UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 5th June 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

Aiming for An Era of ‘Biohappiness’ in India

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

India, recognized for its rich biodiversity, is at a pivotal moment in its agricultural and ecological development. The country is facing challenges from modernization, agricultural commercialization, and climate change, which threaten its agrobiodiversity. There is a growing movement, both scientifically and politically, to revive indigenous crops and farming traditions to create a food system that is nutritious, climate-resilient, and culturally significant.

• India is a megadiverse country, home to nearly 8% of global biodiversity despite comprising only 2% of the world’s landmass.
• Indigenous knowledge of local plants is rapidly declining, putting traditional diets and cultural heritage at risk.
• Neglected and Underutilised Species (NUS), or orphan crops, are being recognized for their potential in enhancing food security.
• Government initiatives aim to promote millets and other minor crops to ensure nutritional diversity.

Additional Details

• Agrobiodiversity: This term refers to the variety of crops and livestock that contribute to food production. India’s diversity is under threat due to monoculture practices and environmental changes.
• Orphan Crops: These include small millets, buckwheat, amaranth, and other indigenous crops that are often overlooked but have high nutritional value and adaptability to changing climates.
• Community initiatives, such as the Odisha Millet Mission, aim to integrate these crops into local food systems, enhancing both access and awareness.
• Professor M.S. Swaminathan's vision of an Evergreen Revolution emphasizes the need for ecological balance and nutrition security over mere food production.

In conclusion, India’s future hinges on reviving its agricultural diversity through the preservation of traditional knowledge and the promotion of orphan crops. These efforts are essential for achieving a sustainable, equitable, and nutritious food system for future generations.

GS3/Economy

The Seeds of Sustainability for India’s Textile Leadership

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

India is recognized as one of the world's leading textile exporters and a significant manufacturing hub. However, the textile industry faces numerous challenges that threaten its position in the global market.

• Geopolitical tensions affecting trade routes and market access.
• Fragmented supply chains leading to production inefficiencies.
• Price volatility impacting profit margins.
• Need for sustainability compliance in global markets.
• Changing consumer preferences towards ethically sourced products.

Challenges Affecting India’s Textile Industry

• Geopolitical Tensions: Rising global conflicts and trade restrictions disrupt export routes, reducing access to markets. For example, the U.S.-China trade war has shifted demand to countries like Vietnam, negatively affecting Indian exporters.
• Fragmented Supply Chains: A lack of coordination among suppliers and weavers leads to production delays and higher costs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, uncoordinated lockdowns impacted delivery timelines significantly.
• Price Volatility: Unpredictable fluctuations in raw material prices affect planning efficiency and shrink profit margins. In 2022, a spike in cotton prices globally impacted the cost structure of Indian textile firms.
• Sustainability Compliance: Global markets increasingly demand eco-friendly and traceable textile products, which may require Indian firms to invest in green technology to remain competitive.
• Changing Consumer Preferences: International buyers prioritize ethically sourced, durable, and sustainably certified products, which poses challenges for uncertified Indian manufacturers.

What is Regenerative Farming?

Regenerative farming focuses on restoring and enhancing soil health, increasing biodiversity, and improving ecosystem resilience. This practice goes beyond sustainable farming by actively repairing environmental damage caused by conventional agriculture.

Importance of Regenerative Farming for Textiles

• Sustainable Raw Material Sourcing: It ensures a steady and eco-friendly supply of natural fibers like cotton, reducing environmental impact. For instance, in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, over 6,000 farmers reported higher yields under the Regenerative Cotton Program.
• Climate Resilience: Regenerative farming enhances resistance to climate shocks, ensuring consistent fiber quality. Regen farms have shown better crop survival during erratic rainfall and drought periods.
• Cost-Effective Production: Reduced dependence on chemical inputs lowers overall production costs for textile producers.
• Enhanced Traceability: Regenerative farming enables real-time data and supply chain transparency demanded by global brands.
• Rural Livelihood and Inclusion: It empowers smallholders and promotes gender equity, connecting farmers with global markets, which has led to higher incomes and increased women’s participation in farming.

Success of Regenerative Cotton Farming

• Aurangabad, Maharashtra is a notable hub where farmers are adopting climate-friendly practices.
• Farmers reported reduced use of chemical fertilizers and more stable incomes as a result of these practices.

How Traceability Boosts Textile Exports

• Product Authenticity: Traceability ensures transparency from raw material to final product, building consumer trust in international markets. For instance, Kasturi Cotton branding enhances India’s image by assuring high-quality cotton to global buyers.
• Traceable supply chains align with sustainability standards, which is crucial for market access, particularly in eco-sensitive markets.
• Market Access & Expansion: Traceability helps Indian textiles meet foreign regulatory standards, easing entry into eco-sensitive markets.
• Brand Accountability: It enhances global brand equity by shifting perception from merely a supplier to a responsible brand.
• Competitive Differentiation: Traceable products stand out in global markets as demand for ethical fashion rises.

Government Initiatives

• PM MITRA Scheme: This scheme establishes Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel Parks to streamline the entire textile value chain, reducing logistics costs and increasing competitiveness.
• Promotion of Regenerative Cotton Farming: Supports sustainable practices to improve chemical use and enhance cotton quality.
• Support for Technical Textiles and Innovation: Initiatives like the National Technical Textiles Mission promote R&D and commercialization of high-value textiles for various sectors.

Way Forward

• Adopt Sustainable Practices: Promote widespread use of traceability technologies and product circularity to enhance environmental responsibility.
• Strengthen Innovation and Collaboration: Invest in public-private partnerships and leverage trade agreements to boost technological advancement and expand export markets.

In conclusion, the Indian textile industry plays a crucial role in the nation's economy, and addressing these challenges through sustainable practices and government support will be essential for maintaining its leadership and competitive edge globally.

GS3/Environment

Exacerbation of the Environmental Crisis in India

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

On World Environment Day (June 5), there is an opportunity to reflect on how the last decade has either exacerbated or mitigated ongoing environmental challenges.

• The world is facing a triple planetary crisis involving carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
• India's environmental situation is critically impacted by reliance on fossil fuels, deforestation, and poor waste management.
• Marginalized communities in India bear the brunt of environmental degradation and climate change effects.

Additional Details

• Rising Carbon Emissions: Global CO₂ emissions saw an increase of nearly 10%, rising from 34.1 to 37.4 billion metric tonnes between 2015 and 2024. India’s emissions escalated from 2.33 to 3.12 billion metric tonnes, mainly due to ongoing dependency on coal and oil.
• Biodiversity Under Threat:India's rich biodiversity faces severe threats from:
  • Deforestation
  • Wetland degradation
  • Expansion of monoculture agriculture
  Mass extinctions and ecological disruptions are increasingly common.
• Persistent Pollution: Air pollution remains a significant issue, with India ranking among the most polluted nations globally. Delhi consistently tops global pollution indexes.
• Fossil Fuel Dependency: Fossil fuels are a major contributor to global carbon emissions, with nearly 70% of India’s electricity derived from coal.
• Deforestation and Land-Use Change: Rising forest clearances for infrastructure projects (such as roads, mining, and dams) impact biodiversity-rich regions, particularly the Western Ghats and Northeast India.
• Agricultural Intensification: High-input monocultures used by agribusinesses damage ecosystems and lead to water bodies being polluted with nitrates, pesticides, and plastics.
• Waste Mismanagement and Urbanisation: Unchecked urban growth causes unregulated landfills and untreated sewage, resulting in significant pollution of rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna. India produces 62 million tonnes of waste annually, with only 20% processed correctly.
• Overconsumption and Industrialisation: Excessive consumption in the Global North shifts environmental costs to the Global South, where global supply chains externalize pollution and ecological harm.
• Disproportionate Impact on the Poor: Marginalized communities experience the worst effects of pollution and climate shocks, exemplified by air quality issues in Delhi’s slums and droughts in rural Maharashtra.
• Global North Accountability: Wealthy nations must significantly reduce emissions, provide climate finance to developing countries, and cease outsourcing polluting industries.
• Corporate Responsibility: Stricter environmental laws and carbon taxes should be enforced, and companies violating green policies should be denied market access.
• Ecological Development Models: Development should emphasize ecological sustainability, supporting low-carbon livelihoods and eco-friendly industries.
• Promote Sustainable Practices: Encourage ecological agriculture, reduce monocultures, and support community-led conservation initiatives for long-term environmental resilience.

In summary, India faces a complex environmental crisis exacerbated by various factors, including industrial growth and climate change. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from both local communities and global stakeholders to create sustainable and equitable solutions.

GS3/Economy

Falling Short: India Must Ensure Technology Transfer in the EV Segment

Source: The HinduWhy in News?

India has recently announced a significant reduction in import duties—by 15% on fully built electric cars—contingent upon manufacturers committing to local investment and value addition. This initiative is part of the newly launched Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI).

• The SPMEPCI scheme offers a 15% concessional import duty for electric vehicles.
• Manufacturers must invest ₹4,150 crore and achieve 25-50% domestic value addition within five years.
• There is a cap of 8,000 completely built units (CBUs) allowed annually per manufacturer under the concessional duty.

Additional Details

• SPMEPCI Scheme: Launched in 2024, it incentivizes local EV production and reduces import reliance. Manufacturers are encouraged to partner with Indian suppliers to meet domestic value addition targets.
• Technology Transfer Importance: Essential for India’s EV transition as it needs to catch up with global leaders like China and the U.S., especially in battery technology and manufacturing capabilities.
• India's late entry into the EV sector (2015) necessitates rapid advancements to avoid falling behind in innovation and manufacturing.
• China's strategy, including early subsidies and mandatory joint ventures, has positioned it as a leader in global EV adoption, a model India could replicate.

For India to successfully transition to electric vehicles, it is crucial to establish strategic partnerships for technology transfer, develop a comprehensive domestic battery manufacturing ecosystem, and expand existing schemes to foster local production.

GS3/Environment

Exposomics for Better Environmental Health

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The theme of World Environment Day 2025 is focused on ending plastic pollution, highlighting the urgent environmental threats that affect human health. The increase in harmful elements, from microplastics to air pollutants, demands attention, especially in India, where rapid economic growth has complicated environmental exposures.

• India bears nearly 25% of the global environmental disease burden.
• Environmental factors contribute to 18.9% of global deaths and 14.4% of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
• Environmental risks are linked to serious health issues, including non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Additional Details

• Environmental Health Challenge: India faces a significant environmental health crisis, with nearly three million deaths annually attributed to environmental risk factors, particularly impacting children.
• Limitations of Current Approaches: Existing frameworks often fail to consider the complex interactions of multiple environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors, leading to an underestimation of health risks.
• Promise of Exposomics: This emerging field aims to provide a comprehensive view of environmental exposures across the lifespan, offering a shift toward integrated health strategies.
• Technological Integration: By utilizing advanced technologies such as wearable sensors and AI-driven data analysis, exposomics can generate individualized exposure profiles.
• Strategic Imperative in India: India's digital health advancements present a unique opportunity to develop robust exposomic frameworks that enhance public health systems.

In conclusion, the call to action against plastic pollution on World Environment Day 2025 is a critical reminder of the broader environmental health crisis. By adopting the principles of exposomics, India can transition from reactive to proactive health strategies, improving the overall health and well-being of its population.

GS2/Polity

Population Census-2027

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

India is set to conduct its next population census by March 1, 2027, marking a significant 16-year gap since the last census. This announcement was made by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. Notably, this will be India’s first digital census and the first census after Independence to include caste enumeration.

• The census will commence on April 1, 2026.
• This will be a fully digital process for the first time.
• Caste-based data collection will be included.

Additional Details

• Timeline and Phases:The census will occur in two phases:
  • House Listing and Housing Schedule
  • Population Enumeration (which includes caste data)
• The reference date for most of India will be October 1, 2026, while for areas like Ladakh and snow-bound regions in J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, it will be different.
• The census will be conducted under the Census Act, 1948 and the Census Rules, 1990, with a formal notification expected soon.

After the census data is released in late 2027, a delimitation process will begin, which is vital for restructuring electoral constituencies ahead of the 2029 General Elections. The new delimitation will also affect the implementation of the 33% reservation for women in legislative bodies, as mandated by the recently passed Women’s Reservation Act.

There was no update regarding the National Population Register (NPR) during the announcement, even though it plays a crucial role in the compilation of the National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC/NRC).

The last census was conducted in 2011, with the first phase occurring in 2010. The scheduled 2021 census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and administrative challenges. Following the release of the census data, the Parliament will need to pass a new Delimitation Act to enable the formation of a Delimitation Commission.

Historically, delimitation exercises have been conducted after the 1951, 1961, and 1971 censuses. The 42nd and 84th Constitutional Amendments have previously frozen the number of seats in the Lok Sabha until after the first census post-2026.

Currently, the distribution of the 543 Lok Sabha seats is based on the 1971 Census. The Delimitation Act of 2002 allowed only for boundary adjustments, not an increase in the number of seats, which would require a Constitutional Amendment and a two-thirds majority in Parliament.

There are potential political and regional challenges, as states with successful population control measures, particularly in the south, may find themselves at a disadvantage under a population-based seat redistribution.

GS2/International Relations

India Opposes ADB’s Funding to Pakistan

Source: Mint

Why in News?

India has raised strong objections against the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) recent decision to grant an $800 million loan to Pakistan under its Resource Mobilisation Reform Programme.

• India's concerns stem from Pakistan's increasing defense expenditures amidst declining tax revenues.
• The ADB, established in 1966, aims to reduce poverty and promote sustainable growth in Asia.
• India expects stringent oversight to prevent the diversion of funds meant for Pakistan.

Additional Details

• About the ADB: The Asian Development Bank was established in 1966 during a UN-led conference on Asian Economic Cooperation. Its headquarters are located in Manila, Philippines, and it serves as an official observer at the United Nations.
• Objectives: The primary goals of ADB include reducing poverty in the Asia-Pacific region and promoting inclusive, environmentally sustainable growth and regional economic integration.
• Functions: ADB provides various forms of financial assistance including loans (both hard and soft), grants, and technical support. It also engages in policy dialogues and co-financing initiatives.
• Funding Sources: The bank raises funds by issuing bonds in global capital markets, receiving member contributions, and through loan repayments and retained earnings.
• Membership and Shareholding: The ADB consists of 67 members, with major shareholders being Japan and the USA (both 15.607%), followed by China (6.444%) and India (6.331%).
• Climate Goals: ADB aims to mobilize $100 billion for climate finance from 2019 to 2030, promoting sustainable development initiatives like green fuel projects.

India's apprehensions regarding the funding to Pakistan include concerns over financial mismanagement and the increased military spending of Pakistan, which has seen a significant rise even as its tax-to-GDP ratio has dropped from 13% in 2017-18 to 9.2% in 2022-23. This ratio is considerably below the Asia-Pacific average of 19%, indicating poor revenue collection. India has consistently opposed financial assistance to Pakistan in other international forums, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and is preparing a dossier to advocate for Pakistan's re-entry into the FATF grey list.

Question: Which one of the following launched the ‘Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific’?

• (a) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) *
• (b) The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
• (c) The New Development Bank (NDB)
• (d) The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)

GS3/Environment

Rising ‘Black Carbon’ Heating Himalayan Snow: Study

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

A recent study conducted by the think-tank Climate Trends has highlighted a concerning increase in levels of black carbon in the Himalayas over the past two decades.

• Black carbon is a significant pollutant contributing to climate change.
• Its rise in the Himalayas poses a threat to snow and glacier stability.
• Nearly 2 billion people rely on Himalayan glaciers for freshwater.

Additional Details

• Black Carbon (BC): A fine particulate pollutant formed from the incomplete combustion of biomass and fossil fuels.
• Impact: BC is a short-lived climate pollutant and the second-largest contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide.
• Lifespan: Unlike CO₂, black carbon remains in the atmosphere for a shorter period and can be reduced quickly if emissions cease.
• Warming Mechanism: As an aerosol, BC absorbs sunlight, heats the atmosphere, and reduces albedo when deposited on snow and ice, leading to faster melting.
• Health Effects: Exposure to black carbon increases the risk of heart disease, birth complications, and premature death.
• Major Sources in India:
  • Residential Biomass Burning: Accounts for 47% of BC emissions, including cow dung and straw burning.
  • Industries and Vehicles: Industries contribute 22%, while diesel vehicles add 17%.
  • Other Sources: Open burning contributes 12%, with various minor sources.
• High-Emission States: Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra are major emitters due to agricultural practices and forest fires.
• Biofuel Usage: Contributes nearly 42% of India's total BC emissions.

Key Findings from the Study (2000–2023)

• Snow Temperature Rise: The surface temperature of Himalayan snow has increased from -11.27°C to -7.13°C over two decades.
• Regional Trends: The Eastern Himalayas experienced the highest temperatures, followed by the Central and Western regions.
• BC Influence: Deposits of black carbon lower snow reflectivity, increase heat absorption, and accelerate glacier melt.
• Population Risk: Glacier loss threatens freshwater supplies for nearly 2 billion people downstream.
• Increase in Snow Depth: Despite warming, the average snow depth rose from 0.059 m to 0.117 m due to increased snowfall, changing precipitation patterns, and wind redistribution.
• Regional Comparison: The Western Himalayas showed the highest snow depth, linked to elevation and winter storms, while the Eastern and Central Himalayas had less snow due to proximity to BC sources.

In conclusion, the rise in black carbon levels in the Himalayas poses significant challenges for climate stability, public health, and water resources for millions of people in the region.

GS3/Environment

Two New Ramsar Sites in Rajasthan

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

India has recently added two new wetlands, Khichan and Menar, to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. This brings the total number of Ramsar sites in India to 91.

• Khichan is known for its large population of migratory Demoiselle cranes.
• Menar, located near Udaipur, is recognized for its community-driven conservation efforts and diverse bird species.

Khichan and Menar Wetlands

• Khichan (Phalodi District):
  • Famous for hosting thousands of migratory Demoiselle cranes, making it a major destination for birdwatchers.
  • Supports biodiversity and serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds, maintaining ecological balance.
• Menar (near Udaipur):
  • Known as Rajasthan’s “Bird Village,” celebrated for its community-led conservation initiatives.
  • Home to rare birds, including the cinereous vulture, Himalayan griffon, Dalmatian pelican, and black-tailed godwit.

About the Ramsar Convention

• Ramsar Convention: An international treaty focused on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands, established on February 2, 1971, in Iran.
• Key objectives include:
  • Identifying and designating wetlands of global importance.
  • Ensuring effective management of these wetlands.
  • Promoting international cooperation for wetland protection.

India and the Ramsar Convention

• India became a signatory in 1982, with the first Ramsar site being Chilika Lake in Odisha, designated in 1981.
• Currently, India has 91 Ramsar sites covering approximately 13.58 lakh hectares, constituting about 10% of the country’s total wetland area.
• Tamil Nadu has the highest number of Ramsar sites (20), followed by Uttar Pradesh (10).

Criteria for Declaring Ramsar Sites

A wetland can be designated as a Ramsar Site by a signatory country if it meets one or more of the following criteria:

• Contains unique, rare, or representative wetland types.
• Supports vulnerable, endangered, or endemic species, particularly as habitat for waterfowl during migration.
• Holds significant ecological, botanical, zoological, limnological, or hydrological features.
• Facilitates scientific research and promotes biodiversity conservation.
• Provides essential ecosystem services such as flood control, water purification, groundwater recharge, and cultural or recreational value.
• Supports sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
• Faces threats that necessitate international cooperation for conservation.

Other Key Facts

• Currently, 171 countries are part of the Ramsar Convention.
• The United Kingdom has the highest number of Ramsar sites (175), followed by Mexico with 142 sites.
• Bolivia holds the largest wetland area under protection, totaling 148,000 sq. km.
• World Wetlands Day is celebrated annually on February 2nd to commemorate the signing of the Ramsar Convention and raise awareness about the importance of wetlands.
• The Montreux Record lists Ramsar sites that require urgent conservation attention due to human-induced threats.

UPSC 2022 Question

Consider the following pairs:

• Hokera Wetland — Punjab
• Renuka Wetland — Himachal Pradesh
• Rudrasagar Lake — Tripura
• Sasthamkotta Lake — Tamil Nadu

How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

• Options: (a) Only one pair (b) Only two pairs* (c) Only three pairs (d) All four pairs.

In conclusion, the addition of Khichan and Menar to the Ramsar List underscores India's commitment to wetland conservation and biodiversity preservation.

GS3/Environment

Massive Eruption of Italy's Mount Etna

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Mount Etna, recognized as Europe’s largest active volcano, has recently erupted, ejecting significant amounts of ash, smoke, and rock fragments several kilometers into the atmosphere.

• Mount Etna is located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy, near the city of Catania.
• It is classified as a stratovolcano, characterized by layers of hardened lava, volcanic ash, and rocks.
• With a height of approximately 3,300 meters, it is the tallest volcano in Europe south of the Alps.

Additional Details

• Magma Formation: Deep within the Earth, high temperatures and pressures melt rocks into magma.
• Gas Expansion: The magma contains gases such as water vapor, CO₂, and SO₂. As it rises, reduced pressure allows these gases to form bubbles, increasing internal pressure.
• Crustal Weaknesses: Cracks and faults at tectonic boundaries provide pathways for magma to escape.
• Eruption Mechanism: As pressure builds, magma is pushed upwards; if blocked, gas expansion can result in explosive eruptions that release lava, ash, and gases.

Mount Etna has a long history of eruptions, with notable events recorded as far back as 1400 B.C. It is almost constantly active, with significant eruptions occurring in 1669, 2001, 2018, and 2021. The eruption in June 2025 is thought to be triggered by pressure buildup from gas in the magma chamber, leading to the collapse of the southeast crater and subsequent lava flows.

Consider the following:

• 1. Pyroclastic debris
• 2. Ash and dust
• 3. Nitrogen compounds
• 4. Sulphur compounds

How many of the above are products of volcanic eruptions?

Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) Only four*