UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 3rd March 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Economy

Centring Care in India’s Economic Policy

Why in News?

The Union Budget 2025 has achieved a significant milestone in gender-responsive fiscal policies by allocating a record ₹4,49,028.68 crore to the Gender Budget (GB), reflecting a 37.3% increase from the previous year. This allocation represents 8.86% of the total Budget, indicating a growing recognition of gender-related economic issues. However, further analysis indicates that this increase is largely due to the inclusion of the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, which accounts for 24% of the GB. This highlights persistent gaps in addressing unpaid care and domestic work (UCDW) in India’s economic planning.

• The Gender Budget for 2025 reflects a significant increase but lacks substantial investments in care infrastructure.
• Indian women spend 40% more time on unpaid care work compared to counterparts in South Africa and China.
• 53% of Indian women are outside the formal labour force due to caregiving responsibilities, compared to only 1.1% of men.

Additional Details

• Unpaid Labour: Globally, women disproportionately shoulder the burden of unpaid care work, with Indian women spending about 17.8% of their time on such tasks. In the Global South, this imbalance is even more pronounced.
• Marginalised Women: For women in low-income households, the situation is more severe, often working 17–19 hours a day, leading to 'time poverty' and health challenges.
• Missed Opportunities: Despite the record allocation, the Budget fails to make transformative investments in care infrastructure, which is critical for women's empowerment.
• Policy Recommendations: The Economic Survey 2023-24 recommends a direct public investment of 2% of GDP in care infrastructure to create job opportunities and reduce care burdens.

In conclusion, while the emphasis on Nari Shakti is commendable, the 2025 Budget falls short of prioritizing care infrastructure, which is essential for creating an inclusive economy. Addressing unpaid care work, investing in time-saving infrastructure, and redistributing care responsibilities are critical steps toward achieving gender equality and economic growth in India.

GS2/Polity

Article 136 of the Indian Constitution

Why in News?

Recently, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed concerns regarding the extensive use of Special Leave Petitions (SLPs) under Article 136 of the Indian Constitution. He noted that what was intended as a "narrow slit" for judicial intervention has expanded significantly.

• A Special Leave Petition (SLP) is an extraordinary appeal mechanism that permits the Supreme Court (SC) to intervene in judgments from lower courts or tribunals.
• SLPs are discretionary and not all petitions filed under Article 136 are guaranteed a hearing by the SC.
• The concept of SLP traces its origins back to the Government of India Act, 1935, which conferred similar powers to the Privy Council.

Additional Details

• Jurisdiction of Article 136: The SC has the authority to grant special leave to appeal against decisions made by High Courts, tribunals, or other judicial entities, enabling it to consider cases lacking a direct appeal route.
• Scope of Application: SLPs can be filed in both civil and criminal cases, including instances where a High Court denies certification for an appeal to the Supreme Court.
• The SC can accept or reject an SLP without the necessity of providing reasons for its decision.
• Time Limit for Filing: An SLP must be filed within 90 days from the date of the High Court’s judgment, or within 60 days if the High Court refuses to certify an appeal.
• Judicial Discretion: Filing an SLP does not guarantee an automatic right of appeal; it is granted only when the SC identifies a substantial question of law or injustice. Even if an SLP is accepted, the SC may later choose not to intervene in the final outcome.
• Conversion into a Formal Appeal: If the SC grants leave under an SLP, it transforms into a full-fledged appeal, allowing both parties to present their cases.

In summary, Article 136 provides a crucial mechanism for judicial intervention, though its application is guided by the principles of discretion and the identification of significant legal questions.

GS3/Science and Technology

BLUE GHOST MISSION 1

Why in News?

The recent success of Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost Mission 1 marks a significant achievement in private space exploration. This mission not only signifies the second successful private lunar landing but also stands out as the first to accomplish an upright landing.

• Firefly Aerospace's spacecraft landed on the moon on Sunday, shortly after 3:34 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time (0204 IST).
• The landing site is near Mons Latreille, a volcanic formation located in Mare Crisium on the moon’s northeastern near side.
• This mission supports NASA's Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon.

Additional Details

• Instruments on Board: Blue Ghost carries 10 scientific instruments including a lunar soil analyser, a radiation-tolerant computer, and an experiment to test the feasibility of using global satellite navigation systems for lunar navigation.
• Mission Duration: Designed to operate for a full lunar day (approximately 14 Earth days), Blue Ghost is set to capture high-definition images during a total eclipse on March 14, where the Earth blocks the sun from the moon’s horizon.
• The mission will also record a lunar sunset on March 16, providing insights into lunar dust behavior influenced by solar activity, which was first documented by Apollo astronaut Eugene Cernan.

Following Blue Ghost's successful landing, the next mission by Texas-based Intuitive Machines, featuring the lander Athena, is scheduled for March 6. Intuitive Machines previously achieved the first private soft lunar landing in February 2024, which was also the first U.S. lunar landing since Apollo 17 in 1972, despite a mishap that prevented the lander from generating sufficient solar power. Before this, only five national space agencies had successfully landed on the moon.

GS3/Environment

Transforming Indian Cities - Challenges and the Road Ahead

Why in News?

Indian cities are currently facing severe challenges, including high levels of pollution, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient public services. Without necessary reforms, these urban areas may become unlivable and unsafe for their residents.

• Rapid urbanization is leading to overpopulation in cities with an expected increase to over 600 million residents by 2036.
• 42 Indian cities rank among the 50 most polluted in the world, significantly impacting residents' health and quality of life.
• Governance issues and poor urban planning contribute to regional inequalities and ineffective resource management.
• Comprehensive reform and investment in infrastructure are critical for creating sustainable and livable urban environments.

Additional Details

• Rapid Urbanization: The 2011 Census reported that census towns increased from 1,362 in 2001 to 3,894 by 2011, contributing significantly to urban growth.
• Pollution Crisis: Nearly 50% of India's rivers are polluted, causing respiratory diseases and economic losses estimated at $95 billion annually.
• Climate Change Impact: Cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru have faced severe flooding, while New Delhi has experienced extreme heat, highlighting the need for improved urban infrastructure.
• Water and Waste Management: Major rivers like the Yamuna and Ganga are heavily contaminated, and less than one-fifth of waste is treated in India, leading to public health issues.
• Governance Issues: Census towns lack official recognition, leading to poor infrastructure and funding shortages, exacerbating regional inequalities.
• Lessons from Global Cities: Cities like Singapore and Dubai exemplify efficient urban planning and governance, offering valuable lessons for Indian cities.

In conclusion, the future of Indian cities hinges on proactive planning and governance reforms. To avoid worsening pollution, congestion, and insecurity, immediate action is essential. The next decade is critical for transforming Indian urban areas into smart, green, and globally competitive cities.

GS1/Indian Society

Juanga Tribe

Why in News?

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has requested a report from the district magistrate-cum-collector of Keonjhar concerning alleged human rights violations involving the Juanga tribe, which is recognized as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in the region.

• The Juanga tribe is one of 13 PVTGs among the 62 tribes in Odisha.
• The population of the Juanga tribe is approximately 50,000 as per the 2011 Census.
• They primarily inhabit the districts of Keonjhar and Dhenkanal in Odisha.

Additional Details

• Language: The Juanga people speak the Juang language, which belongs to the Munda family within the Austroasiatic languages.
• Livelihood: Traditionally, the Juangs relied on hunting and gathering. However, the British colonial era's declaration of their forests as reserves led to significant changes in their customs. They adapted by becoming skilled in basket-weaving and traded their products with neighboring villages for basic necessities like salt, oil, and food.
• Clothing: Historically known as Patuas or "leaf-wearers," Juang women wore leaf girdles while men donned small loincloths. Over time, after interactions with neighboring communities and government initiatives, they adopted clothing styles from other cultures.
• Beliefs: The Juanga tribe combines ancient animistic rituals with some Hindu beliefs. They revere the sun god as their supreme deity while also incorporating Hindu deities alongside their tribal gods and goddesses.

The NHRC's involvement highlights ongoing concerns regarding the rights and cultural preservation of the Juanga tribe, emphasizing the need for governmental attention and action to protect their rights and heritage.

GS2/Governance

Aadhaar Good Governance Portal

Why in News?

The central government has recently introduced the Aadhaar Good Governance portal to enhance and streamline the approval process for Aadhaar authentication requests.

• The portal aims to simplify the approval process for Aadhaar authentication.
• Launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
• Follows amendments to the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance Rules, 2025.
• Supports good governance and improves the delivery of welfare services.
• Part of efforts to enhance service delivery and ease of living for citizens.

Additional Details

• Portal Functionality: The Aadhaar Good Governance portal serves as a comprehensive resource, providing detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for entities seeking authentication, guiding them on the application process and onboarding for Aadhaar services.
• Face Authentication: Future integration of face authentication may enable private sector applications, facilitating authentication anywhere and anytime.
• Aadhaar Overview: The Aadhaar system provides a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), serving as proof of identity linked to biometric and demographic data.
• The Aadhaar program was launched in 2009 with the goal of ensuring a unique and verifiable identity for every Indian resident, becoming mandatory for several government services and utilized by private entities for identification.

This initiative represents ongoing efforts by the government to simplify processes related to Aadhaar authentication, thereby enhancing the overall experience for citizens in accessing services.

GS1/History & Culture

Who was Amir Khusrau?

Why in News?

Recently, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the 25th edition of Jahaan-e-Khusrau, a Sufi music festival held at Sunder Nursery, New Delhi, in honor of Amir Khusrau.

• Amir Khusrau was born in Patiyali, Uttar Pradesh, to a Turkish father and an Indian mother.
• He served as a court poet for five Delhi Sultans during his lifetime.
• Khusrau was profoundly influenced by Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya, which shaped his spiritual and poetic journey.
• He is affectionately known as "The Parrot of India" (Tuti-e-Hind) due to his eloquence.

Literary Contributions

• Languages: He wrote in Persian and Hindavi, pioneering Khari Boli, which is the precursor to Hindi and Urdu.
• First Hindi Lexicon: Created Khalikbari, a blend of Sanskrit, Persian, and Arabic words.
• Notable Works:
  • Tughlaq Nama (historical epic)
  • Nuh Sipihr (Nine Skies)
  • In the Bazaar of Love (ghazals and poetry)
• Invented the qawwali tradition, merging Indian and Persian musical styles.
• Composed famous pieces such as:
  • Chhap Tilak Sab Chheeni Re
  • Zehal-e-Miskeen
  • Sakal Ban Phool Rahi Sarson
• Credited with developing the sitar and tabla, although this is debated among historians.

Legacy

• He was the most devoted disciple of Nizamuddin Auliya and followed him in death within six months.
• His tomb lies beside Nizamuddin’s dargah in Delhi, symbolizing their eternal bond.
• Khusrau pioneered Hindavi poetry and laid the foundation for Hindi and Urdu literature.
• He inspired generations of ghazal and qawwali singers, including Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Abida Parveen.
• Festivals continue to honor his enduring cultural legacy.

Previous Year Question (PYQ)

With reference to the religious history of medieval India, the Sufi mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices?

• 1. Meditation and control of breath
• 2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place
• 3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Amir Khusrau remains an iconic figure in Indian history, celebrated for his contributions to literature and music, and his legacy continues to influence contemporary culture.

GS3/Environment

MISHTI Scheme

Why in News?

Gujarat has taken a significant lead in mangrove afforestation, achieving a remarkable coverage of 19,020 hectares in just two years under the government's 'MISHTI' scheme.

• The MISHTI scheme aims to enhance mangrove cover along coastlines and on salt pan lands.
• It was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change on June 5, 2023, coinciding with World Environment Day.
• India joined the 'Mangrove Alliance for Climate' during COP27 in November 2022, which is linked to the initiative.

Additional Details

• Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI): This government-led initiative focuses on restoring and increasing mangrove cover across approximately 540 sq.km. over a period of five years, starting from 2023-24.
• Geographical Focus: The scheme primarily targets the Sundarbans delta and Hooghly Estuary in West Bengal, while also encompassing other crucial wetland areas in India.
• Community Involvement: The government provides financial assistance to local communities for mangrove planting and conducts awareness campaigns to highlight the ecological importance of mangroves.
• Collaborative Efforts: The initiative works in collaboration with other government schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) Fund.

The MISHTI scheme represents a comprehensive approach not only to restore mangroves but also to engage local communities, ensuring both environmental protection and the generation of tangible incomes through sustainable practices.

GS3/Environment

OFFSHORE MINING: Current Events in Kerala

Why in News?

The coastal communities in Kerala are currently experiencing significant unrest due to the Indian government's plans for offshore mining. These communities fear that such activities will devastate their delicate marine ecosystems and threaten their traditional livelihoods.

• The Centre's auctioning of offshore mineral blocks has sparked strong opposition from local communities.
• The 2023 amendment to the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, allows private sector involvement in offshore mining.
• Surveys indicate the presence of valuable minerals in various coastal regions, which could impact local ecosystems.

Additional Details

• Mining Areas:Bids have been solicited for 13 offshore areas, including:
  • Three blocks of lime mud off the Gujarat coast.
  • Three blocks of construction sand off the Kerala coast.
  • Seven blocks of polymetallic nodules and crusts off the coast of Great Nicobar Island.
• Kollam Parappu (Quilon Bank): This area is known for its rich fishing zones and is frequented by various fishing vessels, highlighting the potential impact of mining on local fisheries.
• A study by the University of Kerala warns of catastrophic effects on marine ecosystems due to mining operations, particularly affecting coral diversity and water quality.
• The extraction process may lead to sediment plumes, increasing turbidity, which can disrupt food webs and degrade spawning grounds.
• There are also concerns regarding the economic implications of using freshwater for washing extracted sand.

The situation calls for a careful evaluation of both environmental and economic impacts of offshore mining to ensure the protection of marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of local communities.

GS3/Environment

Study Identifies Sources of PM2.5 in Northern India

Why in News?

A recent study published in Nature Communications has examined the sources and health impacts of PM2.5 pollution in Northern India, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.

• PM2.5, or particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns, poses severe health risks, including respiratory diseases and heart conditions.
• The study identified major sources of PM2.5 pollution in five key locations, including Delhi and Kanpur.

Additional Details

• About PM2.5: PM2.5 consists of tiny air pollutants that can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. These particles originate from both natural sources (such as dust storms and wildfires) and human activities (including burning fossil fuels and industrial emissions).
• The study found that PM2.5 toxicity in Indian cities is significantly higher compared to cities in China and Europe, with oxidative potential being a critical indicator of its toxicity.
• In Delhi, PM2.5 is primarily generated from vehicular emissions, fossil fuel combustion, and residential heating.
• Outside of Delhi, the composition includes ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, and aerosols from biomass burning.
• Traffic emissions play a significant role, with hydrocarbon-like organic aerosols (HOA) accounting for 50% of fossil fuel-derived aerosols, particularly elevated during warmer months.
• During winter, residential heating and cooking using cow dung leads to PM2.5 levels that are ten times higher than in summer.

This study highlights the urgent need for effective pollution control measures in Northern India, particularly in urban areas, to mitigate the severe health impacts associated with PM2.5 exposure.

​Crossword of the Day

Hints

​

  View Answer