UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 5th September 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/International Relations

India-China: The Making of a Border

Why in News?

The India–China boundary, which extends approximately 3,488 km, is one of the longest disputed borders globally. This border, unlike clearly demarcated international frontiers, traverses the Himalayas and remains unsettled in significant areas. The primary disputes involve Aksai Chin in the western sector, claimed by India but occupied by China, and Arunachal Pradesh (especially the Tawang tract) in the eastern sector, claimed by China but controlled by India. The origins of this dispute are rooted in the legacies of the British and Manchu empires, as the boundary was never clearly defined. Following India’s independence, reliance on British-era maps clashed with China's historical and strategic claims, leading to the 1962 war and ongoing tensions between the two nations.

Key Takeaways

• The India-China border is one of the longest unresolved territorial disputes in the world.
• Key disputed areas include Aksai Chin, occupied by China, and Arunachal Pradesh, claimed by China but controlled by India.
• The border issue has historical roots in colonial legacies and has significant geopolitical implications.

Additional Details

• Colonial Inheritance: The boundary was imprecisely drawn during the British and Manchu empires, lacking clear settlement.
• Strategic Miscalculations: India's reliance on maps did not translate to effective control on the ground, allowing China to assert control over Aksai Chin.
• Conflict Emergence: China's construction of a highway through Aksai Chin and India’s occupation of Tawang based on the 1914 Simla Convention intensified disputes.
• In 1959, proposals for a Line of Actual Control (LAC) and territorial swaps were made by China, which India rejected, leading to the 1962 war.

The India-China border dispute illustrates a complex interplay of historical legacies, strategic interests, and national pride. Despite attempts at dialogue and normalization, such as Rajiv Gandhi's 1988 visit to Beijing, fundamental disagreements persist. The narrative highlights the need for strategic patience, military readiness, and diplomatic engagement to manage this complicated relationship effectively.

Historical Context and Policy Evolution

• Jawaharlal Nehru: His administration relied heavily on colonial maps and was dismissive of negotiations.
• Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Outreach: His 1979 visit to Beijing initiated cautious normalization of ties after a long period of mistrust.
• Rajiv Gandhi's Strategic Reset: His 1988 visit marked a shift to separate normalizing relations from resolving border issues.

Future Directions

• Institutional Strengthening: Empowering mechanisms like the Joint Working Group to enhance dialogue.
• Confidence-Building Measures: Expanding agreements on patrolling norms and communication to prevent clashes.
• Strategic Balance: Ensuring military preparedness while maintaining open diplomatic channels.
• Mutual Accommodation: Emphasizing a "fair and reasonable" settlement as envisioned by leaders like Deng Xiaoping and Rajiv Gandhi.

In conclusion, the ongoing India-China border dispute is a reflection of historical complexities and strategic challenges. Engaging in constructive dialogue and building trust through deeper cooperation in various sectors is essential for a peaceful resolution.

GS2/Polity

Free Movement Regime (FMR)

Why in News?

Recent developments ahead of Prime Minister Modi's visit to Manipur have led to the United Naga Council (UNC) announcing a trade embargo and the suspension of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the India–Myanmar border.

Key Takeaways

• The Free Movement Regime (FMR) was introduced in the 1970s, allowing residents within 16 km of the India–Myanmar border to travel freely across the border without a visa.
• The India–Myanmar border spans 1,643 km and runs through four states: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
• The FMR aims to acknowledge the ethnic, cultural, and familial ties of communities such as the Kuki, Naga, and Mizo living along the border.
• The regime was last revised in 2016 under the Act East Policy.
• On February 8, 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the scrapping of the FMR due to security concerns.

Additional Details

• Suspension Reasons: The MHA cited several reasons for the suspension, including:
  • Internal security risks.
  • Concerns over illegal immigration and demographic changes in Northeastern states.
  • Links to cross-border drug trafficking and insurgency.
• Stakeholder Perspectives: Various groups have differing views on the suspension:
  • Kuki groups perceive the FMR's suspension and border fencing as an assault on their shared ethnic ties, likening it to the Berlin Wall, and have recently engaged in discussions with MHA negotiators.
  • Naga groups (UNC) oppose the border fencing and FMR suspension, arguing it undermines their homeland, land rights, and identity, and have called for protests.
  • The Meiteis (the Valley population) support the suspension, claiming it has facilitated illegal migration and aggravated ethnic tensions.
  • The Government of India defends the suspension based on security and demographic concerns while trying to maintain peace talks with tribal groups.

In summary, the Free Movement Regime has been a significant aspect of border dynamics between India and Myanmar, facilitating travel and cultural exchange. However, recent security concerns have prompted its suspension, leading to varied reactions from different community stakeholders.

UPSC 2016 Question: Consider the following statements:

• I. Assam shares a border with Bhutan and Bangladesh.
• II. West Bengal shares a border with Bhutan and Nepal.
• III. Mizoram shares a border with Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• Options: (a) I, II and III
• (b) I and II only
• (c) II and III only
• (d) I and III only

GS2/Polity

New Foreigners Act

Why in News?

The Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, which came into effect on September 1, has introduced a comprehensive revamp of India’s framework for managing foreign nationals. This significant update aims to enhance clarity, efficiency, and uniformity in regulating foreign nationals through a consolidation of existing laws.

Key Takeaways

• The Act replaces four older laws, streamlining the immigration framework.
• It introduces clear, centralized rules for the regulation of foreign nationals.
• New provisions include mandatory digital reporting and a graduated fines system for violations.

Additional Details

• Consolidation of Laws:The Act replaces the following laws:
  • Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
  • Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
  • Foreigners Act, 1946
  • Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000
• Why an Overhaul Was Needed: The previous immigration regime was fragmented and outdated, leading to inconsistent enforcement and administrative gaps.
• Valid Documents and Entry Points: All entrants must possess a valid passport or travel document and, where applicable, a visa. Entry and exit are restricted to designated immigration posts.
• Role of Immigration Officers: Officers have the authority to validate or deny entry based on national security concerns.
• Reporting Obligations: Accommodation providers must report details of foreign guests within 24 hours of their arrival and departure.
• Exempted Categories: Certain groups such as military personnel, citizens of Nepal and Bhutan, and specific refugees are exempt from standard entry and visa requirements.
• Digital Records: The Act mandates online notifications for accommodation and healthcare services, creating a comprehensive digital database for monitoring.
• Fines for Violations: Penalties for infractions range from ₹10,000 to ₹5 lakh, with reduced fines for specific vulnerable groups.
• Centralization of Powers: The central government retains primary authority over immigration but can delegate functions to states and Union Territories.

The Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, represents a significant shift in India's approach to immigration by introducing modernized systems and clear rules, essential for an effective regulatory framework.

GS2/Polity

Manipur Violence - Centre Signs Revised Suspension of Operations Pact

Why in News?

The Centre has recently signed a revised Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact with Kuki-Zo groups in Manipur to enhance monitoring norms and relocate camps in an effort to restore peace in the region. This move comes in light of ongoing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023, and is seen as a significant step ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the state.

Key Takeaways

• The new SoO pact aims to tighten oversight of insurgent groups and facilitate dialogue.
• Kuki civil society groups have agreed to allow free movement along National Highway-02, which is crucial for transportation in the state.

Additional Details

• About the SoO Pact: The revised pact was signed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Government of Manipur, and 24 Kuki-Zo insurgent groups under the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the United People's Front (UPF).
• Key Features:
  • Stricter Monitoring: A Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) will be led by the Manipur Principal Secretary (Home), responsible for verifying the presence of cadres and ensuring the removal of foreign nationals from Kuki camps.
  • Relocation of Camps: Designated camps for KNO and UPF will be reduced to six each and relocated away from highways and populated areas.
  • Financial Transparency: Payments to cadres will be made solely through Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, restricting funds to verified individuals.
  • Restrictions on Activities: Groups are prohibited from recruiting new members, carrying weapons outside camps, or engaging in offensive operations.
  • Respect for Constitution: All signatories must abide by the Constitution of India and uphold the territorial integrity of Manipur.
• The Zomi Council has expressed concerns about the KZC's representation claims, indicating deeper divisions within Kuki-Zo society.
• Relocating camps addresses longstanding concerns of the Meitei community, who believe these camps have been used to launch attacks.
• Naga groups have raised objections over their exclusion from discussions and have threatened a trade embargo due to unresolved border issues with Myanmar.

The revised SoO pact serves as a framework for confidence-building and is expected to be followed by a tripartite dialogue among the Centre, the Manipur government, and Kuki groups, aiming for a political settlement within constitutional parameters. Concurrently, the Centre continues to engage with other insurgent groups, indicating a broader initiative to integrate various insurgent movements into a structured peace process.

GS3/Economy

Pulses Production - NITI Aayog's Plan for Self-Sufficiency

Why in News?

NITI Aayog has introduced a comprehensive roadmap aimed at enhancing pulses production in India, with a vision of achieving self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on imports by the year 2047.

Key Takeaways

• Pulses play a crucial role in India’s food and nutritional security.
• India is the largest producer, consumer, and importer of pulses globally.
• NITI Aayog's report outlines strategies to boost domestic production and reduce import dependency.

Additional Details

• Pulses Production in India: India benefits from a variety of agro-climatic conditions that support the cultivation of 12 pulse crops across kharif, rabi, and summer seasons.
• Major Producing States: States such as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan contribute over 55% to national production, with the top ten states accounting for over 91% of output.
• In 2015-16, production fell to 16.35 million tonnes (MT), necessitating imports of 6 MT.
• Government initiatives like the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and Minimum Support Price (MSP) policies have significantly increased production.
• By 2022-23, production surged to 26.06 MT, a 59.4% increase, while import dependency dropped from 29% to 10.4%.
• Challenges remain as 80% of pulses cultivation is rain-fed, making it susceptible to climate change impacts.
• This sector supports the livelihoods of over five crore farmers and their families, highlighting the need for stable policies.

NITI Aayog's report emphasizes tailored strategies for different regions to improve productivity and sustainability. Key recommendations include:

• Area Retention and Diversification: Promote region-specific crop clusters for optimal cultivation.
• Technology Adoption: Encourage customized farming technologies that suit diverse agro-ecological sub-regions.
• Seed Quality and Distribution: Focus on providing high-quality seed treatment kits, especially in 111 high-potential districts contributing 75% of output.
• Cluster-Based Hubs: Implement the "One Block–One Seed Village" model through farmer-producer organisations (FPOs) for enhanced local productivity.
• Mission for Atmanirbharta in Pulses: A six-year initiative targeting key crops such as pigeonpea, black gram, and lentils to strengthen self-sufficiency.

The report projects that India's pulse production could reach 30.59 MT by 2030 and 45.79 MT by 2047, aligning with the country's long-term food security goals and reduced import reliance.

Beyond food security, pulses are essential for nutrition, especially in a predominantly vegetarian society. They serve as a significant source of protein, iron, and other micronutrients, aiding in the fight against malnutrition. Environmentally, pulses improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, require less water than cereals, and help lower the carbon footprint of agriculture.

In conclusion, while India has made significant strides in pulses production over the last decade, achieving self-sufficiency will require ongoing and region-specific interventions. NITI Aayog's strategic recommendations focusing on seeds, technology, and targeted clusters are expected to accelerate progress toward Atmanirbharta in pulses. By 2047, India aims not only to meet its domestic demand but also to establish itself as a significant player in the global pulses market.

GS2/International Relations

Strait of Malacca

Why in News?

Singapore’s Prime Minister has acknowledged India’s intention to join the Malacca Straits Patrol, which is currently undertaken by Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore.

Key Takeaways

• The Strait of Malacca is a crucial maritime route located in Southeast Asia.
• It serves as a vital link between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, making it a global chokepoint for trade.

Additional Details

• Location: The Strait of Malacca is a narrow waterway situated between the Malay Peninsula to the northeast and Sumatra, Indonesia to the southwest.
• Dimensions: It extends approximately 800–900 km in length, with a varying width of 65 km in the south and up to 250 km in the north. The depth at the southern end is generally less than 37 m, presenting navigational challenges.
• Geological Setting: This strait is part of the Sunda Shelf formation, which was created after a post-glacial sea level rise around 2.6 million years ago.
• Key Ports: Major ports such as Singapore, Port Klang, Penang, and Melaka are located along this strait, contributing to its status as one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.
• Strategic and Economic Importance:
  • The Strait of Malacca is a global chokepoint linking the Indian Ocean (Andaman Sea) with the Pacific Ocean (South China Sea).
  • It is the shortest sea route between the Middle East/Africa and East Asia, crucial for global commerce.
  • Approximately 60% of world maritime trade, including significant oil shipments from the Middle East to China, Japan, and Southeast Asia, passes through this strait.
  • Any disruption in this strait could severely impact global supply chains and energy security.
  • It attracts geopolitical interests from India, China, the US, and ASEAN states, making it a hotspot for regional and global strategic rivalry.

In conclusion, the Strait of Malacca is not only significant for its geographical features but also for its pivotal role in global trade and international relations.

Question: Which one of the following can one come across if one travels through the Strait of Malacca?

• (a) Bali
• (b) Brunei
• (c) Java
• (d) Singapore*

GS2/Governance

Should Commercial Speech on Digital Platforms Be Regulated?

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India, on August 25, 2025, instructed the Union government to develop guidelines for regulating social media content due to concerns about influencers commercializing speech in ways that could offend vulnerable groups. This directive was prompted by derogatory comments made by comedians regarding individuals with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. While aiming to protect dignity, the order raises alarms about potential overregulation of free speech.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court is pushing for specific rules for social media despite existing laws such as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) and the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act).
• Concerns about censorship and judicial overreach are prominent, as the Court's action may lead to further restrictions on free expression.

Additional Details

• Existing Provisions: FIRs can be filed under both the BNS and IT Act, which already allow for content takedown orders by courts or the executive.
• Opaque Enforcement: Takedown actions often occur without prior notification to the affected parties, undermining principles of natural justice.
• Judicial Precedents: In the case of Subramanian Swamy v. Union of India (2016), the Supreme Court upheld criminal defamation to protect individual dignity but did not recognize dignity as a separate basis for restricting speech.
• Chilling Effect: Overbroad regulations may deter comedians and artists from expressing bold ideas, fostering a climate of self-censorship.

In conclusion, while the Supreme Court's intention to protect dignity is commendable, creating new regulations could undermine freedom of expression. The existing legal frameworks in India aim to address offensive content without expanding vague restrictions that may lead to excessive censorship.

GS3/Economy

GST 2.0 is a Landmark in India’s Tax Journey

Why in News?

The recent 56th Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting, held on September 3, 2025, has introduced significant reforms known as GST 2.0. These changes simplify the existing tax structure and impact various sectors, marking a pivotal moment in India's fiscal federalism.

Key Takeaways

• The multi-slab GST structure has been streamlined to two core rates: 5% (Merit Rate) and 18% (Standard Rate).
• Essential goods are exempt, promoting a more citizen-friendly tax system.
• Specific reforms address long-standing issues such as inverted duty structures.
• GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) is set to be established for efficient dispute resolution.

Additional Details

• Historic Simplification: The previous GST slabs of 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% have been consolidated into a simplified two-rate system, representing a significant change since its inception in 2017.
• People-Centric Relief: Items such as soap, shampoo, and bicycles are now taxed at a lower rate of 5%, while essential items like milk and parathas are exempt from tax, easing the economic burden on families.
• Social Security Boost: The exemption of life and health insurance products from GST enhances affordability and insurance penetration among low-income groups.
• Correction of Distortions: The reform addresses inverted duty structures in sectors like textiles and fertilizers, promoting a fairer tax system.
• Impact on Households: The new GST structure is designed to reduce the cost of essential goods and services, improving overall economic welfare.
• Support for Farmers: Reduced rates on fertilizers and farm equipment are expected to lower cultivation costs and enhance productivity in rural areas.
• Industry Benefits: Rate reductions in labour-intensive sectors like handicrafts and textiles aim to boost employment and export potential.

In conclusion, GST 2.0 signifies a transformative fiscal reform that not only simplifies the tax structure but also enhances inclusivity across various sectors of society. The successful implementation of these reforms will play a crucial role in shaping India's economic landscape and fostering cooperative federalism.

GS2/Polity

Understanding Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) and Their Census Significance

Why in News?

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) has requested the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGI) to carry out a separate enumeration of particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) in the upcoming Census. This initiative aims to gather detailed data regarding households, individuals, and the unique demographic, cultural, and socio-economic characteristics of PVTGs, thereby facilitating more accurate planning and implementation of targeted welfare schemes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN).

Key Takeaways

• PVTGs are a sub-category of Scheduled Tribes (STs) characterized by declining populations, geographical isolation, and low literacy levels.
• The Dhebar Commission (1960-61) established the PVTG category to address disparities among tribal groups.
• Initially, 52 groups were recognized as PVTGs, with an additional 23 added in 2006, totaling 75 PVTGs across 18 states and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Additional Details

• PVTGs: These groups often experience economic backwardness and are generally not counted separately in Census data, which limits their visibility and recognition. For instance, while some groups were counted individually in the 2011 Census, many were not.
• Currently, 40 PVTGs are listed as 'single entry' under the Scheduled Tribe list as per Article 342 of the Constitution, leading to challenges in targeted welfare implementation.
• In November 2023, the government initiated the ₹24,104 crore PM JANMAN scheme aimed at uplifting PVTGs through enhanced health, education, and infrastructure initiatives in over 200 districts.
• According to recent estimates, the total PVTG population is approximately 47.5 lakh, with Madhya Pradesh having the largest population at 13.22 lakh.
• The 2011 Census identified certain PVTG groups, like the Sentinelese, with extremely low populations, highlighting the urgent need for accurate enumeration.

Officials stress that accurate enumeration of PVTGs will help fill existing gaps in welfare programs, particularly in health and education, and enable a reassessment of the relevance of current classification criteria for these groups.

GS2/International Relations

Trump’s Tariff War as Opportunity for the Global South

Why in News?

The contemporary world order is experiencing significant disruptions due to the interplay of economics, geopolitics, and technology. While much attention has been directed towards the actions of the United States and President Donald Trump's policies, it is essential for nations like India to analyze these disturbances and develop a strategic response that addresses their implications.

Key Takeaways

• The global polycrisis necessitates a recalibration of India's national strategy to protect its interests.
• Trump's economic policies reflect a shift towards populist nationalism, impacting global trade dynamics.
• India must navigate its complex relationship with the U.S. while addressing its own economic challenges.

Additional Details

• Trump’s Motivations: Trump positions himself as a defender of a disenfranchised American majority, responding to feelings of betrayal by globalization.
• Economic Warfare: His administration utilizes tariffs as coercive tools to extract economic concessions from other nations, often at the expense of U.S. consumers.
• U.S. Strategy and India: The U.S. has shown a complicated stance towards India, often prioritizing its strategic interests over a straightforward partnership.
• India’s Compliance: India’s response has often been compliant rather than assertive, risking its own strategic autonomy in the process.
• Need for Reforms: To strengthen its position globally, India must address internal weaknesses, including manufacturing and investment stagnation.

In conclusion, the disruptions caused by Trump's policies are indicative of broader global fractures. India faces the dual challenge of resisting coercive U.S. measures while seizing the opportunity to advocate for a multipolar world that emphasizes economic fairness. Achieving this requires addressing its structural weaknesses and pursuing equitable growth strategies.

GS3/Economy

GST 2.0 is a Landmark in India’s Tax Journey

Why in News?

The 56th meeting of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council on September 3, 2025, marks a significant milestone in India's tax reform history. This meeting represents more than just routine adjustments; it signifies a transformative shift towards a more simplified, fair, and growth-oriented taxation framework aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Key Takeaways

• The GST structure has been simplified to two principal rates: 18% (Standard Rate) and 5% (Merit Rate), alongside a 40% de-merit rate for select luxury goods.
• Reduction in GST on essential items and outright exemption on life and health insurance aimed at lowering the cost of living for households.
• Reforms target employment growth in labor-intensive sectors and correct structural anomalies in industries like textiles and cement.
• The establishment of the Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) is expected to enhance institutional capacity and expedite dispute resolution.
• The phased implementation of these reforms from September 22, 2025, ensures fiscal prudence while benefiting consumers and industries.

Additional Details

• Simplification of the Tax Structure: The transition from multiple GST slabs to two main rates is aimed at reducing compliance burdens and enhancing predictability for businesses, aligning India with global best practices.
• Benefits for Households and Consumers: Lowering GST on everyday essentials and exempting life and health insurance promises to improve financial access, particularly for vulnerable groups.
• Boost to Labor-Intensive Sectors: The reforms support traditional industries, thereby addressing India's employment challenge and creating new growth opportunities.
• Correcting Structural Anomalies: Key reductions in GST rates for man-made fibers and cement are expected to enhance competitiveness and support domestic manufacturing and exports.
• Strengthening Institutions: The introduction of GSTAT will facilitate faster dispute resolutions and enhance trust in the tax system, thereby reducing uncertainty for businesses.
• Balancing Growth with Fiscal Prudence: The careful sequencing of these reforms aims to maintain revenue stability while delivering benefits to consumers and industries.

The 56th GST Council meeting is a defining moment in India's reform trajectory, merging simplification with inclusivity and growth with fiscal prudence. GST 2.0 sets a robust foundation for a taxation regime that aspires to support India's journey toward becoming a developed economy by 2047. These reforms reflect a participatory governance approach that addresses the needs of all sections of society.