UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 6th June 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/International Relations

Trump’s New Travel Ban on 12 Countries

Source: NDTV

Why in News?

President Donald Trump, during his second term, has enacted a new travel ban that restricts entry from 12 countries and places limitations on visas for seven additional nations. This move aims to reinvigorate his previous immigration agenda and is set to take effect at 12:01 AM on June 9.

Key Takeaways

• The travel ban restricts entry for citizens from 12 countries.
• Partial visa restrictions apply to travelers from 7 countries.
• The ban is part of Trump's broader immigration policy agenda.

Additional Details

• Definition of Travel Ban: A U.S. federal policy that limits the entry of nationals from certain countries, which can include complete bans or restrictions on specific visa types.
• Revival of Previous Policies: This new order reintroduces five countries from Trump’s earlier travel ban.
• Reason for the Ban: The prohibition follows a violent incident in Boulder, Colorado, involving an Egyptian national, underscoring concerns about visa overstays and inadequate screening from certain nations.
• Criteria for Inclusion: Countries were selected based on factors such as poor screening processes, high visa overstay rates, support for terrorism, and refusal to accept deported nationals.
• Exemptions: Current visa holders, U.S. permanent residents, and dual nationals traveling on non-restricted passports are not affected by this travel ban.

This new travel ban marks a significant continuation of Trump's immigration strategies, reflecting a focus on national security while navigating legal scrutiny. Experts suggest that the success of the ban may depend on its fair implementation and enforcement.

GS3/Economy

Global Energy Investment Report, 2025

Source: DTE

Why in News?

According to the International Energy Agency's (IEA) 10th edition of the Global Energy Investment Report, 2025, China is projected to lead global energy investments, contributing over a quarter of the total spending.

Key Takeaways

• China will account for over 25% of global energy investment, amounting to more than $625 billion in clean energy.
• Investment in clean energy is expected to reach $2.2 trillion, surpassing fossil fuel investments, yet still not meeting COP28 targets.
• Africa's fossil fuel investments have significantly declined, while India shows a rise in renewable investments.

Additional Details

• International Energy Agency (IEA): Established in 1974, the IEA is headquartered in Paris, France, and has 31 member countries. It was created in response to the 1973 oil crisis.
• India's Role: India became an Association Country in 2017, allowing access to data-sharing, policy support, and technical cooperation from the IEA.
• Global Energy Investment Report: This flagship annual publication, published since 2016, assesses investment flows across the global energy system.
• Strategic Value: The report evaluates whether current investments align with climate goals and energy access for all.
• Financing Barriers: High capital costs in India, being 80% higher than those of advanced economies, hinder clean energy growth.
• Global Mismatch: While $1 trillion is spent annually on power generation, only $400 billion is allocated to grid infrastructure, affecting distribution capacity.

In summary, the Global Energy Investment Report highlights critical trends and challenges in energy investments worldwide, with a particular focus on the significant role China plays and the ongoing investment gaps in regions like Africa and India.

GS3/Environment

Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi

Source: The Hindu

The Tamil Nadu government has officially notified the establishment of a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary in Dhanushkodi, located in the Ramanathapuram district. This move aims to protect and conserve the flamingo species and their habitat.

Key Takeaways

• The sanctuary is established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• It covers an area of 524.7 hectares in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.

Additional Details

• What is a Bird Sanctuary? Bird sanctuaries in India are designated areas for the protection of bird species as per the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. This law prohibits hunting of protected birds and entails penalties for violations.
• About Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus): This species is the largest flamingo found across Africa, southern Europe, and South and Southeast Asia, including India.
• Presence in India: India is home to both Greater and Lesser Flamingos, with the Greater Flamingo recognized as the state bird of Gujarat.
• Behaviour and Diet: Greater flamingos are known to form monogamous pairs and their pink coloration results from a diet rich in brine shrimp and algae. They are omnivorous, feeding on invertebrates, small fish, and decaying plant matter.
• Migration Pattern: Annually, 100,000 to 150,000 flamingos migrate from Gujarat to Mumbai, arriving in November at the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary.
• Migration Triggers: Their migration is influenced by food availability, water levels, and colony crowding.
• Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Greater Flamingo is listed as Least Concern (LC). It is also classified under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and is included in Appendix II of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS).
• About the Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi: This sanctuary includes diverse ecosystems like mangroves, marshes, and sand dunes, supporting migratory birds and marine life.
• Flyway Connection: The sanctuary is situated along the Central Asian Flyway, a critical route for migratory birds.
• Bird Census: The 2023-24 wetland bird survey recorded over 10,700 birds, including herons, egrets, sandpipers, and both flamingo species.
• Ecological Importance: Dominated by mangrove species like Avicennia and Rhizophora, the area offers breeding grounds and coastal protection.

This sanctuary not only aims to conserve the Greater Flamingo but also plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

GS2/Governance

Reimagining the Classroom - Implementing Mother Tongue Policy through Dialogue

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated the introduction of mother tongue-based instruction for foundational and preparatory schooling stages. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), which emphasize multilingualism and the importance of early education in the home language. However, the implementation of this policy should focus on dialogue rather than strict directives.

Key Takeaways

• CBSE's policy aims to enhance foundational education through mother tongue instruction.
• Aligns with NEP 2020's vision for multilingualism in education.
• Emphasizes the necessity of dialogue in the policy implementation process.

Additional Details

• Evolution of Language Policy: Key documents such as the Kothari Commission (1964–66), National Policy on Education (1968), and the National Curriculum Framework (2023) stress the importance of mother tongue in early education.
• Rationale for Mother Tongue-Based Education: Studies suggest that learning in a child’s home language enhances comprehension, critical thinking, and emotional security.
• Challenges in Implementation: Issues include teacher preparedness, lack of resources in regional languages, and perceptions of English as a medium of upward mobility.
• Recommendations: Implement the policy through trust and gradual integration, providing teachers with 2-3 years of training and resources.

In conclusion, urban schools reflect India's cultural diversity and internal migration. While mother tongue-based education supports NEP 2020's goals, it requires a sensitive approach to contextual needs, teacher support, and inclusive dialogue to be effective. Schools must balance language inclusion with practical aspirations to ensure equity in foundational learning.

GS3/Science and Technology

What are Rare Earth Magnets?

Source: Economic Times

Why in News?

India is currently negotiating with various companies to create long-term stockpiles of rare earth magnets. The initiative includes offering fiscal incentives for domestic production, aimed at reducing the country's reliance on China, which currently dominates the market by controlling approximately 90% of magnet processing and has recently imposed export restrictions.

Key Takeaways

• Rare earth magnets are permanent magnets made from rare earth element alloys.
• These magnets exhibit exceptional magnetic strength and high energy density.
• China dominates the global supply chain for rare earth magnets, controlling about 90% of processing capacity.
• Neodymium (Nd-Fe-B) and Samarium Cobalt (SmCo) are the most common types of rare earth magnets.

Additional Details

• Composition:Rare earth magnets are typically composed of:
  • Neodymium magnets: Primarily made of neodymium, boron, and iron.
  • Samarium cobalt magnets: Composed of samarium and cobalt.
• Properties: Both types of magnets are known for their strength but tend to be brittle and susceptible to corrosion. Manufacturers often apply nickel plating to protect them from oxidation.
• Applications:These magnets have a wide array of uses, including:
  • Medical applications, such as MRI machines and X-ray equipment.
  • Aerospace and defense industries.
  • Electronic devices, including smartphones and hard drives.
  • Consumer goods and electric vehicles (EVs).

In summary, rare earth magnets play a crucial role in various high-tech applications, and their supply chain is currently a focal point of international trade discussions, especially for countries like India that seek to enhance domestic production capabilities.

GS3/Economy

Surging Crypto Adoption in Developing Nations Sparks Alarms

Source: India Today

Why in News?

The rapid growth of cryptocurrency adoption in developing economies has raised concerns, particularly from the IMF’s First Deputy Managing Director, Gita Gopinath. She highlighted the risks associated with the rise of stablecoins, including potential currency substitution and the disintermediation of financial institutions in these markets.

Key Takeaways

• Concerns over stablecoins and their impact on financial stability.
• Bitcoin's resurgence following political support from the Trump administration.
• The potential of the GENIUS Act to significantly expand the stablecoin market.
• Examples of developing countries, like Pakistan and El Salvador, exploring cryptocurrency adoption.

Additional Details

• Stablecoins: These are cryptocurrencies that are pegged to stable assets such as fiat currencies (e.g., USD) or commodities (e.g., gold), which helps maintain their value compared to more volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
• GENIUS Act Bill: This proposed legislation aims to enhance the production of stablecoins, requiring issuers to comply with anti-money laundering regulations, back stablecoins 1:1 with fiat or liquid assets, and maintain separate reserves. If enacted, it could potentially increase the stablecoin market to $2 trillion.
• Crypto Adoption in Pakistan: In collaboration with World Liberty Financial Inc (WLFI), Pakistan is leveraging blockchain technology to enhance financial inclusion and trade, aiming to establish itself as a regional crypto hub.
• El Salvador's Bitcoin Experiment: Despite being the first country to recognize Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021, actual usage for everyday transactions has been limited, indicating challenges in its practical application.
• Risks of Currency Substitution: Gopinath warns that stablecoins could undermine traditional financial institutions and threaten national monetary sovereignty, especially in developing economies.

In conclusion, as developing nations increasingly adopt cryptocurrencies, particularly stablecoins, there are significant concerns regarding financial stability and the potential for currency substitution. The implications of such trends necessitate careful monitoring and regulation to safeguard economic integrity.

GS3/Environment

Grand Inga Hydropower Project

Source: BBC

Why in News?

The World Bank has approved a financing package of $250 million for the Inga 3 hydropower project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite considerable opposition from civil society organizations and ongoing governance issues.

Key Takeaways

• The Grand Inga project is located on the Congo River in the DRC.
• It is proposed to be the world's largest hydropower scheme, capable of producing up to 40,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity.
• The project will be developed in seven phases, starting with Inga 3.

Additional Details

• Location: The project is situated 50 km upstream from the mouth of the Congo River into the Atlantic Ocean, and 225 km southwest of Kinshasa.
• Significance: It has the potential to generate more than twice the power of the current most powerful dam, the Three Gorges Dam in China, and supply over one-third of Africa's current electricity needs.
• Funding: The estimated cost of the project is around $80 billion, with financial backing from multiple institutions including the World Bank and the African Development Bank.
• The Inga 3 dam will harness the flow from the Inga Falls, already part of existing hydroelectric facilities (Inga 1 and Inga 2) that were commissioned in 1972 and 1982, respectively.
• The Inga 3 phase is projected to cost $14 billion and is expected to generate 4,800 MW upon completion.

This ambitious project has raised concerns regarding its potential human and ecological impacts, as highlighted by various civil society groups.

GS3/Environment

Sindoor Plant

Source: TOI

The Prime Minister of India recently celebrated World Environment Day by planting a Sindoor sapling at his official residence, located at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg in New Delhi. This event highlights the importance of environmental conservation and the significance of the Sindoor plant.

Key Takeaways

• The Sindoor plant, known scientifically as Bixa orellana, is a tropical shrub recognized for its striking red seeds.
• Commonly referred to as 'Annatto' in English, it is native to Brazil but thrives in various tropical regions.

Additional Details

• Plant Description: The Sindoor plant produces globular, ovoid capsules that cluster together, resembling spiky red-brown seed pods covered in soft spines.
• Growing Conditions: This plant prefers a frost-free, warm, and humid climate with ample direct sunlight. It can adapt to almost any soil type but favors neutral to slightly alkaline soils.
• Uses: The Sindoor plant is a significant source of dye used globally in various industries, including food, textiles, paint, and cosmetics. Its extracts serve as an industrial food coloring agent, imparting yellow or orange hues to products like cheese, butter, margarine, ice cream, meats, and condiments.

The planting of the Sindoor sapling is not only a gesture towards environmental preservation but also symbolizes resilience and cultural heritage.

GS2/Polity

The University Versus Constitutionally Protected Speech

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The ongoing debates regarding the limits of free speech in Indian universities highlight a critical intersection of democracy, state authority, and academic freedom. As India continues to confront these issues, the historical and constitutional context of free speech becomes increasingly significant.

Key Takeaways

• John Milton's advocacy for free expression, as articulated in Areopagitica, remains relevant today.
• India's Constitution guarantees freedom of speech under Article 19(1)(a) but allows for reasonable restrictions.
• Universities, as centers of intellectual inquiry, face challenges from administrations that equate personal opinions with activism.

Additional Details

• Historical Context: The struggle for free speech dates back to systems like the imprimatur, which required government approval for publications, highlighting state control over ideas.
• Institutional Responsibilities: Universities must uphold free speech to prevent becoming echo chambers, which could harm their academic integrity and societal contributions.
• Legal Framework: Supreme Court rulings, such as in Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India (2020), emphasize that restrictions on speech must be proportionate and legislatively justified.

In conclusion, India's commitment to free speech is being tested amid growing tensions between institutional authority and individual rights. Upholding the fundamental right to freedom of speech is crucial for fostering a vibrant democracy and ensuring the integrity of educational institutions.

GS3/Environment

Status of Tigers Prey in India

Source: New Indian Express

Why in News?

For the first time, India has conducted a comprehensive assessment of ungulate species, which are crucial prey for tigers and significant for maintaining healthy forest ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

• The report titled “Status of Ungulates in Tiger Habitats of India” was released by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
• This is the first national assessment of ungulates, including species like chital, sambar, gaur, wild pig, and nilgai, which are essential for tiger survival.
• Ungulates are vital not only for the survival of tigers but also for maintaining biodiversity and healthy forest ecosystems.

Additional Details

• Prey Density: The study establishes that a density of 30 ungulates per sq km is necessary to support 4 tigers per 100 sq km.
• Challenges: The growth of ungulate populations is hindered by factors such as territoriality, interspecies competition, and habitat fragmentation.
• Geographical Variations:
  • Decline in East-Central India: Significant reductions in states like Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh due to habitat loss from deforestation, urbanization, mining, and civil unrest.
  • Thriving Regions: Healthier prey populations exist in regions such as the Shivalik-Gangetic Plains, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Western Ghats, and Northeast India.
• Species Trends:
  • Chital: Most widespread and adaptable species.
  • Sambar: Remains stable in central and southern forests.
  • Hog deer and Barasingha: Show a sharp decline due to wetland degradation and habitat isolation.
• Human-Wildlife Conflict: In low-prey areas such as Tadoba and Ratapani, tigers often prey on livestock, leading to increased human-wildlife conflict.
• Conservation Measures: Efforts include on-site prey breeding, predator-proof enclosures, forest restoration, and reducing habitat fragmentation caused by infrastructure.

This comprehensive assessment highlights the importance of monitoring both tiger populations and their prey density to ensure the health of ecosystems, emphasizing the interconnectedness of species within these habitats.

GS3/Economy

Assessing the Effectiveness of India’s Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)

Source: The Wire

Why in News?

Recent data from the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) indicates that creditors have recovered an impressive Rs. 3.89 lakh crore under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), highlighting the Code's significant impact on corporate insolvency resolution in India.

Key Takeaways

• The IBC was enacted in 2016 to reform the handling of distressed assets and corporate resolutions.
• As of March 2025, the IBC has facilitated the resolution of 1,194 companies with a recovery rate of 32.8% against admitted claims.
• Judicial delays remain a significant challenge, with 78% of ongoing cases exceeding the stipulated 270-day limit.

Additional Details

• Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC): The IBC represents a consolidated framework aimed at addressing non-performing assets (NPAs) effectively by centralizing the resolution process and imposing a time limit of 330 days for resolving cases through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).
• Judicial Delays: Prolonged processing times at the NCLT have been identified as a major bottleneck, adversely affecting recovery rates and the timely resolution of viable cases.
• Impact on Borrower Behavior: The IBC has instigated a cultural shift in borrower behavior, evident from the settlement of over 30,000 cases (worth Rs. 13.78 lakh crore) prior to admission, demonstrating its deterrent effect.
• Legal Uncertainty: Recent Supreme Court judgments, such as the one involving Bhushan Power and Steel, introduce concerns regarding the stability of resolution outcomes, which can deter potential investors.

In conclusion, while the IBC has proven to be a powerful tool for resolving corporate insolvencies and improving recovery rates, challenges such as judicial delays, legal uncertainties, and the need for updated frameworks for modern businesses must be addressed to enhance its effectiveness further. With continued reforms and clarity in judicial proceedings, the IBC can play a crucial role in supporting India's ambition to become a $5 trillion economy.

GS2/Governance

NAMASTE Scheme

Source: PIB

Why in News?

The Ministry of Social Justice has recently introduced the Waste Picker Enumeration App as part of the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme, aimed at supporting and formalizing India's informal sanitation workforce.

Key Takeaways

• The NAMASTE Scheme was launched in 2022 as a Central Sector Scheme.
• It is jointly executed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), with the National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC) as the executing body.
• Initially focused on sewer and septic tank workers, the scheme expanded in June 2024 to include waste pickers.
• The core objective is to enhance safety, dignity, skill development, and social inclusion for sanitation workers.

Additional Details

• Identification: The scheme aims to enumerate sewer and septic tank workers (SSWs) and waste pickers to formally integrate them into government support systems.
• Skill Training: Occupational training is provided to ensure that sanitation work is safe and professional.
• Protective Gear: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits are distributed to reduce health risks for workers.
• Health Coverage: Workers and their families benefit from Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) health insurance.
• Safety Equipment: Sanitation Response Units (SRUs) are equipped with modern safety tools.
• Livelihood Support: The scheme encourages mechanized sanitation work and offers capital and interest subsidies for equipment purchases.
• Collective Formation: It supports the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and sanitation enterprises among sanitation workers.
• Awareness Campaigns: Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and NSKFDC conduct campaigns to promote dignified and safe sanitation practices.

Key Achievements (as of May 29, 2025)

• Enumerated Workers: Over 80,000 sewer and septic tank workers have been identified and validated.
• Health Cards Issued: 26,447 health cards have been issued under PM-JAY.
• PPE Distribution: 45,781 PPE kits have been delivered to frontline workers.
• Safety Kits: 354 Emergency Response Safety Kits have been provided to sanitation teams.
• Waste Picker Integration: The scheme aims to profile 2.5 lakh waste pickers, providing them with ID cards, insurance, skills training, and livelihood assistance.

This scheme represents a significant step towards improving the working conditions and social standing of sanitation workers in India, ensuring their integration into formal support systems and enhancing their livelihoods.