UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 28th June 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS1/History & Culture

UP's Salkhan Fossil Park Makes It to UNESCO Tentative List

Why in News?

Salkhan Fossil Park, also referred to as Sonbhadra Fossils Park, has been recently included in UNESCO's Tentative List for World Heritage Sites, highlighting its global significance.

Key Takeaways

• Location: Situated in Salkhan village, Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh.
• Fossil Significance: Famous for its stromatolite fossils, which are ancient layered structures formed by cyanobacteria through photosynthesis.
• Age of Fossils: These fossils date back up to 1.4 billion years, originating from the Mesoproterozoic era.
• Scientific Value: The fossils are preserved in Bhander limestone of the Vindhyan Supergroup, making it one of the richest Proterozoic rock collections globally.
• Ecological Context: The park is located within Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary, enhancing its ecological and conservation value.

Additional Details

• UNESCO's Tentative List: This list serves as a country's inventory of sites proposed for future inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Nomination Process: A site must remain on the tentative list for at least one year before it can be formally nominated.
• Evaluation Criteria: Sites are evaluated based on their natural, cultural, or mixed heritage value, taking into account their global significance.
• India’s Status: As of June 2025, India has 63 sites on its Tentative List, representing diverse ecosystems, monuments, and landscapes.
• Benefits of Inclusion: While not guaranteeing World Heritage status, inclusion raises awareness, secures funding, and enhances conservation efforts.

This recognition not only emphasizes the importance of Salkhan Fossil Park in understanding early microbial life and Earth's biosphere but also contributes to the broader efforts in conservation and heritage preservation.

GS3/Environment

Mahua: The Lifeline of Central India's Tribal Communities

Why in News?

Mahua, scientifically known as Madhuca longifolia, plays a crucial role in the cultural, economic, and ecological aspects of Central India's tribal communities. Recognizing its significance is essential for understanding the livelihoods of these communities and the environmental dynamics at play.

Key Takeaways

• Mahua is a medium-sized deciduous tree found predominantly in Central India.
• The tree is culturally revered and has significant economic value for tribal communities.
• Innovative products like Mahua Nutra Beverage are enhancing tribal incomes and promoting dietary diversity.

Additional Details

• Botanical Identity: The Mahua tree reaches a height of 16–20 metres and is characterized by its creamy-white flowers that bloom between March and April.
• Cultural and Religious Value: The Mahua tree is often referred to as the "Tree of Life" among tribal communities, and its various parts are integral to traditional practices, including funeral rites.
• Geographical Distribution: Mahua is commonly found in states such as West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, and parts of Northern and Central India, extending to Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
• Nutritional and Economic Role: The flowers are consumed raw or sun-dried, providing high nutritional value. They are also fermented to create a strong alcoholic beverage, serving as a vital source of livelihood for tribal families.
• Livelihood Support: The collection and processing of Mahua flowers not only provide food security but also generate income, especially for women in these communities.
• Ecological Importance: Mahua's flowers attract bats and other animals, contributing to pollination and seed dispersal, which are essential for the forest ecosystem.
• Inter-species Competition: There is competition between sloth bears and humans for Mahua flowers and leaves, highlighting its high demand.
• Innovation and Value Addition: TRIFED, in collaboration with the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FIIT), has developed the Mahua Nutra Beverage to enhance tribal incomes and nutritional value.
• Policy Significance: This initiative is notable as it marks the first such effort in Jharkhand and India, focusing on value addition through scientific innovation.

In summary, Mahua is not just a tree but a vital resource that supports the cultural identity, economic stability, and ecological balance in Central India's tribal regions. Understanding its multifaceted role is crucial for sustainable development and conservation efforts.

GS2/Polity

Practicing Equality in Constitutional Courts

Why in News?

On May 13, 2025, the Supreme Court delivered a significant judgment that revisited previous cases concerning the designation of senior lawyers. Although this issue is often seen as an internal court matter, it raised important questions regarding inequality in the legal profession, elitism, and the fairness of classifying lawyers under Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court's decision highlighted potential inequities in the senior advocate designation process.
• Concerns were raised about the subjectivity and lack of objective criteria in classifying legal professionals.
• The judgment did not adequately address the constitutional validity of Section 16.

Additional Details

• Arbitrary Classification under Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961: This section permits the classification of lawyers as "senior advocates" and others based on vague terms like "ability" or "standing at the Bar." These terms lack objective benchmarks, raising concerns about their compliance with Article 14 (Right to Equality) of the Constitution, as it creates unequal treatment among equals without adequate justification.
• Lack of Objective Selection Process in Court Rules: The Supreme Court Rules, 2013, outline procedures for designating senior advocates but allow for subjective discretion, which may lead to favoritism. For instance, Rule 2 of Order IV permits pre-audience for senior advocates, reinforcing hierarchical privileges without transparency.
• Undermines Egalitarian Access to Justice: The designation process often results in the concentration of influence among a select few, marginalizing others and reducing diversity in courtroom representation. The case of Indira Jaising v. Supreme Court of India (2017) upheld the validity of this designation but failed to address its systemic exclusion of women and underprivileged lawyers, conflicting with the constitutional ideals of equality.

Why is the 2025 Jitender Judgment Seen as Inadequate?

• Did Not Address Constitutional Validity of Section 16: The 2025 judgment did not examine whether the classification between senior advocates and other advocates was arbitrary, and it did not refer the matter to a larger bench for deeper constitutional scrutiny.
• Acknowledged Subjectivity but Retained Flawed Process: Although the Court recognized the subjective nature of the point-based assessment for senior advocate designation, it maintained the application-based process, allowing judges' discretion to dominate the selection, which can lead to favoritism.
• Missed Opportunity to Promote Inclusiveness and Reform: Rather than proposing systemic changes, the Court delegated the creation of rules to High Courts, overlooking the core issue of exclusion faced by women, Dalits, and individuals from less privileged backgrounds.

What are the Factors Fueling Inequality in the Legal Profession?

• Unequal Access to Quality Legal Education: Many aspiring lawyers from rural or low-income backgrounds face barriers like language issues, high costs, and limited access to top law schools, resulting in a lack of representation at prestigious institutions.
• Urban Concentration of Legal Opportunities: Legal practices in metropolitan areas attract more recognition and opportunities, leaving talented lawyers in smaller towns often overlooked for significant cases and designations.
• Subjectivity in Senior Advocate Designation: The designation process frequently favors those familiar with judges, sidelining equally competent but lesser-known lawyers, particularly women and Dalit lawyers who remain underrepresented.

Way Forward

• Transparent and Inclusive Designation Process: There is a need to develop a merit-based and transparent system for designating senior advocates, with clear evaluation criteria and diverse representation in selection committees to enhance judicial inclusiveness.
• Strengthening Legal Education and Access: Expanding access to quality legal education through scholarships and regional law schools, along with skill-based training in vernacular languages, is essential to reduce structural barriers for students from rural and underprivileged backgrounds.

In conclusion, the ongoing issues regarding the designation of senior advocates highlight significant challenges in achieving equality within the legal profession. Addressing these concerns through systemic reforms is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and equitable justice system.

GS2/Polity

Practising Equality in Constitutional Courts

Why in News?

On May 13, 2025, the Supreme Court of India delivered a pivotal judgment in the case of Jitender @ Kalla vs State (Govt.) of NCT of Delhi. This ruling revisited earlier decisions made in Indira Jaising vs Supreme Court of India (2017 and 2023) and aimed at refining the methodology for designating lawyers as senior advocates. Despite its significant implications for judicial equity and access to justice, the judgment received limited public attention, often viewed as an internal judiciary matter. However, the issue reveals deeper systemic inequalities within the Indian legal profession.

Key Takeaways

• The legal profession has a public character, vital for judicial and political democracies.
• Stratification within this profession undermines the constitutional promise of equality before the law.
• The designation of senior advocates under Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961, creates legal inequality.
• The American legal system exhibits similar elite capture, highlighting risks of an exclusionary structure.

Additional Details

• Legal Stratification: The classification of senior advocates is based on ambiguous criteria like 'standing at the Bar' and 'special knowledge or experience in law,' which institutionalizes inequality.
• Judicial Response: The Supreme Court's reforms have focused on procedural adjustments rather than addressing the core constitutional challenge posed by such classifications.
• Intellectual Apartheid: A small group of prominent lawyers dominates legal discourse, marginalizing competent but less visible lawyers, which narrows the perspectives available to the Court.

A truly democratic legal profession must focus on competence and diverse representation rather than social status. The time has come for India to establish a more equitable and constitutionally sound system that recognizes all advocates as equal participants in the justice system. This evolution is essential for realizing the promise of justice in its fullest sense.

GS2/International Relations

India Declines to Sign SCO Statement

Why in News?

India has chosen not to endorse the joint declaration at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting held in China. The decision arose from India's objection to the lack of references to terrorism in the statement.

Key Takeaways

• India refused to sign the SCO draft statement due to the omission of terrorism references.
• The meeting was hosted by China, the current SCO chair, in Qingdao.
• India's push for including terrorism concerns was blocked by one member country.

Additional Details

• SCO Membership: The SCO includes 10 countries: India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus. It represents the largest regional organization by area and population.
• Origins and Formation: The SCO originated from the "Shanghai Five" in 1996, established to address security concerns in the post-Soviet region. It was formally founded on June 15, 2001.
• Focus on Regional Security: The SCO emphasizes security cooperation among Asian nations, tackling issues like terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
• RATS: The Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) is a key security mechanism of the SCO, facilitating intelligence sharing and coordination among member states.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's refusal to sign the joint statement came after the statement did not mention the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack but included references to the Jaffar Express hijacking in Balochistan.

India's objection stemmed from the exclusion of references to terrorism, particularly concerning the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor, which was blocked by a specific country, implicitly referring to Pakistan. Consequently, as consensus was necessary, the statement was not adopted.

In his address, Defence Minister Singh condemned the Pahalgam attack, highlighting that the victims were targeted based on their religious identity and named The Resistance Front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), as responsible. He described Operation Sindoor as a demonstration of India's zero tolerance for terrorism.

India emphasized that peace and terrorism cannot coexist, calling for decisive global action against terrorism sponsors, accountability for nations promoting cross-border terrorism, and an end to the SCO’s silence on state-sponsored terrorism.

India’s Refusal to Sign SCO Draft Statement - Analysis

• The SCO, traditionally influenced by Russia and China, is witnessing an increasing dominance of China, particularly due to Russia's focus on the Ukraine conflict.
• China's close alliance with Pakistan has led to its military and diplomatic support for Islamabad, especially post-Operation Sindoor, and it has shielded Pakistan from international criticism regarding terrorism.
• Rajnath Singh's refusal to endorse the draft statement, which neglected the Pahalgam attack while mentioning the Balochistan incident, conveyed a strong diplomatic stance. As a result, no joint statement was produced at the meeting.
• India reaffirmed its commitment to a "no compromise on terrorism" approach, reflecting its belief that terrorism and diplomatic engagement cannot coexist.

Looking ahead, the upcoming SCO Council of Heads of State meeting in Tianjin this autumn will be pivotal, as India's stance may significantly shape future discussions on terrorism and security cooperation in the region.

GS2/Governance

Sugamya Bharat App

Why in News?

The Sugamya Bharat App (SBA) has recently undergone a significant revamp aimed at enhancing user experience and increasing its overall impact. This initiative is crucial for improving accessibility for divyangjan (persons with disabilities) and elderly citizens in India.

Key Takeaways

• The app is a flagship initiative by the Government of India, launched in 2021.
• It is managed by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• Users can report accessibility barriers using geo-tagged photos, prompting authorities to take corrective actions.
• The app features an AI-powered chatbot for real-time assistance and is available in 10 languages.

Additional Details

• Accessibility Reporting: Users can register complaints related to accessibility issues specifically concerning buildings, transportation systems, and ICT systems, including websites and TV viewing.
• The app serves as a vital platform for citizens to report issues in public infrastructure, significantly contributing to the enhancement of accessibility.
• It includes integration with various government schemes and provides valuable resources for persons with disabilities.

This revamped app represents a strategic effort by the government to foster inclusivity and ensure that individuals with disabilities and the elderly have equal access to public services and infrastructure.

GS3/Science and Technology

Silica Gel Desiccant

Why in News?

Silica gel desiccants are widely used moisture-absorbing agents in various industries. Their relevance stems from their ability to control humidity and protect sensitive materials from moisture damage.

Key Takeaways

• Silica gel beads are generally non-toxic and do not pose the same risks as silica dust.
• They are effective in removing excess moisture from the air.
• Silica gel is made from silicon dioxide, a hydrophilic material.

Additional Details

• Composition: Silica gel is primarily composed of silicon dioxide, similar to sand and quartz, known for its moisture-absorbing properties. Some variants include a moisture-sensitive dye, such as cobalt chloride.
• Structure: The beads possess a porous structure on a nano-scale, with pores that are 15 times larger than the radius of their atoms. This creates a capillary effect, allowing them to draw in moisture effectively.
• Surface Area: A single gram of silica gel can have a surface area of up to 700 square meters, significantly enhancing its moisture absorption capabilities.

Silica gel desiccants are essential in safeguarding sensitive materials across various industries, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food storage. They are vital in preventing rust and corrosion, ensuring the longevity of products in manufacturing and storage processes. Additionally, they play a crucial role in air conditioning systems by maintaining optimal humidity levels.

GS3/Science and Technology

Key Facts about DNA Polymorphism and Fingerprinting

Why in News?

The recent tragic event involving Air India Flight AI 171, which crashed on June 12, 2025, resulted in the loss of 241 lives. Following this incident, the last DNA match day occurred after the victims' families held a symbolic funeral.

Key Takeaways

• DNA is the hereditary material in nearly all human cells.
• DNA polymorphisms are variations in DNA sequences unique to individuals.
• Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) are critical for forensic identification.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is essential for DNA amplification.
• DNA fingerprinting creates a unique genetic profile from STR variations.

Additional Details

• What is DNA? DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the hereditary material found in almost all human cells, including blood, skin, bone, and teeth. Humans possess 46 chromosomes: 23 from the father and 23 from the mother. The genes within these chromosomes dictate physical traits and biological identity.
• DNA Polymorphisms: These are variations in DNA sequences that are unique to individuals. They are particularly useful for parentage identification, genetic lineage tracing, and identity verification in forensic science, allowing for accurate matching between body samples and known relatives.
• Short Tandem Repeats (STRs): STRs are short, repeating sequences of DNA bases (e.g., GATCGATC). Each individual has a unique STR pattern, making them ideal for criminal investigations, forensic victim identification, and ancestry testing. STRs provide robust evidence for genetic relationships.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR):This technique amplifies small amounts of DNA for analysis. The process involves:
  • DNA Extraction from bones, blood, or tissue.
  • Denaturation (95°C): DNA strands are separated.
  • Annealing (60°C): Primers bind to specific DNA sequences.
  • Extension (72°C): DNA polymerase builds new strands.
  • Cycling: These steps are repeated to produce millions of DNA copies.
• DNA Fingerprinting: This method creates a unique genetic profile based on STR variations. Capillary electrophoresis separates STR fragments by size using electric current, resulting in a distinct DNA profile unique to each person, except for identical twins. Sources of DNA include blood, saliva, bone, teeth, skin cells, sweat, and semen.

In summary, DNA polymorphism and fingerprinting play crucial roles in forensic science and genetic research, enabling accurate identification and analysis of individuals based on their unique genetic characteristics.

GS2/International Relations

A China-led Trilateral Nexus as India's New Challenge

Why in News?

China recently convened its inaugural trilateral meeting with Pakistan and Bangladesh in Kunming, following a similar meeting with Pakistan and Afghanistan in May. These China-led trilaterals aim to enhance regional cooperation and revitalize Pakistan's role in regional dynamics. Strategically, Beijing seeks to exploit India's strained relations with Bangladesh and its expanding presence in Afghanistan to counter New Delhi's influence and divert its focus.

Key Takeaways

• China's trilateral meetings signify a strategic move to bolster Pakistan's influence in South Asia.
• The 1962 India-China war established a long-lasting strategic partnership between China and Pakistan.
• India's assertive military responses have shifted regional dynamics, challenging China's growing influence.

Additional Details

• China-Pakistan Strategic Bond: Pakistan regards China as a dependable ally, relying heavily on Chinese economic and military support. By the end of 2024, Pakistan's debt to China is projected to exceed $29 billion, with over 80% of its arms imports sourced from China.
• China's Diplomatic Support: China has consistently defended Pakistan at international forums, further solidifying their alliance beyond mere trade and military cooperation.
• Operation Sindoor: In May 2025, India's Operation Sindoor, a response to the Pahalgam terror attack, faced criticism from China, which labeled India's actions as "regrettable" and supported Pakistan's demand for an investigation.
• Post-Conflict Developments: Following the conflict, high-level meetings between Pakistan and China reaffirmed their strong ties, enhancing the trilateral engagements with Afghanistan and others as a diplomatic extension of their partnership.
• India's Assertive Posture: India has adopted a more aggressive stance post-Uri, Pulwama, and Pahalgam incidents, demonstrating zero tolerance for threats and actively isolating Pakistan on global platforms.

In conclusion, the strategic dynamics in South Asia are evolving, with China utilizing its partnership with Pakistan to challenge India's influence. As South Asian nations navigate this complex landscape, India must continue to assert its positions clearly and deter potential threats through credible strategies.

GS3/Environment

Kharai Camel

Why in News?

The Kharai camel, indigenous to Gujarat, faces significant threats despite orders from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) aimed at protecting its habitat. Illegal salt pans and encroachment of creeks are jeopardizing the survival of this unique breed in Kachchh.

Key Takeaways

• The Kharai camel is named after the local term “Khara,” which means saline, highlighting its adaptability to both desert and coastal environments.
• These camels possess a remarkable ability to swim long distances, often exceeding 3 kilometers, to graze on mangroves.
• They have been preserved by the Rabari and Fakirani Jat tribes for over 400 years.
• The species primarily exists in Kutch, where it is vital for the local ecosystem, especially in maintaining mangrove forests.
• Kharai camel milk is nutrient-rich and has therapeutic properties, containing antibodies similar to those in human milk.

Additional Details

• Conservation Status: The Kharai camel is classified as Endangered by the IUCN.
• Threats: The decline of mangrove forests due to heavy industrialization along the coast has disrupted traditional grazing routes for the Kharai camels.

In conclusion, the Kharai camel is an invaluable part of the Kutch ecosystem and culture, yet it is under severe threat. Immediate conservation efforts are essential to protect this unique breed and its habitat.

GS2/Governance

Statistics Day 2025

Why in News?

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is set to celebrate the 19th Statistics Day in Delhi on June 29, 2025. This annual event honors the birth anniversary of Prof. Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, a significant figure in Indian statistics and planning.

Key Takeaways

• Statistics Day is observed on June 29 each year.
• The theme for 2025 is “75 Years of National Sample Survey”.
• The day aims to promote awareness of the importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and evidence-based policymaking.

Additional Details

• About Statistics Day: Established to commemorate the contributions of Prof. Mahalanobis, this day focuses on enhancing understanding of statistical significance.
• Theme for 2025: The theme, “75 Years of National Sample Survey,” underscores the vital role of the NSS in delivering reliable socio-economic data needed for effective governance and national progress.
• About Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis:
  • Born on June 29, 1893, he is celebrated as the Father of Indian Statistics.
  • He developed the Mahalanobis Distance, a crucial metric for multivariate data analysis.
  • He founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1931.
  • Mahalanobis was a member of India’s First Planning Commission and contributed significantly to the planning of Five-Year Plans.
  • Awarded the Padma Vibhushan for his contributions to science and statistics, he was a strong advocate for data-based governance.
• National Statistics Day: The first celebration took place in 2006, aiming to foster statistical awareness.
• World Statistics Day: This global observance occurs every five years on October 20, as recognized by the United Nations.

In conclusion, Statistics Day serves as a reminder of the profound impact that statistics has on societal development and governance, encouraging the youth to engage with statistical data for informed decision-making.