UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 24th June 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/International Relations

Iran Launches Missiles at U.S. Military Base in Qatar

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

In a notable escalation of tensions, Iran responded to recent U.S. airstrikes targeting its nuclear facilities by launching missile attacks on the Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar. This base is crucial as it serves as the forward headquarters for the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

Key Takeaways

• Iran's missile strikes follow U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear sites.
• Al-Udeid Air Base is the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East.
• India is monitoring the situation closely due to its significant expatriate population in Qatar.

Additional Details

• Global U.S. Military Footprint: According to a July 2024 Congressional Research Service report, the U.S. operates at least 128 overseas military bases across 51 countries. In the Middle East, key bases include Al Udeid in Qatar, along with others in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia.
• Al Udeid Air Base: Located in the desert near Doha, about 190 km from Iran, it was established in 1996 and acts as CENTCOM's forward headquarters, overseeing operations from Egypt to Kazakhstan.
• Multinational Presence: Approximately 10,000 troops are stationed at Al Udeid, including personnel from the U.S. Air Force, Qatar Emiri Air Force, and the UK's Royal Air Force.
• Infrastructure and Capabilities: The base features long runways essential for rapid deployment, playing a critical role in military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
• Qatari Investment: Qatar has invested over $8 billion in modernizing Al Udeid’s infrastructure, alleviating the financial burden on U.S. taxpayers.

The Indian embassy in Qatar has issued an alert for the approximately 835,000 Indian nationals residing there, advising them to remain calm and stay informed through local news and embassy channels. India enjoys a strong bilateral relationship with Qatar, characterized by regular high-level diplomatic engagements and significant economic ties.

GS2/Governance

India’s Crackdown on Child Labour: Telangana, Bihar, and Rajasthan Lead Rescues in 2024-25

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

In 2024-25, Telangana, Bihar, and Rajasthan emerged as the leading states in India for child labour rescues, as well as in the number of arrests related to child labour cases. This information is derived from a study conducted by a network focused on child rights.

Key Takeaways

• Over 53,000 children were rescued nationwide in 2024-25.
• The report highlights systemic challenges in eliminating child labour and offers a roadmap for intervention.
• Telangana, Bihar, and Rajasthan accounted for the highest number of rescue operations and arrests.

Additional Details

• Scale of Rescue Operations: From April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, over 38,889 rescue operations were coordinated by various NGOs, leading to the rescue of 53,651 children, predominantly from the worst forms of child labour.
• Alarming Trends in Exploitation: Approximately 90% of the rescued children were found in sectors classified as hazardous according to the ILO Convention 182, including spas, domestic labour, and informal entertainment services.
• Legal and Enforcement Actions: Following the rescues, a significant number of FIRs were filed, with 85% linked to child labour. Telangana, Bihar, and Rajasthan showed stronger enforcement compared to states like Uttar Pradesh.
• Recommendations: The report recommends launching a National Mission to End Child Labour, creating district-level Child Labour Task Forces, and formulating a comprehensive rehabilitation policy.
• Global and National Commitments: India is a signatory to international conventions aimed at eliminating the worst forms of child labour, but the report calls for enhanced institutional cooperation and stronger protections for victims.

The findings emphasize the critical need for robust legal mechanisms and public awareness to combat child labour effectively. Justice for affected children will require that perpetrators are held accountable and that comprehensive support systems are established for their rehabilitation.

GS3/Economy

Inflation Falls but not Unemployment

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

In May 2025, India's inflation rate fell below 3%, a development that mainstream media celebrated as evidence of the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) effective macroeconomic management. However, a deeper analysis reveals a troubling rise in unemployment and a broad-based economic slowdown that has received minimal attention.

Key Takeaways

• Inflation decreased from 3.2% in April to 2.8% in May 2025.
• Unemployment rose from 5.1% to 5.8% during the same period.
• The decline in inflation has been attributed largely to agricultural growth rather than monetary policy.
• Economic growth slowed significantly, from 9.2% in 2023-24 to 6.5% in 2024-25.

Additional Details

• Inflation and Unemployment: The reduction in inflation is statistically significant, yet it coincides with a rise in unemployment, highlighting a disconnect in the public discourse regarding India's economy. For those employed, lower inflation translates to improved purchasing power, but for the unemployed, it offers no relief.
• Economic Growth Concerns: GDP growth has declined sharply, raising concerns as the government has historically emphasized high growth as a policy objective. The rise in unemployment is consistent with this economic deceleration.
• Reasons Behind Falling Inflation: A surge in agricultural output has narrowed the supply-demand gap for essential goods, particularly food, leading to a significant drop in food-price inflation from nearly 11% in October 2024 to less than 1% by May 2025.
• Limits of Monetary Policy: The RBI's inflation targeting approach, based on manipulating interest rates to control demand, is inadequate in the Indian context, where structural issues in agriculture significantly influence inflation trends.
• Inflation Expectations: RBI's data indicates that household inflation expectations have remained high, undermining the effectiveness of its policies. The recent suggestion of lowering the repo rate further could indicate a reactive rather than proactive monetary policy stance.

In conclusion, the recent drop in inflation in India should be viewed alongside other macroeconomic indicators such as unemployment and GDP growth. The decline seems largely driven by structural factors, particularly in agriculture, rather than the effectiveness of the RBI's monetary policy. A more holistic approach is necessary to address the structural imbalances within the economy.

GS2/Governance

NAVYA Initiative for Skilling Adolescent Girls

Source: DD News

Why in News?

The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) has recently launched the NAVYA initiative aimed at empowering adolescent girls through skill development.

Key Takeaways

• The NAVYA initiative focuses on nurturing aspirations through vocational training for young adolescent girls.
• It targets girls aged 16–18 years who have completed at least Class 10, especially from under-served regions.
• The pilot phase will be implemented in 27 districts across 19 states, including Aspirational Districts and North-Eastern regions.
• The objective is to build skills, confidence, and employability among young girls in sectors beyond traditional roles.

Additional Details

• Focus on Non-Traditional Skills: Girls will receive training in emerging fields such as electronics repair, drone technology, and solar energy.
• Certification Support: Beneficiaries will obtain skill certificates under initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and PM Vishwakarma.
• Post-Training Pathways: The program is designed to ensure pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, or further education for the girls.
• Inclusive Development Goal: The initiative aims to empower girls to become agents of socio-economic change, aligning with India's vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The NAVYA initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing the skill sets of adolescent girls, enabling them to participate actively in the economy and contribute to societal growth.

Related Question from UPSC 2017

Which of the following are the objectives of ‘National Nutrition Mission’?

• 1. To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers.
• 2. To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls, and women.
• 3. To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals, and unpolished rice.
• 4. To promote the consumption of poultry eggs.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only*
• (b) 1, 2 and 3 only
• (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
• (d) 3 and 4 only

GS2/Polity

50 Years of National Emergency

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

On June 26, 2025, India commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, which was imposed in 1975 by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Key Takeaways

• A national emergency can be declared under Article 352 of the Indian Constitution.
• The President of India can proclaim an emergency when the security of the nation is threatened.
• India has experienced three national emergencies since independence.

Additional Details

• Definition: A national emergency is a provision in the Indian Constitution that allows the government to take special measures in times of crisis.
• Grounds for Proclamation:The President can declare a national emergency based on threats from:
  • War
  • External Aggression
  • Armed Rebellion
  • (Note:
  The term "internal disturbance" was removed in the 44th Amendment of 1978.)
• Process of Proclamation:
  • The Union Cabinet must provide a written recommendation to the President.
  • Can be proclaimed even before a war or rebellion occurs.
  • Requires ratification by both Houses of Parliament within one month.
  • Is valid for six months but can be extended indefinitely with fresh approvals.
• Judicial Review:
  • Before 1975, emergency declarations could be challenged in courts.
  • Post-44th Amendment, judicial review was restored, allowing courts to invalidate proclamations if based on mala fide grounds.
• Historical Precedents:India has witnessed three national emergencies:
  • 1962-1968: Due to war with China.
  • 1971-1977: Triggered by war with Pakistan.
  • 1975-1977: Declared for internal disturbances, widely viewed as misuse of power.
• Implications of Emergency:
  • Centre-State Relations: The central government gains expanded powers over states and legislative subjects.
  • Financial Control: Alterations in financial distribution can occur, affecting state funding.
  • Fundamental Rights: Article 19 is automatically suspended during a national emergency due to war or external aggression.

The national emergency provisions significantly impact governance and civil liberties in India, marking a crucial aspect of the nation’s political history.

GS1/History & Culture

In News: Prime Ministers Museum and Library

Source: Money Control

Why in News?

The 47th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Prime Ministers’ Museum and Library (PMML) Society, chaired by the Prime Minister, was recently held, emphasizing the institution's role in commemorating Indian Prime Ministers.

Key Takeaways

• The PMML was formerly known as the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML).
• It is located at Teen Murti House in New Delhi, an important historical site.
• The museum was renamed in 2023 to honor all Prime Ministers of India.

Additional Details

• Overview: The PMML, established in 1966, serves as a crucial repository for the history of Indian governance and democracy.
• Historical Significance: Originally built as the residence of the Commander-in-Chief of British India, it served as the home of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru from 1948 until his death in 1964.
• Administrative Structure: It operates as an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture, with the Prime Minister of India as its head.
• Mission: The PMML promotes advanced research in modern and contemporary Indian history, focusing on governance and the evolution of democracy.
• Key Institutions: The PMML encompasses several important facilities, including the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya (Museum), a world-class library, the Centre for Contemporary Studies, and the Nehru Planetarium.

The Prime Ministers Museum and Library stands as a testament to India's democratic evolution and serves as an important center for research and public education on the nation's leaders.

GS2/International Relations

What’s Troubling Two Agri Sectors in the India-US Trade Deal

Source: Times of India

Why in News?

As India and the US aim to finalize a bilateral trade agreement before the July 9 deadline, two significant agricultural sectors in India are raising alarms. The sugar industry is opposing the import of ethanol and genetically modified (GM) maize for fuel blending, while the soybean processing industry is against the import of GM soybeans.

Key Takeaways

• The US is the largest producer and exporter of maize and fuel ethanol globally.
• India's domestic sectors fear that easing import restrictions could harm local producers.
• India's ethanol blending program has seen significant growth, increasing from 1.5% in 2013-14 to 14.6% in 2023-24.

Additional Details

• Ethanol Blending Policy: Under the Modi government, India’s average ethanol blending in petrol has increased significantly, with a current blending ratio of 18.8% and a target of 20% by 2025-26.
• Shift from Sugarcane to Grains: Since 2018-19, sugar mills have begun using grains, particularly maize and surplus rice, for ethanol production. In 2024-25, 68% of ethanol produced is projected to be grain-based, raising concerns among sugar millers about the diminishing importance of sugarcane.
• Food vs Fuel Debate: Millers argue that using sugarcane for ethanol avoids food/feed conflicts, unlike maize, which is a vital feed for livestock.
• NITI Aayog's Proposal: A working paper suggests importing cheaper US GM maize for ethanol, claiming it would allow India to meet biofuel targets without disturbing local food supplies.
• SOPA's Opposition: The Soybean Processors Association of India (SOPA) opposes the importation plan due to logistical issues, fearing it will threaten the livelihoods of nearly 7 million soybean farmers.
• Impact of Reduced Import Duties: Recent reductions in import duties on various oils may undercut local processors, leading to potential closures or reduced operational capacity.
• Price Concerns for Farmers: Soybean prices are currently below the minimum support price (MSP), and cheap imports could exacerbate this situation, forcing farmers to consider alternative crops.

The ongoing discussions around the India-US trade deal reflect significant tensions within India's agricultural sectors, highlighting the delicate balance between international trade interests and local agricultural sustainability.

GS3/Environment

WMO’s State of the Climate in Asia 2024 Report

Source: India Today

Why in News?

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has published its “State of the Climate in Asia, 2024” report, shedding light on the alarming trends and extreme weather events impacting the region.

Key Takeaways

• 2024 marked the warmest year on record for Asia, with severe weather events including heatwaves, heavy rainfall, cyclones, and droughts.
• The global mean temperature reached its highest since 1850, surpassing 2023's record of 1.45°C.
• Glacial loss in the Himalayas and Tian Shan poses increased risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
• Marine heatwaves severely impacted Asian oceans, particularly around India, Japan, and China.
• Major cyclones, including Cyclone Remal, caused significant damage across Bangladesh, India, Oman, and Sri Lanka.
• Flash floods and landslides in Kerala, Nepal, and Sri Lanka resulted in hundreds of fatalities and massive displacements.
• Extreme heat events recorded across East and South Asia, with Myanmar experiencing a national record of 48.2°C.
• Severe drought conditions in China affected millions and led to substantial agricultural losses.

Additional Details

• World Meteorological Organisation (WMO): A specialized agency of the United Nations focused on meteorology, operational hydrology, and related geophysical sciences. Established in 1950, it evolved from the International Meteorological Organisation (IMO) founded in 1873. Its headquarters is located in Geneva, Switzerland.
• Global Coordination Role: WMO is vital in coordinating international efforts for climate data collection, forecasting, disaster preparedness, and climate change assessments.
• Membership: WMO comprises 193 members, including 187 member states and 6 territories, with India being a key member.
• Flagship Reports: The organization publishes annual climate reports, such as the “State of the Climate,” which highlight significant trends and extreme weather impacts.

The findings in the WMO report underscore the urgent need for enhanced climate action and preparedness measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change in Asia.

GS3/Economy

Food Processing Sector in India - Ensuring Inclusive Growth and Global Integration

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

This article discusses the transformative impact of India’s food processing sector over the past 11 years. It emphasizes key government initiatives like PMFME, PMKSY, and the PLI scheme, illustrating how they empower micro-entrepreneurs, enhance agricultural value chains, and position India as a global food processing hub.

Key Takeaways

• Emergence of a grassroots food revolution with successful exports of traditional crops.
• Government initiatives fueling formalization and growth of micro-entrepreneurs across India.
• Strengthened infrastructure and quality control through recent budget announcements.
• Growing global engagement and recognition of India's food processing capabilities.

Additional Details

• Grassroots Food Revolution: An example is Gyanish Kumar Mishra from Bihar, who developed a flavored makhana brand now exported to the USA and Canada, showcasing global market access for traditional Indian crops.
• Governmental Support: Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) have created over 250 lakh metric tonnes of processing capacity, attracting substantial private investment and creating numerous employment opportunities.
• PMFME Scheme: Launched under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, it has empowered over 3.3 lakh members of self-help groups through financial support and capacity building.
• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: This initiative has led to investments resulting in over 3.3 lakh jobs and substantial increases in processing capacity.
• Infrastructure Developments: The Union Budget 2024-25 proposes the establishment of multi-product irradiation units and NABL-accredited food testing laboratories to enhance quality assurance and reduce post-harvest losses.
• NIFTEMs: The National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management is fostering innovation and research, with plans for a new institute in Bihar to leverage local talent.
• Global Engagement: The World Food India event serves as a platform for showcasing India's strengths in the food processing sector and facilitates international collaboration.
• Local Success Stories: A tribal kitchen in Bastar, supported by the PMFME scheme, has turned into a thriving enterprise that preserves indigenous heritage while introducing products to national and international markets.

The food processing revolution in India serves as a model where rural entrepreneurship, policy support, and innovation converge to enhance global competitiveness. The sector's growth signals a future where Indian products are recognized globally, each holding a symbol of collective prosperity and self-reliance.

GS2/International Relations

India's Strategy to Deal with China's Rare Earth Export Restrictions

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

The escalating trade conflict between the U.S. and China, highlighted by increasing tariffs, has drawn significant attention to the importance of rare earth elements, which are considered critical minerals.

Key Takeaways

• Rare earth elements are vital for various industries, including clean energy, defense, and technology.
• China's dominance in the rare earth market raises concerns about global supply chain vulnerabilities.
• India is taking steps to enhance self-reliance in critical minerals through national missions and exploration initiatives.

Additional Details

• Importance of Critical Minerals: Minerals such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt are essential for the production of lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles (EVs) and portable electronics.
• Renewable Energy Infrastructure: Elements like dysprosium and neodymium are crucial for wind turbines, while tellurium, indium, and gallium are vital for solar photovoltaic cells, contributing to clean energy generation.
• China's Control: Holding over 90% of global rare earth refining capacity, China has the largest reserves, making it a key player in the market. Restrictions imposed by China can lead to panic and supply issues globally, as seen in May 2025.
• Global Responses: Countries like the U.S. and EU are negotiating with China to ensure continued access to rare earth supplies and are also diversifying their sources by exploring alternatives in countries like Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam.
• India's Initiatives: The launch of the National Critical Mineral Mission aims to secure India's future needs by conducting numerous exploration projects and boosting local processing capabilities.

In conclusion, a comprehensive multi-level strategy is essential for India to ensure short-term supply security and develop domestic capabilities in critical minerals, thereby reducing dependency on China and enhancing resilience against geopolitical risks.

GS2/International Relations

Pakistan's Role in the U.S.-West Asia Calculus

Source: The Wire India

Why in News?

The recent military strikes by the U.S. on Iranian nuclear sites have significant implications for West Asia and the geopolitical landscape involving Pakistan and India. These actions are reshaping regional alliances and prompting a recalibration of strategies among major powers.

Key Takeaways

• The U.S. military strikes against Iran may escalate tensions in West Asia, impacting India and its regional interests.
• Pakistan's strategic alignment with the U.S. could influence its relations with Iran and its stance in regional conflicts.
• India must navigate its diplomatic relations with both the U.S. and Iran to safeguard its national interests.

Additional Details

• Escalation of Conflict: The U.S. military actions could lead to prolonged confrontations in West Asia, similar to past interventions in Iraq and Libya, which resulted in long-term chaos and instability.
• Regional Realignment: Countries may shift alliances to support U.S. actions, potentially isolating Iran and affecting critical trade routes. For example, Pakistan’s closure of its land border with Iran restricts Iranian access to trade.
• Pakistan's Economic Situation: With a high debt burden consuming 74% of its revenue, Pakistan faces significant economic challenges. Its defense budget has increased significantly despite cuts in other areas, leading to a reliance on IMF bailouts to meet fiscal needs.
• India's Strategic Engagement: India continues to balance its ties with Iran and Gulf nations, focusing on energy security by developing the Chabahar Port and enhancing partnerships with Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

In conclusion, the interplay between U.S. military actions, Pakistan's strategic decisions, and India's diplomatic maneuvers will significantly influence the geopolitical dynamics in West Asia and South Asia. India must enhance its strategic autonomy while navigating these complex relationships to maintain its national interests.