UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 24th March 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS1/History & Culture

Jnanpith Award 

Why in News?

Vinod Kumar Shukla has been honored with the 59th Jnanpith Award, which is recognized as India's highest literary accolade. This award is significant as it celebrates remarkable contributions to Indian literature.

• Vinod Kumar Shukla, an 88-year-old author, is the 12th Hindi writer to receive the Jnanpith Award.
• He is the first recipient from the state of Chhattisgarh.
• The award has been given annually since its inception in 1961, focusing on Indian writers in various languages.

Additional Details

• Jnanpith Award: This prestigious award is given by the Bharatiya Jnanpith to authors for their exceptional contributions to Indian literature. It was first awarded in 1965 to G. Sankara Kurup for his work in Malayalam.
• The award includes a cash prize, a citation, and a bronze sculpture of Vagdevi (Saraswati), the goddess of learning.
• Notably, the award was initially given for specific works until 1982, after which it recognized an author's overall literary contributions.
• While generally awarded to one author each year, there have been occasions where it was awarded to two authors simultaneously.

In conclusion, the recognition of Vinod Kumar Shukla with the Jnanpith Award highlights the continued celebration of literary excellence in India, with a focus on diverse voices and regional literature.

GS3/Environment

Eri Silk: A Sustainable Textile from Northeast India

Why in News?

In a recent statement to the Rajya Sabha, the Minister of State for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, announced that the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Ltd. (NEHHDC) has achieved the Oeko-Tex certification for eri silk. This recognition highlights eri silk's growing significance in the luxury textile market due to its eco-friendly and sustainable production practices.

• Eri silk is recognized for its chemical-free production and ethical sourcing.
• It is a unique, non-violent (Ahimsa) silk primarily produced in Northeast India, including Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Manipur.
• The production process allows the silkworm to emerge from the cocoon naturally, making it a cruelty-free alternative.

Additional Details

• Silkworm: Eri silk is produced from the domesticated silkworm Samia ricini, which primarily feeds on castor leaves.
• Geographical Indication (GI): Eri silk has been awarded GI status from Assam, emphasizing its authenticity and regional significance.
• Texture: Eri silk is characterized by its woolly, cotton-like texture, which differentiates it from other silk varieties such as Mulberry or Tussar.
• Durability: Known for its strength and elasticity, Eri silk is also highly durable and resistant to wrinkles.

Overall, eri silk represents a sustainable choice in the textile industry, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and premium brands. Its unique characteristics and ethical production practices position it as a valuable product from Northeast India.

GS2/Governance

The Need for Universal and Equitable Health Coverage

Why in News?

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major public health concern in India, despite significant advancements in its detection, treatment, and prevention. Integrating TB services into the broader healthcare framework, especially through the Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Scheme, has been pivotal in decentralizing care. However, to accelerate TB elimination and achieve universal health coverage (UHC), India faces challenges such as uneven healthcare access, high out-of-pocket expenditures (OOPE), and the necessity for integrated care.

• Advancements in TB diagnosis through molecular testing have improved detection rates.
• The introduction of the all-oral BPaLM treatment regimen has shortened treatment duration significantly.
• Nutritional support programs like the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) help improve patient recovery.
• Integration of TB services into Ayushman Bharat enhances accessibility and affordability.
• Community involvement through TB Champions fosters awareness and support for patients.

Additional Details

• Molecular Testing: The rollout of molecular testing platforms like CBNAAT and TrueNat has drastically improved TB diagnosis by enabling faster detection within hours and identifying drug-resistant strains, facilitating timely treatment initiation.
• BPaLM Treatment Regimen: The new BPaLM regimen reduces treatment duration to 6 months, eliminating painful injectable drugs and improving compliance among patients, thus lowering the risk of treatment failure.
• Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY): This scheme increases patient access to nutritious food by raising the monthly financial support, leading to improved immunity and faster recovery rates.
• Integration into Ayushman Bharat: By incorporating TB services into the Ayushman Bharat scheme, patients can receive diagnosis and treatment at local health centers, reducing travel costs and dropout rates.
• Community Engagement: TB survivors and community health workers play a vital role in spreading awareness and providing support, which has proven effective in reducing stigma and encouraging treatment adherence.

In conclusion, while India has made significant progress in TB care, achieving TB elimination and UHC demands an ongoing commitment to equity, integration, and financial protection. By focusing on these areas and addressing the specific needs of vulnerable populations, India can ensure that all TB patients receive high-quality care, irrespective of their socio-economic status.

GS3/Environment

Farakka Barrage

Why in News?

The Farakka Barrage, which commenced operations in 1975, is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025, marking a significant milestone in water management and navigation for the Kolkata Port.

• Commissioned on April 21, 1975, after 12 years of construction.
• Diverts 40,000 cusecs of water to aid navigation and reduce silt.
• Key agreements with Bangladesh regarding Ganga water sharing.

Additional Details

• Location: The barrage is located on the Ganga River in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal, about 18 km from the Bangladesh border.
• Purpose: It plays a crucial role in flushing out silt from the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River, thus facilitating smooth navigation for the Kolkata Port.
• Hooghly River: Also referred to as the Bhagirathi-Hooghly, it is a 260 km-long distributary of the Ganges, formed when the Ganga divides in Murshidabad.
• Hydrology: The Farakka Feeder Canal is vital, especially during the dry season, to supply water and combat siltation issues above Kolkata.
• Bridges: Significant structures include the Howrah Bridge, connecting Howrah and Kolkata, and the Bally Bridge linking Bally and Baranagar.

The Farakka Barrage is not just an engineering marvel; it also symbolizes the intricate relationship between India and Bangladesh regarding shared water resources. Its operational success is pivotal for agriculture, navigation, and ecological balance in the region.

GS1/Geography

Lapis Lazuli: The Earth's Best Blue

Why in News?

Lapis lazuli is a semi-precious gemstone renowned for its vibrant blue color and historical significance, which has captivated civilizations for thousands of years. Its value extends beyond aesthetics, as it has been used in various applications, from jewelry to artistic pigments.

• Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of lazurite.
• Major sources of lapis lazuli include Afghanistan, Chile, Russia, and the United States.
• The stone has been integral to various cultures, with historical usage dating back to ancient civilizations.

Additional Details

• Composition: The blue hue of lapis lazuli is mainly attributed to lazurite, which comprises 25-40% of the rock. The intensity of the blue is influenced by the amount and structure of sulphur present in lazurite.
• Other minerals include:
  • Pyrite: Known for adding golden streaks and sparkle.
  • Calcite: Can diminish the overall blueness of the stone.
  • Diopside and Sodalite: Found in smaller quantities within the rock.
• Geographical Sources: The most notable deposits of high-quality lapis lazuli are located in the Badakhshan province of Afghanistan, which has been mined for over 6,000 years.
• Historical Significance:Lapis lazuli has played a significant role in various cultures:
  • In ancient India, it was imported from Badakhshan around 1000 BCE, with artifacts found in the Indus Valley Civilization.
  • In ancient Egypt, it was utilized in jewelry and ground into powder for cosmetics.
  • During the Renaissance in Europe, it was processed into ultramarine, a highly valued pigment used by artists.

In summary, lapis lazuli is not just a beautiful stone; it bears historical, cultural, and geological significance that continues to be appreciated across various domains, from art to geology.

GS3/Economy

Five Years After Covid-19 - Shifts in India's Migration Landscape

Why in News?

The Covid-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions in migration patterns across India, resulting in widespread mobility halts and increased vulnerabilities for migrants. Five years post-pandemic, while migration is returning to pre-pandemic trends, new challenges, including climate change and economic transformations, continue to influence migration dynamics in the country.

• Reverse migration during the pandemic saw millions return to rural areas.
• Urban migration trends are resuming amid ongoing rural economic challenges.
• International migration patterns are diversifying, with emerging opportunities and challenges.
• Improved migration governance and data management are essential for future policy effectiveness.

Additional Details

• Reverse Migration: The pandemic triggered an unprecedented urban-to-rural reverse migration, with government estimates indicating a net reverse migration of 44.13 million during the first lockdown and 26.3 million during the second. Migrants faced significant hardships, including wage theft and food insecurity.
• Urban Migration Trends: As the rural economy struggled to absorb returning workers, urban migration resumed due to factors like rural distress, urban aspirations, and climate change impacts on agriculture.
• International Migration: Indian emigrants faced job losses and wage cuts, but remittances remained resilient. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries continue to be key destinations, while Europe is attracting more skilled migrants.
• Student Migration: Post-pandemic, student migration surged, with Kerala reporting nearly doubled student emigrants from 1.29 lakh in 2018 to 2.5 lakh in 2023.
• Migration Governance: The delay in the 2021 Census has hindered accurate assessments of migration trends, emphasizing the need for improved data and social security initiatives.
• The Kerala Model: The Kerala Migration Surveys have enhanced migration policy formulation, and replicating this model in other states could improve governance and policy responses.

In conclusion, five years after the Covid-19 crisis, India's migration landscape is evolving. While urban migration is resuming and international emigration is diversifying, new factors such as climate change, global economic shifts, and the need for policy interventions are increasingly influencing migration patterns. Strengthening governance through data-driven reforms and improved social security mechanisms is crucial for ensuring migrant welfare and economic stability.

GS3/Science and Technology

World Tuberculosis Day

Why in News?

March 24 is recognized as World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, which aims to raise public awareness about TB and the ongoing efforts to eradicate it. The theme for 2025 is “Yes, We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, and Deliver.” The President of India has praised the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) for its effective public awareness campaigns and the significant decline in TB cases over the last ten years. India has set an ambitious goal to eliminate TB by 2025, which is ahead of the World Health Organization's (WHO) global target of 2030 as part of the End TB Strategy.

• World TB Day is observed on March 24 to create awareness about tuberculosis.
• India aims to eliminate TB by 2025, significantly ahead of the WHO's 2030 target.
• The President of India has acknowledged the progress in reducing TB cases through the NTEP.

Additional Details

• Tuberculosis (TB): TB is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it primarily affects the lungs, it can also impact other areas such as the abdomen, glands, bones, and nervous system.
• Transmission: TB spreads through airborne particles released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• Types of TB:
  • Pulmonary TB: Affects the lungs and is highly contagious.
  • Latent TB: The immune system controls the bacteria, but does not eliminate it. (Non-infectious)
  • Active TB: The immune system cannot control the infection, allowing it to spread. (Infectious)
• Symptoms of TB:
  • Persistent cough for more than 3 weeks, possibly with blood.
  • Weight loss, night sweats, high fever, and fatigue.
  • Loss of appetite, chest pain, and swollen lymph nodes.
• Treatment: TB is curable with antibiotics, requiring a treatment duration of 6 to 18 months. The BCG vaccine offers moderate protection against severe TB, especially in infants and children.
• Key Highlights of TB in India:
  • Declining TB Incidence: The incidence in India has decreased to below 200 per lakh (2022) from 237 per lakh (2015), a 16% reduction.
  • Reduction in TB Mortality: There has been an 18% decrease in TB-related deaths since 2015, currently at 23 per lakh population.
  • Improved Treatment Success Rates:
    • Multi-Drug Resistant TB (MDR-TB) Treatment Success Rate: 74%.
    • Pre-Extensively Drug-Resistant TB (Pre-XDR-TB) Success Rate: 68%.
    • Extensively Drug-Resistant TB (XDR-TB) Success Rate: 45%.
  • State-Wise TB Performance Index:
    • Best Performing States: Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat.
    • Lowest Performing States: Punjab, Bihar, Karnataka.

World Tuberculosis Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against TB and the importance of commitment, investment, and delivery in the fight to end this disease. Continued efforts and awareness are crucial to achieving the goal of TB elimination in India and worldwide.

GS3/Environment

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary

Why in News?

The Punjab Government has recently informed the Supreme Court that the Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ) surrounding the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary will be maintained at a limit of 100 meters for the Nayagaon municipal committee, rather than the previously proposed 1 to 3 kilometers.

• Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Chandigarh, adjacent to Sukhna Lake.
• Established in 1998, the sanctuary covers an area of 2600 hectares.
• The sanctuary was created to support soil conservation efforts around Sukhna Lake.
• Geographically unstable, the area is prone to soil erosion during rainfall.

Additional Details

• Sukhna Lake: This artificial lake was designed by architect Le Corbusier in 1958, formed by diverting the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream from the Shivalik hills.
• Vegetation: The sanctuary features a diverse ecosystem comprising forests, grasslands, and wetlands, with Sukhna Lake being a crucial component.
• Flora: Common plant species include Khair, Phulai, Kikar, Shisham, Moonj, Amaltas, Jhingan, Amla, Rati, and Vasaka.
• Fauna: The sanctuary is home to various mammals such as Squirrels, Common Mongooses, Indian Hares, Porcupines, Jungle Cats, Jackals, and Wild Boars. Bird species include Peacocks, Hill Mynas, Jungle Crows, Black Drongos, Parrots, and Doves, with many migratory birds visiting as well.

The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary serves as a critical habitat for numerous species and plays an essential role in environmental conservation efforts in the region.

GS3/Defence & Security

HAWALA

Why in News?

A recent investigation by The Indian Express has uncovered a poaching network operating in central India that has reportedly utilized digital payments facilitated by "hawala funds" to illegally trade in tigers. This network has connections extending to multiple supply lines in Nepal and Myanmar, having taken out "100 to any number" of tigers since 2022.

• The hawala system allows for the transfer of funds without the physical movement of cash.
• It operates through informal, trust-based channels, enabling transactions primarily across West Asia, North and East Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.

How Hawala Works

• Example of Transaction:A person named 'A' in Muscat wishes to send money to his father 'B' in Lucknow via hawala.
  • 'A' deposits the amount with a hawaladar in Muscat and receives a token, which may be a physical item or a digital code.
  • 'A' shares this token with 'B,' who then presents it to a hawaladar in Lucknow to collect the equivalent amount.
  • No actual money is transferred between the two locations; instead, the hawaladars reconcile the amounts later.
• Legal Risks: Despite the absence of legal protection in cases of fraud, hawala transactions remain popular due to their convenience.

Applications of Hawala

• Sending Remittances: Migrant workers frequently use hawala to send money home, particularly those in West Asia, due to its ease of use and limited access to formal banking systems.
• Illegal Activities: Many illegal operations—including smuggling, money laundering, and financing of drug and terror activities—exploit hawala networks for their anonymity and lack of regulatory oversight.

The hawala system, while efficient for legitimate remittance purposes, has significant implications for illegal trade and wildlife poaching, necessitating closer scrutiny by law enforcement agencies.

GS3/Economy

Key Facts about India’s Remittances

Why in News?

Insights from the Sixth round of India’s Remittances Survey 2023-24 by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) highlight significant trends in remittance flows into the country, emphasizing the role of various countries in contributing to India's remittances.

• India has seen a remarkable increase in remittance inflows, doubling from $55.6 billion in 2010-11 to $118.7 billion in 2023-24.
• The United States is the largest contributor, accounting for 27.7 percent of total remittances.
• Remittances from advanced economies, including the US and the UK, have surpassed those from Gulf economies in 2023-24.
• GCC countries contributed 38 percent of total remittances to India.
• Kerala ranks second in remittance inflows, following Maharashtra, which accounted for 20.5 percent of total remittances in 2023-24.

Additional Details

• Top Contributing Countries: The US, UK, Singapore, Canada, and Australia together accounted for more than half of the remittances into India.
• Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries: The UAE maintained its position as the second largest source of India's remittances, increasing its share from 18 percent in 2020-21 to 19.2 percent in 2023-24.
• The US and the UK together contributed nearly 40 percent of total remittances coming to India through banks in FY24.
• Other states with notable remittance inflows include Tamil Nadu at 10.4 percent, Telangana at 8.1 percent, and Karnataka at 7.7 percent.

This data underscores the increasing importance of remittances from developed nations and highlights the changing dynamics of global financial flows into India.

GS3/Environment

United Nations World Water Development Report, 2025

Why in News?

On March 21, 2025, the United Nations commemorated the inaugural World Day for Glaciers. Coinciding with this event, the United Nations World Water Development Report issued a critical alert regarding the alarming rate of glacier loss worldwide.

• Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) Glacier Loss: Glaciers are now melting 65% faster (from 2011-2020) compared to the previous decade, with projections indicating a potential shrinkage of up to 50% by 2100 if global temperatures increase by 1.5-2°C.
• WMO’s Climate Report: The year 2024 was recorded as the warmest in 175 years, highlighting the connection between rising temperatures and the accelerated melting of glaciers.
• Unprecedented Glacier Mass Loss: Since 1975, over 9,000 billion tonnes of ice have been lost, with 450 gigatons lost in just 2024.
• Rising Sea Levels: The melting of glaciers is contributing to rising sea levels, displacing 200,000 to 300,000 people annually and escalating risks of coastal flooding.
• Increased Wildfires and Dust Storms: The occurrence of wildfires and dust storms has intensified, which in turn accelerates glacier melt by darkening their surfaces.
• Permafrost Thawing: The thawing of permafrost releases carbon and nutrients, exacerbating climate change and increasing the risk of landslides.
• Declining Snow Cover: There has been a 7.79% global decline in persistent snow cover from 1979 to 2022, significantly impacting water resources.

About World Glaciers Day

• World Glaciers Day: March 21, 2025, was recognized as World Glaciers Day to enhance awareness about glaciers and the dangers posed by their loss due to climate change.
• This observance was officially established by the UN in resolution A/RES/77/158 and aligns with the International Year of Glaciers 2025.
• The day emphasizes the need for governments, organizations, and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt sustainable water management practices.

This report serves as a crucial reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and protect our glacial and water resources for future generations.

GS2/International Relations

Amid US Tariff Threats, India Considers Easing Non-Trade Barriers and Chinese FDI Rules

Why in News?

India is exploring opportunities to enhance its economic relationship with China as border tensions decrease, providing a favorable backdrop for improved ties. Concurrently, the United States, under President Trump, is exerting pressure on India to reduce tariffs and comply with its trade conditions.

• India-China bilateral trade in FY24 reached $118.40 billion, marking China as India's top trading partner.
• India's trade deficit with China has widened to $83 billion, attributed to limited export access in key sectors.
• India is considering easing restrictions on Chinese investments and trade practices to improve economic ties.

Additional Details

• Bilateral Trade Dynamics: In FY24, China accounted for a 15% share of India's total imports, with India importing $101.74 billion worth of goods from China.
• Trade Deficit Factors: The widening trade deficit is due to a limited export basket from India and market access barriers in sectors like agriculture and pharmaceuticals.
• Chinese Investment in India: China ranks 22nd in terms of FDI equity inflows into India, with a cumulative investment of $2.5 billion since 2000. There's a growing appetite in China for increasing investment in India.
• Relaxation of Trade Restrictions: Ongoing discussions aim to amend restrictions imposed after the 2020 Galwan clash, including lifting tariffs and easing visa restrictions for Chinese personnel.
• Industry Influence: Indian industries, especially SMEs, are advocating for the removal of trade barriers and easier BIS certification for Chinese imports.
• China Plus One Strategy: This strategy encourages businesses to diversify operations beyond China to mitigate risks. India's success in attracting this strategy has been limited, according to recent reports.

In summary, while India is contemplating a gradual easing of trade barriers with China, it aims to protect its domestic industries while balancing relations with both the US and China. The approach will be cautious, aligning with India's broader economic interests in the global landscape.