UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 14th April 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Economy

India as a Global Talent Hub - Transforming Demographic Potential into Strategic Power

Why in News?

In the face of a global labour crisis, India is uniquely positioned to leverage its demographic dividend and become a key source of talent for high-income nations experiencing significant labour shortages.

• High-income countries are projected to face a labour shortage of 40-50 million by 2030 and 120-160 million by 2040.
• India's current remittances stand at $125 billion annually, but only 1.3% of its population are migrants.
• India can enhance its global talent supply through structured overseas employment strategies.

Additional Details

• Global Labour Crisis: High-income countries, especially in Europe, are facing acute shortages in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and education.
• India's Migration Potential: Compared to other countries like Mexico and the Philippines, India has a significant untapped potential for workforce participation and remittances.
• Strategic Steps for Talent Development:
  • Strengthen institutional frameworks for overseas employment.
  • Align Indian qualifications with international standards through skilling and accreditation.
  • Reduce pre-departure costs for aspiring migrants.
  • Enhance government-to-government agreements to facilitate smoother migration processes.
• Developmental Impact of Remittances: A study indicates that a 10% increase in remittances can lead to a 3.5% reduction in poverty.

In conclusion, transforming India into a global talent powerhouse can significantly boost foreign exchange through remittances, enhance India’s global soft power, and promote inclusive development. The initiatives under "Make in India" and "India for the World" can serve as dual pillars for India's growth and influence in the 21st century.

GS2/International Relations

Will Trump’s Tariffs Bring in a Recession?

Why in News?

On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Trump announced a significant shift in trade policy by introducing a minimum tariff on all imports, marking a departure from decades of low tariff rates.

• Introduction of a minimum 10% tariff on all imports, ending a long-standing low tariff policy.
• Higher "reciprocal" tariffs for select countries, notably 27% for India, 46% for Vietnam, and 145% for China.
• Immediate negative impact on global markets and economic uncertainty.

Additional Details

• Minimum Tariff: Trump declared that the U.S. would levy a minimum 10% tariff on all imported goods, which would increase the cost of a previously tariff-free $100 item to $110.
• Reciprocal Tariffs: Tariffs for around 60 countries would be significantly higher, targeting imports from countries perceived to engage in unfair trade practices.
• Impact on Markets: Following the announcement, global stock markets experienced sharp declines, reflecting investor panic and concerns over rising economic uncertainty.
• Potential Recession Indicators: Higher tariffs could lead to reduced consumer spending due to increased prices, strained global supply chains, and potential retaliatory tariffs from other nations.
• China's Preparedness: China is better prepared for a trade war due to diversified export markets, lower export dependence on GDP, and significant investments in technology and innovation.
• Impact on India: India's exports could suffer due to higher U.S. tariffs, affecting key sectors like textiles and automobiles while pushing India to explore new markets.
• Historical Context: The U.S. maintained low tariffs post-World War II to promote global economic recovery and integration, supporting its role as the chief architect of globalization.

The introduction of these tariffs could have far-reaching implications for both the U.S. and global economies, necessitating a reassessment of trade relations and economic strategies moving forward.

GS2/International Relations

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor 

Why in News?

India and Italy have reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate on the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC or IMEC). This initiative was highlighted during discussions between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, in New Delhi.

• The IMEC aims to enhance economic development through improved connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
• The project was first announced during the G20 Leaders' summit in New Delhi in 2023, featuring two main corridors.
• Signatories of the MoU for IMEC include India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, France, Germany, Italy, the European Union, and the United States.
• The initiative is linked to the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), which serves as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Additional Details

• IMEC Corridors: The IMEC will consist of two distinct corridors: one linking India to the Arabian Gulf and another connecting the Arabian Gulf to Europe. This will include a railway route to facilitate trade among India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe.
• Challenges: Recent events, such as the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel and the ongoing Gaza conflict, have raised concerns over the feasibility of the IMEC due to heightened regional tensions.
• During Prime Minister Modi's visit to France, he and President Emmanuel Macron discussed the strategic importance of Marseille as a key entry point to the European market, emphasizing IMEC as a "fabulous catalyst" for investment and concrete projects.

The IMEC represents a significant step towards fostering economic ties between these regions, although it must navigate existing geopolitical challenges to achieve its objectives.

GS3/Environment

Phawngpui National Park

Why in News?

Recent forest fires in Phawngpui National Park, located in Mizoram, have significantly affected approximately one-ninth of the park's total area. State forest officials reported that the fire began from slash-and-burn (jhum) cultivation near Archhuang village on March 11, 2025, and subsequently spread into various forest zones of the park.

• Phawngpui National Park was notified in 1997, although it is often cited as established in 1992 for conservation planning.
• The park covers an area of 50 square kilometers and includes Phawngpui Peak, the highest point in Mizoram at 2,157 meters above sea level.
• It is located in the Lawngtlai District of southeastern Mizoram, near the India-Myanmar border.

Additional Details

• Name Origin: The park is named after Phawngpui Peak, with the term derived from the Lai language where “phong” means meadow and “pui” means great. It signifies the region's grassy ridges and is alternatively interpreted as ‘Place of bamboo grass’ in the Lai-Pawi dialect.
• Nickname: Often referred to as the Blue Mountain due to the cloud cover that gives the peak a bluish appearance from a distance.
• Geographical Features: The park features steep cliffs, such as Thlazuang Khâm, and natural grasslands like Far Pak. The Chhimtuipui River (Kalodyne) runs along its eastern boundary, marking the border with Myanmar.
• Flora: The park is characterized by sub-tropical broadleaf and tropical evergreen forests, including patches of Himalayan oak, Indian pine, and bamboo groves, along with diverse species of orchids, rhododendrons, and rare bamboo species like Eulalia triplicate.
• Fauna: Notable mammals include the clouded leopard, Hoolock gibbon, slow loris, and Malayan sun bear. Bird species of interest include Blyth’s tragopan, Mizoram’s state bird Mrs. Hume’s pheasant, and various others like the wreathed hornbill and fire-tailed sunbird.

The ecological diversity and significance of Phawngpui National Park underscore the importance of conservation efforts, especially in light of the recent fires that threaten its rich biodiversity.

GS3/Economy

Saudi Arabia’s Oil Policy: Implications for Global Markets and India

Why in News?

Recently, eight OPEC+ countries announced plans to accelerate the phase-out of voluntary oil output cuts, with an increase in production by 411,000 barrels per day starting in May, corresponding to three monthly increments. This shift has significant implications for global oil markets, particularly for countries that are major oil consumers such as India.

• Saudi Arabia is adjusting its oil production strategy amidst a recovering global demand for oil.
• The decision to unwind production cuts could influence global oil prices and affect oil-importing nations like India.
• India's response includes strengthening its energy diplomacy and diversifying its oil import sources.

Additional Details

• Saudi Arabia’s Strategy: The country previously led voluntary cuts to stabilize oil prices during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with rising demand, it plans to gradually phase out these cuts starting in Q3 2024, aiming to reclaim market share lost to non-OPEC producers.
• OPEC+ Coordination: Saudi Arabia's production decisions are part of broader OPEC+ strategies to prevent price crashes, although they risk triggering competitive responses from other oil producers if prices rise too sharply.
• Impact on Global Oil Prices: Oil prices have remained stable, with Brent crude around $85 per barrel. Increased production by Saudi Arabia could lead to either a price surge or a price drop, depending on global demand and geopolitical factors.
• India’s Position: As the third-largest importer of crude oil, India is sensitive to oil price fluctuations. Rising prices can strain its import bill, whereas a price correction can improve its macroeconomic outlook. India's ongoing diplomatic efforts aim to secure a steady supply at competitive prices while diversifying imports from non-traditional partners like Russia.
• Strategic Reserves: India is expanding its Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to mitigate future price volatility and enhance energy security.

In conclusion, the evolving oil policy of Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment for global energy markets. While the intention to reduce production cuts may provide temporary relief from high prices, it could also lead to market instability if not managed effectively with OPEC+ and other producers. For India, staying strategically prepared through energy diplomacy and diversification remains crucial in navigating these developments.

GS3/Environment

Saving Traditional Varieties of Seeds

Why in News?

The agricultural landscape in India is increasingly dominated by a few staple crops, such as wheat and rice, leading to the rapid decline of thousands of traditional seed varieties. This decline poses a significant threat to biodiversity and food security, particularly in the context of climate change.

• Traditional seed varieties are essential for biodiversity and sustainable food systems.
• Modern farming practices favor high-yield hybrids, which are often less resilient to climate change.
• Consumer behavior and market dynamics significantly influence the cultivation of traditional crops.
• Efforts to revive traditional seed systems are gaining momentum through grassroots initiatives and policy reforms.

Additional Details

• Decline of Traditional Seeds: Traditional seeds, adapted over centuries, offer benefits such as drought resistance and superior nutritional profiles, but are being overshadowed by modern hybrids that require chemical inputs and are water-intensive.
• Market Dynamics: Urban demand favors a limited selection of commercial grains, discouraging farmers from cultivating traditional varieties due to low market visibility.
• Infrastructure Needs: Community seed banks and informal exchanges are essential for preserving traditional seeds, yet they lack adequate funding and recognition.
• Policy Orientation: Current agricultural policies promote high-yield crops through subsidies, neglecting biodiverse practices. Initiatives like the Odisha Millet Mission show promise but need broader support.

In conclusion, the future of traditional seed varieties in India depends on a transformative shift in consumer preferences, supportive policies, and community-led conservation efforts. By embracing these strategies, India can cultivate a more resilient and sustainable food system that honors its agricultural heritage.

GS3/Economy

Urban Income Concerns Amidst Job Optimism

Why in News?

In March 2025, urban consumers expressed hope for job opportunities, yet many remained pessimistic about their income levels. This disparity raises concerns about the economic outlook for urban populations.

• 35.5% of urban respondents reported improved job opportunities, while only 23.8% saw an increase in income.
• Over 90% noted rising commodity prices without corresponding wage increases.
• Only 34.7% felt the overall economic situation had improved, marking the lowest sentiment in over a year.

Additional Details

• Jobs Are Available, But Income Growth Is Stagnant: Despite job availability, income stagnation persists. For instance, urban residents may have stable employment but face rising living costs, leading to financial strain.
• Rising Cost of Living: Urban consumers are adjusting their spending habits, prioritizing essential goods over discretionary items due to inflation pressures.
• Rural vs. Urban Economic Outlook: Rural respondents show greater income pessimism due to reliance on agriculture and limited access to high-paying jobs compared to urban counterparts.

The combination of stagnant incomes and rising costs has led to increased financial pressure on urban residents. Addressing these concerns through policies aimed at wage growth and economic diversification in rural areas is essential for improving overall economic sentiment.

GS1/History & Culture

Kathak: A Classical Dance Form

Why in News?

Kumudini Lakhia, a celebrated Kathak dancer and influential figure in Indian classical dance, recently passed away in Ahmedabad at the age of 95. Her contributions to the art form were recognized when she received the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, just weeks before her passing.

• Kathak is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Katha’, meaning story, and has roots in storytelling traditions.
• The dance form evolved in North India, particularly during the Bhakti movement (8th-12th centuries CE).
• Kathak underwent significant transformations during the Mughal era, gaining royal patronage.
• It saw a decline during British rule but was revived as a classical dance after India’s independence.

Additional Details

• Historical Roots: Kathak originated in regions such as Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, where Kathakars, or storytellers, narrated mythological tales through dance and music.
• Mughal Influence: Between the 16th and 19th centuries, Kathak transitioned from temple performances to royal courts, integrating Persian elements such as intricate footwork and spins, with notable patronage from Mughal emperors like Akbar.
• Post-Independence Revival: In the 1950s, Kathak was recognized as a classical dance form, with institutions like the Sangeet Natak Akademi formalizing its teaching and preservation.
• Gharanas:The distinct schools of Kathak that shape its style include:
  • Lucknow Gharana: Focuses on grace, expression, and storytelling.
  • Jaipur Gharana: Known for vigorous footwork and complex rhythms.
  • Banaras Gharana: Strikes a balance between footwork and narrative elements.

Kathak remains a vibrant part of India’s cultural heritage, characterized by its expressive storytelling and intricate movements. Its adaptability and evolution through various historical phases underscore its significance in Indian classical arts.

GS3/Environment

What is an Atmospheric River?

Why in News?

Earlier this month, the United States experienced severe weather, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms, which were caused by an Atmospheric River.

• An atmospheric river is a narrow and fast-moving band of moisture and wind.
• These systems transport large amounts of water vapor across vast distances.
• They typically span between 402 to 606 km in width and can extend over 1600 km in length.
• The most powerful atmospheric rivers can carry moisture equivalent to the flow of the Mississippi River.

Additional Details

• Example: The Pineapple Express is a well-known atmospheric river that transports moisture from Hawaii to the West Coasts of the U.S. and Canada.
• The intense rainfall from atmospheric rivers can lead to flooding, mudslides, and damage to infrastructure, with wind speeds comparable to those of hurricanes.
• Impact and Climate Change: Rising global temperatures increase evaporation, allowing warmer air to hold more moisture. For every 1°C increase in temperature, the atmosphere can hold 7% more moisture, resulting in stronger storms. Research suggests that such events are likely to become longer and more intense.

This understanding of atmospheric rivers is crucial for predicting and managing the impacts of severe weather events, particularly in the context of climate change.

With reference to the Earth’s atmosphere, which one of the following statements is correct?

• (a) The total amount of insolation received at the equator is roughly about 10 times of that received at the poles.
• (b) Infrared waves are largely absorbed by carbon dioxide that is concentrated in the upper atmosphere.
• (c) Infrared waves are largely absorbed by water vapour that is concentrated in the lower atmosphere.
• (d) Ultraviolet rays are absorbed by the ozone layer lying in the ionosphere.

GS3/Science and Technology

Real Time LAMP Assay for Early Diagnosis of TB

Why in News?

Researchers from Thiruvananthapuram have developed a cost-effective Real-Time LAMP (rt-LAMP) Assay aimed at facilitating the early diagnosis of Tuberculosis (TB).

• The rt-LAMP assay is designed to detect TB DNA with high precision.
• It can identify TB at concentrations as low as 10 copy numbers per microlitre, allowing for early detection even with minimal bacterial presence.
• Developed by SCTIMST, Thiruvananthapuram, the assay utilizes Syto 16, a fluorescent dye, for real-time monitoring of DNA amplification.

Additional Details

• Working Principle: The rt-LAMP assay employs six primers for DNA amplification, in contrast to the two used in RT-PCR, significantly enhancing amplification speed. It operates at a single temperature, simplifying the process and making it more cost-effective.
• The assay continuously monitors the amplification process, yielding quicker results compared to traditional methods.
• Advantages Offered:
  • High Sensitivity and Specificity: The use of six primers ensures accurate detection of TB.
  • Cost-Effective: Utilizes affordable fluorescent dyes, thus lowering diagnostic costs.
  • Speed: Results are available in just 10-20 minutes, outperforming traditional diagnostic tests.
  • Ease of Use: Compatible with existing RT-PCR machines, minimizing the need for new infrastructure.
  • High Throughput: Capable of processing 96-384 tests in a single run, making it suitable for high-volume testing environments.

This innovative approach to TB diagnosis not only enhances sensitivity and speed but also represents a significant advancement in public health diagnostics.

GS2/International Relations

US-Iran Nuclear Talks

Why in News?

The recent unexpected discussions between Iran and the United States in Muscat, Oman, indicate a notable change in diplomatic dynamics, primarily influenced by shifts within Iran. Despite significant disagreements over the nature of the talks—whether "direct" or "indirect"—both sides opted to engage in negotiations, a surprising development amidst ongoing tensions, including US military actions against Iran-aligned Houthis.

• Iran is experiencing a generational shift, with a majority of its population being younger and focused on economic opportunities.
• Economic pressures and sanctions fatigue have prompted Iran's leadership to consider renewed engagement with the West.
• Internal political dynamics show an unusual alignment among conservatives and reformists in favor of a new nuclear deal.
• The changing regional environment has led Gulf nations to favor diplomatic resolutions over conflict.

Additional Details

• Generational Shift in Iranian Society: The average age of Iranians is 32, meaning many have not directly experienced historical events that shaped older leaders' perspectives. This younger demographic is increasingly focused on social change and economic prospects rather than ideological commitments.
• Economic Pressures and Sanctions Fatigue: Iran's economy has struggled under the "maximum pressure" sanctions initiated by the Trump administration, with inflation and unemployment remaining high. The country requires substantial foreign investment to stimulate growth, and even high-ranking officials like Supreme Leader Khamenei are open to genuine American investment.
• Internal Political Dynamics: Reformists are leveraging the economic situation to push for a nuclear deal, while conservative factions, although cautious, are not blocking negotiations, indicating a rare political consensus.
• Changing Regional Environment: The "Axis of Resistance" that Iran once dominated has weakened, and countries like Saudi Arabia, which previously opposed the 2015 nuclear agreement, are now advocating for diplomatic dialogues and regional economic cooperation.
• International Influences: Even traditional allies like Russia are encouraging Iran to pursue diplomacy, particularly in light of Iran's support for Russia regarding the conflict in Ukraine. There is a growing consensus among international actors that a negotiated deal would be beneficial.

In summary, Iran finds itself at a critical juncture characterized by generational changes, economic pressures, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Although the path to a successful US-Iran nuclear agreement remains uncertain, both nations share common interests that may facilitate negotiations. However, external factors and the unpredictable nature of political negotiations could pose significant challenges.