UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 29th May 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Science and Technology

India’s Sodium-Ion Battery Push: A Strategic Shift Beyond Lithium

Why in News?

A research team at the Bengaluru-based Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) has developed a sodium-ion (Na-ion) battery capable of charging up to 80 percent in just six minutes. This advancement highlights India’s commitment to developing alternative battery technologies amid global concerns regarding lithium supply limitations and costs.

Key Takeaways

• India is focusing on sodium-ion batteries to reduce dependence on lithium-ion batteries.
• China currently dominates the lithium supply chain, prompting India’s strategic shift.
• Recent innovations from Indian institutions, including JNCASR and IIT Bombay, are enhancing sodium-ion technology.

Additional Details

• Sodium-Ion Batteries: Sodium-ion batteries are a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to the abundance of sodium, which can be sourced from seawater and is less environmentally hazardous.
• Strategic Rationale: The shift to sodium-ion technology aims to enhance energy security and reduce geopolitical vulnerabilities associated with lithium supply chains.
• Breakthrough Innovations: JNCASR has developed a NASICON-type sodium-ion battery with superior charging performance, capable of supporting over 3,000 charge cycles.
• Advancements: Key improvements include nanoparticle engineering, carbon wrapping, and aluminum doping to enhance conductivity and charging speeds.
• Advantages: Sodium-ion batteries offer resource abundance, cost-effective materials, safety in transport, and thermal stability across a broader temperature range.
• Limitations: Challenges include lower energy density, design rigidity, shorter cycle life compared to lithium batteries, and high initial costs due to limited commercial presence.
• Future Outlook: Sodium-ion batteries have potential applications in electric two-wheelers, drones, and solar-powered systems, especially in developing regions.

In conclusion, while sodium-ion batteries face challenges, ongoing research and development may position India as a leader in alternative battery technologies, particularly as global demand for sustainable energy storage solutions grows.

GS2/Governance

A Case of Practical, Pragmatic and Innovative Education

Why in News?

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 represents a significant reform in India's education sector, aiming to align academic pursuits with real-world needs, enhance global competitiveness, and foster a robust ecosystem of innovation and sustainable employment.

Key Takeaways

• The NEP 2020 seeks to fundamentally transform how Indian education prepares students for the workforce.
• It introduces flexible learning pathways, allowing multiple entry and exit points in undergraduate programs.
• The policy emphasizes practical skills and vocational training to bridge the gap between academia and industry.
• There is a focus on multi-dimensional career readiness, integrating cognitive, technical, and soft skills.

Additional Details

• Flexible Learning Pathways: The NEP introduces a four-year undergraduate program with options for students to earn certificates, diplomas, or degrees based on their chosen path and time of exit. This flexibility supports lifelong learning and accommodates diverse life circumstances.
• Link Between Academia and Industry: The policy promotes vocational education by integrating skill-based courses and practical training into curricula, including internships and apprenticeships to provide hands-on experience.
• Global Competitiveness: The NEP aims to enhance the global standing of Indian education, resulting in a notable increase in Indian universities' rankings and a rise in patents filed, indicating a strengthening research landscape.
• Focus on Indigenous Knowledge: The NEP prioritizes traditional wisdom through the Indian Knowledge System (IKS), encouraging grassroots innovation and problem-solving among students.
• Sustainable Employment: Post-implementation data show an increase in employment rates and a shift towards stable jobs, particularly benefiting educated youth and women.

The NEP 2020 serves as a visionary framework for transforming Indian education and employment by fostering industry-academia linkages, promoting research and innovation, and aligning educational outcomes with market demands. The resulting improvements in global rankings and employment patterns reflect the policy's effectiveness, positioning India as a global educational hub and a leader in innovation-driven economic growth.

GS3/Economy

India's Economic Ranking Debate

Why in News?

NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam recently claimed that India has overtaken Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, citing IMF data. This assertion has sparked both celebration and skepticism, as some maintain that IMF data still places India in fifth position.

Key Takeaways

• India's economy is claimed to be the fourth largest, surpassing Japan.
• Some argue that India has actually been the third-largest economy since 2009.
• Nominal GDP comparisons can be misleading due to factors like exchange rates and cost of living.
• Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) provides a more realistic measure of economic strength.
• Per capita GDP indicates a significant disparity in income levels.

Additional Details

• Nominal GDP: This metric represents the total market value of all goods and services produced in a country, measured in current prices and converted into US dollars. It is the basis for claims regarding India's economic ranking.
• Exchange Rate Sensitivity: Fluctuations in the rupee-dollar or yen-dollar exchange rate can shift economic rankings without actual changes in output.
• Purchasing Power Parity (PPP): This method adjusts for cost-of-living differences across countries, providing a more accurate picture of what people can buy with their incomes.
• Despite nominal GDP showing India ahead of the UK post-COVID, per capita figures reveal stark income disparities.

In summary, while nominal GDP rankings may create a sense of national pride, they often obscure the underlying economic realities, such as low average incomes and significant poverty levels. Understanding both nominal GDP and PPP is crucial for a comprehensive view of India's economic status.

GS3/Economy

Cabinet Approves Hike in MSP for Kharif Crops

Why in News?

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister, has approved an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 14 kharif crops for the agricultural year 2025-26.

Key Takeaways

• The MSP hike aims to benefit farmers and ensure fair pricing for their produce.
• The decision is based on recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).

Additional Details

• Minimum Support Price (MSP): MSP is a government-set price at which it purchases certain crops from farmers, intended to ensure farmers receive a minimum profit for their harvests.
• The origins of MSP date back to the 1960s, particularly during the Bihar famine (1966-1967), leading to the establishment of the Agricultural Price Commission in 1965.
• The Agricultural Price Commission evolved into the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) in 1985, which has broader responsibilities regarding price policies.
• The process for fixing MSP includes recommendations from CACP, consultations with state governments and relevant ministries, and final decisions by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA).
• MSP calculations involve different cost categories: A2 (direct costs), A2+FL (including family labor), and C2 (comprehensive costs). The Swaminathan Commission recommended that MSP should be at least 50% above the C2 cost.
• Crops covered by MSP include:
  • Cereals: Paddy, Wheat, Maize, Sorghum (Jowar), Pearl Millet (Bajra), Barley, Ragi
  • Pulses: Gram (Chana), Tur (Arhar), Moong, Urad, Lentil (Masur)
  • Oilseeds: Groundnut, Rapeseed-Mustard, Soybean, Sesame, Sunflower, Safflower, Nigerseed
  • Commercial Crops: Copra, Cotton, Raw Jute, Sugarcane (with Fair and Remunerative Price announced)

This increase in MSP is significant as it reflects the government's commitment to support the agricultural sector and enhance the income of farmers, ensuring they are protected against market volatility.

GS2/Governance

What are Dark Patterns?

Why in News?

The Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution has recently directed all e-commerce companies to perform self-audits aimed at identifying and eliminating dark patterns to ensure compliance with consumer protection regulations.

Key Takeaways

• Dark patterns are user interfaces designed to mislead or manipulate users.
• The term "dark pattern" was introduced in 2010 by Harry Brignull, a UK-based user experience designer.
• These patterns exploit cognitive biases to influence user behavior.

Additional Details

• Definition: Dark patterns refer to any user interface intentionally crafted to mislead and steer users toward actions they might not take otherwise.
• Examples:
  • The "sneak into basket" tactic, where an additional item is added to a user's shopping cart without their explicit consent.
  • A prominently displayed "Accept" button for cookies or subscriptions, while the "Reject" option is minimized or obscured.
• These design choices are deliberately calculated to favor the company, often at the expense of the consumer.
• Hidden costs that only become visible at the final checkout stage are another common manifestation of dark patterns.

Currently, in many countries including India, there is no specific law that outright bans dark patterns. However, the Consumer Protection Act of 2019 prohibits unfair trade practices, with enforcement relying on proving deception and intent. In November 2023, guidelines were issued by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, identifying 13 specific dark patterns, which if used, could result in misleading advertisements or violations of consumer rights.

GS3/Environment

Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary

Why in News?

The forest department of Himachal Pradesh has recently suspended its order that imposed a user charge on visitors to the Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary located in the Sirmaur district.

Key Takeaways

• Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh.
• Established in 1985, it covers an area of 56 sq.km and surrounds the prominent Churdhar Peak.
• Churdhar Peak is noted as the highest peak in the outer Himalayas.
• The sanctuary offers panoramic views of the Gangetic plains and the Satluj River to the south, and Badrinath to the north.
• A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located at the summit, enhancing the spiritual significance of the area.

Additional Details

• Flora: The sanctuary is recognized for its diverse plant life, including herbal medicine trees and aromatic plants such as Wild Himalayan Cherry, Aloe Vera (Dhrit Kumari), and Amaranthus spinosus (Chulai). These herbs are known for their remarkable medicinal properties.
• Main Trees: The predominant tree species in the sanctuary are oak and deodar.
• Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, black bears, monals (Himalayan pheasants), and leopards.

Overall, Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary is a significant ecological and spiritual site, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and biodiversity.

GS3/Economy

Decline in Poverty and Inequality in India: Insights from NSO Household Surveys (2011–2024)

Why in News?

The Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) for 2022–23 and 2023–24 by the National Statistical Office (NSO) provide updated insights into the trends of poverty and inequality in India. There is a pressing need to explore the trends in headcount ratio, the depth of poverty, and trends in inequality from 2011-12 to 2023-24.

Key Takeaways

• Poverty lines for rural and urban areas have significantly increased from 2011-12 to 2023-24.
• The overall poverty ratio has declined sharply over the years, with extreme poverty dropping from 16.2% to 2.3%.
• Key macroeconomic factors contributing to poverty reduction include GDP growth and changes in the consumer price index (CPI).

Additional Details

• Poverty Definition: Based on the Rangarajan Committee methodology, the rural poverty line increased from ₹972 in 2011-12 to ₹1,940 in 2023-24, while the urban poverty line rose from ₹1,407 to ₹2,736.
• The total poverty ratio decreased from 29.5% in 2011-12 to 4.9% in 2023-24, reflecting a significant annual reduction rate.
• Global Comparison: The percentage of people living in extreme poverty fell dramatically, lifting over 170 million individuals above the extreme poverty threshold.
• Economic Growth: GDP growth surged from 7.6% in 2022-23 to 9.2% in 2023-24, contributing to the reduction in poverty levels.
• Despite a decrease in overall CPI inflation, food inflation rose, indicating complexities in the economic landscape affecting poverty.
• The Gini coefficient, which measures income inequality, showed a notable decline, particularly in urban areas, indicating improved consumption equality.

In conclusion, poverty in India has reached single-digit levels, and inequality has shown a moderate decline. The significant reduction in poverty from 2022-23 to 2023-24 appears driven by GDP growth, although further data is necessary to confirm if this trend will continue. The concentration of the poor near the poverty line suggests promising opportunities for targeted policy interventions.

GS1/Geography

What is the Seven Summits Challenge?

Why in News?

Hyderabad teenager Vishwanath Karthikey Padakanti has recently made headlines by becoming the youngest Indian and the second youngest person globally to successfully complete the challenging Seven Summits endeavor.

Key Takeaways

• The Seven Summits challenge involves climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents.
• It was first proposed and completed by Richard Bass in 1985.

Details of the Seven Summits

• Kilimanjaro: Africa (5,892 m)
• Elbrus: Europe (5,642 m)
• Aconcagua: South America (6,962 m)
• Denali: North America (6,194 m)
• Kosciuszko: Australia (2,228 m) or Puncak Jaya/Carstensz Pyramid: Oceania (4,884 m)
• Mount Vinson: Antarctica (4,892 m)
• Mount Everest: Asia (8,848 m)

Challenge Options

• The challenge can be attempted via two lists: the Bass list or the Messner list.
• The Bass list includes Kosciuszko as the highest peak in Australia, while the Messner list features Puncak Jaya as the highest peak in Oceania.
• Most climbers opt for the Bass list initially and may then pursue the Messner list for a more challenging experience.

This achievement by Vishwanath Karthikey Padakanti highlights not only his remarkable determination and skill but also brings attention to the adventurous spirit of young climbers in India.

GS2/Polity

The Importance of the Deputy Speaker

Why in News?

The position of the Deputy Speaker has been vacant for six years, raising serious concerns about adherence to constitutional norms and the robustness of democracy. In a parliamentary democracy, the Deputy Speaker's role is pivotal in ensuring accountability, facilitating smooth operations, and maintaining a balance of power between the ruling party and the Opposition.

Key Takeaways

• The prolonged vacancy of the Deputy Speaker's role undermines democratic principles.
• This vacancy is attributed to the ruling government’s reluctance to appoint an Opposition member.

Additional Details

• Election Process: The Speaker sets the date for the Deputy Speaker's election and communicates it via a parliamentary bulletin. The election is conducted through a ballot paper vote.
• Tenure and Removal: The Deputy Speaker serves until the Lok Sabha is dissolved, unless removed by a majority resolution. The position also becomes vacant if the Deputy Speaker is no longer a Member of Parliament.
• Position in Order of Precedence: The Deputy Speaker ranks tenth in the official hierarchy, assisting the Speaker in managing Lok Sabha proceedings.
• Participation in Debates and Voting: Unlike the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker can participate in debates and vote on issues while the Speaker is presiding. However, they can only cast a vote in the event of a tie when presiding.
• Constitutional Authority: Under Article 95, the Deputy Speaker has the authority to maintain order and adjourn sessions in the Speaker's absence. Article 96 allows them to vote during debates on their removal.
• Parliamentary Convention: Typically, the Deputy Speaker's position is offered to an Opposition member to promote cooperation and balance within parliament.

The absence of a Deputy Speaker during successive Lok Sabhas indicates a failure in consensus-building between the ruling party and the Opposition, compromising constitutional integrity and the democratic process. This vacancy not only affects governance but threatens parliamentary stability and the principles of cooperative politics.

GS3/Economy

India’s Financial Sector Reforms Need a Shake-Up

Why in News?

India's financial sector is at a crucial crossroads, facing significant structural inefficiencies despite ongoing reform efforts. The banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sectors are struggling with issues that hinder savings, investment, and economic growth. To realize its potential, India needs comprehensive and intelligent restructuring aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity.

Key Takeaways

• Urgent need for a unified nomination framework in the BFSI sector.
• Underdeveloped corporate bond market limiting economic growth.
• Weak regulations on Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) disclosures.
• High costs and inefficiencies in retirement planning.
• Growing risks associated with shadow banking practices.

Additional Details

• Inconsistent Nomination Framework: The disjointed nomination rules across the BFSI sector create confusion for consumers, leading to legal disputes and exploitation. A harmonized framework is necessary to clarify the roles of nominees versus legal heirs.
• Corporate Bond Market: Despite various policy initiatives, India's corporate bond market remains illiquid and opaque. A robust bond market could reduce capital costs significantly, enhancing business viability and job creation.
• Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) Disclosures: Current disclosure norms allow entities to circumvent requirements, risking regulatory oversight. Strengthening these norms is crucial for market integrity.
• Retirement Planning: The reliance on costly annuity products is detrimental to savers. Alternatives like long-dated, zero-coupon government securities could provide more efficient solutions.
• Shadow Banking: The unregulated growth of Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) poses systemic risks. This sector's practices can lead to high-interest loans and create vulnerabilities similar to those seen before the 2008 financial crisis.

The challenges posed by inconsistent nomination rules, a fragile bond market, ineffective retirement solutions, and opaque shadow banking practices require a cohesive regulatory approach. India must prioritize transparency, leverage technology, and ensure financial inclusion to transform its financial sector into a resilient ecosystem capable of supporting inclusive growth and attracting global investment.

GS2/Polity

Supreme Court Collegium Recommends Transfer of High Court Chief Justices

Why in News?

The Supreme Court Collegium has recently recommended the transfer of four Chief Justices from the High Courts of Madras, Rajasthan, Tripura, and Jharkhand. This action highlights the ongoing processes within the judicial system regarding the appointment and transfer of judges.

Key Takeaways

• The Collegium system in India governs the appointment and transfer of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts.
• It was established to ensure judicial independence and mitigate executive interference in judicial appointments.

Additional Details

• Collegium System: A mechanism for appointing and transferring judges, developed through Supreme Court judgments to protect judicial independence.
• Judicial Primacy: Ensures that senior judges have the primary role in judicial appointments, rather than the government.
• Historical Context: The system evolved in response to executive overreach in the 1970s, specifically during the supersession controversy.
• Key Cases:
  • First Judges Case (1981): Gave the executive primary control over judicial appointments.
  • Second Judges Case (1993): Established that consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI) implies concurrence, making the CJI's opinion binding.
  • Third Judges Case (1998): Expanded the Collegium to include the CJI and four senior-most Supreme Court judges, emphasizing institutional rather than personal decision-making.
• Process of Appointments:
  • For Supreme Court Judges: The Collegium comprises the CJI and four senior-most SC judges, who recommend appointments to the Supreme Court.
  • For High Court Judges: Recommendations begin with the Chief Justice of the High Court, who consults with two senior colleagues before forwarding the proposal to the state government and then to the Supreme Court Collegium.
  • For Transfers: Article 222 allows transfer of High Court judges based on Collegium recommendations, without needing consent, although consultation with the concerned Chief Justice is necessary.

The Collegium system plays a crucial role in maintaining the autonomy and integrity of the judiciary in India, ensuring that appointments and transfers are handled by senior judges rather than political influences.