UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 22nd March 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Polity

X Challenges Government's Use of Section 79

Why in News?

Elon Musk-owned X (formerly Twitter) has recently contested the Indian government's application of Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, 2000, which pertains to content moderation and removal orders. The company asserts that this provision is being misapplied to evade the protections established under Section 69A, which specifically governs content regulation.

• X argues that the government's method undermines due process and transparency in content moderation.
• The Shreya Singhal case significantly influenced the legal landscape regarding online content regulation.
• Section 79 provides safe harbor for intermediaries, yet its misuse is being challenged in court.

Additional Details

• Shreya Singhal Case: In the landmark case of Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015), the Supreme Court invalidated Section 66A of the IT Act, which criminalized sending false information causing "annoyance or inconvenience." The court deemed it unconstitutionally vague, granting excessive power to the government to limit free speech.
• Section 69A: Following the Shreya Singhal ruling, Section 69A emerged as the primary legal framework for online content moderation. It allows the government to block content hosted on any digital platform if deemed necessary under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, while ensuring certain safeguards are in place.
• Section 79 Overview: Section 79 provides "safe harbor" protections to intermediaries, shielding them from liability for third-party content. However, Section 79(3)(b) stipulates that intermediaries can be held liable if they do not remove unlawful content after receiving actual knowledge or a government notification.
• Government's Expanded Use: In October 2023, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued a directive allowing various government bodies to issue blocking orders under Section 79(3)(b), raising concerns about censorship beyond judicial limits.
• X's Legal Challenge: X has contested the government's actions in the Karnataka High Court, arguing that content removal must adhere to Section 69A procedures or a court order, according to the Shreya Singhal ruling. The company claims that the government is improperly utilizing Section 79 to establish an unlawful blocking regime.
• The Grok Controversy: X's AI chatbot, Grok 3, has faced scrutiny for its use of Hindi slang and government-critical responses. A significant question now arises about whether AI-generated content qualifies as "third-party" content for safe harbor protection under Section 79.

The ongoing legal battle highlights the complexities of content regulation in India and the implications for online platforms. The outcome may redefine the scope of liability for intermediaries and the government's authority in content moderation.

GS2/Polity

PAC Flags Failure of Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Why in News?

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has raised concerns regarding the Ministry of Tourism's inadequate execution of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SDS), pointing out serious lapses in planning, approvals, and project implementation.

• The PAC has criticized poor execution and oversight in the Swadesh Darshan Scheme.
• Key issues include planning deficiencies and ineffective project management.

Additional Details

• Public Accounts Committee (PAC): The PAC was established in 1921 under the Government of India Act, 1919. It consists of 22 members, including 15 from the Lok Sabha and 7 from the Rajya Sabha, who are elected annually. The Chairman is traditionally selected from the Opposition since 1967. The PAC plays a crucial role in examining audit reports from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and ensuring that public funds are utilized efficiently, while also checking for irregularities, corruption, waste, and inefficiencies in government spending.
• Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SDS): Launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Tourism, this scheme aims to develop theme-based tourist circuits such as Buddhist, Coastal, Heritage, and Eco-tourism circuits, focusing on sustainable tourism. It is 100% centrally funded, providing financial assistance to state governments, Union Territory administrations, and central agencies for tourism infrastructure development.
• Swadesh Darshan 2.0: Initiated in January 2023, this revised scheme adopts a more holistic approach, transitioning from circuit-based tourism to a destination-centric model. It encourages private sector investment in tourism and hospitality, aligning with India's 'Vocal for Local' and Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. It emphasizes long-term growth and sustainable tourism destination development.
• Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD): This sub-scheme under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 focuses on the competitive development of tourism destinations. It aims to foster sustainability, digitalization, skill development, MSME support, and effective management to ensure that the tourism sector thrives in a modern and organized manner.

In summary, the PAC's criticism highlights the need for improved management and execution of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme to maximize its potential in boosting India's tourism sector.

PYQ:

Consider the following statements:

• 1. The Chairman of the Committee on Public Accounts is appointed by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
• 2. The Committee on Public Accounts comprises Members of Lok Sabha, Members of Rajya Sabha, and a few eminent persons of industry and trade.

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

GS2/International Relations

Charting a Route for IORA under India’s Chairmanship

Why in News?

The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) is a significant regional organization that fosters cooperation among nations bordering the Indian Ocean, including those in Asia, Africa, and Australia. As India prepares to take over the chairmanship in November 2025, it is positioned to enhance IORA’s governance and increase its global relevance. India aims to strengthen financial resources, incorporate technology for better data management, and establish maritime-ready academic programs to address the region's economic and security challenges.

• IORA plays a crucial role in promoting collaboration among member nations.
• India’s chairmanship offers a unique opportunity to address institutional challenges and enhance IORA's effectiveness.
• Key priorities include financial sustainability and technological integration.

Additional Details

• Strategic Importance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR): The region is vital for global trade, with 75% of international trade and 50% of daily oil consumption occurring here. It generates over $1 trillion annually, with intra-IORA trade amounting to $800 billion in 2023.
• Challenges Faced by IORA:
  • Funding Constraints: IORA's budget relies heavily on contributions from its mostly developing member states, leading to financial shortfalls for critical areas such as maritime security.
  • Reliance on Member Contributions: The dependency on member funding results in unstable financial sustainability, affecting long-term planning.
  • Limited Capacity for Data Processing: IORA's small Secretariat in Mauritius struggles with limited human resources and outdated technology, hampering data analysis for informed decision-making.
  • Insufficient Private Sector Involvement: Key industries in the blue economy are not adequately involved in IORA's policy-making, limiting capital flow and expertise.
• India’s Role and Strategic Recommendations: India can leverage its diplomatic ties to foster collaboration among member states, integrating traditional knowledge and promoting educational initiatives to support long-term development.

In conclusion, IORA has significant potential to bolster regional prosperity and security. India’s future chairmanship is an opportunity to confront existing challenges and reinforce IORA’s position as a pivotal player in the Indian Ocean Region. By focusing on financial sustainability, technological advancements, and educational capacity-building, India can facilitate IORA's evolution into a more impactful organization.

GS2/International Relations

India and the Arctic

Why in News?

The Russian Ambassador to India recently emphasized that Russia perceives India’s involvement in the Arctic as a stabilizing factor.

• Strengthened India-Russia collaboration in the Arctic.
• Focus on scientific research, energy resources, and improved shipping routes.

India-Russia Collaboration in the Arctic

• Energy Resources: Joint ventures in Arctic oil and gas extraction, particularly in the Dolginskoye oil field and Vostok oil cluster.
• Northern Sea Route (NSR): India and Russia are working towards enhancing shipping efficiency to reduce costs and improve connectivity.

About India’s Arctic Policy

Launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, India’s Arctic Policy adopts a comprehensive approach encompassing various sectors such as:

• Science and Research: Emphasis on climate change, geosciences, and polar biology.
• Climate and Environmental Protection: Ensuring that development does not compromise the Arctic ecosystem.
• Economic and Human Development: Exploring energy extraction opportunities.
• Transportation and Connectivity: Improving access to Arctic shipping routes.
• Governance and International Cooperation: Strengthening relationships with international partners.
• National Capacity Building: Fostering expertise in Arctic research and polar navigation.

The policy also recognizes the geopolitical dynamics of the Arctic, aiming to balance scientific, economic, and strategic interests.

India’s Mission to the Arctic

India's Arctic mission commenced in 2007 with its inaugural research mission focused on:

• Microbiology
• Atmospheric sciences
• Geology

In 2008, India established its research base named Himadri in the Arctic. Recent advancements include:

• In 2023, India undertook a winter expedition under polar night conditions to study sea-ice dynamics and ocean circulation.
• Collaborations with Norway and other Arctic nations through research institutes and joint expeditions.

India's focus is on understanding the Arctic's impact on weather patterns, particularly in South Asia.

Back2Basics: Arctic Council

Established in 1996, the Arctic Council is an intergovernmental forum comprising Arctic states and permanent participants from indigenous Arctic communities. It prioritizes:

• Environmental protection
• Sustainable development

India has been an observer since 2013, contributing to discussions on climate change and policy frameworks. Despite the suspension of the Council's activities due to rising tensions and militarization involving NATO countries, India continues to engage constructively.

India’s participation in the Arctic Council underscores the global significance of Arctic issues, especially regarding energy security.

Previous Year Questions (PYQ)

• [UPSC 2015]The term ‘IndARC’, sometimes seen in the news, is the name of:
  • (a) an indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian Defence
  • (b) India’s satellite to provide services to the countries of Indian Ocean Rim
  • (c) a scientific establishment set up by India in Antarctic region
  • (d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region
• [UPSC 2018] Why is India taking a keen interest in the resources of the Arctic region? What are the economic significances of the discovery of oil in the Arctic Sea and its possible environmental consequences?

GS2/Polity

Bihar Makes Fresh Demand for Special Category Status

Why in News?

The Nitish Kumar government in Bihar has reiterated its demand for Special Category Status (SCS) before the 16th Finance Commission, which is currently visiting the state to assess its financial needs and allocate resources.

• Special Category Status (SCS) is crucial for states facing unique challenges.
• Bihar's industrial and economic conditions highlight the need for SCS recognition.

About Special Category Status (SCS)

• Definition: Special Category Status is a classification assigned to certain Indian states that encounter geographical, socio-economic, and infrastructural difficulties, allowing them to receive special financial aid for development.
• Evolution: Introduced in 1969 based on the Fifth Finance Commission's recommendations, the status was initially granted to Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, and Nagaland, later extending to Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Uttarakhand, and Telangana.

Eligibility Criteria (Based on the Gadgil Formula)

• Hilly Terrain: States with challenging geography that hampers development.
• Low Population Density: States with a sparse population or significant tribal communities.
• Strategic Location: Proximity to international borders.
• Economic Backwardness: States facing infrastructural deficiencies and financial instability.

Benefits of SCS

• Financial Assistance: 90% grants for centrally sponsored schemes, compared to 30% for non-SCS states.
• Special Plan Assistance: Additional funding for projects of national importance.
• Tax Benefits: Tax concessions on excise, income, and corporate taxes, many of which are now part of GST.
• Carry-Forward of Unspent Funds: Unutilized funds can be carried forward to the next financial year.
• Higher Budget Allocation: 30% of the Central budget is designated for SCS states.

Assessment of Bihar's Demand

• Industrial Backwardness: Lack of industrial development exacerbated by the bifurcation in 2000.
• High Poverty Levels: One of the highest poverty rates in India, coupled with low per capita GDP.
• Frequent Natural Disasters: Floods and droughts severely impact the agricultural sector.
• Infrastructure Deficiencies: Insufficient irrigation and water systems limit agricultural productivity.

About the Finance Commission

• The Finance Commission is established every five years to allocate financial resources from the Centre to the states, as per Article 280 of the Constitution.
• Composition: It comprises a chairman and four members appointed by the President.
• Qualifications: Members must possess specialized knowledge in finance, economics, accounts, or administration.
• The recommendations of the Fifteenth Finance Commission remain valid until 2025-26.

Terms of Reference for the 16th Finance Commission

• Division of tax proceeds.
• Principles for grants-in-aid.
• Enhancement of state funds for local bodies.
• Evaluation of financing for disaster management.

Previous Year Question (PYQ):
In the context of horizontal tax devolution, the Fifteenth Finance Commission utilized which of the following criteria aside from population area and income distance?

• (a) Only two
• (b) Only three
• (c) Only four
• (d) All five

This structured approach to understanding Bihar's demand for Special Category Status highlights its significance in addressing the state's developmental challenges.

GS2/International Relations

Exercise Sea Dragon 2025

Why in News?

The Indian Navy has recently participated in the Sea Dragon 2025 exercise, a significant event in enhancing maritime security and cooperation among allied nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

• Multinational Exercise: Sea Dragon is an annual anti-submarine warfare (ASW) drill involving multiple countries.
• Hosted by the US: The exercise is conducted by the United States Navy’s 7th Fleet at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.
• Focus Areas: The primary focus includes detecting, tracking, and countering submarine threats.
• Participation Growth: Originally a bilateral drill between the US and Australia, it has expanded to include India and other key allies.

Additional Details

• Training Structure: The exercise combines theoretical and practical ASW training, utilizing maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft (MPRA) equipped with advanced sensors.
• Activities Included:
  • Mobile ASW training target drills using the MK-30 ‘SLED’.
  • A live ASWEX exercise where participants tracked a US Navy submarine.
  • A competitive phase for aircrews to assess their ASW effectiveness.
• This year, the exercise saw participation from Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the United States for the fourth consecutive year.

Sea Dragon 2025 is a vital initiative aimed at improving ASW tactics, enhancing interoperability, and fostering multinational coordination within the Indo-Pacific region.

GS1/Geography

Gambhir River

Why in News?

The Rajasthan High Court has recently demanded a response from key officials, including the Chief Secretary and District Collector of Karauli, regarding allegations of encroachment on the floodplain of the Gambhir River. This river is crucial as it provides water to the Ghana Bird Sanctuary.

• The Gambhir River, also known as the Utangan River, is a seasonal watercourse.
• It is located in the northeastern region of Rajasthan and has a total length of approximately 288 kilometers.
• The river is ephemeral but becomes perennial after merging with the Parbati River.
• It supplies water to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Keoladeo National Park.

Additional Details

• Geographical Location: The Gambhir River Basin is bordered by several river basins: the Banganga River Basin to the north, the Banas River Basin to the southwest, and the Chambal and Parbati basins to the southeast. The northeastern boundary is defined by Uttar Pradesh.
• Course: The river originates in the Aravalli Hills near Hindaun, flowing through various districts before eventually joining the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh. It flows predominantly in a south-to-north direction and serves as a boundary between Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
• Tributaries: Important tributaries of the Gambhir River include Sesa, Kher, and Parbati.

In conclusion, the Gambhir River plays a vital role in the local ecology and the biodiversity of the region, especially in supporting the Keoladeo National Park.

GS3/Science and Technology

India’s Push for GM Food Crops: Progress Amid Legal Scrutiny

Why in News?

India is currently focusing on advancing genetically modified (GM) food crops. This comes ahead of scheduled hearings in the Supreme Court concerning the legal status of GM crops, with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) indicating that there has been “progress” in this area. The Supreme Court is set to hear petitions against the Environment Ministry's 2022 approval for GM mustard cultivation.

• The government advocates for biotechnology while environmental groups express serious concerns about safety and ecological impacts.

Additional Details

• GM Mustard: This is India’s first GM food crop that received conditional approval by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC). It aims to enhance agricultural yields and decrease dependence on imports, but commercial cultivation has been stalled due to legal challenges and safety concerns.
• Government's Stance: Officials at a biotechnology event acknowledged the ongoing legal proceedings but emphasized that progress is being made. The DBT has been engaged in funding research for transgenic crops and is preparing technical inputs for a national policy on GM crops.
• Supreme Court Proceedings: A recent split verdict from the Supreme Court regarding the approval for GM mustard has led to the matter being referred to a larger bench, marking a pivotal moment for India’s agricultural policies.
• Concerns from Activist Groups: Environmental and farmer organizations have raised alarms about potential ecological threats, lack of long-term safety data, and transparency in the approval process, fearing impacts on biodiversity.
• Bio-Economy Context: Despite regulatory challenges, GM crops are vital to India’s burgeoning bio-economy, contributing significantly to agricultural productivity. According to a DBT report, the total bio-economy value is estimated at $165.7 billion, with GM crops like Bt Cotton playing a major role.

The future of GM food crops in India hinges on achieving judicial clarity on health and environmental issues, formulating balanced policies, and fostering public awareness to tackle misinformation. The BioE3 policy aims to utilize biotechnology for agricultural innovations, which could support India's goals for food security and climate resilience if developed within robust legal frameworks.

GS2/International Relations

World Happiness Index 2025

Why in News?

India has been ranked 118th in the World Happiness Report 2025, a significant survey that evaluates global happiness levels based on people's self-assessed life evaluations.

• The World Happiness Index is published annually by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford in partnership with Gallup and the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
• The rankings are based on self-assessed life evaluations averaged over the years 2022 to 2024.
• Finland has been declared the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year.
• Afghanistan is noted as the unhappiest country, ranked 147th.

Additional Details

• Self-Assessed Life Evaluations: The index utilizes the Cantril ladder question from the Gallup World Poll, asking respondents to rate their current lives on a scale from 0 (worst) to 10 (best).
• Explanatory Factors for Happiness: The study considers six key factors: social support, GDP per capita, health life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and perception of corruption.
• In the latest report, among India's neighboring countries, Sri Lanka is ranked 133rd, Bangladesh 134th, Pakistan 109th, Nepal 92nd, and China 68th.

The findings highlight a tendency for Western countries, particularly in Europe, to dominate the top rankings, with Costa Rica and Mexico entering the top 10 for the first time, ranking 6th and 10th, respectively. This report serves as a crucial tool for understanding global happiness and well-being trends.

GS2/Polity

Judge’s transfer is not related to ‘rumours’: SC

Why in News?

On March 21, 2025, the Supreme Court addressed the circulation of false information regarding an “incident” at the home of Delhi High Court Judge Justice Yashwant Varma, clarifying that his transfer was not connected to this incident.

• The Supreme Court dismissed media reports about a “huge pile of cash” being recovered during a fire at Justice Varma’s residence.
• The Court confirmed that Justice Varma’s transfer to Allahabad High Court was a routine decision, independent of any ongoing enquiry.
• The in-house enquiry process was emphasized as confidential to maintain judicial integrity.

Additional Details

• In-house enquiry: An internal judicial process aimed at investigating allegations against sitting High Court and Supreme Court judges, ensuring fairness and confidentiality. For example, it begins with a preliminary assessment by the Chief Justice of the concerned High Court.
• Legal Precedents: Notable cases such as the Justice V. Ramaswami case (1991) and Additional District and Sessions Judge ‘X’ vs. Registrar General, MP High Court (2015) highlight the importance of in-house mechanisms in judicial accountability.
• The Supreme Court also referred to the 2017 case of Justice C.S. Karnan, illustrating the limitations of in-house procedures when a judge's misconduct disrupts judicial function.

The Supreme Court's emphasis on the independence of Justice Yashwant Varma's transfer from the ongoing enquiry serves to prevent misinterpretation of judicial transfers, uphold the credibility of the Collegium, and protect the reputation of the judiciary. The transfer is part of standard administrative procedures rather than a punitive measure linked to the enquiry.

Judicial Transfers Process in India

• Initiation by the Chief Justice of India (CJI): Transfers are initiated by the CJI in consultation with the Collegium, which includes the four senior-most Supreme Court judges.
• Consultation with the Government: The Union Law Ministry processes the recommendations and seeks the President's approval. The affected judge is consulted but their consent is not mandatory.
• Final Approval: After recommendations, the President of India formally orders the transfer under Article 222 of the Constitution.

Ensuring Fairness in In-house Enquiries

• Two-Stage Investigation Process: The Chief Justice conducts an initial assessment before deeper investigations, ensuring an impartial review.
• Principles of Natural Justice: The accused judge is given an opportunity to defend themselves before decisions are made, preventing arbitrary actions.
• Confidentiality: The enquiry remains confidential to avoid media trials and reputational damage before conclusions are drawn.

Moving forward, the judiciary must strengthen transparency and communication to counter misinformation and enhance institutional safeguards to maintain the integrity and independence of judicial processes.

GS2/International Relations

Charting a Route for IORA Under India’s Chairship

Why in News?

The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) is gaining prominence as India prepares to chair this vital organization, which focuses on enhancing cooperation among its member states in the Indian Ocean region. Recent discussions emphasized the need for effective governance that impacts local communities directly.

• India's chairmanship of IORA is set to focus on strengthening maritime security and enhancing funding opportunities.
• Challenges in funding IORA initiatives stem from dependence on member contributions and limited private sector engagement.
• Expanding IORA's scope includes maritime safety, disaster management, and sustainable economic practices.

Additional Details

• Enhancing Funding Opportunities: India can engage private sector players such as shipping companies and oil & gas firms to boost financial contributions to IORA initiatives.
• Strengthening Maritime Security: Expanding India's Information Fusion Centre in Gurugram to enhance real-time maritime surveillance and counter threats like piracy and illegal fishing.
• Developing Maritime Education: Collaborating with institutions like IIT-Madras to create specialized courses in marine economy and coastal governance.
• Funding Challenges: IORA's budget largely relies on member states, most of which are developing economies, limiting its ability to undertake large-scale projects.
• Private Sector Involvement: The lack of partnerships with key industries such as shipping and tourism hampers alternative funding sources.
• Potential Solutions: Diversifying funding sources through public-private partnerships and establishing an IORA Development Fund to attract long-term investments.

As India gears up to lead IORA, it must prioritize strategic engagement and the establishment of sustainable funding mechanisms to enhance the effectiveness of the organization and address pressing regional challenges.