Weekly Current Affairs (8th September 2025 to 14th September 2025) | Weekly Current Affairs - UPSC PDF Download

GS2/International Relations

Katchatheevu Island Dispute

Why in News?

The recent visit of Sri Lankan President Dissanayake to Katchatheevu Island marks the first time a head of state has visited this disputed territory, reigniting discussions about the island's historical context and ownership.

Key Takeaways

• Katchatheevu Island is a small, uninhabited landmass of approximately 285 acres located in the Palk Strait, around 33 nautical miles from Jaffna (Sri Lanka) and near Ramanathapuram (Tamil Nadu, India).
• The island has a complex history, previously under the Raja of Ramnad and later becoming disputed during British colonial rule.

Additional Details

• Historical Agreements: Through the 1974 and 1976 agreements, India, under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, recognized Sri Lanka's sovereignty over Katchatheevu and relinquished traditional fishing rights.
• Religious Significance: Katchatheevu is home to St. Anthony’s Catholic Shrine, which sees annual visits from Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen during a joint festival, facilitated by a visa waiver.
• Ecological Importance: Although barren and uninhabited, the island serves as a crucial resting point for fishermen and supports marine biodiversity.

Current Disputes

• Fishing Conflicts: Tamil Nadu fishermen frequently cross into Sri Lankan waters due to declining fish populations in Indian waters, often leading to arrests by the Sri Lankan Navy.
• Bottom-Trawling Issue: Indian trawlers engage in bottom-trawling, a practice banned in Sri Lanka, which harms marine ecosystems and exacerbates tensions.
• Political Demands: There is a strong political push in Tamil Nadu for the retrieval of Katchatheevu, with claims that past governments have “easily given away” the island.
• Official Position: India clarified in 2013-14 that no sovereign territory was ceded, as the island was disputed and not fully under India’s control.
• Core Problem: The main issue is not sovereignty but rather the unsustainable bottom-trawling practices and the livelihood crisis faced by Tamil Nadu fishermen.

This dispute remains a significant aspect of India-Sri Lanka relations, highlighting the complexities of historical agreements, ecological practices, and local livelihoods.

GS1/Indian Society

Adi Sanskriti Digital Learning Platform

Why in News?

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has recently unveiled the beta version of Adi Sanskriti, a groundbreaking digital learning platform aimed at promoting tribal culture and arts.

Key Takeaways

• The platform aims to preserve tribal art forms and create sustainable livelihoods.
• It strives to connect tribal communities with the global audience, eventually evolving into a Tribal Digital University.
• It is developed in collaboration with State Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs) to ensure authentic representation and participation.

Additional Details

• Objective: To establish a learning environment that nurtures tribal culture through certifications, research opportunities, and transformative learning pathways.
• Significance: Aims to be the world’s first digital university dedicated to tribal culture and traditional knowledge.
• Integration with TRIs: Contributions from TRIs across 14 states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.

Key Components of Adi Sanskriti

• Adi Vishwavidyalaya: A Digital Tribal Art Academy offering 45 immersive courses on various tribal art forms, including dance, painting, crafts, music, and folklore.
• Adi Sampada: A socio-cultural repository housing over 5,000 curated documents on tribal arts, clothing, textiles, and livelihood practices.
• Adi Haat: An online marketplace linked with TRIFED, designed to support tribal artisans by providing a dedicated platform for sustainable livelihoods and direct consumer access.

This initiative represents a significant step towards recognizing and preserving the rich cultural heritage of tribal communities in India, while also providing them with opportunities for economic empowerment and cultural exchange.

GS3/Environment

Pugad Island: An Existential Threat

Why in News?

The Philippine island of Pugad, located in Manila Bay, is confronting severe challenges due to rising sea levels and rapid land subsidence, which threaten to submerge homes and disrupt the livelihoods of its residents.

Key Takeaways

• Pugad Island is a small, 7-hectare island situated at the mouth of the Angat–Pampanga River Delta.
• The island falls under the jurisdiction of Hagonoy municipality in Bulacan province, Philippines.
• It has a population of approximately 1,636 to 2,056 residents living in a clustered village with about 384 houses.
• The community primarily relies on fishing and aquaculture for their livelihoods.

Additional Details

• Living Conditions: Residents live in houses primarily constructed from bamboo and old metal sheets, facing challenges such as poor sanitation and minimal healthcare facilities.
• Flooding Challenges: The island regularly experiences flooding from high tides and monsoon seasons, exacerbated by land subsidence at a rate of 11 cm per year and sea-level rise, which is three times the global average.
• Environmental Hazards: The loss of mangroves, urban encroachment, and exposure to typhoons significantly increase the risks of disaster and displacement for the island's inhabitants.

In summary, Pugad Island is at a critical juncture, facing environmental challenges that threaten its very existence and the well-being of its residents. Urgent measures are needed to address these issues and protect the community from further risks.

GS2/Governance

Development Push in Manipur - PM Modi Inaugurates Projects Worth ₹1,200 Crore

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for numerous development projects amounting to over ₹1,200 crore in Imphal, Manipur. These initiatives encompass a range of areas including infrastructure, digital connectivity, women empowerment, sports, governance, and disaster resilience, highlighting the government's commitment to fostering inclusive growth in the North-East region. This visit marks PM Modi's first to Imphal since the ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023, during which he called for unity between the Meitei-dominated valley and the Kuki-dominated hill districts, advocating for harmony, peace, and development.

Key Takeaways

• Inauguration of major infrastructure projects in Manipur.
• Focus on women empowerment through new initiatives.
• Emphasis on sports development and cultural identity.
• Government's commitment to peace and stability in the region.

Additional Details

• Infrastructure Development: The launch of the Manipur Urban Roads Project (₹3,600 crore) aims to enhance connectivity in Imphal. Other projects include the construction of national highways and rural roads to connect villages.
• Digital and IT Growth: The Manipur Infotech Development Project (₹500 crore) and the establishment of an IT Special Economic Zone are intended to promote startups and tech industries in the region.
• Women Empowerment: The inauguration of four new Ima Markets reinforces the Ima Keithel tradition, symbolizing a women-led economy, aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
• Sports Development: The establishment of a National Sports University in Manipur and initiatives such as the Khelo India Olympic Podium schemes aim to support local athletes and promote sports.
• Socio-Economic Relief: The government’s initiatives include the approval of 7,000 new houses for displaced families and a special package of approximately ₹3,000 crore for Manipur.

In summary, PM Modi’s initiatives in Manipur not only aim to boost infrastructure and economic growth but also emphasize the importance of peace, stability, and inclusivity as fundamental aspects for progress in the region. The focus on women empowerment and sports development further positions Manipur as a hub of culture and growth in the North-East.

GS2/International Relations

Indo-China Border Dispute: Challenges in Defining the Line of Actual Control

Why in News?

The India-China border dispute has remained unresolved despite decades of discussions and agreements since 1993, particularly regarding the definition of the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which continues to fuel tensions between the two nations.

Key Takeaways

• The India-China border dispute is one of the most intricate territorial conflicts in Asia.
• Efforts to define the LAC have resulted in recurring confrontations, highlighting the complexities of the issue.
• Historical negotiations and agreements have failed to bring about a clear resolution.

Additional Details

• Early Efforts: The border negotiations gained traction after Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's visit to Beijing in 1988, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations.
• Border Peace and Tranquillity Agreement (BPTA): Signed in September 1993 during Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao's visit, this agreement emphasized peaceful consultation and the non-use of force.
• 1996 Agreement: This agreement introduced military confidence-building measures but highlighted the failure to achieve a mutual understanding of the LAC.
• Attempts to clarify the LAC between 2000 and 2002 through map exchanges failed, leading to ongoing disputes over key areas like Depsang and Pangong Tso.
• The current structural problem arises from the unwillingness of both nations to concede territory in strategically sensitive regions, exacerbated by China's infrastructure advantages.

While the agreements from 1993 and 1996 temporarily alleviated tensions, the ongoing inability to define the LAC has kept the border situation unstable. Both countries have developed mechanisms to avert escalation, yet a lack of political resolve to finalize the boundary complicates peace efforts. The recurring standoffs underscore the urgent need to either clarify the LAC or implement robust measures to prevent patrol confrontations from escalating into conflicts.

GS3/Economy

India’s Shipbuilding Growth: Poised to Enter Global Top 5

Why in the News?

The Union government of India has unveiled its ambitious plans to position the country among the world’s top five shipbuilding nations by the year 2047. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the Blue Economy through shipbuilding and repair sectors.

Key Takeaways

• India currently holds less than 1% of the global shipbuilding market.
• The government aims to transform shipbuilding and repair into key pillars of the Blue Economy.
• Under the Maritime India Vision 2030, extensive infrastructure investments are being made to boost the sector.

Current Status of Shipbuilding in India

• Maritime Ranking: India ranks as the world’s 16th largest maritime nation.
• GDP Contribution: The maritime sector contributes approximately 4% to India’s GDP.
• Global Tonnage: India’s contribution is less than 1% of the global shipbuilding tonnage.
• Seafarers: Indian seafarers constitute 12% of the global maritime workforce.

Government Measures to Promote Shipbuilding

• Financial Support Schemes:
  • Shipbuilding Finance Assistance Scheme for capital support.
  • Shipbreaking Credit Note Scheme to encourage ship recycling.
  • Upfront subsidies of up to 30% for non-conventional (green) ships.
• Development Funds and Missions:
  • $3 billion Maritime Development Fund, with 45% allocated to shipbuilding and repair.
  • National Shipbuilding Mission aimed at industry-wide modernization.
• Policy and Infrastructure Initiatives:
  • 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route in shipping and shipbuilding.
  • $82 billion investment plan to enhance port capacity by 2035.
  • Promotion of shipbuilding and repair clusters.

Strategic Goals for Shipbuilding Growth

• By 2030: Aim to enter the top 10 maritime nations globally.
• By 2047: Target to secure a position among the top 5 shipbuilding powers.
• GDP Contribution: Increase the maritime sector’s share from 4% to 12% of GDP.
• Seafarers’ Expansion: Raise India’s share of the global workforce from 12% to 25%.

At the recent INMEX SMM India 2025 event in Mumbai, the Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways highlighted the country’s trajectory towards becoming a top-five shipbuilding nation by 2047. He emphasized that shipbuilding and repair are crucial growth engines for the Blue Economy. Additionally, the Director General of Shipping noted the significance of government schemes, including subsidies and financial assistance, in scaling up maritime contributions to the economy, which currently stands at 4% of GDP. The commitment to shipbuilding is evident, with nearly 45% of the Maritime Development Fund earmarked for this sector. Private sector engagement, supported by liberalized FDI norms and public-private partnerships, is further accelerating investments in maritime infrastructure.

GS2/Polity

A Sense of Drift: Democracy at the Crossroads: Youth, Corruption and the New Global Malaise

Why in News?

Democracy, once hailed as the ultimate protector of freedom and governance, is currently facing significant challenges worldwide. Recent events in various countries illustrate that this democratic crisis is not isolated but rather a global phenomenon, with young people feeling disenfranchised and concerned about their futures.

Key Takeaways

• Democratic systems are experiencing cycles of growth and decline.
• Youth disillusionment is prevalent, leading to feelings of betrayal and alienation.
• Inequality and political polarization are major contributors to democratic malaise.
• Corruption remains a significant issue, often leading to authoritarian governance.
• Misinformation exacerbates the challenges faced by democracies today.

Additional Details

• Recurring Crises: Democracies tend to experience cycles of expansion lasting 40-50 years followed by periods of exhaustion, influenced by corruption, economic instability, and political divisions.
• Youth Disillusionment: Many young individuals across countries like Nepal, France, and the US feel their futures are compromised due to ineffective governance and a lack of representation.
• Inequality and Polarization: Today's discontent is driven by growing inequality and diverging political ideologies, contrasting with past perceptions of excessive participation as a problem.
• Corruption's Persistence: Corruption manifests structurally, with elites maintaining power and engaging in ostentatious lifestyles, while anti-corruption movements often fail to create lasting change.
• Misinformation Cycle: The rampant spread of misinformation through social media undermines trust in democratic institutions and fuels societal divisions.
• Path Forward for Democracies: Proposed solutions include institutional reinvention, inclusive growth, enhancing youth participation, taming polarization, regulating misinformation, and focusing on corruption reform.

In conclusion, addressing the crises facing democracies today requires a multifaceted approach that involves reinforcing institutional integrity, engaging youth, and fostering inclusive economic policies. By learning from historical precedents and adapting to modern challenges, there is potential for democracies to renew themselves and address the pressing concerns of their citizens.

GS3/Science and Technology

Neurogenesis in the Human Brain

Why in News?

A recent study published in 2025 in the journal Science has discovered the presence of young neurons in the adult human brain, challenging the long-held belief that neurogenesis, the process of neuron formation, occurs only during childhood.

Key Takeaways

• Neurogenesis involves the formation of new neurons from stem or progenitor cells.
• Previous studies established neurogenesis in animals like mice, rats, and monkeys, as well as during human childhood development.
• There has been ongoing debate regarding whether neurogenesis continues in adulthood, particularly in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and learning.

Additional Details

• Hippocampal Role: The dentate gyrus region of the hippocampus is believed to support lifelong neurogenesis, contributing to memory formation, cognitive flexibility, and stress regulation.
• Study Overview: Conducted by the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, the study analyzed 400,000 neurons from post-mortem hippocampus samples of individuals ranging from infants to 78 years old.
• Methodology: The researchers employed single nuclei RNA sequencing combined with machine learning to identify indications of new cell formation.
• Validation: The findings were confirmed through RNAscope and Xenium imaging techniques, which demonstrated the presence of neural stem cells, progenitor cells, and young neurons (neuroblasts) in both adolescent and adult brains.

The findings from this study are significant for several reasons:

• Evidence in Adults: This research provides compelling evidence that the formation of new neurons occurs in the adult brain, challenging previous assumptions.
• Evolutionary Insight: The study suggests that neurogenesis is a conserved characteristic across mammalian species, rather than being limited to certain animals.
• Brain Functions: Understanding neurogenesis may elucidate mechanisms underlying memory flexibility, the ability to overwrite existing memories, and overall resilience to stress.
• Therapeutic Potential: The findings open new avenues for regenerative treatments for brain disorders, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia, by targeting and stimulating local progenitor cells.
• Lifestyle Link: The study implies that factors such as exercise, social interactions, and stress management could significantly affect the extent of neurogenesis in individuals.

This research underscores the dynamic nature of the adult brain and its capacity for regeneration, highlighting the importance of lifestyle choices in promoting neurogenesis.

UPSC 2024

Which one of the following is synthesized in the human body that dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow?

• (a) Nitric oxide*
• (b) Nitrous oxide
• (c) Nitrogen dioxide
• (d) Nitrogen pentoxide

GS2/Polity

Election of the Vice-President

Why in News?

The Prime Minister has cast his first vote in the vice-presidential polls, highlighting the significance of this electoral process.

Key Takeaways

• The Vice-President of India holds the second-highest constitutional position and serves as the deputy to the President.
• The election of the Vice-President is governed by Article 66 of the Constitution, involving a unique electoral college system.

Additional Details

• Position: The Vice-President serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament.
• Qualifications:
  • Must be a citizen of India.
  • Minimum age requirement is 35 years.
  • Should not hold any office of profit.
  • Must be eligible for election to the Rajya Sabha.
• Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Presides over Rajya Sabha sessions and ensures order.
  • Classifies and refers money bills to the Lok Sabha Speaker.
  • No independent powers unless acting as President.
• Election Procedure:
  • Conducted by an electoral college comprising 543 Lok Sabha MPs, 233 elected Rajya Sabha MPs, and 12 nominated Rajya Sabha members.
  • Voting is done through proportional representation by a single transferable vote, along with a secret ballot.
  • No party whips allowed during voting.
  • The Election Commission oversees the conduct, with the Secretary-General of either House acting as the Returning Officer.
  • A candidate needs to secure 50% of valid votes plus one to win.
• Resignation and Removal:
  • According to Article 67(a), the VP submits resignation directly without parliamentary approval, taking effect immediately.
  • No provision for an acting Vice-President in the Constitution.
  • The Deputy Chairman presides in the absence of the VP.
  • The removal process requires a notice of 14 days and must achieve effective majority in Rajya Sabha and simple majority in Lok Sabha.
• Judicial Immunity: Article 122 prevents courts from questioning parliamentary proceedings related to the removal of the Vice-President.

To date, no Vice-President has been removed from office, reflecting the stability of this role in Indian politics.

Example Question:

With reference to Parliament, consider the following statements:

• 1. The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not members of that House.
• 2. While the nominated members of the two Houses of Parliament have no voting rights in the presidential election, they do have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only
• (b) 2 only
• (c) Both 1 and 2*
• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

GS3/Science and Technology

Building Sovereign Capability in Critical Technologies - India’s Talent Imperative

Why in News?

The evolution of critical technologies is reshaping global power dynamics. While India has made notable advancements in science and technology, its research ecosystem exhibits significant imbalances in attracting talent, institutional frameworks, and producing quality breakthroughs. The primary challenge lies not in the quantity of researchers, but in the ability to attract and retain top-tier talent in mission-driven fields that are essential for achieving strategic autonomy.

Key Takeaways

• India accounts for only 2.5% of highly cited papers and 2% of top-cited scientists globally.
• Despite ranking among the top five nations in 29 technologies, India struggles with consistent global breakthroughs.
• International restrictions on high-tech transfers from major powers like the US and China exacerbate India's technological gaps.

Global Dynamics and Emerging Window of Opportunity

• China: Dominates 37 of 44 critical technologies and recruits talent aggressively through programs like the Young Thousand Talents Program, yielding significant research output.
• US: Faces a decline in research funding and tenure opportunities, affecting the job market for STEM PhDs, with only 15% securing tenure track positions.
• Europe: France has launched a €100 million fund to lure global researchers.

India’s Policy Landscape

• Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): The government has committed ₹1 lakh crore towards mission-oriented investments in science.
• Efforts are being made to improve the Ease of Doing Science in India.

Weaknesses in Talent Attraction

• India's multiple fellowship schemes have not effectively attracted global academic talent.
• Compensation packages remain uncompetitive compared to global standards.
• Lack of world-class laboratories and sustained research grants hinder progress.
• No clear pathways for long-term career progression have been established.
• Recruitment has not been aligned with mission-oriented research areas critical for India's development.

The Focused Research Organisations (FRO) Model

• Key Features:
  • Establish a limited number of FROs in Institutes of National Importance, such as IIT Delhi for quantum communication.
  • Structure FROs as Section 8 companies with 51% industry participation, fostering public-private-academy partnerships.
  • Aim to attract 500 top-class researchers within five years, focusing on early-career talent.
  • Ensure integration of existing Indian academics through joint appointments and project-based roles.
• Strategic Domains of Focus: Key areas include semiconductors, propulsion and hypersonics, synthetic biology, and quantum communication.
• IIT Delhi Milestone: In collaboration with DRDO, IIT Delhi has achieved significant progress in quantum secure communication, marking a potential anchor for a national FRO.

Design Principles of the FRO Model

• Competitive Compensation: Ensure globally competitive pay through pooled resources.
• Strategic Focus: Concentrate on developing sovereign capabilities in select critical domains.
• Hybrid Ecosystem: Combine global expertise, local knowledge, and industry resources.
• Institutional Permanence: Provide predictable funding and clear talent pathways.

In conclusion, India is at a pivotal moment in its journey towards technological sovereignty. The shifts in the global research landscape present a unique opportunity to attract and retain top-tier researchers. Establishing FROs is essential for building long-term capabilities, achieving sovereign autonomy, and enhancing economic competitiveness. Delay in taking action risks losing a generation of scientific talent and increasing dependency on foreign nations. The imperative is clear: invest now in talent-driven critical technologies to avoid long-term technological reliance.

GS1/Indian Society

How Much is Spent on Children’s Education in India

Why in News?

The issue of educational expenditure in India highlights the persistent gender inequities in education, revealing a disparity where families invest more in boys' education compared to girls, despite improvements in enrollment ratios.

Key Takeaways

• Households consistently spend more on boys across various educational stages.
• The recent National Sample Survey (NSS) revealed significant gaps in expenditure reflecting deep-rooted gender biases.
• Despite enrollment successes for girls, financial priorities remain skewed towards boys.

Additional Details

• Significance of the recent NSS report: The 2024 survey involved 52,085 households and 57,742 students, providing extensive data on education spending patterns.
• Urban vs. Rural Spending: In urban areas, families spend ₹2,791 less per girl than on boys, while in rural settings, boys receive 18% more investment in education.
• Tuition Classes: Although enrollment in coaching classes is similar (26% for girls vs. 27.8% for boys), expenditure on tuition for boys is 22% higher by higher secondary level.
• State-Level Variations: States like Delhi and Rajasthan show over a 10 percentage point gap in private school enrollment favoring boys, while Tamil Nadu and Kerala exhibit gender parity.
• Coaching Expenditure: Average spending on higher secondary tuition is ₹9,813 for boys compared to ₹1,550 for girls, indicating a significant disparity.
• Broader Implications: The lack of investment in girls’ education perpetuates gender inequality in the workforce and limits human capital development.

In conclusion, while the enrollment of girls in education has improved, the financial discrimination against them remains a significant barrier. To achieve true gender equality in education, families must prioritize investment in daughters' education equally with sons, supported by effective policies and awareness campaigns.

GS3/Economy

India’s Generic Medicines: A Pillar of Global Healthcare

Why in News?

The Indian pharmaceutical sector, which heavily depends on the U.S. market, is facing significant challenges due to potential sector-specific duties. With the U.S. accounting for over 31% of Indian pharmaceutical exports and sourcing nearly half of its generics from India, these concerns threaten India's status as a major supplier of affordable medicines. As the global generic market is projected to reach $614 billion by 2030, the outcome of ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S. is vital for the future of this industry.

Key Takeaways

• India contributes around 20% of the global supply of generic drugs, earning the title "pharmacy of the world."
• Indian generics dominate U.S. prescriptions, especially in critical areas like diabetes, anxiety, depression, and cancer.
• Generics from India have saved the U.S. healthcare system $219 billion in 2022 alone, highlighting their importance in global healthcare affordability.

Additional Details

• U.S. Tariff Threats: The U.S. administration has raised concerns regarding high drug prices and India's intellectual property (IP) regime. There are calls for international reference pricing (IRP) and stronger IP protections, which could increase drug costs and delay generic entries.
• India has resisted these norms and must continue to safeguard TRIPS flexibilities, including compulsory licensing provisions.
• To protect its exports, India is considering concessions, such as supplying generics at 20–25% of branded prices for three years post-patent expiry.

India's approach to its Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the U.S. needs a shift from transactional dealings to a more strategic position. By emphasizing the global public good of Indian generics, India can potentially enhance its bargaining power. Moreover, joint ventures with various regions, including the U.S. and EU, could alter the trade dynamics favorably for India.

In conclusion, as India seeks to diversify its pharmaceutical trade beyond the U.S. and strengthen its market presence globally, it must focus on technology transfer, collaborative R&D, and promoting generics as a global public good. This strategy will not only protect public health but also secure India's interests in the pharmaceutical sector.

GS1/Indian Society

Langkhon Festival of Assam

Why in News?

Recently, the Tiwa tribesmen celebrated the Langkhon festival in Umsowai village, located in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam. This festival marks an important event in the cultural calendar of the Tiwa community.

Key Takeaways

• The Langkhon festival is a pre-harvest thanksgiving celebration.
• It is traditionally celebrated in October to November, just before the Rabi crop season.

Additional Details

• Core Belief: The festival involves the worship of bamboo, which is seen as a symbol of prosperity and sustenance in Tiwa culture.
• Deities: Special prayers are offered to Ramsa Devota and other local gods, seeking protection for crops, welfare for families, and prosperity for the village.
• Ritual Practices: These include offerings, sacrifices, and prayers intended to drive away pestilence and evil forces, ensuring a good paddy harvest.
• Duration: The festival is celebrated for 2 to 4 days, encouraging active community participation.
• Traditional Dances: Cultural highlights include the Langkhon dance, Moinari Khanthi, and Yangli.
• Folk Songs: Integral songs such as Lo Ho La Hai (related to naming, weddings, and harvests) and Lali Hilali Lai (associated with weddings) are performed during the festival.
• Games & Sports: Local games like Plasele and Sam Kava are organized, which help strengthen community bonds.

The Langkhon festival not only serves as a vital cultural observance for the Tiwa people but also reinforces community ties and celebrates agricultural abundance.

[UPSC 2018]

Consider the following pairs: Tradition | State

• 1. Chapchar Kut festival — Mizoram
• 2. Khongjom Parba ballad — Manipur
• 3. Thong-To dance — Sikkim

Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?

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

GS2/Polity

Enhanced Powers of Foreigners Tribunals

Why in News?

The Union Home Ministry has recently enacted the Rules, Order, and Exemption Order under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. This comprehensive legislation supersedes various older laws such as the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, the Foreigners Act, 1946, and the Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000, streamlining the governance of foreign individuals and immigration processes.

Key Takeaways

• The new Act aims to eliminate confusion caused by multiple pre-Independence laws related to immigration and travel.
• It formalizes the Bureau of Immigration's (BOI) authority to investigate immigration fraud and maintain a comprehensive immigration database.
• Foreigners Tribunals (FTs) are now granted judicial powers akin to first-class magistrates.

Additional Details

• Investigation Powers: The Bureau of Immigration is empowered to investigate immigration fraud and collaborate with state authorities to identify and deport foreigners.
• Biometric Recording: Biometric data collection is now mandated for all foreigners, expanding beyond previous limitations.
• Reporting Requirements: Educational institutions are required to report foreign students' attendance and conduct to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
• Premises Closure: Establishments frequented by illegal migrants can be shut down, adding to existing measures against undesirable foreigners.
• Judicial Powers of FTs: Foreigners Tribunals can now issue arrest warrants and send individuals without citizenship proof to detention centers, with their decisions being reviewable within 30 days.
• Expanded Entry Refusal Grounds: Entry can be denied based on criteria such as anti-national activities, terrorism, and human trafficking.
• Exemptions: Certain groups, including registered Sri Lankan Tamil nationals and undocumented minorities from neighboring countries, are exempt from the passport and visa requirements under specific conditions.

This new framework is intended to modernize India's immigration policies, addressing contemporary challenges while ensuring better regulation and enforcement regarding foreign nationals in the country.

GS1/Indian Society

The ‘Domestic Sphere’ in a New India

Why in News?

The discourse surrounding women’s empowerment in India has been shaped by various political, cultural, and economic factors. Recently, the narrative of nari shakti (women’s power) has gained traction, particularly under the current government. However, this rhetoric often masks the ongoing neglect of women's lives and labor, especially within the domestic sphere.

Key Takeaways

• The rhetoric of women’s empowerment contrasts sharply with regressive political stances on women's autonomy.
• Statistics reveal alarming rates of violence against women, yet the government treats these issues as private matters.
• Women bear a disproportionate burden of unpaid domestic labor compared to men.
• Government narratives often glamorize gender inequality rather than address it.
• Women’s unpaid labor significantly contributes to the economy but remains unrecognized in wage structures.

Additional Details

• Rhetoric versus Reality: Political leaders often invoke women’s empowerment while maintaining regressive views on women's roles, exemplified by statements urging women to focus solely on reproduction.
• Violence and Silence in the Home: From 2017 to 2022, an average of 7,000 women were killed yearly in dowry-related incidents. Despite high rates of intimate partner violence, only a small percentage of cases are reported to authorities.
• The Gendered Burden of Work: The Time Use Survey 2024 shows that while only 25% of women engage in paid work, 93% are involved in unpaid domestic tasks, highlighting a significant gender disparity in labor.
• State Narratives and the Glorification of Inequality: The government celebrates women's caregiving roles as cultural virtues, downplaying the systemic inequalities that underlie these responsibilities.
• Capitalism and the Invisible Subsidy: A 2023 study indicated that recognizing unpaid domestic work could increase India’s GDP by over 7%, illustrating how women’s labor subsidizes both state and capital.

To address these systemic injustices, interventions are necessary across cultural, social, and policy domains. This includes treating domestic violence as a structural issue, affirming women's rights to equal work and pay, providing universal childcare, and transforming cultural narratives about domestic responsibilities. Ultimately, achieving true nari shakti requires confronting the harsh realities that define women's lives in India.

GS2/Polity

National Lok Adalat

Why in News?

On September 13, a nationwide National Lok Adalat was conducted with a specific emphasis on addressing the backlog of pending traffic e-challans related to minor offences.

Key Takeaways

• National Lok Adalat is organized four times a year, taking place simultaneously across all courts from the Supreme Court to Taluk Courts.
• It aims to resolve both pending cases and pre-litigation disputes that are suitable for compromise.
• Sessions are conducted nationwide as per the schedule fixed by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
• The focus is on amicable settlements rather than judicial impositions.
• Common cases addressed include matrimonial disputes, compoundable criminal cases, land acquisition, labor disputes, compensation claims, bank recoveries, and accident claims.
• Non-compoundable or sensitive offences are excluded from its scope.

Additional Details

• Legal Status: Lok Adalats are established as a statutory body under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, which was amended in 2002 to include Permanent Lok Adalats for public utility services.
• Composition: The composition includes a judicial officer (Chairman), a lawyer, and a social worker.
• History: The first Lok Adalat was held in Gujarat in 1982, serving as a voluntary conciliatory forum.
• Award/Decision: The decisions made by Lok Adalats are final and binding, equivalent to a civil court decree, with no appeal permitted.
• Jurisdiction: Lok Adalats can settle pending cases and matters within court jurisdiction through mutual consent, referral, or court satisfaction.
• Powers: They enjoy the powers of a civil court and proceedings are treated as judicial proceedings.
• Benefits: Benefits include no court fees, speedy disposal of cases, procedural flexibility, direct interaction between parties and judges, and finality of settlement.

In conclusion, National Lok Adalats play a significant role in the Indian judicial system, facilitating quick and amicable resolutions to various disputes while alleviating the burden on traditional court systems.

GS3/Science and Technology

Regulation of Biostimulants in India

Why in News?

India has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for biostimulants, positioning itself among a select group of countries with specialized oversight in this area.

Key Takeaways

• Biostimulants are defined as substances or microorganisms that enhance plant processes, improving aspects such as nutrient uptake, growth, yield, crop quality, efficiency, and stress tolerance.
• They are distinct from pesticides or plant growth regulators, which are governed by the Insecticides Act of 1968.
• As of now, only 146 products have been formally recognized under the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO).

Additional Details

• Definition: According to Clause 20C of the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO), 1985, biostimulants comprise substances or microorganisms aimed at stimulating plant processes.
• Categories: These include botanical extracts (like seaweed), protein hydrolysates, amino acids, vitamins, biochemicals, antioxidants, anti-transpirants, humic and fulvic acids, cell-free microbial products, and live microorganisms (excluding biofertilizers and biopesticides).
• Regulation Timeline:
  • Before 2021: Approximately 30,000 unregulated products were available in Indian markets.
  • February 2021: Biostimulants were included under FCO; a provisional registration system (G3 certificates) was introduced with around 8,000 products approved temporarily.
  • Current Status: Only 146 products have been formally notified in Schedule VI.
• Key Amendments (2021–2025):
  • Biostimulants are now legally recognized under FCO.
  • In 2023-24, provisional validity was extended to prevent disruption.
  • Live microorganisms (excluding biofertilizers/biopesticides) were added as a recognized category.
  • The pesticide residue limit increased from 0.01 ppm to 1 ppm.
  • Stricter quality testing, labelling, and safety standards have been implemented.
  • The provisional registration system has been discontinued.
• Significance:
  • Protects farmers from fraudulent or unproven products.
  • Promotes validated indigenous products aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
  • Establishes standards for quality, safety, and labelling through official notifications.
  • Makes India one of the few countries with a dedicated biostimulant law, ensuring a balance between farmer welfare, environmental safety, innovation, and regulation.

In conclusion, the establishment of a regulatory framework for biostimulants marks a significant step toward ensuring the quality and safety of agricultural inputs in India, fostering innovation and protecting farmers.

UPSC 2013 Question: Consider the following organisms:
1. Agaricus
2. Nostoc
3. Spirogyra
Which of the above is/are used as biofertilizer/biofertilizers?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only* (c) 2 and 3 (d) 3 only

GS1/Indian Society

Apatani Tribe in the News

Why in News?

The Apatani Tribe, known for their unique facial tattoos and wooden nose plugs traditionally worn by women, is in the limelight as these practices, banned in the 1970s, are now only observed among the older generations. This has led to their significance in anthropological studies.

Key Takeaways

• The Apatani Tribe is primarily located in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh.
• They speak a dialect from the Tani linguistic group, part of the Tibeto-Burman family.
• The tribe follows a paganistic belief system, worshipping natural elements like the Sun and Moon.
• Global recognition for Ziro Valley includes its proposal as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Additional Details

• Cultural Identity: Women of the Apatani Tribe historically wore facial tattoos and nose plugs, which have become rare since the 1970s.
• Sustainable Farming Practices: The tribe engages in integrated rice-fish farming on terraced fields, cultivating rice varieties such as Mipya, Emoh, and Emeo, alongside fish species like Ngihi.
• Weaving Tradition: Women utilize a loin loom (Chichin) to create fabrics characterized by geometric and zig-zag designs, dyed using natural extracts.
• Bamboo Culture: Bamboo plays a crucial role in daily life and rituals, representing ecological harmony.
• Community Systems: The tribe maintains sustainable social forestry and village institutions to conserve their culture and environment.

The Apatani Tribe's rich cultural heritage and sustainable practices provide valuable insights into biodiversity and traditional ecological knowledge, reinforcing the importance of preserving such unique identities in the face of modernization.

GS1/Geography

Freshwater Aquifers Found Beneath the Atlantic Ocean

Why in News?

The recent discovery of a significant freshwater aquifer beneath the Atlantic shelf presents new opportunities to tackle potential global water shortages.

Key Takeaways

• Location: Offshore northeastern U.S., possibly extending from New Jersey to Maine.
• Expedition 501: Drilled up to 400 m beneath the seabed, retrieving nearly 50,000 liters of water and numerous sediment cores.
• Findings: Freshwater and nearly fresh water identified at both shallower and deeper depths than anticipated, confirming the existence of a large, pressurized aquifer.
• Global Context: Similar offshore aquifers are suspected or have been identified in regions such as South Africa, Hawai‘i, Jakarta, and Canada’s Prince Edward Island.

Possible Origins of the Freshwater

• Glacial Meltwater Hypothesis: Ancient ice sheets during periods of lower sea levels allowed meltwater to permeate into porous sediments.
• Connected Aquifer Hypothesis: Modern terrestrial groundwater may still gradually flow offshore through geological formations.

Significance of the Discovery

• Water Security: Could potentially supply a metropolis the size of New York City for centuries if managed sustainably.
• Climate Change Resilience: Provides alternative options as coastal aquifers are threatened by saltwater intrusion and rising urban demand, exemplified by Cape Town’s “Day Zero” crisis in 2018.
• Scientific Impact: Marks the first systematic drilling of offshore freshwater for mapping and salinity profiling.

This discovery not only enhances our understanding of freshwater resources but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable management in the face of climate challenges.

UPSC 2021

With reference to the water on planet Earth, consider the following statements:

• 1. The amount of water in rivers and lakes is more than the amount of groundwater.
• 2. The amount of water in polar ice caps and glaciers is more than the amount of groundwater.

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

GS2/International Relations

Missed Demographic Dividend in South Asia and Beyond

Why in News?

In recent years, youth-led uprisings have emerged in countries such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Nepal, driven by economic growth that has not translated into improved opportunities for the younger population. Instead, a backdrop of corruption and prosperity among elites has fueled discontent.

Key Takeaways

• Youth protests in South Asia reflect frustrations over inequality and lack of opportunities.
• Corruption rankings indicate severe governance issues in Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.
• High unemployment rates among young people signal a failure to capitalize on the demographic dividend.

Additional Details

• Youth Unrest: In Nepal, protests have highlighted the extravagant lifestyles of political elites, referred to as "nepo kids," exacerbating generational anger.
• Corruption Statistics: According to Transparency International’s 2024 rankings, Nepal ranks 107, Bangladesh 151, Sri Lanka 121, and Indonesia 99, illustrating widespread governance challenges.
• Economic Growth Without Inclusion: Despite economic growth, the youth remain disproportionately affected by unemployment and underemployment, as traditional sectors decline due to automation.
• High Youth Unemployment: In 2024, Indonesia's unemployment rate was 4.91%, but for ages 20-24, it spiked to 15.34%. In Bangladesh, the unemployment rate for youth aged 15-24 was 8.24% in 2023.
• Nepal's Employment Crisis: Unemployment rose from 11.4% in 2017-18 to 12.6% in 2022-23, with many young Nepalis seeking work abroad, contributing to remittances that comprise nearly a quarter of GDP.
• India's Demographic Transition: India is experiencing a shift towards a demographic dividend, with a median age of 28 and a projected peak demographic dividend around 2041, when the working-age population is expected to reach 59%.

The situation across South Asia underscores a critical need for inclusive job creation and economic policies that can harness the potential of the young demographic, turning discontent into a driving force for growth and stability.