH in 2014 to promote and regulate these practices.
• Integration with Mainstream Healthcare: Traditional medicine has become increasingly integrated into public health policies, reflected in initiatives like the National Health Policy (2017) and AYUSH Health and Wellness Centres.
• Rule 2(ee) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules: This rule defines “registered medical practitioners” who may prescribe modern drugs, allowing state governments discretion to include non-MBBS practitioners, which has led to ongoing legal disputes.
• Impact on Public Health Insurance: AYUSH practices are included under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), promoting access to traditional treatments in underserved areas and reducing costs for patients.

Moving forward, it is essential to strengthen evidence-based integration of traditional medicine, depoliticize health governance, and ensure that AYUSH practices are scientifically validated and regulated to maintain public trust and safety.

GS3/Environment

Golden Jackal

Why in News?

Recent citizen science studies have highlighted that the state of Kerala is home to an estimated population of between 20,000 and 30,000 Golden Jackals, showcasing their adaptability in human-dominated landscapes.

Key Takeaways

• The Golden Jackal, also known as the common jackal, is a medium-sized canid.
• They are primarily nocturnal in human-inhabited areas but may exhibit diurnal behavior in other regions.
• Golden Jackals live in mated pairs and are strictly monogamous.
• They have a diverse diet, being omnivorous.

Additional Details

• Habitat: Golden Jackals are abundant in valleys, along rivers, canals, lakes, and seashores, but are rare in foothills and low mountains.
• Distribution: They are found across North and East Africa, Southeastern Europe, and South Asia, extending to Burma. In India, their range extends from the Himalayan foothills to the Western Ghats.
• Conservation Status: According to the IUCN, Golden Jackals are classified as "Least Concern." They are listed under CITES Appendix III and protected by the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 in Schedule I.

This information underscores the resilience of the Golden Jackal in adapting to various environments, particularly in areas dominated by human activity, rather than traditional forest habitats.

GS2/International Relations

The Yarlung Tsangpo Project - Strategic, Ecological, and Geopolitical Implications for India

Why in News?

Recently, Chinese Premier Li Qiang initiated the construction of a significant hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, located near the Indian border. The scale of the project, coupled with its opacity and potential ecological threats, has raised considerable concerns for India, particularly as there was no prior consultation with downstream nations such as India and Bangladesh.

Key Takeaways

• The Yarlung Tsangpo project has an estimated cost of 1.2 trillion yuan (approximately US$167.8 billion).
• It includes five cascade hydropower plants situated in Medog County, about 30 km from Arunachal Pradesh.
• Annual electricity generation is expected to be 300 billion kWh, significantly exceeding the capacity of the Three Gorges Dam.

Project Overview and Strategic Location

• Cost and Scale: The project will involve five hydropower plants and is projected to cost around 1.2 trillion yuan.
• Engineering Features: This includes drilling several tunnels and diverting up to 50% of the river's flow, all while being situated in a high seismic zone.

Environmental and Hydrological Concerns

• Disruption of Brahmaputra Flow: The project is expected to alter the natural hydrology and seasonal water flow, impacting biodiversity and ecosystem services.
• Flood Risk: The potential for sudden water releases could cause severe flooding downstream, particularly during heavy rainfall or seismic events.
• Seismic Vulnerability: The project area is prone to earthquakes, raising safety concerns based on past engineering failures.

Diplomatic and Legal Dimensions

• Lack of Riparian Cooperation: China has a history of withholding vital data from downstream nations, which raises concerns about transparency and cooperation.
• International Water Laws: Both India and China are not signatories to the UN Convention on international watercourses, complicating legal recourse.
• Geopolitical Double Standards: China’s approach may not be tolerated if similar actions were taken by upstream states against them.

Strategic and Policy Recommendations for India

• Diplomatic Pushback: India should demand full disclosure of the project and conduct independent assessments.
• Domestic Response: Investment in flood moderation infrastructure and independent hydrological assessments is critical.
• Internationalizing the Issue: Engaging NGOs and elevating the issue in international forums can help bolster India's position.

The Yarlung Tsangpo project presents not only ecological and hydrological challenges but also strategic dilemmas for India. A shift from passive to proactive diplomacy is essential, focusing on water governance and ecological security. India must leverage diplomatic, technical, and legal avenues while enhancing its domestic preparedness to address these emerging threats.

GS1/History & Culture

Lessons from the Chola Legacy

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Tamil Nadu during the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival highlighted the significance of the Chola dynasty, particularly focusing on its legacy of governance and culture. This visit was notable for its subtle political messaging regarding the importance of the Chola administration, especially under Rajendra Chola I.

Key Takeaways

• The Chola Empire exemplified effective local governance through village assemblies (sabhas).
• Advanced techniques in water management and infrastructure development are relevant today.
• Chola temple architecture offers insights into seismic safety and resilience.
• The Chola legacy informs contemporary political narratives and regional identity.
• Implementation of the 73rd and 74th Amendments can enhance local governance structures.

Additional Details

• Village Self-Governance: The Chola Empire empowered local sabhas with authority over taxation, public works, and justice. For example, the Uttaramerur inscription details electoral procedures, serving as a historical model for transparent local elections in today’s Panchayati Raj system.
• Efficient Land and Revenue Administration: Chola governance included meticulous land surveys categorizing land by productivity, which allowed for fair taxation. Modern municipalities can adopt similar methods through digitisation and GIS-based mapping for effective property tax collection and urban planning.
• Sustainable Infrastructure Development: The Chola constructed durable public structures, like the Brihadisvara Temple, which has endured for over 1,000 years. This showcases advanced engineering techniques that can inspire modern disaster-resilient urban planning.
• Water Management Practices: The Cholas were pioneers in constructing tanks and canals for rainwater harvesting and irrigation. Modern regions facing water scarcity can learn from these traditional methods to enhance climate-resilient agriculture.
• Community Involvement: Local communities were involved in maintaining water systems, ensuring accountability and efficiency. Today’s Panchayati Raj Institutions can engage village-level water user associations for improved decentralized water management.
• Seismic Safety in Temple Architecture: Chola temples, such as the Brihadisvara Temple, feature designs that distribute weight evenly and are built with interlocking stones, enhancing their resistance to earthquakes. Understanding these techniques can inform modern construction practices in seismic-prone areas.
• Cultural Nationalism: Highlighting the Chola legacy fosters national pride and cultural unity, establishing ancient India as an influential civilization in global maritime trade.
• Importance of 73rd/74th Amendments: The Chola system of village self-governance reflects the principles of decentralisation envisioned in these amendments, promoting efficient local administration and civic involvement.

In conclusion, the Chola dynasty's governance, infrastructure, and community involvement present valuable lessons for contemporary governance models. By integrating these historical practices with modern strategies, we can create robust and sustainable systems that honor our heritage while addressing current challenges.

GS2/Polity

Justice on Hold: India’s Courts are Clogged

Why in News?

India's judicial system is currently facing significant challenges due to a backlog of cases, with more than 4.5 crore cases pending in various courts. This situation has raised concerns about the efficiency of the legal system and its impact on public trust.

Key Takeaways

• Judicial delays are undermining public faith in the legal system.
• The backlog is attributed to various systemic issues, including judicial vacancies and inadequate infrastructure.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, such as Lok Adalats, are being highlighted as a solution to alleviate the burden on traditional courts.

Additional Details

• Judicial Vacancies: A significant shortfall of judges results in increased workloads for the remaining judges, contributing to prolonged case processing times. As of 2024, over 30% of High Court positions are unfilled, exacerbating this issue.
• Procedural Inefficiencies: Outdated legal procedures and frequent adjournments lead to unnecessary delays in case hearings. For instance, civil suits often see routine adjournments which can extend hearings for years.
• Impact of ADR: Alternative Dispute Resolution methods, including mediation and arbitration, help in resolving disputes outside of the formal court system, thus reducing the number of pending cases. The Delhi mediation center has resolved over 2 lakh cases since its inception in 2005.
• Lok Adalats: These are effective in quickly resolving a high volume of cases, particularly compoundable civil and petty criminal matters. A recent National Lok Adalat settled 1 crore cases in just one day, showcasing their efficiency.

The systemic issues plaguing India's judicial system necessitate urgent reforms, including increased judicial appointments and the promotion of ADR mechanisms. Improving legal literacy and integrating digital solutions can also enhance the overall efficiency of the judicial process.

GS1/History & Culture

Gavri Festival

Why in News?

The Gavri Festival is an annual event celebrated by the Bhil community of Mewar, Rajasthan, marking a significant cultural tradition that has been ongoing for centuries.

Key Takeaways

• The Gavri Festival is a 40-day ritual combining dance and drama.
• It portrays the eternal struggle between good and evil, represented by Goddess Amba and the demon Bhiamwal.
• The festival has roots dating back to the 3rd or 4th century and is integral to the identity of the Bhil tribe.

Additional Details

• Historical Significance: The festival has been noted during the reign of Siddh Raj Jai Singh in Gujarat, showcasing its long-standing cultural relevance.
• Performance Style: The dance-drama, known as Gavri or Rai Nach, features a blend of mime and dialogue, with men performing all roles.
• The narrative is enhanced by a character named Kutkadiya, who introduces each scene, enriching the audience's understanding and engagement.
• Vibrant costumes and lively background music contribute to the festival's energetic atmosphere.

The Gavri Festival not only entertains but also serves to ensure the well-being of the performers' family members, instilling a sense of pride and cultural heritage within the community.

GS1/Indian Society

State of Food and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) 2025 Report

Why in News?

The 2025 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report reveals alarming statistics regarding child malnutrition and anaemia among women in India, highlighting significant public health concerns.

Key Takeaways

• Child malnutrition rates are critically high in India.
• There is a rising trend of both undernutrition and obesity globally.
• Access to healthy diets has become increasingly unaffordable due to economic factors.

Additional Details

• About the SOFI Report: The SOFI report is published by various UN agencies including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and aims to track global hunger, food insecurity, and nutrition, specifically monitoring progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger).
• Global Hunger Rate: The hunger rate has decreased from 8.5% in 2023 to 8.2% in 2024, with 735 million people globally classified as undernourished.
• Double Burden of Malnutrition: There is a simultaneous rise in both undernutrition and obesity, prompting concerns about dietary quality.
• India-Specific Findings:
  • Wasting (Under-5): 18.7% of children under five are wasted, making India the highest globally with over 21 million affected.
  • Stunting (Under-5): Approximately 37.4 million children are stunted.
  • Overweight Children: 4.2 million children are overweight, a significant rise from 2.7 million in 2012.
  • Anaemia in Women (15-49 years): 53.7% of women are affected, equating to 203 million individuals.
  • Undernourished Population: 172 million people, or 12% of the population, are classified as undernourished.
  • Unaffordable Healthy Diet: 42.9% of the population cannot afford a healthy diet, with costs increasing from $2.77 in 2017 to $4.07 in 2024.
  • Adult Obesity: The prevalence of obesity among adults has doubled over the past decade, now affecting 71.4 million individuals.

The SOFI 2025 report underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the dual challenges of malnutrition and food insecurity in India. Effective interventions are crucial for improving nutritional outcomes and ensuring food security for vulnerable populations.

GS3/Science and Technology

What is Legionnaires' Disease?

Why in News?

Residents of Central Harlem, New York City, are being urged to take precautions due to recent cases of Legionnaires' disease, leading health authorities to initiate an urgent investigation.

Key Takeaways

• Legionnaires' disease is a serious lung infection caused by the bacterium Legionella.
• The disease is primarily transmitted through inhalation of contaminated water or soil.
• It is non-contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
• Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk.

Additional Details

• Transmission: Legionella bacteria are commonly found in freshwater environments like lakes and rivers, as well as in soil. Most infections occur when individuals breathe in contaminated aerosols from water sources.
• The disease is not spread through drinking contaminated water unless it is aspirated into the lungs.
• Symptoms: Common symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, malaise, and muscle pain (myalgia). Untreated cases can be fatal.
• Treatment: Early treatment with antibiotics is usually effective. However, some patients may continue to experience health issues even after treatment.

In summary, Legionnaires' disease poses a serious health risk, particularly for vulnerable populations, and requires prompt medical attention to ensure effective treatment.