UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 26th June 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Science and Technology

Leptospirosis Outbreak in Ernakulam

Why in News?

In recent weeks, five individuals in Ernakulam, Kerala have tragically lost their lives due to leptospirosis, highlighting a serious public health concern.

Key Takeaways

• Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal zoonotic bacterial disease.
• The disease is caused by the bacterium Leptospira interrogans.
• It is primarily transmitted through the urine of infected animals.

Additional Details

• Transmission: The bacteria can infect humans through tiny openings in the skin, particularly through the soles of the feet. Infected animals, including rodents, cattle, pigs, and dogs, shed the bacteria in their urine, which can contaminate the environment.
• Leptospirosis is more common in warm, humid climates and can occur in both urban and rural settings.
• The disease typically manifests in two phases: initially presenting with symptoms like fever, chills, and muscle aches, followed by a potential more severe phase that may include complications such as kidney or liver failure.
• Treatment is available and primarily involves the use of antibiotics to combat the infection.

This outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of public health awareness and the need for preventive measures to reduce the risk of leptospirosis, especially in regions prone to such diseases.

GS3/Economy

Price Support Scheme (PSS) for Moong and Urad

Why in News?

The Union Ministry of Agriculture has recently approved the procurement of Moong and Urad in Madhya Pradesh and Urad in Uttar Pradesh under the Price Support Scheme (PSS).

Key Takeaways

• The PSS aims to ensure farmers receive fair prices for their crops.
• Moong and Urad are two significant pulses supported by this scheme.

Moong (Green Gram)

• Type: High-protein pulse primarily cultivated in the Kharif season (June–July) and sometimes in summer (March–April).
• Soil: Thrives in well-drained loamy to sandy-loam soils.
• Temperature: Optimal growth is at temperatures of 25–35°C.
• Duration: Short growth period of 60–75 days, suitable for crop rotations such as Moong–Wheat.
• Major Producers: Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.

Urad (Black Gram)

• Type: Grown mainly as a Kharif crop, also cultivated as a Rabi crop in southern India.
• Climate: Prefers a warm, humid climate and well-drained loamy soils.
• Temperature: Best suited for warm conditions, avoiding waterlogged or saline areas.
• Crop Rotation: Often sown in rotations with cereals like rice or wheat.
• Key States: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

About Price Support Scheme (PSS)

• Overview: A component of the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA), launched in 2018 to ensure remunerative prices for farmers.
• Objective: Procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) for various crops when market prices fall below MSP.
• Nodal Agency: Implemented by the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation through NAFED and FCI.

How PSS Works

• MSPs are announced before each cropping season based on recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
• If market prices fall below MSP, central and state agencies procure directly from farmers.
• Only crops that meet Fair Average Quality (FAQ) standards are eligible for procurement.
• Procurement continues until market prices stabilize at or above MSP.

Eligibility and Access

• All farmers cultivating notified crops are eligible for PSS benefits.
• Farmers must sell their produce at designated procurement centers, such as APMCs.
• Typically, government employees are excluded from the benefits of this scheme.

What is the PM-AASHA Scheme?

• Launch: PM-AASHA was launched in September 2018 as an umbrella scheme to ensure fair prices for farmers' produce, specifically for pulses, oilseeds, and copra.
• Goal: To complement the government's policy of setting MSP at 1.5 times the cost of production.
• Components:
  • Physical procurement at MSP by central agencies like NAFED.
  • Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS), providing farmers the difference between MSP and actual selling price directly into their bank accounts.
  • Private Procurement and Stockist Scheme (PPSS), allowing private players to procure at MSP to support government efforts.
• Implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, with procurement agencies operating at both central and state levels.

UPSC 2020 Question

With reference to pulse production in India, consider the following statements:

• 1. Black gram can be cultivated as both kharif and rabi crop.
• 2. Green-gram alone accounts for nearly half of pulse production.
• 3. In the last three decades, while the production of kharif pulses has increased, the production of rabi pulses has decreased.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• Options: (a) 1 only
• (b) 2 and 3 only
• (c) 2 only
• (d) 1, 2 and 3

This comprehensive overview of the Price Support Scheme (PSS) highlights its significance in supporting farmers and stabilizing market prices for crucial crops like Moong and Urad.

GS2/Polity

A Lofty Concept, a Governor, and Unwanted Controversy

Why in News?

The recent controversy in Kerala regarding the display of a painting of Bharat Mata by the Governor at official functions has sparked a significant debate about constitutional propriety, the use of symbolism, and the role of historical imagery in public institutions.

Key Takeaways

• The Governor's act of displaying Bharat Mata's image raises questions about constitutional decorum.
• The Kerala government argues the image lacks official recognition, unlike the national flag or anthem.
• This incident highlights broader issues regarding political symbolism and national identity.

Additional Details

• Symbolism in the Freedom Struggle: The slogan 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' served as an emotional rallying cry during the Indian freedom struggle, embodying patriotism. However, it lacked a consistent visual representation.
• Historical Context: The modern portrayal of Bharat Mata as a mother figure is ideologically rooted, with its conceptual origins traceable to figures like Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and Abanindranath Tagore.
• Constitutional Perspective: The Indian Constitution does not accord any image of Bharat Mata symbolic or legal status, emphasizing that emotional and cultural expressions should not supersede constitutional principles.
• Governor's Role: B.R. Ambedkar's assertion that a Governor must act on the advice of the elected government reinforces the limits of gubernatorial authority, particularly in ceremonial contexts.
• Contemporary Political Dynamics: The use of such symbols in public functions raises concerns about inclusivity and the secular nature of the Indian state, especially given their association with specific political organizations.

The controversy surrounding the Bharat Mata image in Kerala is emblematic of larger issues regarding constitutional fidelity and the responsibilities of public institutions to uphold neutrality and inclusivity. Symbols play a critical role in a diverse nation like India, and their usage should reflect democratic values rather than personal or ideological biases.

GS2/Polity

A Lofty Concept: The Bharat Mata Controversy in Kerala

Why in News?

A significant controversy has erupted in Kerala following the Governor's decision to display a picture of 'Bharat Mata' in an official room at the Raj Bhavan. This act has led to tensions between the Governor and the elected state government.

Key Takeaways

• The image of Bharat Mata has historical roots in literary nationalism.
• The Governor's actions raise questions about constitutional authority and protocol.
• The controversy reflects deeper tensions between cultural nationalism and constitutional norms.

Additional Details

• Origin of Bharat Mata: The concept began in the late 19th century through Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s novel Anandamath, which introduced the idea of Banga Mata (Mother Bengal). It was later popularized by Abanindranath Tagore’s painting of a four-armed woman resembling a Hindu goddess, which Sister Nivedita termed as Bharat Mata.
• Evolution into a Political Symbol: During the Indian freedom struggle, Bharat Mata became a potent symbol of national identity. The slogan ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ gained popularity, although no official image was adopted. Post-independence, the concept retained cultural significance but lacked constitutional recognition.
• Governor’s Role: According to Article 163 of the Constitution, the Governor acts as the nominal head of the state and is expected to follow the advice of the Council of Ministers. For example, decisions regarding official symbols must align with government directives.
• Constitutional Protocols: The Supreme Court has ruled that the Governor cannot act independently in routine matters, as seen in the Nabam Rebia case (2016). The unilateral display of the Bharat Mata picture by the Governor contravenes these principles.
• Cultural Nationalism vs. Constitutional Norms: The absence of constitutional recognition for the Bharat Mata image, akin to the national flag or anthem, challenges the secular nature of the state. The specific representation used is often associated with right-wing ideologies, complicating its acceptance as a national symbol.
• Democratic Protocol Violation: The presence of the image has been contested by the state government, highlighting that unilateral decisions cannot supersede collective democratic authority.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the Bharat Mata image underscores the ongoing struggle to balance personal beliefs with constitutional values in public office. Officials must adhere to constitutional obligations, ensuring that personal ideologies do not interfere with state protocols.

GS3/Environment

Iliamna Volcano

Why in News?

A recent satellite image indicating that Alaska's Iliamna Volcano is "ready to rumble" has generated renewed interest in this snow-covered peak, coinciding with a notable increase in seismic activity in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Iliamna Volcano is located in southwest Alaska within Lake Clark National Park and Preserve.
• The volcano reaches a height of 10,016 feet (3,053 m) from nearby Cook Inlet.
• It is classified as a stratovolcano, characterized by its steep, conical shape and explosive eruptions.

Additional Details

• mposition: The volcano consists of andesite lava flows and pyroclastic rocks atop a base of Jurassic-era granite.
• The structure includes a summit peak and four additional peaks forming a ridge about 5 km long.
• Most of Iliamna is covered by perennial snow and ice, with numerous glaciers radiating from the summit area.
• Large avalanche deposits are prominent on the flanks, especially down the Umbrella Glacier.
• It is currently considered dormant, with the last recorded eruption occurring in 1876.

What is a Stratovolcano?

• A stratovolcano is a tall, steep, cone-shaped volcano, typically found above subduction zones.
• Unlike flat shield volcanoes, stratovolcanoes have higher peaks and are often part of volcanically active regions like the Ring of Fire.
• They comprise about 60% of Earth's individual volcanoes and are known for eruptions of andesite and dacite lavas, which are cooler and more viscous than basalt.
• This higher viscosity allows gas pressures to build, often leading to explosive eruptions.
• Stratovolcanoes contain both lava and pyroclastic material, giving them the alternative name of composite volcanoes.
• At the peak, they typically feature a small crater, which may hold water, ice, or a volcanic dome during periods of inactivity.

In summary, Iliamna Volcano's recent seismic activity and its classification as a stratovolcano highlight its significance in the context of geological studies and monitoring volcanic activity in Alaska.

GS3/Science and Technology

Axiom-4 Mission with India’s Shubhanshu Shukla Lifts Off from Florida

Why in News?

In a historic achievement, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from India successfully piloted the Axiom-4 mission aboard SpaceX's Dragon capsule, which launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This milestone marks Shukla as the first Indian to cross the Karman line in 41 years, following Rakesh Sharma's journey in 1984. The Karman line, positioned at an altitude of 100 kilometers (62 miles) above sea level, is widely recognized as the boundary between the Earth's atmosphere and outer space. Prime Minister Modi congratulated Shukla, highlighting him as the first Indian en route to the International Space Station.

Key Takeaways

• Shukla's mission signifies a new era for India's human spaceflight capabilities.
• The Gaganyaan program, despite delays, is set to enhance India's strategic position in space exploration.
• ISRO's involvement in Axiom-4 goes beyond passive participation, indicating a proactive role.
• The knowledge gained from Axiom-4 will aid in future Indian missions, including Gaganyaan.

Additional Details

• Human Spaceflight: This capability is becoming crucial for India, offering scientific, commercial, and geopolitical advantages. It positions India as a competitive player in the global space race.
• Future Missions: The insights gained from Axiom-4 will enhance the Gaganyaan program, with India's first indigenous crewed mission anticipated by 2027. Plans also include establishing a national space station and sending astronauts to the Moon by 2040.
• Economic Growth: India's contributions to the global space economy are currently around 2%, indicating significant potential for future expansion and business opportunities.
• Inspiring the Youth: Shukla's successful mission is expected to inspire young Indians, fostering talent in the space sector and driving innovation and economic development.

The Axiom-4 mission is not just a remarkable milestone but also serves as a catalyst for advancing India's ambitions in space exploration. By leveraging this achievement, India aims to build a robust space ecosystem that enhances its position as a global leader in space technology.

GS2/International Relations

The ‘Axis of Upheaval’ in the West Asia Conflict

Why in News?

The ongoing global alliances are being scrutinized as recent events, including U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, reveal their fragility. The situation underscores the limitations of current geopolitical partnerships, particularly in the context of the Middle East and the emergence of new strategic groupings.

Key Takeaways

• The recent U.S.-Israel actions against Iran highlight the weaknesses of modern alliances compared to Cold War-era blocs.
• Iran's relationships with Russia and China, while economically significant, lack military support in times of crisis.
• The conflict has exposed a shift in global power dynamics, challenging the notion of a bipolar world.

Additional Details

• Lack of Military Support: Despite Iran's economic and political ties with Russia and China, neither country provided military assistance during the conflict. For instance, Russia, preoccupied with the Ukraine war, focused solely on diplomatic mediation, while China limited its response to verbal condemnation.
• Absence of Binding Alliances: The alliances formed by Iran with Russia and China are largely informal and lack collective defense obligations. This contrasts with Western alliances such as NATO, which have established binding military treaties.
• Diverging Strategic Interests: Both Russia and China have used the conflict to further their own strategic interests, allowing the U.S. to become entangled in regional issues, potentially diverting attention from their ambitions in the Indo-Pacific and Europe.
• Strategic Limits of Iran's Ties: Iran's connections with these countries are primarily economic and diplomatic, lacking formal military commitments. Additionally, Russia and China's own regional priorities limit their willingness to engage militarily in support of Iran.
• Post-Ceasefire Responses: Russia offered diplomatic mediation without military backing, while China condemned Israeli actions but refrained from direct intervention, maintaining a cautious diplomatic stance.

In conclusion, the current landscape of international relations in West Asia reflects a complex interplay of emerging alliances and the limitations of existing partnerships. The situation calls for a reevaluation of strategic ties and potential pathways for future cooperation among Iran, Russia, and China to enhance their collective security and mutual interests.

GS3/Science and Technology

Black Mass Recovery Technology

Why in News?

The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has provided financial support to commercialize Indigenous Battery Recycling Technology. This initiative is crucial for enhancing sustainability and resource recovery in the battery manufacturing sector.

Key Takeaways

• The Black Mass Recovery Technology aims to extract battery-grade lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese from end-of-life lithium-ion batteries.
• It utilizes a dual-mode recovery process (wet and dry) that achieves separation efficiencies and recovery rates of up to 97-99%.
• This technology is indigenously developed and patented, reducing dependence on foreign recycling equipment.

Additional Details

• What is Black Mass?It refers to the dark, granular material left after lithium-ion batteries are shredded during recycling. This material contains a mixture of valuable metals, including:
  • Lithium
  • Cobalt
  • Nickel
  • Manganese
  • Graphite
• Significance: The technology aims to reduce the import of critical minerals by recycling locally available materials. The recovered compounds, such as lithium carbonate and cobalt sulfate, meet global specifications and will support both domestic needs and exports.

This innovative approach not only promotes environmental sustainability but also strengthens India's position in the battery supply chain, particularly for electric vehicles and energy storage solutions.

GS1/Geography

Key Facts about Tawi River

Why in News?

Recently, a joint operation by the police and SDRF teams successfully rescued nine men who became trapped in the Tawi River due to a sudden rise in water levels caused by heavy rains.

Key Takeaways

• The Tawi River is a significant left-bank tributary of the Chenab River, primarily located in the Jammu region.
• It holds cultural importance, being regarded as sacred and referred to as "Surya Putri" in ancient texts.

Additional Details

• Course: The river originates from Kalpas Kund in Seo Dhar, Bhaderwah, located in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. It flows down to Sudh Mahadev, covering a distance of approximately 141 kilometers.
• Throughout its journey, the Tawi River traverses steep hills and plains before entering Pakistan's Punjab province, where it merges with the Chenab River.
• Catchment Area: The river's catchment area up to the Indian border (Jammu) is about 2168 sq.km, encompassing the districts of Jammu, Udhampur, and a small part of Doda.
• Numerous tributaries, such as Bhuteshwari (Birma), Duddhar, and Jajjhar, contribute to the Tawi River.
• The river divides the city of Jammu into two parts: the old Jammu town situated on a hill overlooking the river and the new town located across it.
• The Tawi River serves as the primary water source for the entire city of Jammu.

In summary, the Tawi River is not only vital for its geographical significance but also plays a crucial role in the culture and daily life of the people in Jammu.

GS2/Polity

Enabling Voting Rights for Migrants

Why in News?

Bihar, which has one of the highest out-migration rates in India, is preparing for elections later this year. In the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the state's voter turnout was only 56%, significantly lower than the national average of 66%. A major factor contributing to this low turnout is the large number of migrants who were unable to return home to vote. This article explores various strategies to empower migrants—both inter- and intra-State—to exercise their voting rights, emphasizing the necessity of a multi-faceted approach.

Key Takeaways

• High out-migration in Bihar leads to low voter turnout.
• Need for tailored voting mechanisms for both inter- and intra-State migrants.
• Proposed solutions include Remote Electronic Voting Machines (RVMs) and postal ballots.
• Special focus on enrolling women migrants to ensure their participation in elections.

Additional Details

• Migration Trends: As of 2021, India's migration rate was 28.9%, with a significant portion of migrations occurring for marriage, particularly among women. Approximately 10% migrate for work, which is notably higher in States like Bihar.
• Intra-State Migrants: Comprising around 85% of the migrant population, intra-State migrants could be enabled to vote through measures such as statutory holidays on polling days and special transport services.
• Inter-State Migrants: These migrants, often in informal jobs, face unique challenges that require specific solutions like RVMs and postal ballots, which necessitate logistical planning and pre-registration.
• Women Migrants: Targeted registration drives should be launched to include women who migrate after marriage in electoral rolls at their new residences.

In conclusion, the complexity of enabling voting rights for migrants necessitates a mixed approach that combines various mechanisms. By implementing strategies like RVMs, postal ballots, and focused enrollment drives, the electoral participation of India's diverse migrant population can be significantly enhanced.

GS2/International Relations

Trump’s Geopolitical Disruption and the Reordering of Eurasia

Why in News?

The geopolitical landscape of Eurasia is undergoing significant transformation due to the foreign policy interventions of US President Donald Trump. His actions, including military engagements and a reassessment of NATO's relevance, are prompting a reconfiguration of power dynamics across Europe and the Middle East.

Key Takeaways

• The emergence of Germany as a strategic leader in Europe.
• Shifting power structures in the Middle East due to US policies.
• Potential implications of US disengagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

Additional Details

• NATO in Flux: The recent NATO summit in The Hague highlighted growing uncertainties about the future of the alliance, with Trump pushing for increased European defense spending and questioning NATO's relevance.
• Germany's Strategic Leadership: Historically seen as a geopolitical dwarf, Germany is now reorienting its defense strategies, particularly following the Ukraine invasion, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz actively leading NATO initiatives.
• US Middle East Strategy: Trump's approach includes military actions in Iran and efforts to normalize relations between Israel and Iran, which are reshaping regional security dynamics.
• Indo-Pacific Resonance: Trump's reluctance to affirm the collective defense principles of NATO has caused anxiety among US allies in Asia, prompting a potential shift toward more autonomous security arrangements.
• India's Strategic Positioning: India is enhancing its strategic ties across the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe, balancing its relationship with the US while navigating a changing global order.

The current geopolitical shifts indicate a tectonic change in global relations, challenging the established US-led security frameworks in Eurasia, with both challenges and opportunities ahead for nations navigating this new landscape.

GS2/Polity

Lawyers Can't Be Summoned for Client Advice, Rules Supreme Court

Why in News?

The Supreme Court recently ruled that summoning lawyers for the purpose of advising their clients infringes upon their rights and undermines the autonomy of the legal profession, which is safeguarded by statutory provisions.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court's decision emphasizes the protection of attorney-client communications.
• Legal professionals enjoy exclusive privileges that are not extended to other advisors.
• Recent rulings from various high courts reinforce the importance of maintaining confidentiality in legal advice.

Additional Details

• Attorney-Client Privilege: This legal principle ensures that communications between lawyers and their clients are protected from disclosure to third parties, fostering an environment of trust and confidentiality.
• The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, reinforces this privilege, allowing disclosure only under specific conditions such as client consent or involvement in illegal activities.
• Indian courts have consistently held that lawyers cannot be summoned solely for providing legal advice to their clients.

The Supreme Court's observations came during a case involving a Gujarat-based lawyer who was summoned by police for assisting a client in securing bail related to a loan controversy. This ruling is crucial as it highlights the necessity of upholding attorney-client privilege to maintain the integrity of the legal profession and the rule of law. The court's stance ensures that lawyers can provide objective and fearless advice without the threat of coercion or reprisal, which is vital for promoting public interest litigation and constitutional advocacy.