UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 7th March 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Polity

Who is a D-Voter?

Why in News?

The opposition in Assam has recently expressed concerns over the situation of 'D' (Doubtful) voters in the state. They are demanding the closure of the only detention centre in Assam, now referred to as a transit camp, and the presentation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) report in the Assembly.

• D-voters: Individuals in Assam who are unable to prove their Indian nationality.
• Citizenship Verification: D-voters have cases pending with Foreigners Tribunals or have been declared foreigners.
• Voting Rights: D-voters are not eligible to vote or contest in elections due to unresolved citizenship status.

Additional Details

• D-Voter Category: Introduced by the Election Commission of India in 1997, this category includes individuals whose citizenship status is uncertain.
• Citation in Laws: The terms 'doubtful voter' or 'doubtful citizenship' are not defined in the Citizenship Act of 1955 or the Citizenship Rules of 2003.
• Citizenship Rules, 2003: These rules outline procedures for preparing the National Population Register (NPR) and the National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC).
• Verification Process: Individuals marked as D-voters are notified in a specific format and can be heard by the Taluk or Sub-district Registrar of Citizenship.
• Decision Timeline: The Registrar has 90 days to make findings regarding an individual's citizenship status.
• Consequences of Verification: If classified as a foreign national, individuals may face deportation or detention.
• Application to NRC: D-voters can apply for inclusion in the NRC after clearing their status with Foreigners Tribunals.

In summary, the status of D-voters in Assam remains a critical issue, impacting their civil rights and highlighting ongoing debates about citizenship and nationality within the state.

GS3/Environment

Panchaganga River

Why in News?

The Maharashtra government has recently established a panel to investigate the increasing pollution levels in the Panchaganga River.

• The Panchaganga River is a significant tributary of the Krishna River, located in Maharashtra.
• It originates from the Sahyadri mountain ranges and has a rich cultural and agricultural significance.
• Pollution levels have escalated due to untreated sewage disposal from the Kolhapur town.

Additional Details

• Origin: The river begins at Prayag Sangam in the Sahyadri ranges, in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra.
• Formation: It is formed by the merging of five rivulets: Kasari, Kumbhi, Tulsi, Bhogawati, and Saraswati.
• The Panchaganga flows approximately 80 km before merging with the Krishna River.
• Cultural Significance: The banks are home to numerous temples and shrines, highlighting its spiritual importance.
• The valley surrounding the river is highly fertile, supporting rich agricultural output, especially sugarcane during the winter season.
• The pollution issue has intensified over the last decade, primarily due to the discharge of untreated municipal sewage.

Efforts to address the pollution in the Panchaganga River are critical for preserving its ecological and cultural heritage, as well as ensuring the health of the communities that depend on it.

GS2/Governance

Understanding Parvatmala Pariyojana

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet has recently approved two significant ropeway projects in Uttarakhand, specifically the routes from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji (12.4 km) and from Sonprayag to Kedarnath (12.9 km). These projects will be developed under the National Ropeways Development Programme known as Parvatmala Pariyojana.

• The Parvatmala Pariyojana was introduced in the 2022-23 Union Budget.
• It aims to create a safe, economical, and efficient ropeway infrastructure across India.
• The programme focuses on enhancing connectivity in hilly areas and easing urban congestion.
• Over 200 projects have been identified with an estimated cost of Rs 1.25 lakh crore.
• The initiatives will be primarily executed through Public-Private Partnerships, with approximately 60% financial support from the Government of India.

Additional Details

• Objective of Parvatmala Pariyojana: The program aims to provide first- and last-mile connectivity to improve logistics efficiency and promote tourism in challenging terrains.
• Collaboration: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is working with various state governments and Union Territory administrations for the development of ropeway infrastructure.
• Implementing Agency: The National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), a 100% owned special purpose vehicle (SPV) of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has been tasked with implementing these projects.

In conclusion, the Parvatmala Pariyojana represents a significant step toward enhancing transportation infrastructure in India, particularly in regions that face geographical challenges. Through this initiative, the government aims not only to improve connectivity but also to promote tourism and economic growth in these areas.

GS2/Governance

Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA)

Why in News?

The Supreme Court has recently criticized the performance of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), labeling it as "disappointing." This critique is not new; in September 2024, the court referred to RERA as a "rehabilitation centre for former bureaucrats," suggesting that it has deviated from its intended purpose.

• RERA was established under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act of 2016.
• The authority aims to regulate and promote transparency within the real estate sector.
• RERA oversees both residential and commercial real estate projects, including plotted developments.

Objectives of RERA

• Regulation: To regulate the real estate sector and enhance accountability.
• Timely Completion: Ensure that projects are completed on schedule and prevent delays.
• Transparency: Promote transparency in property transactions.
• Buyer Protection: Safeguard buyers' rights through the establishment of grievance redressal mechanisms.
• Investment Encouragement: Foster investment by creating a reliable framework.

Key Provisions of the RERA Act, 2016

• Establishment of RERA: Each state and Union Territory is required to set up a Real Estate Regulatory Authority for grievance redressal, which includes functions like project registration, dispute resolution, and policy implementation.
• Mandatory Project Registration: Developers must register any real estate projects exceeding 500 square meters or 8 apartments before any advertising or selling; unregistered projects are deemed illegal.
• Escrow Account Requirement: Builders are mandated to deposit 70% of the funds collected from buyers into a designated escrow account, ensuring that the funds are allocated solely to the respective project.
• Timely Completion & Compensation: Developers are obligated to complete projects on time; failure to do so results in penalties or compensation liabilities.

Consumer Protection & Rights

• Buyers have the right to receive complete project details, including possession timelines and compensation for delays.
• Developers engaging in false advertising can face penalties or be required to issue refunds.
• Real Estate Appellate Tribunal: Consumers dissatisfied with RERA decisions can approach the Real Estate Appellate Tribunal for further recourse.

In summary, while RERA was instituted to enhance transparency and protect consumers in the real estate sector, its effectiveness has been questioned by the Supreme Court, indicating a need for reform and improvement in its functioning.

GS3/Environment

Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve

Why in News?

Recently, a meeting of the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) monitoring committee determined that new commercial constructions will be prohibited within 1 kilometer from the boundary of the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve or up to the ESZ, whichever is closer. This decision aims to protect the ecological integrity of the reserve and its surrounding areas.

• The BRT Tiger Reserve is located in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka.
• It serves as a critical ecological link between the Western and Eastern Ghats.
• The reserve was designated as a Tiger Reserve in 2011, covering an area of 574.82 sq.km.

Additional Details

• Location and Significance: The reserve is situated in Karnataka, acting as a bridge between two major mountain ranges in South India, which enhances its biodiversity.
• Name Origin: The name 'Biligiri' translates to "white rocky cliff," a reference to the ancient Rangaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu found in the area. The hills are often enveloped in white mist, contributing to their ethereal beauty.
• Inhabitants: The Soliga tribe, known as indigenous people, live in harmony with the wildlife of the reserve, showcasing a unique co-existence.
• Vegetation Diversity: The varied climatic conditions and elevation changes within the reserve have produced a rich mosaic of habitats, which include scrub, deciduous, riparian, evergreen, sholas, and grasslands.
• Flora and Fauna: Major plant species include Anogeissus latifolia and Terminalia species, while fauna includes tigers, elephants, leopards, and various other mammals and birds.

The BRT Tiger Reserve is not only a habitat for diverse wildlife but also plays a vital role in conservation efforts. The recent decision to limit commercial construction in its vicinity underscores the commitment to preserving this ecological treasure.

GS3/Science and Technology

Launch of AIKosha: A Major Step in India's AI Journey

Why in News?

Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Minister for Electronics & Information Technology, Railways, and Information & Broadcasting, celebrated a significant milestone in India's artificial intelligence (AI) evolution by unveiling several initiatives under the IndiaAI Mission during its anniversary event. Among these initiatives, AIKosha: IndiaAI Datasets Platform stands out as a pivotal development.

• AIKosha is launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to facilitate access to high-quality, non-personal datasets, AI models, and development tools.
• The platform is aimed at fostering AI innovation across India by providing essential resources to model builders and developers.

Additional Details

• Extensive Repository: The platform features over 300 datasets and more than 80 AI models sourced from 12 organizations, serving as a valuable resource for developing India-centric AI solutions.
• AI Sandbox Capabilities: AIKosha includes integrated development environments with various tools and tutorials, allowing users to experiment and enhance AI applications effectively.
• Secure and Accessible: The platform prioritizes data security with measures such as data encryption, secure APIs, and firewalls, while also ensuring that datasets are easily discoverable and rated for AI readiness.

The primary objective of AIKosha is to democratize AI development in India, providing a unified portal that supports students, startups, researchers, academia, and government departments in creating AI applications that reflect India's diverse linguistic and cultural context. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the IndiaAI Mission, which seeks to cultivate a robust ecosystem for AI innovation through collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors.

GS3/Environment

Bangus Valley: An Emerging Ecotourism Destination

Why in News?

The Jammu and Kashmir government has recently introduced a new set of regulations aimed at promoting Bangus Valley as a significant ecotourism destination, particularly given its proximity to the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir.

• Bangus Valley is situated in the northern district of Kupwara within Handwara sub-district.
• The valley is at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet above sea level and covers an area of about 300 square kilometers.
• It features unique ecological characteristics, combining mountain and grassland biomes.

Additional Details

• Geographical Features: The principal valley, known locally as Bodh Bangus (Big Bangus), is an elliptical bowl aligned along an east-west axis.
• The valley is flanked by various mountain ranges: Rajwar and Mawar to the east, Shamasbury and Dajlungun Mountains to the west, and Chowkibal and Karnah Guli to the north.
• A smaller valley, Lokut Bangus (Small Bangus), is located on the northeastern side and is characterized by lush meadows and dense coniferous forests.
• Trans-Himalayan Range: This region, also known as the Tibetan Himalayas, lies north of the Great Himalayan Range and comprises significant ranges such as Zanskar, Ladakh, Kailash, and Karakoram. It is known for its arid plateaus, high-altitude passes, and cold deserts.

The promotion of Bangus Valley as an ecotourism destination is not only aimed at boosting local tourism but also at preserving the unique ecological integrity of the region.

GS3/Science and Technology

AI Kosha and the IndiaAI Mission

Why in News?

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has introduced AI Kosha, a platform for non-personal datasets, along with a GPU access portal as part of the IndiaAI Mission. This initiative is aimed at fostering artificial intelligence (AI) innovation in India.

• AI Kosha serves as a centralized repository for datasets, tools, and AI models.
• The platform contains over 300 datasets, 80+ AI models, and various use cases to inspire new AI applications.
• Features an AI sandbox with integrated development environments, tools, and tutorials.
• Includes robust security measures to ensure safe AI development.

Additional Details

• AI Kosha: This initiative by MeitY is designed to provide comprehensive access to datasets and AI models from multiple sources to enhance AI innovation and support the development of AI solutions.
• IndiaAI Mission: This is a large-scale initiative that aims to establish a strong AI ecosystem in India, with a budget of Rs. 10,300 crore (approximately US$ 1.18 billion) allocated over five years.
• The mission includes the development of high-performance computing infrastructure featuring 18,693 Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and the launch of an open GPU marketplace to assist startups, students, and researchers.

In summary, AI Kosha represents a significant step towards enhancing AI capabilities in India by providing a structured and secure platform for accessing valuable datasets and tools, thereby fostering innovation and development in the field of artificial intelligence.

GS3/Economy

Record-Breaking Sale of Viatina-19, an Ongole Cow

Why in News?

In February 2025, an Ongole cow named Viatina-19 was sold for an astonishing 4.38 million USD (approximately INR 40 crore) in Minas Gerais, Brazil.

• Viatina-19 belongs to the Nelore breed, known for its exceptional genetic qualities.
• The breed is originally from India but is now prevalent in Brazil, prized for adaptability and meat quality.
• The Nelore breed is facing threats in its home country, India, where its population has declined significantly.

Additional Details

• Nelore Breed:The Nelore cattle are recognized for their unique genetic traits, including:
  • Exceptional physical strength
  • Heat resistance
  • Superior muscular structure
• The breed's adaptability to tropical climates and resistance to diseases make them desirable for dairy and meat production.
• In Brazil, the Nelore breed constitutes a significant portion of the cattle stock, with about 230 million cows reported by the US Department of Agriculture.
• In contrast, in India, the original home of the Ongole breed, numbers have halved from 1.5 million in 1944 to 634,000 in the 2019 Livestock Census.
• The price of Nelore cattle in India is relatively low, with cows costing around Rs 1 lakh and prized bulls between Rs 10 to 15 lakh.

The sale of Viatina-19 highlights the growing economic significance of the Nelore breed in Brazil, while also illustrating the challenges faced in preserving this breed in its native India.

GS2/Governance

Populism and Good Governance

Why in News?

The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, has emphasized the need for a national dialogue regarding the transition from democracy to what he terms "Emocracy." He warned that policies and debates driven by emotion could jeopardize the principles of good governance.

• The relationship between populism and good governance is intricate, featuring both positive and negative aspects.
• Understanding the characteristics and implications of populism is crucial for effective governance.

Additional Details

• Understanding Populism: A political ideology aiming to represent the interests of ordinary people against a perceived elite.
• Characteristics of Populism:
  • Direct appeal to the masses
  • Charismatic leadership
  • Anti-establishment rhetoric
  • Simplified solutions to complex problems
• Types of Populism:
  • Left-Wing Populism: Advocates for wealth redistribution and increased state intervention (e.g., leaders such as Hugo Chávez).
  • Right-Wing Populism: Emphasizes nationalism, cultural identity, and anti-immigration stances (e.g., Donald Trump and various European right-wing parties).
• Understanding Good Governance: Governance characterized by efficiency, accountability, participation, and transparency.
• Key Features (As per UNDP):
  • Transparency: Open decision-making processes and accessible information.
  • Accountability: Public institutions must be responsible to citizens.
  • Rule of Law: A fair legal system enforced impartially.
  • Inclusiveness: Equal participation of all societal groups in governance.
  • Effectiveness and Efficiency: Optimal resource use for public welfare.
• Populism vs. Good Governance:
  • Short-Term Popularity vs. Long-Term Institutional Strengthening: Populist leaders may prioritize immediate gains over sustainable policies.
  • Erosion of Institutional Autonomy: Populists may weaken democratic institutions and norms.
  • Fiscal Populism: Unsustainable welfare schemes, excessive subsidies, and loan waivers can burden the economy.
  • Undermining Expertise and Bureaucracy: Populists may disregard expert advice, leading to ineffective policy decisions.
• Positive Aspects of Populism in Governance:
  • Increased Political Participation: Mobilization of the masses enhances political awareness.
  • Focus on Marginalized Groups: Populist movements often advocate for the concerns of underprivileged communities.
  • Policy Innovation: Pressure from populism can lead to the development of new welfare policies.

In conclusion, while populism can bring about increased participation and attention to marginalized voices, it poses challenges to good governance by prioritizing short-term gains over sustainable policies and weakening institutional frameworks. A balanced approach that incorporates institutional checks and balances, evidence-based policymaking, and public awareness is essential for ensuring that governance remains effective and accountable.

GS2/International Relations

The Academic Link Between Nepal and India

Why in News?

On February 16, a tragic incident occurred when a third-year female student from Nepal died by suicide at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar. This incident sparked significant protests among Nepali students at the institution.

• The student allegedly faced harassment from a male student, and despite reporting it multiple times, the university did not take adequate action.
• Following the protests, KIIT ordered all Nepali students to vacate the campus, further escalating tensions and feelings of injustice within the community.

Additional Details

• Harassment and University Inaction: The deceased student had repeatedly reported the harassment to university authorities, but no substantial steps were taken to address her concerns. This lack of action from the university raised serious questions about its responsibility towards student safety.
• Forced Campus Eviction: The eviction order targeting Nepali students was perceived as collective punishment against the entire community, compounding their sense of injustice.
• Demand for Justice: Students demanded accountability for the harassment and fair treatment under the Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty of 1950, emphasizing their rights as stipulated in Articles 6 and 7 of the treaty.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Nepali students in India, particularly regarding their rights and safety within educational institutions.

Influence of Colonial Legacy on Nepal's Education System

• Affiliation with Indian Universities: Nepal’s first college, Tri-Chandra College, was established in 1918 and was affiliated with Indian universities, influencing its courses and examinations.
• Dependence on Indian Instructors: Early instructors in Nepal were trained in Indian universities, leading to a significant adoption of Indian academic frameworks.
• Limited Domestic Higher Education: The absence of postgraduate education until 1959 forced many Nepali students to seek higher education in India.
• Colonial Curriculum: The education system retained strong influences from British India, which limited the development of a Nepal-centric academic discourse.
• Post-1950 Reforms: Although efforts were made to "Nepalise" the education system, the influence of Indian education remained substantial.

Connection to Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty of 1950

• Violation of Equal Treatment (Article 6): Article 6 ensures that citizens of Nepal and India receive "national treatment" in each other's territories. The directive for Nepali students to vacate the KIIT campus violated this provision by treating them differently based on nationality.
• Infringement on the Right to Residence (Article 7): Article 7 grants Nepali citizens the right to reside in India without discrimination. The eviction order directly infringed on this right, targeting Nepali students exclusively.
• Impact on Educational Access (Article 7): The Treaty allows Nepali citizens to pursue education in India without barriers. The disruptions caused by the eviction order severely restricted their educational access, breaching this provision.

Way Forward

• Strengthening Institutional Accountability: Universities should implement robust grievance redressal mechanisms to address harassment complaints promptly and impartially. Establishing independent inquiry committees can enhance transparency and justice.
• Upholding Treaty Commitments: Indian institutions must align their policies with the Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty, ensuring equal treatment and the right to residence for Nepali students. Regular dialogue between Indian and Nepali authorities can help prevent future violations.

Addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining amicable relations between India and Nepal and ensuring the safety and rights of Nepali students in India.

GS3/Science and Technology

Woolly Mammoth Traits in Mice Using Gene Editing

Why in News?

Recently, Colossal Biosciences has successfully developed a "Woolly Mouse" by editing seven genes in mouse embryos. This innovative approach aims to replicate the cold-adaptive traits of woolly mammoths, which could have significant implications for genetic research and de-extinction efforts.

• The Woolly Mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) was a large herbivore that lived during the Ice Age, primarily in cold tundra environments across Eurasia and North America.
• Woolly Mammoths had distinctive traits such as a thick woolly coat, a fat layer for insulation, and small ears to minimize heat loss.
• These mammals lived in herds and primarily fed on grasses and shrubs, ultimately going extinct around 4,000 years ago due to climate change, habitat loss, and human hunting.
• Reviving mammoth-like elephants is believed to potentially restore Arctic ecosystems and combat permafrost thawing.

About Woolly Mice

• Woolly Mice: These are genetically modified laboratory mice created to aid in de-extinction research.
• Scientists achieved the woolly fur trait by successfully editing seven genes, enabling the mice to exhibit characteristics similar to those of woolly mammoths.
• The mice serve as a model organism for testing gene-editing techniques prior to applying these methods to Asian elephants, the closest living relatives of mammoths.

Technology Used in Woolly Mouse Development

• The CRISPR-Cas9 system was utilized to precisely modify the DNA of the mice.
• Scientists identified specific genes responsible for fur texture, length, and body fat metabolism, which allowed for the engineering of cold-resistant traits.
• This project marked an unprecedented feat in genetic engineering by editing seven genes simultaneously.

Key Genes Modified

• FGF5: This gene regulates hair growth, contributing to longer and thicker fur.
• MC1R: This gene controls hair color, giving the mice a golden hue akin to the fur of mammoths.
• Genes responsible for hair follicle structure induced a woolly hair texture, resulting in wavy coats and curled whiskers.

Overall, the development of Woolly Mice exemplifies advanced genetic engineering techniques aimed at understanding and potentially reversing the extinction of mammoth-like species while offering insights into the adaptation of organisms to extreme environments.