UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 9th April 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Polity

Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice

Why in News?

The Lok Sabha Speaker recently delivered a keynote address on ‘Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice’ at the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) held in Tashkent, highlighting the role of parliaments in promoting social justice and inclusion.

Key Takeaways

• The IPU is a global organization of national parliaments founded in 1889, promoting international cooperation and dialogue.
• It comprises 181 national member parliaments and has 15 associate members, primarily from groupings of nations.
• The organization focuses on strengthening democracy and enhancing the diversity of parliaments.
• The IPU defends the human rights of parliamentarians through a dedicated committee made up of members from various countries.
• Twice each year, the IPU convenes over 1,500 parliamentary delegates for a world assembly that addresses global governance issues.

Additional Details

• Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU): The IPU serves as the principal platform for parliamentary dialogue on global issues, including the United Nations' initiatives and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
• Governing Council: The IPU's main administrative body, comprising three MPs from each member parliament, meets at each assembly to make policy decisions.
• Funding: The IPU is primarily funded by its member parliaments through public funds.

In recent years, the Parliament has enacted several laws aimed at promoting social justice and inclusion, reflecting the ongoing commitment of legislative bodies to address pressing societal issues.

GS2/Polity

Governor’s Assent to Bills

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India has recently issued a significant ruling regarding the powers of the Governor in relation to state bills. This decision reprimanded Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi for withholding assent on numerous bills, thereby delaying legislative processes. The court emphasized the unconstitutional nature of the Governor's actions when reserving bills for the President's consideration.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court criticized the Governor's delay in granting assent to bills, labeling it as unconstitutional.
• New timelines for the Governor's assent to bills have been established for the first time.
• Judicial oversight has been introduced, allowing for the review of the Governor's inaction.

Additional Details

• Case Context: The state government approached the Supreme Court in 2023 due to a deliberate delay by the Governor concerning 12 bills, including one from 2020. On November 13, 2023, the Governor withheld assent to 10 bills, prompting the Assembly to re-enact these bills.
• Key Constitutional Provisions:
  • Article 200: Grants the Governor the power to assent to, withhold assent from, or reserve bills for the President's consideration.
  • Article 201: Addresses the President’s veto power over bills reserved by the Governor.
  • Article 142: Endows the Supreme Court with plenary powers to ensure complete justice.
• The Supreme Court's ruling established specific timelines for the Governor:
  • 1 Month to withhold assent or reserve a bill for the President.
  • Must return the bill within 3 months if withholding assent without the Council of Ministers' advice.
  • If a bill is re-passed by the Assembly, the Governor must grant assent within 1 month.
• The Supreme Court clarified that once a bill is re-passed, the Governor cannot reserve it again unless its content has materially changed, reinforcing the Governor's constitutional obligations.

This landmark ruling not only clarifies the Governor's role in the legislative process but also strengthens the principles of federalism and democracy by ensuring timely action on state legislation.

GS3/Science and Technology

Biomass Satellite Mission

Why in News?

The European Space Agency (ESA) is set to launch its latest satellite, Biomass, which aims to enhance our understanding of forest biomass and its role in the carbon cycle.

Key Takeaways

• The Biomass mission will deliver precise measurements of forest biomass.
• It will generate detailed 3D maps of some of the world's densest and most remote tropical forests.
• The satellite will launch aboard the Vega C rocket from French Guiana.
• It will operate in a sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) at approximately 666 km altitude.
• Biomass is the first satellite to utilize long-wavelength radar, known as P-band.

Additional Details

• P-band Radar: This specialized radar can penetrate deep through the forest canopy to gather data on tree trunks, branches, and stems, which are crucial for storing carbon.
• The satellite's capabilities will enable scientists to assess forest height and above-ground biomass from space, providing valuable insights into forest conditions and changes over time.
• This mission will significantly contribute to our knowledge regarding the carbon cycle and the ecological role of forests.

The Biomass satellite mission represents a significant advancement in remote sensing technology, offering new opportunities to monitor and understand the dynamics of our planet's forests.

GS2/Governance

The Gradual Transformation of the Home Ministry

Why in News?

The transformation of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) marks a significant shift in India's approach to governance and internal security, moving from a reactive crisis management model to proactive reform.

Key Takeaways

• The MHA's historical focus on crisis management has evolved towards structural reforms and preparedness.
• Recent legislative and institutional reforms aim to modernize internal security frameworks.
• Budgetary support for the MHA has increased significantly, enhancing its operational capabilities.

Additional Details

• Historical Context: The MHA has traditionally responded to crises, such as riots and insurgencies, often resulting in reactive measures instead of proactive governance.
• Shift in Leadership: Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there has been a paradigm shift toward a governance model focused on reform and prevention.
• Legislative Changes: Over 27 reforms have been introduced since 2019, including amendments to the NIA Act and UAPA, aiming to clarify and strengthen counter-terrorism laws.
• Integration of Governance and Security: The MHA now emphasizes a unified approach to governance and security, reinforced by constitutional provisions that facilitate Centre-State coordination.
• Budgetary Support: The MHA's budget exceeded ₹1 lakh crore in 2019 and reached ₹2.33 lakh crore by 2025, reflecting the government's commitment to modernizing internal security.
• Tangible Impact: A noted 70% decline in violence in conflict zones, attributed to enhanced security measures and developmental initiatives.

The evolution of the MHA exemplifies a critical transition in India's internal governance strategy. It underscores the importance of reform over mere response, positioning the Ministry as a cornerstone of national stability and security.

GS2/Governance

Strengthening Enforcement of Judicial Orders

Why in News?

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued an order to restrict the use of air horns on major roads during nighttime hours (10 p.m. to 6 a.m.), but enforcement has been lacking. This highlights a broader issue of institutional inertia and the disconnect between legal mandates and administrative action.

Key Takeaways

• The NGT's order on air horns remains unenforced due to lack of action from the traffic police and other authorities.
• Judicial effectiveness relies on anticipating enforcement challenges and considering the limitations of implementation agencies.
• Examples from Kathmandu show how effective public awareness and legal enforcement can lead to improvements.

Additional Details

• Judicial Foresight: The success of judicial decisions depends on their foresight regarding enforcement challenges and the systemic limitations of agencies tasked with implementation.
• Case Study: The 2017 Supreme Court ruling in State of Tamil Nadu v. K. Balu faced serious enforcement issues, with states exploiting loopholes to circumvent the order.
• Successful examples like Common Cause v. Union of India (2018) and the Taj Trapezium Zone case demonstrate that clear directives and inter-agency cooperation can lead to effective enforcement.

To strengthen the enforcement framework in India’s judicial system, a multi-pronged strategy is essential. This includes appointing designated enforcement officers in government departments, leveraging technology for tracking compliance, and implementing a mix of punitive and positive reinforcement strategies. By enhancing transparency and accountability, India can move towards a more effective justice system.

GS3/Science and Technology

Soyuz Spacecraft

Why in News?

Recently, a Soyuz spacecraft, decorated to honor the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, launched from Kazakhstan's Baikonur Cosmodrome. It successfully transported an American astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts to the International Space Station (ISS).

Key Takeaways

• The Soyuz spacecraft has been operational since the 1960s and is a pivotal vessel for transporting astronauts to and from space.
• It is recognized for its long-standing history as the most enduring human spacecraft program in space exploration.

Additional Details

• Soyuz: The name means "union" in Russian, reflecting its role in international cooperation in space exploration.
• The first crewed flight occurred on April 23, 1967, marking a significant milestone in human spaceflight.
• Although originally developed by the Soviet Union, Soyuz spacecraft are still in use today, featuring various modifications for improved safety and efficiency.
• These spacecraft primarily serve as a crew ferry to various space stations, including the Salyut stations and Mir.
• Soyuz vehicles are launched by Russian rockets of the same name, which have achieved over 1,680 successful launches, encompassing both satellites and manned missions.
• Neither the Soyuz rockets nor the vehicles are designed for reuse.
• The duration of the journey to the ISS can range from six hours to two days, depending on the mission profile, while the return journey typically takes only three hours.

The Soyuz spacecraft consists of three modules: the service module, the orbital module, and the descent module. The orbital module, which is the tip of the spacecraft, contains the necessary equipment for docking with the ISS. The service module holds telecommunications and altitude control equipment, along with solar panel couplings. The descent module, located in the middle, is where astronauts travel and is the only section that reenters the atmosphere, as the orbital module disintegrates during reentry.

GS2/Governance

Reimagining Data Governance in India - A Citizen-Centric Approach to Health Data

Why in News?

India’s population of 1.4 billion generates data with immense potential economic value, possibly rivaling 38 OECD nations when adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). As technology proliferates, robust data governance policies must enable citizens to benefit from the value of their data.

Key Takeaways

• There is a fundamental confusion between viewing data as identity versus data as property.
• Healthcare data management currently suffers from a public-private divide, affecting data accessibility and usability.
• The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to create a framework for better health data governance.

Additional Details

• Policy Gap: Policymakers often conflate data as identity (linked to privacy and personal rights) with data as property (a tradable economic resource). This conceptual confusion hinders value creation, innovation, and knowledge discovery.
• Healthcare Data Issues:
  • Large private hospitals have advanced digital systems, while government hospitals and small private clinics lack adequate infrastructure, resulting in no interoperable medical records.
  • This lack of digitization leads to difficulties for health insurers and researchers in accessing necessary data.
• ABDM Framework: Managed by the National Health Authority, it emphasizes that citizens own their health data and promotes interoperability across health facilities. Key components include registries, middleware for data exchange, and a consent management system.
• Challenges: Clinical data generated during interactions often lacks perceived future value. Citizen engagement is crucial for realizing this value and driving innovation.
• Global Models:
  • The US model allows patients to access but not share their data, with hospitals monetizing de-identified data without compensating patients.
  • The UK's NHS model sees health data owned by public institutions, which does not align with India's highly privatized healthcare system.
• Proposed Vision: A citizen-centric approach is needed, empowering individuals to treat their data as property while ensuring privacy and regulatory safeguards.

In conclusion, India must adopt a citizen-centric data governance framework that promotes individual agency, incentivizes data interoperability, and fosters innovation in health systems. Recognizing data as economic property, rather than merely a marker of identity, is crucial for unlocking the next wave of digital transformation in India’s healthcare ecosystem.

GS2/International Relations

Global Reactions to Trump’s Tariff Standoff

Why in News?

The recent escalation of tariffs by the U.S. under President Trump has prompted various countries to adopt distinct strategies in response. Notably, China has taken a firm stance of "resolute opposition" and has retaliated with similar tariffs.

Key Takeaways

• China vows to implement countermeasures against U.S. tariffs.
• Japan is pursuing a diplomatic approach to mitigate tariff tensions.
• The EU is balancing negotiations with potential retaliation strategies.
• India is adopting a quiet and cautious stance amid tariff concerns.

Additional Details

• China's Response: The Chinese government has promised to protect its interests by retaliating against Trump's proposed 50% tariff on Chinese imports. This comes in light of its existing 34% tariff on American goods.
• Japan's Negotiation Efforts: In an effort to resolve tariff disagreements, Japan is sending a delegation to the U.S. for negotiations, which has positively influenced its stock markets, particularly the Nikkei 225.
• European Union's Strategy: The EU is seeking a balanced approach, preferring negotiations while also preparing a list of potential retaliatory measures. This is crucial given the significant value of trans-Atlantic trade.
• India's Position: While publicly understated, Indian officials suggest a preference for diplomacy over retaliation, marking a shift from the previous administration's approach.
• Market Reactions: Asian markets are showing optimism that Japan's diplomatic efforts could lead to a resolution, with countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam also favoring conciliatory measures to avoid tariffs.

The ongoing tariff conflict raises concerns about a potential economic blockade between the U.S. and China, two of the world's largest economies. As the situation evolves, the effectiveness of these diverse strategies will significantly impact global market sentiment and economic stability.

GS2/Governance

Why is Active Mobility Necessary in India?

Why in News?

Accidental deaths and injuries among pedestrians, cyclists, and street vendors are rising in India's metro cities, prompting a critical look at active mobility as a solution.

Key Takeaways

• Active mobility includes human-powered transportation methods such as walking, cycling, and skateboarding.
• Increasing urbanization leads to traffic congestion and pollution, making active mobility an essential focus for sustainable transport.
• The government is prioritizing policies that promote active mobility to improve public health and reduce environmental impact.

Additional Details

• Active Mobility: Refers to transportation modes that do not rely on motorized vehicles, emphasizing sustainability and public health benefits.
• Infrastructure Challenges: Despite the construction of footpaths and cycling tracks, encroachments by vehicles and vendors hinder their use, particularly in cities like Delhi and Bengaluru.
• Public Health Benefits: Walking and cycling contribute to better physical and mental health, reducing healthcare burdens associated with lifestyle diseases.
• Global Context: International agreements like the Paris Agreement advocate for reduced carbon emissions, with active mobility as a key component.
• Successful International Models: Countries like the Netherlands and Germany have implemented extensive dedicated infrastructure and laws prioritizing non-motorized transport.

In conclusion, the push for active mobility in India is driven by the urgent need to address rising traffic accidents, pollution, and public health concerns. By improving infrastructure and promoting sustainable transport methods, cities can enhance livability and ensure safer, healthier environments for all residents.

GS3/Economy

Tensions Rise Over MSME Reclassification in Budget 2025

Why in News?

The Union Budget 2025 has introduced a major change in the classification criteria for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), leading to significant reactions from various industry stakeholders.

Key Takeaways

• The investment and turnover limits for MSMEs have been substantially increased.
• The revisions aim to support business growth and improve access to capital.
• Concerns have been raised regarding the potential monopolization of benefits by medium enterprises.

Additional Details

• Overview of the Classification Changes:Effective April 1, 2025, the investment and turnover limits have been revised as follows:
  • Micro enterprises: Investment up to ₹2.5 crore (from ₹1 crore) and turnover up to ₹10 crore (from ₹5 crore).
  • Small enterprises: Investment up to ₹25 crore (from ₹10 crore) and turnover up to ₹100 crore.
  • Medium enterprises: Investment up to ₹125 crore (from ₹50 crore) and turnover up to ₹500 crore.
• Support for the Revised Norms:Industry groups like the Federation of Indian Micro and Small & Medium Enterprises (FISME) have welcomed these changes, citing the need to:
  • Address inflationary pressures and rising input costs.
  • Encourage vertical growth of medium enterprises instead of horizontal duplication.
  • Attract foreign investment while maintaining access to government benefits.
• Concerns Raised by Micro and Small Enterprise Bodies:Organizations representing micro and small enterprises have expressed strong opposition, warning that:
  • Medium enterprises may dominate benefits intended for the majority of micro and small units.
  • Public procurement quotas may favor larger players, impacting credit access for smaller units.
  • Micro units already face challenges in accessing credit, as banks prefer lending to medium enterprises.
• Broader Implications for the MSME Sector:The revised classification is expected to affect key aspects of the MSME ecosystem, including:
  • Public Procurement Access: Increased competition for contracts under the 25% procurement quota could marginalize micro units.
  • Credit Distribution: Despite provisions for microenterprise credit, practical access remains limited.
  • Post-Pandemic Recovery Challenges: The timing of these revisions may be premature, given ongoing recovery efforts.
  • Missing Middle Problem: The policy aims to encourage small firms to scale up and avoid inefficient horizontal expansion.

As India aims for a robust and globally competitive MSME sector, it is crucial to ensure that the voices of micro and small businesses are heard, and that benefits are equitably distributed to foster a supportive environment for all segments of the MSME landscape.