UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 6th September 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

Centre Approves Independent Class of Environment Auditors

Why in News?

The Environment Ministry has introduced the Environment Audit Rules, 2025, which establish a new category of independent “environment auditors.” These accredited private agencies, akin to chartered accountants, will be authorized to inspect and verify compliance with environmental laws for various projects. Their responsibilities will complement those of State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) by conducting environmental impact assessments and ensuring adherence to best practices in pollution prevention and control.

Key Takeaways

• The new rules aim to enhance India’s commitment to sustainable governance and ease of doing business.
• Private agencies will now play a critical role in environmental compliance monitoring.
• The initiative addresses existing gaps in the monitoring system due to limited resources of current regulatory bodies.

Additional Details

• Need for the Rules: Existing monitoring is hampered by limited manpower and resources, leading to ineffective enforcement by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State PCBs. The new rules aim to address these shortcomings.
• Main Features of the Rules:
  • Certification and Registration: Environment auditors will need to be certified and registered through the Environment Audit Designated Agency (EADA).
  • Random Assignment of Auditors: Auditors will be assigned randomly to prevent bias and conflicts of interest.
  • Responsibilities: Registered auditors will verify compliance, conduct sampling and analysis, and ensure adherence to various environmental laws.
  • Self-Compliance Verification: Auditors will also verify self-reported compliance from project proponents.
• Key Stakeholders:
  • Certified Environment Auditor (CEA): Qualified through Recognition of Prior Learning or a National Certification Examination.
  • Registered Environment Auditor (REA): Certified professionals officially licensed to perform audits.
  • Environment Audit Designated Agency (EADA): Responsible for certification, registration, oversight, and maintaining an online registry.
  • MoEFCC: Oversees implementation and provides guidelines.
  • CPCB, SPCBs, and Regional Offices: Continue inspections and assist in enforcing the new rules.

The introduction of the Environment Audit Rules, 2025 marks a significant reform in India’s environmental governance. By expanding the scope of monitoring to include private agencies, the rules aim to enhance transparency and accountability in environmental compliance. However, challenges remain at the grassroots level, necessitating a focus on empowering local staff for effective enforcement and ensuring that core monitoring functions are upheld. The success of this framework will ultimately depend on integrating these independent audits with existing compliance systems and strengthening local-level enforcement.

GS3/Defence & Security

Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR-2025)

Why in News?

The Ministry of Defence has unveiled the Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap 2025 (TPCR-2025), a comprehensive 15-year strategy aimed at enhancing military preparedness and modernization.

Key Takeaways

• A strategic modernization blueprint for guiding India's Armed Forces over the next 10-15 years.
• Focuses on multi-domain operations across land, sea, air, cyber, and space.
• Emphasizes the role of the defense industry, MSMEs, and start-ups in R&D and innovation.
• Aims to reduce import dependence while strengthening indigenous production under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
• Ensures that military forces remain technologically competitive and prepared for emerging threats.

Additional Details

• Nuclear & CBRN Preparedness: Strengthening nuclear command systems, survivability infrastructure, and developing unmanned CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) vehicles.
• Drones & Unmanned Systems: Focus on stealth drones with a range of 1,500 km and altitude of 60,000 ft, along with AI-enabled loitering munitions.
• Electronic & Cyber Warfare: Highlights the deployment of advanced jammers and readiness for cyber and space warfare.
• Service Modernization:
  • Army: Introduction of new tanks, light tanks, UAV-launched precision-guided munitions, and electromagnetic weapons.
  • Navy: Acquisition of new destroyers, corvettes, mine vessels, and a third aircraft carrier.
  • Air Force: Development of stratospheric airships and long-range cruise missiles.
• Implementation: Involves regular consultations between industry and military services, with engagement from MSMEs and start-ups.

The TPCR-2025 serves as a long-term capability roadmap for India's defense planning, reinforcing the domestic defense ecosystem and ensuring combat readiness across multiple domains.

GS3/Science and Technology

Indian Science Congress to be Replaced by the ESTIC

Why in News?

The Indian Science Congress has been replaced by the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC), with its first edition scheduled for November 2025 in New Delhi. This change marks a significant shift in India's approach to science policy, moving towards a more structured and innovation-driven forum.

Key Takeaways

• The Indian Science Congress (ISC) has a history of over a century but has faced criticisms that led to its decline.
• ESTIC aims to align scientific research with national priorities, including the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
• The inaugural ESTIC will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on November 3-4, 2025.

Additional Details

• Indian Science Congress (ISC): Established in 1914, it served as a premier platform for Indian scientists and policymakers but faced challenges such as reduced relevance and controversies in its sessions.
• Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC): Organised by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in collaboration with various ministries, ESTIC focuses on innovation-driven research with direct government participation.
• Thematic Sessions: The event will feature 11 technical sessions on key areas such as space, biotechnology, and renewable energy.
• Global Participation: Confirmed international guests include Nobel Laureates and experts from various fields, enhancing India's global scientific engagement.
• The transition from ISC to ESTIC is aimed at modernising policy, focusing on innovation, and establishing India as a leader in global science and technology networks.

This transition represents a commitment to fostering a robust scientific community that is aligned with contemporary needs and future goals, ensuring that India's scientific discourse remains relevant and impactful.

GS3/Economy

Pib Incentive Scheme to Promote Critical Mineral Recycling

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet has recently approved a substantial ₹1,500 crore Incentive Scheme aimed at enhancing the recycling of critical minerals sourced from secondary materials, including e-waste and battery scrap.

Key Takeaways

• Approved under the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM).
• Outlay of ₹1,500 crore over a period of 6 years (FY 2025-26 to FY 2030-31).
• Aims to establish domestic recycling capacity for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, and rare earths.
• Addresses immediate supply chain challenges due to long lead times in mining projects.
• Targets an annual recycling capacity of 270 kilotonnes and aims to yield 40 kilotonnes of minerals per year.
• Expected to mobilize around ₹8,000 crore in investments and create approximately 70,000 jobs.

Additional Details

• Beneficiaries: The scheme will benefit large recyclers, small/new recyclers, and start-ups, with one-third of the funds reserved for small/new entrants.
• Feedstock Sources: The initiative will focus on recycling materials such as e-waste, lithium-ion battery scrap, catalytic converters, and other types of industrial scrap.
• Coverage: It will support the establishment of new units as well as the expansion, modernization, and diversification of existing plants.
• Capex Subsidy: A 20% subsidy on plant and machinery is offered for timely commissioning, with reduced rates for delays.
• Opex Subsidy: This is tied to incremental sales over the FY 2025-26 baseline, with a 40% subsidy released in FY 2026-27 and the remaining 60% thereafter.
• Incentive Caps: Large entities have a cap of ₹50 crore (with a maximum of ₹10 crore for operational expenditure), while small entities have a cap of ₹25 crore (with a maximum of ₹5 crore for operational expenditure).
• Eligibility Restriction: Only firms engaged in actual mineral extraction are eligible, excluding those involved solely in processing “black mass”.

In conclusion, the Incentive Scheme represents a significant step towards enhancing India's recycling capabilities for critical minerals, addressing supply chain issues, and fostering sustainable economic growth through job creation and investment mobilization.

GS3/Science and Technology

Thunderbird Reactor and Cold Fusion Research (2025)

Why in News?

The cold fusion reaction, which was previously disregarded after the failed claims of 1989, has resurfaced in discussions as researchers in the United States report neutron production from their innovative “Thunderbird Reactor.”

Key Takeaways

• Cold fusion could potentially provide limitless, clean, and inexpensive energy.
• Research is now referred to as Low-Energy Nuclear Reactions (LENR).

Additional Details

• What is Cold Fusion Reaction: It is a proposed method to achieve nuclear fusion at room temperature, contrasting with traditional fusion that requires extremely high temperatures (over 100 million °C).
• Historical Context: The concept began in 1989 when chemists Martin Fleischmann and Stanley Pons claimed their palladium-heavy water experiment produced excess heat beyond normal chemical reactions, but these results could not be replicated by others.
• Current Interest: If successful, cold fusion could revolutionize energy production, leading to sustainable and affordable energy solutions.

About the Thunderbird Reactor (2025)

• Inception: The research, led by Curtis Berlinguette from the University of British Columbia, was published in the journal Nature in August 2025.
• Purpose: The reactor was constructed not for electricity generation but to investigate whether chemistry can influence nuclear reactions.
• Mechanism: A plasma thruster directs deuterium ions (a hydrogen isotope) at a palladium target while an electrochemical cell increases the deuterium concentration within the palladium, enhancing the likelihood of fusion.
• Neutron Detection: Approximately 130-140 neutrons per second were detected when deuterium ions struck the palladium, significantly exceeding background levels.
• Electrolysis Impact: Increasing deuterium via electrolysis further boosted neutron production.
• Energy Output: The reactor produced a minuscule amount of power (one-billionth of a watt) while consuming 15 watts of electricity, indicating no net energy gain at this stage.

In summary, the Thunderbird Reactor represents a significant advancement in the exploration of cold fusion, with ongoing research potentially paving the way for future breakthroughs in energy technology.

GS2/International Relations

India’s Strategic Autonomy in a Multipolar World

Why in News?

India's strategic autonomy is a practical diplomatic approach shaped by historical experiences and current geopolitical dynamics. Engaging with major powers such as the United States, China, and Russia, while representing the Global South, has made strategic autonomy central to India’s global ambitions and its resilience in an unpredictable international landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic autonomy combines the ability to make independent foreign policy decisions with flexibility and adaptability.
• India's relationships with the U.S., China, and Russia illustrate its approach to maintaining sovereignty while engaging globally.
• India's G-20 presidency signifies its role as a leader of the Global South, advocating for a pluralistic and independent global order.

Additional Details

• Strategic Autonomy: This term refers to a nation's capacity to make sovereign decisions in foreign and defense policy without external coercion. It promotes independence and adaptability, avoiding isolationism.
• American Partnership: India's relationship with the U.S. has evolved into a strategic partnership, characterized by defense cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint military initiatives, while maintaining independent decision-making.
• Chinese Challenge: India's complex relationship with China involves a balance of deterrence and engagement, particularly after border tensions, without fully severing economic ties.
• Russian Connection: Despite Western criticism, India continues to engage with Russia for strategic reasons, reflecting a pragmatic approach rather than mere loyalty.
• Global South Leadership: India's G-20 presidency signifies its commitment to being a sovereign player in global politics, appealing to nations seeking agency rather than alignment.
• Challenges to Autonomy: Economic vulnerabilities and geopolitical pressures can limit India's independent actions, necessitating a broader understanding of autonomy that includes technological and digital sovereignty.

In summary, India's strategic autonomy is more than a diplomatic concept; it represents a commitment to maintaining agency and shaping global norms while navigating a complex multipolar world. Its ability to balance relationships and assert independence will be crucial for its future role in international affairs.

GS3/Economy

BHARATI Initiative

Why in News?

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has recently launched the BHARATI initiative, which aims to establish a comprehensive support system for agritech startups in India.

Key Takeaways

• Launched by APEDA in September 2025.
• Goal to incubate and empower 100 agri-food and agri-tech startups to become export-ready.
• Aims to achieve US$ 50 billion (₹4.4 lakh crore) in agri-food exports by 2030.

Additional Details

• Purpose: The initiative focuses on export enablement, innovation, incubation, and addressing key challenges such as perishability, logistics, quality compliance, and sustainability.
• Policy Alignment: The BHARATI initiative supports national policies like Atmanirbhar Bharat, Start-Up India, Vocal for Local, and Digital India.
• Targeted Products: Focuses on GI-tagged items, organic foods, superfoods, AYUSH products, processed foods, and livestock-based products.
• Technology Integration: Utilizes AI for quality control, blockchain for traceability, IoT for cold chains, and agri-fintech solutions.
• Acceleration Model: A 3-month program designed to build export readiness and ensure compliance with international food safety and quality standards.
• Partnership Ecosystem: Collaborates with state boards, IITs/NITs, universities, industry bodies, and accelerators for comprehensive support.
• Scalability: The initiative is structured for annual growth, gradually increasing the number of startups supported.

The BHARATI initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing India's export capabilities in the agri-food sector, fostering innovation, and supporting startups in overcoming existing challenges in the market.

UPSC 2011

With what purpose is the Government of India promoting the concept of “Mega Food Parks”?

• 1. To provide good infrastructure facilities for the food processing industry.
• 2. To increase the processing of perishable items and reduce wastage.
• 3. To provide emerging and eco-friendly food processing technologies to entrepreneurs.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only* (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

GS2/International Relations

India–Europe Energy Dynamics: India’s Rising Diesel Exports to Europe Amid EU’s Upcoming Ban on Russian Crude Products

Why in News?

The European Union (EU) plans to implement a ban on imports of fuels refined from Russian crude starting January 21, 2026. In anticipation of this ban, Europe is currently stockpiling petroleum products, especially diesel. During this period, India has emerged as a significant swing supplier of petroleum products to Europe, altering the energy dynamics between India and Europe.

Key Takeaways

• The EU's ban on Russian crude products will lead to increased demand for alternatives, with India stepping in as a major supplier.
• India's petroleum exports to Europe have surged significantly, reflecting the growing dependence of Europe on Indian refined fuels.

Additional Details

• India's Petroleum Exports to Europe: The petroleum industry is crucial for India's economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings. In the period from April to January 2024, exports to Europe were valued at $18.4 billion, with a notable increase in export volumes.
• Export Growth: In July 2024, exports rose 26% to reach 266,000 barrels per day (bpd). The major products exported include diesel (238,000 bpd) and aviation fuel (81,000 bpd).
• Historical Growth: Between 2018-19 and 2023-24, India's petroleum exports to Europe surged by over 253,000% in volume and nearly 250% in value.
• Global Context: Major petroleum exporters globally include Saudi Arabia (16.2%), Russia (9.14%), and Canada (8.48%), while India has established itself as an emerging player in refined product exports.
• Types of Exports: India exports various crude oil derivatives such as diesel, gasoline, naphtha, kerosene, as well as refined products like aviation turbine fuel and petrochemicals.
• Strategic Importance: The consistent energy demand in Europe alongside India's advanced refining capabilities offers mutual benefits, reinforcing India's position as a reliable global energy supplier.

India's increasing role as a swing supplier of petroleum products is significant for Europe's energy security as it transitions away from Russian crude. To capitalize on this opportunity, India should focus on strengthening its global energy trade and preparing for policy shifts like the 2026 EU ban through market diversification and diplomatic engagement.

GS2/Governance

20 Years of MGNREGS

Why in the News?

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGS), significant concerns have been expressed regarding the chronic underfunding of the scheme over the last decade.

Key Takeaways

• MGNREGS is a rights-based Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at ensuring the Right to Work for rural households.
• The scheme guarantees 100 days of wage employment per year to any adult willing to undertake unskilled manual labor in rural areas.

Additional Details

• Origins: The concept of employment guarantee in India originated with the Maharashtra Employment Guarantee Scheme (MEGS) in 1965, initiated by the Vasantrao Naik government. The idea was proposed at the national level in 1991 by then Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao and later enacted.
• Legal Obligation: MGNREGS is the first law in India that mandates a legal duty on the government to provide employment and includes compensation for non-compliance.
• Development Goal: The scheme aims to promote livelihood security, inclusive growth, and rural development.
• Statutory Right: Employment under MGNREGS is a legal entitlement, distinguishing it from mere welfare schemes.
• Eligibility: Any rural adult aged 18 or above can apply, with a legal requirement to be offered work within 15 days.
• Proximity and Wages: Work must be provided within 5 km of the applicant’s residence, with minimum wage regulations. Delays in work provision attract compensation.
• Unemployment Allowance: If work is not provided on time, the state is required to pay an allowance to the applicants.
• Demand-Driven Model: The scheme is worker-initiated, compelling the government to respond to the demand for employment.
• Transparency and Audits: The scheme includes provisions for regular social audits and online updates to enhance accountability in job cards, muster rolls, and fund use.
• Local Implementation: MGNREGS is implemented at the local level, primarily by Gram Panchayats, with support from block and state officials and is centrally funded.
• Women’s Inclusion: At least one-third of the beneficiaries are women, promoting gender equity in employment opportunities.
• Sustainable Assets: The projects funded under MGNREGS focus on creating durable rural infrastructure such as ponds, roads, canals, and plantations.

In summary, MGNREGS remains a critical framework for providing employment to rural households, though it faces challenges of underfunding that need addressing to fulfill its objectives effectively.

Consider the following statements in respect of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005:

• 1. The Act provides 100 days of employment to households as a fundamental right.
• 2. Women are given priority such that half of the employment seekers are women.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

GS3/Economy

Fixing Problems, Unlocking India’s Growth PotentialWhy in News?

The recent measures unveiled during the 56th GST Council meeting on September 3, 2025, signify a pivotal moment in India's economic reforms, dubbed GST 2.0. This initiative not only aims to enhance tax efficiency but also strives to ensure inclusivity and strengthen institutional trust within the economy.

Key Takeaways

• GST 2.0 introduces a simplified taxation framework with a two-rate structure: a standard rate of 18% and a merit rate of 5%.
• Operationalisation of the Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) aims to improve dispute resolution and enhance fairness in taxation.
• Significant relief on essential goods and services will stimulate demand and support household budgets.
• Special provisions for MSMEs and labour-intensive sectors enhance their competitiveness and resilience.

Additional Details

• Simplified Taxation Framework: GST 2.0 moves towards a more predictable taxation system, reducing complexity for businesses and aligning with global best practices.
• Relief for Consumers: Essential items like soap and medicines are now taxed at lower rates, making them more affordable and stimulating demand across sectors.
• Support for MSMEs: The new registration scheme for small businesses aims to lower compliance costs and encourage formalisation, enabling easier access to markets.
• Potential challenges remain, including procedural delays and compliance burdens that need to be addressed for effective implementation.

In conclusion, GST 2.0 is positioned not only as a tax reform but as a broader economic strategy aimed at enhancing consumption, empowering small businesses, and reinforcing India's growth trajectory. If effectively implemented, it could serve as a cornerstone for transforming India into a globally competitive economy.

GS2/International Relations

India’s Strategic Autonomy in a Multipolar World

Why in News?

The discussion surrounding India's strategic autonomy has gained prominence as the country navigates its foreign policy in an increasingly multipolar world, particularly in the context of its relations with major powers like the United States, China, and Russia. This relevance is underscored by ongoing territorial disputes in regions like the South China Sea and the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Key Takeaways

• India's stance in the South China Sea emphasizes strategic autonomy by advocating for freedom of navigation under UNCLOS.
• Bilateral tensions with China include border clashes and disputes over oil exploration in contested waters.
• India employs a balanced approach through alliances like the Quad while engaging in cooperation via BRICS and SCO.

Additional Details

• Historical Context: India's strategic autonomy emerged from its colonial past and was institutionalized during Nehru's Non-Alignment Movement.
• Evolution of Strategic Autonomy: The concept has shifted from non-alignment to a doctrine of multi-alignment, showcasing India's adaptability in a changing global order.
• India and the United States: The partnership has deepened through defense cooperation and joint initiatives like the Quad, though friction points remain regarding trade and ties with Russia.
• Relations with China: Despite security challenges, China remains a key trading partner, prompting India to strengthen its border security and deepen Indo-Pacific ties.
• Engagement with Russia: India maintains a historical defense relationship with Russia, continuing cooperation despite international pressures.
• Global South Context: India has asserted its role as a voice for the Global South, balancing its relationships while emphasizing pragmatism.
• Technological Dimensions: India faces internal constraints such as political polarization and economic vulnerabilities, necessitating a focus on modern domains like cyber security and data sovereignty.

In conclusion, India's strategic autonomy is characterized by its ability to maintain independence in foreign policy, navigating the complexities of global alliances while safeguarding national interests. The evolution of this doctrine reflects India's resilience and adaptability in a multipolar world.