UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 30th May 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/International Relations

India Needs a Comprehensive Crypto Strategy

Why in News?

The recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Pakistan's newly established Crypto Council and World Liberty Financial Inc. (WLFI), a company associated with the Trump family, marks a significant shift for Pakistan towards embracing digital assets, even amidst its economic vulnerabilities.

Key Takeaways

• The partnership aims to enhance financial inclusion through blockchain technology.
• Pakistan plans to monetize national assets, including rare earth minerals, using cryptocurrencies.
• Establishing Pakistan as a regional cryptocurrency hub is a primary objective.
• The Trump administration's support for cryptocurrencies is aimed at repositioning the U.S. as a leader in digital assets.
• Concerns arise regarding the potential impact of Pakistan’s crypto initiatives on India's security and economic interests.

Additional Details

• Promote Financial Inclusion: The use of blockchain technology aims to broaden access to financial services across Pakistan. For instance, the Pakistan Crypto Council intends to leverage blockchain for greater economic participation despite the country's economic challenges.
• Monetize National Assets: Pakistan seeks to utilize cryptocurrency to unlock value from untapped resources such as rare earth minerals, with plans to capitalize on these deposits for economic growth.
• Establish Pakistan as a Crypto Hub: The MoU with WLFI includes plans to introduce stablecoins to facilitate trade and remittances, thereby enhancing Pakistan’s position in the regional crypto market.
• Trump's Support for Cryptocurrencies: The Trump administration aims to make the U.S. a frontrunner in blockchain innovation and cryptocurrency adoption. This includes promoting a national blockchain strategy and reducing regulatory obstacles.
• Concerns for India: The rise of decentralized cryptocurrencies in Pakistan may facilitate untraceable financial transactions that could fund terrorism and other illicit activities, posing a security risk to India.
• Cross-Border Economic Competition: Pakistan's ambition to become a regional crypto hub could challenge India’s influence in the growing digital asset market in South Asia.
• Geopolitical Influence: Pakistan is engaging its diaspora and tech entrepreneurs to enhance ties with the U.S. and further its crypto objectives, which may alter regional power dynamics.

In early 2025, during the hearing of Shailesh Bhatt's bail petition, the Indian Supreme Court raised concerns about the lack of a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies in India, pointing out the inconsistency of taxing crypto assets without proper regulations. Moving forward, India should develop a comprehensive regulatory framework to promote innovation, protect investors, and prevent illicit activities in the crypto space, while also enhancing international cooperation to monitor the use of cryptocurrencies.

The UPSC's interest in cryptocurrency is evident from previous exam questions that explore its impact on global society and India's own societal changes due to the increasing number of crypto users.

GS2/International Relations

US Court of International Trade Struck Down Trump’s Tariffs

Why in News?

A U.S. court has ruled that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority by imposing tariffs on various countries under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The Court of International Trade stated that Trump's tariffs, announced on April 2, were not justified under this emergency law.

Key Takeaways

• The court ruled that Trump's tariffs were not authorized under the IEEPA.
• Earlier tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China were also struck down.
• The ruling emphasizes the misuse of emergency powers in trade measures.

Additional Details

• U.S. Court of International Trade (USCIT): This court provides a dedicated judicial forum for civil cases related to import transactions and international trade, ensuring a consistent interpretation of trade laws across the nation.
• Jurisdiction and Authority: Established under the Customs Courts Act of 1980, the USCIT has exclusive jurisdiction over civil actions against the U.S. government related to international trade.
• Historical Context: The court has roots tracing back to 1890, evolving from an administrative role to a judicial one with broader powers over time.
• Structure: The USCIT consists of nine judges, appointed for life by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
• Challenges: Twelve states and five small businesses challenged the tariffs, arguing they imposed financial burdens and did not target the stated threats.

The central legal question was whether Trump's use of IEEPA for tariffs exceeded legal limits. The court determined that the IEEPA does not grant the President unlimited authority and emphasized that the tariffs did not address specific national emergencies as required.

Court’s Ruling

• Limits of IEEPA: The court noted that while presidential powers expanded historically during crises, IEEPA was enacted to limit such powers, allowing tariffs only to address "unusual and extraordinary threats."
• Justifications Rejected: The court found that Trump's tariffs, which included a 10% baseline tariff on all countries, were unjustified as they addressed broad economic concerns rather than specific emergencies.
• Legal Reference: Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 permits limited tariffs for balance-of-payment issues, reinforcing that tariffs must adhere to narrow, defined laws.

In conclusion, the court ordered the Trump administration to issue new directives in compliance with the ruling within ten days, while the White House has indicated plans to appeal, potentially leading to a Supreme Court review.

GS1/Indian Society

Rewriting the Script of Early Childhood Education

Why in News?

India is facing a significant employment crisis, which is not solely due to a lack of job opportunities but is deeply rooted in the "lottery of birth" that disadvantages millions of children from the very beginning. Smart investments in early childhood education, along with active parental involvement, can play a critical role in enhancing children's learning outcomes.

Key Takeaways

• The "lottery of birth" describes how a child's future is influenced by factors beyond their control, including family income, geographic location, caste, gender, and access to health and education.
• Investment in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) is essential, as it yields high returns and can break the cycle of poverty.
• States like Uttar Pradesh and Odisha are implementing innovative ECCE programs aimed at improving educational outcomes.

Additional Details

• Lottery of Birth:This concept highlights the circumstances that dictate a child's opportunities and life outcomes, such as:
  • Access to basic needs: Children born into poverty often lack adequate nutrition and early learning, affecting their cognitive development.
  • Early learning gaps: By the age of five, disparities in language and numeracy skills are evident, making it challenging for disadvantaged children to keep up academically.
  • Perpetuation of poverty: Children from low-income backgrounds often find it difficult to escape poverty due to a lack of quality education and opportunities.
• Importance of ECE Investments:Investing in early childhood education is shown to provide the highest returns on human capital investments, with potential returns of $7 to $12 for every dollar spent. High-quality ECE leads to better educational and life outcomes, including:
  • Higher lifetime earnings and better employment prospects.
  • Improved school readiness and reduced dropout rates.
• Stakeholders in ECE:Key players in improving ECE outcomes include:
  • Anganwadi workers and pre-primary school teachers as frontline educators.
  • State governments responsible for hiring and infrastructure development.
  • Parents who reinforce learning at home.
  • Supervising bodies that ensure quality education through training and monitoring.
  • The Government of India, which provides funding and policy direction.

In conclusion, addressing the challenges of early childhood education in India requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, increased investments, and innovative programs that engage parents and communities. By prioritizing ECCE, India can work towards breaking the cycle of poverty and ensuring a brighter future for its children.

GS3/Economy

Surge in Bank Fraud Value Despite Decline in Cases: RBI Data for FY25

Why in News?

According to the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) Annual Report, bank fraud cases decreased in FY25, yet the total monetary value involved surged nearly threefold, with a significant rise in fraud related to digital payments.

Key Takeaways

• Reported bank fraud cases fell by over 34% in FY25.
• The amount involved in banking frauds rose from Rs. 12,230 crore in FY24 to Rs. 36,014 crore in FY25, marking a 194% increase.
• Digital payment frauds constituted the majority of cases but involved a relatively small total amount.
• Public sector banks faced larger fraud amounts compared to private sector banks.

Additional Details

• Nature and Sectoral Distribution of Frauds: In FY25, Rs. 33,148 crore (over 92%) of reported fraud was related to advances, which points to ongoing vulnerabilities in lending practices.
• The majority of fraud cases were linked to digital payments, totaling 13,516 cases, but only accounted for Rs. 520 crore, indicating lower value despite higher frequency.
• Private sector banks reported 59.4% of total fraud cases, while public sector banks reported the bulk of the monetary value at Rs. 25,667 crore.
• 122 old cases involving Rs. 18,674 crore were reclassified after a Supreme Court judgment, affecting statistical reporting.

The RBI has acknowledged the growing concern of bank fraud and is implementing several strategic measures to mitigate risks, including enhanced supervision of private banks, liquidity stress testing, and digital forensic readiness. Additionally, the Government of India is supporting these efforts through initiatives like the Central Fraud Registry and the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018.

GS2/Polity

The Case for a Special Fiscal Package for Andhra Pradesh

Why in News?

The bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014 led to the formation of Telangana, resulting in significant financial distress for the remaining state. This fiscal imbalance has persisted, largely due to structural challenges and political decisions that have diminished Andhra Pradesh's revenue base. The pressing question now is whether the Central Government, particularly through the Finance Commission, should provide a special financial package to rectify this imbalance.

Key Takeaways

• The 2014 bifurcation stripped Andhra Pradesh of vital resources, leading to its current financial struggles.
• Assurances of 'special category' status for Andhra Pradesh have not been fulfilled, despite earlier commitments.
• Current fiscal challenges are compounded by years of populist welfare schemes and electoral promises.
• Historical precedents support the need for compensatory packages for states facing significant fiscal declines due to bifurcation.
• A tailored financial assistance package via the Finance Commission is proposed as a more effective solution.

Additional Details

• Historical Context: The genesis of Andhra Pradesh's fiscal distress lies in the 2014 bifurcation, which resulted in the loss of Hyderabad, a major economic center. This loss led to a significant erosion of the state's tax base.
• The assurance of 'special category' status from former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was not included in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, leaving the state without formal support for its demands.
• Since the NDA government took power in 2014, Andhra Pradesh's requests for special status have been repeatedly denied, citing the Finance Commission's recommendations against such designations.
• Current Fiscal Challenges: As of 2024, Andhra Pradesh, under Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, faces a fiscal crisis exacerbated by populist schemes. The lack of central funding for state decisions has put the state at risk of fiscal stagnation.
• Precedent of Fiscal Disparities: Historical data indicates that newly formed states often fare better financially than their parent states. States like Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, however, have seen substantial declines in fiscal capacity post-bifurcation, warranting special consideration.
• A Finance Commission-recommended package would provide structured and constitutional support, avoiding the pitfalls of politically driven aid.

In conclusion, the fiscal challenges faced by Andhra Pradesh stem from structural issues beyond its control, necessitating a comprehensive and equitable response from the Centre. The Finance Commission is ideally positioned to offer a solution that restores fiscal equity while upholding the integrity of India's federal structure.

GS3/Economy

Continuation of Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS)

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Interest Subvention (IS) component under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) for the financial year 2025–26. This initiative aims to support farmers by providing access to low-interest loans.

Key Takeaways

• The scheme facilitates low-interest short-term loans through the Kisan Credit Card (KCC).
• Monitored by RBI and NABARD, implemented via various banks.
• Farmers can borrow up to ₹3 lakh at 7% interest with government support.

Additional Details

• Loan Details: Farmers can borrow up to ₹3 lakh at a 7% interest rate, with banks receiving a 1.5% interest support from the government. Timely repayment provides a 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive, effectively lowering the interest rate to 4%.
• For Livestock & Fisheries: Loans up to ₹2 lakh also benefit from this scheme.
• Digital Support: The Kisan Rin Portal (KRP) launched in August 2023 enhances transparency and tracking of loan disbursement.

Back2Basics: Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme

• Launch: Initiated in 1998 based on the recommendations of the R.V. Gupta Committee.
• Management: Implemented by Commercial Banks, RRBs, Cooperative Banks, and Small Finance Banks.
• Purpose: Provides quick loans for crop expenses, post-harvest needs, and household costs, supporting dairy, poultry, fisheries, and other allied activities.

Key Features

• Collateral-free loans with interest rates as low as 4% for timely repayment (under MISS).
• Loan limit increased to ₹5 lakh, utilizing a revolving credit system allowing farmers to borrow and repay as needed.
• Flexible repayment schedules aligned with crop cycles to minimize financial stress.

Additional Benefits

• Includes crop insurance under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), extended since 2018-19 to cover farmers in animal husbandry and fisheries.
• Aims to help farmers avoid moneylenders, fostering financial inclusion.

Question for Consideration:

Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is provided to farmers for which of the following purposes?

• 1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets
• 2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors, and mini trucks
• 3. Consumption requirements of farm households
• 4. Post-harvest expenses
• 5. Construction of family houses and setting up of village cold storage facilities

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• (a) 1, 2 and 5 only
• (b) 1, 3 and 4 only*
• (c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
• (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

This information highlights the government's commitment to enhancing farmers' access to credit through structured support mechanisms.

GS2/Governance

Government Tightens Norms for CSS and CS Schemes Continuation Post-2026

Why in News?

As India prepares for the 16th Finance Commission cycle, which will run from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2031, the Union Government has introduced a requirement for third-party evaluations as a prerequisite for the continuation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) and Central Sector Schemes (CS) beyond March 31, 2026. There are currently 54 CSSs and 260 CSs that have approval validity until March 31, 2026, and are expected to undergo re-appraisal.

Key Takeaways

• The Union Government mandates third-party evaluations for CSS and CS schemes.
• 54 CSSs and 260 CSs are up for re-evaluation before the 16th Finance Commission cycle.
• Fiscal prudence is emphasized through these evaluations.

Additional Details

• Current Evaluation Process: The NITI Aayog, which serves as the government's primary think tank, is currently evaluating the CSSs. This evaluation is expected to be completed soon, with draft reports to be shared with relevant ministries and departments.
• Key Directives from the Ministry of Finance: No CSS or CS scheme will receive approval for continuation without a favorable third-party evaluation. The evaluations must demonstrate positive outcomes, justify the schemes' mandates, and affirm the necessity of performance-based assessments. Past evaluations have allowed the Central Government to significantly increase its capital expenditure, which is projected to be ₹11.21 lakh crore for FY 2025-26 (Budget Estimate).
• Timeline for Ministries: Ministries and departments are required to complete their evaluation studies by the end of July this year. They must obtain approvals for the continuation of schemes from the Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) before the budget-making process begins.
• Financial Allocations for 16th Finance Cycle: The allocation formula dictates that ministries will receive funds equivalent to 5.5 times their average actual expenditure from 2021-22 to 2025-26. For instance, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has requested additional funding for vaccination programs. The Cabinet Secretary has warned ministries against inflating their funding requests, advocating for realistic budgeting.
• About CSS and CS: CSSs are programs primarily funded by the Union Government and executed by State Governments, such as the PM Poshan Scheme and PM Awas Yojana (Gramin). In contrast, CSs are fully funded and implemented by the Union Government, executed directly through central ministries and departments, such as the National Digital Health Mission and the PLI Scheme. These schemes span various sectors, including health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.

The Government's insistence on rigorous third-party evaluations before the continuation of CSS and CS schemes signifies a movement towards evidence-based policy-making and fiscal responsibility. With the impending recommendations from the 16th Finance Commission, it is crucial for ministries to align their priorities with realistic and performance-driven outcomes, marking a pivotal shift in India's public finance framework.

GS3/Defence & Security

Autonomous Warfare in Operation Sindoor

Why in News?

Operation Sindoor, initiated in early May 2023 as a response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, represents a significant milestone in military engagement between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan. This operation marked the first instance of direct drone-led conflict between the two nations, showcasing a shift towards using Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in military operations, including armed drones and electronic decoys, while remaining below the threshold of full-scale war.

Key Takeaways

• Operation Sindoor involved the use of advanced drone technologies and surveillance.
• Both countries engaged in real-time Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
• The operation set a precedent for drone-centric warfare in South Asia.

Additional Details

• Drone Utilization: India deployed various UAS, including indigenous loitering munitions like Nagastra-1 and Israeli-origin Harop drones, which are capable of autonomous radar targeting.
• Tactical Strategy: The operation featured sequenced drone strikes, starting with decoy drones and electronic warfare payloads to exhaust enemy defenses, followed by precision strikes from armed UAVs guided by advanced surveillance drones.
• Notably, a cricket match in Rawalpindi was interrupted due to drone strikes, and an Indian Harop drone reportedly destroyed a Chinese-supplied HQ-9 Surface-to-Air Missile system near Lahore.

The operation highlighted India's evolving capabilities in autonomous warfare, executing precise cross-border strikes with minimal risk. Analysts noted this as a new model of deterrence in South Asia, indicating a shift in regional aerial power dynamics in favor of India.

Integrated Air Defence System

• Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS): This system serves as India’s core air defense hub, integrating data from various sensors and allowing for real-time tracking and interception of aerial threats.
• Pakistan attempted to disrupt IACCS operations by varying drone altitudes and timings, but these attempts were quickly neutralized.
• Advanced Features: IACCS employs a 'mesh' architecture allowing for seamless failover and sustained situational awareness, utilizing advanced technologies such as Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) for rapid drone neutralization.

Layered Defence Architecture

• India's multi-layered defense strategy includes upgraded Cold War-era systems and modern missile platforms for comprehensive coverage against aerial threats.
• Modern additions include the Israeli SPYDER missile system and the Russian S-400 'Triumf', enhancing India's long-range air defense capabilities.

Operation Sindoor signifies a paradigm shift towards algorithm-driven warfare, where future conflicts may begin with the silent deployment of autonomous drones, transforming both military strategy and the psychology of warfare.

GS2/International Relations

International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), 1977

Why in News?

A recent ruling by a U.S. federal court blocked President Donald Trump's broad tariffs, determining that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant him the authority to enact extensive import taxes.

Key Takeaways

• The IEEPA was enacted on October 28, 1977, providing the President with significant powers to regulate financial transactions during a national emergency.
• This Act allows the President to declare a national emergency due to threats to U.S. security, foreign policy, or economy originating outside the U.S.

Additional Details

• Presidential Powers: The IEEPA empowers the President to restrict transactions and freeze assets in response to declared threats. In cases of an attack on the U.S., the President can seize property linked to the perpetrators.
• Renewal Requirement: Emergencies declared under the IEEPA must be renewed annually as per the National Emergencies Act (NEA) to remain in effect.
• The IEEPA extends executive powers to manage economic crises, even during peacetime, and serves as a key framework for the U.S. sanctions regime.
• The Act was established to limit the emergency economic powers initially granted under the Trading with the Enemy Act of 1917, which allowed the President to regulate international transactions during wartime.
• Historically, President Richard M. Nixon briefly used a precursor to this Act to impose a universal tariff in 1971, but no president has previously used IEEPA for tariffs on imports.
• Instead, tariffs have been imposed using Section 232 of a 1962 trade law, which necessitates an investigation and report within 270 days, focusing on specific imports that threaten national security.

This ruling emphasizes the limitations of presidential authority under the IEEPA regarding tariff imposition, highlighting the need for proper legal frameworks and investigations in matters of national security and economic policy.

GS3/Environment

Danger in the Sea: The Sinking of MSC Elsa 3

Why in News?

The container ship MSC Elsa 3 sank off the coast of Kochi on May 24, leading to a significant environmental and maritime safety crisis. This incident poses a risk of becoming one of India's most severe maritime pollution disasters.

Key Takeaways

• The MSC Elsa 3 sank due to operational failures and adverse weather conditions.
• Sunken containers pose various hazards, including chemical reactions and toxic leaks.
• The Indian Coast Guard is the primary agency managing the disaster response.
• This incident tests India's preparedness for maritime disasters.

Additional Details

• Operational Failure: On May 24, MSC Elsa 3 began to tilt due to an unspecified problem and could not be stabilized despite crew efforts.
• Aging Vessel: The ship was nearly 30 years old and was abandoned by the crew after stabilization attempts failed.
• Unfavorable Conditions: Monsoon-related rough weather contributed to the ship's instability, with containers dislodging and leading to its sinking at a depth of 50 meters.
• Hazardous Containers: Some containers contained reactive chemicals, such as calcium carbide, which can produce acetylene gas when exposed to seawater, posing fire hazards.
• Toxic Leakage: Chemicals leaking from damaged containers can pollute seawater and threaten marine and human health.
• Long-Term Impact: Chemicals may seep out over time, leading to ongoing marine pollution and ecological damage, potentially entering the food chain.

The Indian Coast Guard is the nodal agency under the National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOS-DCP), responsible for coordinating the response to such incidents. This event highlights the necessity for effective inter-agency coordination and rapid response capabilities to mitigate environmental damage. Following the sinking, the Coast Guard is actively monitoring for oil leaks and coordinating salvage operations to retrieve hazardous materials.

Way Forward

• Strengthen Maritime Hazard Protocols: India should enforce stricter screening of cargo for hazardous materials and implement real-time tracking for containers carrying reactive substances.
• Enhance Rapid Response Infrastructure: Developing a unified framework for maritime disaster response will improve coordination among agencies such as the Coast Guard, pollution boards, and port authorities.

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of preparedness in managing maritime disasters and the potential long-term implications of environmental pollution.

GS2/Polity

Quality Council of India (QCI)

Why in News?

The Minister of State for Commerce and Industry recently inaugurated the new unified headquarters of the Quality Council of India (QCI) at the World Trade Centre in New Delhi.

Key Takeaways

• The QCI is a non-profit autonomous organization established in 1997.
• It was created through a partnership between the Government and prominent industry associations.
• The organization serves as the national accreditation body in India.

Additional Details

• Foundation:The QCI was set up by the Government of India along with three leading industry associations:
  • Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)
  • Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
  • Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)
• Administrative Control: It operates under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) within the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Role: QCI is responsible for the independent assessment of products, services, and processes through a well-established accreditation structure.
• Quality Standards:It promotes quality standards related to various management systems, including:
  • Quality Management Systems (ISO 14001 Series)
  • Food Safety Management Systems (ISO 22000 Series)
  • Product Certification and Inspection Bodies
• QCI spearheads a nationwide quality movement, enhancing the quality of life for citizens.

In summary, the Quality Council of India plays a crucial role in establishing and promoting quality standards across various sectors, ensuring that both products and services meet the required benchmarks for effectiveness and safety.

GS3/Environment

Culling of Vermins

Why in News?

The Kerala Cabinet is currently exploring the legal framework for introducing a bill that would allow for the scientific and regulated culling of wild animals, specifically targeting feral boars.

Key Takeaways

• Vermins are classified as harmful animals that cause damage to crops and threaten livestock.
• Legal provisions exist under the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972 that govern the classification and management of vermins.

Additional Details

• Definition of Vermins:Vermins are animals deemed harmful or as nuisances due to their potential to:
  • Damage crops
  • Threaten livestock
  • Pose risks to human life and property
• Examples: Common vermins include rats, mice, common crows, and fruit bats.
• Legal Effect: When an animal is classified as vermin, it loses its legal protection and is exempt from conservation safeguards.
• Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972:
  • Schedule V: Lists animals classified as vermin which can be hunted freely.
  • Section 62: Allows the central government to declare a wild animal as vermin for a specified area and time period, excluding those in Schedule I and Part II of Schedule II.
  • Protection Status: Once declared as vermin, the animal is treated as a Schedule V species and loses its protection.
  • Exclusions: Animals in Schedules I and II (e.g., tigers, elephants) are protected and cannot be declared vermin.
  • Section 11: Chief Wildlife Wardens can authorize the trapping, capture, or killing of animals like wild boars under circumstances of public safety or property damage.
• Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022:
  • Reduction of Schedules from six to four, with Schedule V being removed.
  • Direct Declaration Power allows the Centre to declare any species (except those in Schedule I) as vermin, facilitating broader culling without the previous categorization system.
• How are Vermins Declared?
  • The state initiates the process by sending a formal request to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
  • If the request is justified, the Centre issues a notification declaring the species as vermin for a specific region and time frame.
  • This declaration is temporary and applies only to the designated area and specified time.
  • Examples include:
    • Wild boar in Uttarakhand
    • Nilgai (blue bull) in Bihar
    • Rhesus monkeys in Himachal Pradesh

In conclusion, the classification and management of vermins are crucial for agricultural protection and public safety. Understanding the legal framework surrounding these animals is essential for sustainable wildlife management.