Indian Society and Social Issues: July 2025 UPSC Current Affairs | Sociology Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Arrest and Unrest: Communal Agenda Behind the Arrest of Nuns for Human Trafficking

Why in News?

Recently, the arrest of two Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh on charges of human trafficking and forced religious conversion has sparked widespread political and religious backlash.

Key Takeaways

• The arrests have raised concerns over the misuse of anti-conversion laws in tribal areas.
• There is ongoing debate around the implications of these laws on minority rights and religious freedom.

Additional Details

• Misuse Against Voluntary Conversions: Anti-conversion laws, intended to prevent conversions through coercion, are often misused against tribal Christians and missionaries engaging in lawful religious activities. For example, the recent arrests of the nuns occurred despite confirmations from tribal girls and their families that there was no coercion involved.
• Targeting of Minority Rights: These laws disproportionately impact Christian and Muslim minorities, creating an environment of surveillance and fear, particularly for tribal converts. States like Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Odisha have enacted these laws to criminalize conversions even when conducted voluntarily.
• Threat of Delisting ST Converts: There is a growing debate regarding the removal of Scheduled Tribe status from individuals who convert to Christianity, raising concerns about constitutional safeguards and the identity of Christian Adivasis.
• Sarna Religious Code: The Sarna religious code advocates for the recognition of Sarnaism as a distinct religion, emphasizing the need for official acknowledgment in government records, particularly in the Census. Sarna followers worship nature and adhere to traditional Adivasi customs.
• Constitutional Rights at Risk: Anti-conversion laws infringe upon several constitutional rights, including the Right to Freedom of Religion (Article 25), the Right to Personal Liberty (Article 21), and the principle of Equality Before Law (Article 14).

Conversions in India have historical significance, with mass conversions, such as those led by B.R. Ambedkar in 1956, creating movements against caste oppression. While conversions can lead to social polarization and communal tensions, they are often manipulated for political gain, undermining democratic values. To address these issues, it is essential to strengthen constitutional safeguards and promote interfaith dialogue, recognizing tribal cultural rights to enhance social harmony.

Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar Initiative

Why in News?

The Central Government has successfully documented the cultural heritage of over 4.7 lakh villages through the ‘Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar’ (MGMD) initiative, which aims to celebrate and promote India's diverse cultural landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar is a nationwide initiative led by the Ministry of Culture.
• It was launched on 27th July 2023 as part of the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav'.
• The main goal is to culturally map India's 6.5 lakh villages on a comprehensive virtual platform.

Additional Details

• Objective: The project aims to encourage appreciation for India’s culture and traditions, which can lead to economic growth, social harmony, and artistic development in rural areas.
• Implementation: The initiative is executed by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) under the National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM).
• Categories of Mapping:Information is collected under various categories including:
  • Arts and Crafts Village
  • Ecologically Oriented Village
  • Scholastic Village linked with Textual and Scriptural Traditions of India
  • Epic Village linked with Ramayana, Mahabharata and/or Puranic legends and oral epics
  • Historical Village linked with Local and National History
  • Architectural Heritage Village
  • Other distinctive characteristics, such as fishing or horticulture villages.

This initiative not only aims to preserve the intangible cultural assets of India but also seeks to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich heritage present in the nation's villages.

National Population Register (NPR)

Why in News?

The Government of India has recently clarified in the Lok Sabha that a final decision regarding the updation of the National Population Register (NPR) has not been made for the upcoming Population Census 2027.

Key Takeaways

• The NPR is a register of "usual residents" in India.
• It is conducted by the Office of the Registrar General of India (RGI) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Registration in the NPR is compulsory for all usual residents.
• Assam is excluded from the NPR as it has completed the National Register of Citizens (NRC) process.

Additional Details

• Overview: The NPR is a record of individuals who have lived in an area for at least 6 months or intend to stay for the next 6 months.
• Legal Basis: It is prepared under the Citizenship Act, 1955, and the Citizenship Rules, 2003.
• Historical Background: The NPR was first created in 2010 during the House Listing phase of Census 2011 and was updated in 2015-16 through a door-to-door survey.
• Database Size: The NPR contains data of approximately 119 crore residents.
• Aadhaar Link: Biometric data collection in NPR is linked to Aadhaar; however, the collection of ration card data was omitted in the 2020 plan.
• Current Status: NPR update plans from 2020 are on hold, as its priority has decreased due to the expanded utility of Aadhaar in benefit delivery.

Scope and Data Collected

• Coverage Levels: The NPR is conducted at local, sub-district, district, state, and national levels.
• Demographic Data: It includes information such as name, age, gender, relationship, and marital status.
• Biometric Data: This data is sourced via Aadhaar enrollment, which includes fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs.

NPR vs National Register of Citizens (NRC)

Consider the following statements:

• 1. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the density of the population of India has increased more than three times.
• 2. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the annual growth rate (exponential) of the population of India has doubled.

Five Years of National Education Policy (2020)

Why in News?

It has been five years since the introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which replaced the earlier National Policy on Education from 1986.

Key Takeaways

• Drafted by a committee chaired by Dr. K. Kasturirangan under the Ministry of Education.
• Built on five core pillars: Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability, and Accountability.
• Aims to create a knowledge society by unlocking every learner’s potential.
• Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 for Education for All.

Additional Details

• School Education: Introduces a new curriculum structure known as the 5+3+3+4 design, replacing the older 10+2 model.
• Focus on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE): Emphasizes play-based learning through Jaadui Pitara kits.
• Vocational Training: Starts from Grade 6, including internships.
• Basic Literacy & Numeracy: Achieved through the National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy.
• Language Medium: Emphasis on teaching in the mother tongue or regional language until Grade 5.
• Assessment Reform: Launch of PARAKH for holistic development evaluation.

Higher Education Provisions

• Four-Year Degree: Multidisciplinary courses with multiple exit points.
• Credit Bank: Facilitates credit mobility across institutions through the Academic Bank of Credit.
• Research Boost: Supported by the National Research Foundation to encourage innovation.
• Single Regulator: Proposal for a Higher Education Commission of India to streamline governance.
• Language Promotion: Establishes the Indian Institute of Translation and Interpretation for regional languages.

Implementation Initiatives

• NIPUN Bharat: Aims for basic literacy and numeracy by Class 3.
• Unified Credit System: Rollout of the Academic Bank of Credit and National Credit Framework.
• Common Entrance Test: Introduction of a Common University Entrance Test for fair admissions.
• Early Preparation:Vidya Pravesh – a three-month play-based module for Grade 1 entrants.
• Tech Education in Regional Languages: Promoted by the All-India Council for Technical Education.
• Digital Backbone: Launch of the National Digital Education Architecture for e-learning support.
• SAFAL Assessments: Competency-based testing in Grades 3, 5, and 8 by the Central Board of Secondary Education.

Key Achievements

• Curriculum and Textbooks: NCERT released new content for Classes 1-8.
• ECCE Adoption: Early childhood curriculum implemented in various states.
• Language Expansion: Increased regional language instruction at foundational levels.
• Academic Flexibility: Credit-based transfer systems are now in use via the Academic Bank of Credit.
• Global Presence: Indian Institutes like IIT Zanzibar and IIM Dubai have established themselves internationally.
• International Collaboration: Foreign universities are encouraged to set up campuses in India under new regulations.

This policy marks a significant transformation in India's educational landscape, focusing on inclusivity and quality to enhance learning outcomes across all levels of education.

State of Food and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) 2025 Report

Why in News?

The 2025 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report reveals alarming statistics regarding child malnutrition and anaemia among women in India, highlighting significant public health concerns.

Key Takeaways

• Child malnutrition rates are critically high in India.
• There is a rising trend of both undernutrition and obesity globally.
• Access to healthy diets has become increasingly unaffordable due to economic factors.

Additional Details

• About the SOFI Report: The SOFI report is published by various UN agencies including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and aims to track global hunger, food insecurity, and nutrition, specifically monitoring progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger).
• Global Hunger Rate: The hunger rate has decreased from 8.5% in 2023 to 8.2% in 2024, with 735 million people globally classified as undernourished.
• Double Burden of Malnutrition: There is a simultaneous rise in both undernutrition and obesity, prompting concerns about dietary quality.
• India-Specific Findings:
  • Wasting (Under-5): 18.7% of children under five are wasted, making India the highest globally with over 21 million affected.
  • Stunting (Under-5): Approximately 37.4 million children are stunted.
  • Overweight Children: 4.2 million children are overweight, a significant rise from 2.7 million in 2012.
  • Anaemia in Women (15-49 years): 53.7% of women are affected, equating to 203 million individuals.
  • Undernourished Population: 172 million people, or 12% of the population, are classified as undernourished.
  • Unaffordable Healthy Diet: 42.9% of the population cannot afford a healthy diet, with costs increasing from $2.77 in 2017 to $4.07 in 2024.
  • Adult Obesity: The prevalence of obesity among adults has doubled over the past decade, now affecting 71.4 million individuals.

The SOFI 2025 report underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the dual challenges of malnutrition and food insecurity in India. Effective interventions are crucial for improving nutritional outcomes and ensuring food security for vulnerable populations.

Tribes in News: Khasi

Why in News?

The Meghalaya High Court is currently addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the Khasi Lineage Act, which aims to protect the matrilineal traditions of the Khasi tribe. The PIL alleges that this law is unfairly denying Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates to individuals bearing paternal surnames.

Key Takeaways

• The Khasi tribe is indigenous to Northeast India.
• They speak the Khasi language, part of the Austroasiatic language family.
• The tribe practices a matrilineal system where inheritance and family lineage are passed through the mother.

Additional Details

• Region: The Khasi are primarily found in Meghalaya, a state in Northeast India.
• Linguistic Family: They belong to the Austroasiatic language group and communicate in the Khasi language, which is written in Roman script and has several dialects.
• Religion: The Khasi follow Niam Khasi, a traditional animist faith, although many are also Christians.
• Mythical Origin: They believe in Ki Hynniew Trep, the seven ancestral clans that are said to have descended from heaven.
• Cultural Identity: The Khasi have a strong connection to nature, oral traditions, and a clan-based social structure.
• Inheritance System: The Khasi practice a matrilineal inheritance system where property and surnames are passed from mothers to daughters.
• Post-Marital Residence: Marriages are characterized by matrilocality, where the husband resides in the wife’s household.
• Heir Designation: The Ka Khadduh, or youngest daughter, is designated the custodian of family property and ancestral responsibilities.
• Marriage Rules: Clan exogamy is practiced; marrying within the same clan is prohibited to prevent incest.
• Village Governance: The Khasi villages are governed by Dorbar Shnong (village councils) and led by traditional chiefs known as Syiem.
• Major Festivals: Notable festivals include Shad Suk Mynsiem, a thanksgiving and harvest dance, and Shad Nongkrem, a royal ritual dance promoting communal prosperity.
• Traditional Attire: Women typically wear the Jainsem, a draped dress adorned with silver jewelry, while men wear tunic-style garments and ceremonial headgear.
• Spiritual Practices: The Khasi emphasize ancestor veneration and worship natural elements such as stones, rivers, and groves.

In summary, the Khasi tribe holds a unique position in Indian society with their distinct cultural practices, matrilineal traditions, and spiritual beliefs, making them a significant subject of discussion in contemporary legal and social contexts.

Tribes in News: Khasi

Why in News?

The Meghalaya High Court is currently addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the Khasi Lineage Act, which aims to protect the matrilineal traditions of the Khasi tribe. The PIL alleges that this law is unfairly denying Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates to individuals bearing paternal surnames.

Key Takeaways

• The Khasi tribe is indigenous to Northeast India.
• They speak the Khasi language, part of the Austroasiatic language family.
• The tribe practices a matrilineal system where inheritance and family lineage are passed through the mother.

Additional Details

• Region: The Khasi are primarily found in Meghalaya, a state in Northeast India.
• Linguistic Family: They belong to the Austroasiatic language group and communicate in the Khasi language, which is written in Roman script and has several dialects.
• Religion: The Khasi follow Niam Khasi, a traditional animist faith, although many are also Christians.
• Mythical Origin: They believe in Ki Hynniew Trep, the seven ancestral clans that are said to have descended from heaven.
• Cultural Identity: The Khasi have a strong connection to nature, oral traditions, and a clan-based social structure.
• Inheritance System: The Khasi practice a matrilineal inheritance system where property and surnames are passed from mothers to daughters.
• Post-Marital Residence: Marriages are characterized by matrilocality, where the husband resides in the wife’s household.
• Heir Designation: The Ka Khadduh, or youngest daughter, is designated the custodian of family property and ancestral responsibilities.
• Marriage Rules: Clan exogamy is practiced; marrying within the same clan is prohibited to prevent incest.
• Village Governance: The Khasi villages are governed by Dorbar Shnong (village councils) and led by traditional chiefs known as Syiem.
• Major Festivals: Notable festivals include Shad Suk Mynsiem, a thanksgiving and harvest dance, and Shad Nongkrem, a royal ritual dance promoting communal prosperity.
• Traditional Attire: Women typically wear the Jainsem, a draped dress adorned with silver jewelry, while men wear tunic-style garments and ceremonial headgear.
• Spiritual Practices: The Khasi emphasize ancestor veneration and worship natural elements such as stones, rivers, and groves.

In summary, the Khasi tribe holds a unique position in Indian society with their distinct cultural practices, matrilineal traditions, and spiritual beliefs, making them a significant subject of discussion in contemporary legal and social contexts.

Realities Behind the Global Experiment of ‘Remote Work’

Why in News?

A recent “Global Survey of Working Arrangements” (2024–25) conducted by the Ifo Institute and Stanford University highlights the increasing disparity between employees' wishes for remote work and its actual availability on a global scale.

Key Takeaways

• There is a significant gap between the desire for remote work and its implementation.
• Employers express reluctance due to concerns about team dynamics and productivity.
• Cultural biases and inadequate home infrastructure hinder remote work adoption in many regions, particularly in Asia.

Additional Details

• Employer Reluctance Due to Team Dynamics: Many employers believe that remote work diminishes collaboration, innovation, and team bonding. For instance, in India's tech sector, companies like TCS and Infosys have enforced office returns to preserve team culture.
• Cultural Bias Toward Presenteeism: In several Asian countries, physical presence at work is associated with loyalty and productivity. In Japan, employees are often expected to stay late, even without substantial work output, as a demonstration of dedication.
• Inadequate Home Infrastructure: Many people lack essential home setups for remote work, such as reliable internet and quiet spaces. For example, a worker in Mumbai might struggle to concentrate due to living in a cramped 1BHK apartment with family.
• Health and Mental Well-being Concerns: Prolonged remote work can lead to issues like backaches, eye strain, and increased mental stress from isolation and blurred work-life boundaries. A Microsoft report indicated rising burnout levels among remote workers during the pandemic.

Overall, while remote work offers flexibility, various cultural and infrastructural barriers continue to limit its widespread adoption, especially in Asian countries.

Hatti Tribe and Polyandry Tradition

Why in News?

Recently, two brothers from the Hatti tribe in Himachal Pradesh made headlines by marrying the same woman in a marriage ceremony that adhered to their traditional practice of polyandry. This event highlights the cultural significance and social dynamics within the Hatti community.

Key Takeaways

• The Hatti tribe is known for its distinctive cultural practices, including polyandry.
• The community is primarily located at the Himachal-Uttarakhand border, particularly in the basin of the Giri and Tons rivers.
• The Indian government recently granted Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Hatti community in Himachal Pradesh.

Additional Details

• About the Hatti Tribe: The Hatties are a close-knit community named after their traditional occupation of selling home-grown crops, vegetables, meat, and wool at local markets known as haats.
• Geographical Distribution: The Hatti people reside in the region bordering Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, with two primary clans located in the Trans-Giri area of Sirmaur district and Jaunsar Bawar in Uttarakhand.
• Economic Activities: The Hatti population relies heavily on agriculture for their livelihood, growing cash crops that are well-suited to their climate.
• Population Statistics: As per the 2011 census, the Hatti community comprised approximately 250,000 individuals, with current estimates around 300,000.
• Tribal Status: The Jaunsar-Bawar region received tribal status in 1967, while the Hatti community was recognized as a Scheduled Tribe in 2023.

This recent marriage event not only showcases the customs of the Hatti tribe but also emphasizes the community's resilience and adaptability in preserving their traditions amidst modern influences.

Key Facts about Raji Tribe

Why in News?

The recent lack of a female candidate for the village head (pradhan) in Khetar Kanyal, a village predominantly inhabited by the Raji tribe in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district, highlights an underlying social crisis within the community.

Key Takeaways

• The Raji tribe is among the smallest indigenous communities in India.
• They primarily reside in the remote areas of Uttarakhand and parts of western Nepal.
• Traditionally, they are forest and cave dwellers and speak the Tibeto-Burman language, Bat-Kha.
• They are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).

Additional Details

• Livelihood: The Raji people traditionally gather resources, including honey, fish, and game. In recent decades, many have transitioned to agriculture, cultivating staple crops such as rice, maize, and barley. Additionally, they are skilled in various handicrafts, including weaving and basketry.
• Religion: The Raji tribe practices Hinduism and has a deep reverence for nature, incorporating both into their spiritual life.
• Social Organization: Their society is structured around clans, each with distinct customs and traditions. Elders play a significant role in decision-making and conflict resolution, while local councils (Panchayats) help maintain social harmony.
• Housing and Architecture: Traditional homes are built using locally sourced materials such as wood, stone, and mud. These structures are designed to endure the challenging climatic conditions and are typically elevated to protect against floods and wildlife.

The Raji tribe's unique culture and traditions are critical components of Uttarakhand's diverse heritage. The ongoing challenges they face, such as social representation and economic sustainability, are vital for their future survival.

Behdeinkhlam Festival Celebrated in Meghalaya

Why in News?

The Behdienkhlam Festival, celebrated by the Pnar (Jaintia) community in Meghalaya, recently took place, highlighting its cultural significance and communal spirit.

Key Takeaways

• Major religious and cultural festival in Meghalaya.
• Held annually in Jowai, West Jaintia Hills.
• Signifies the driving away of plague or evil.
• Celebrated in mid-July after the sowing season.
• Intentions include prayers for a good harvest and community cleansing.
• Mainly observed by followers of the Niamtre religion.

Additional Details

• Women’s Role: Women participate by offering food to ancestors but do not engage in the dancing rituals.
• Rituals: Dolois perform rites aimed at driving away disease and malevolent forces.
• Symbolic Act: Local youth beat rooftops with bamboo sticks as a method to expel evil spirits.
• Rots: 30–40 ft decorated bamboo structures that convey social themes.
• Khnong Ritual: Involves teams pulling a large wooden beam and immersing it in mud.
• Dad-Lawakor: A traditional game reminiscent of football that serves as a predictor for harvest success.
• Celebrations: The festival culminates in mass dancing at Wah Aitnar pool, accompanied by drums and pipes.

The Behdienkhlam Festival serves as a vital cultural event, fostering community spirit and celebrating agricultural traditions, while also playing a significant role in the spiritual life of the Pnar community.

Silent Salt Consumption Epidemic

Why in News?

The National Institute of Epidemiology (ICMR-NIE) has initiated a community-driven campaign to raise awareness and promote the adoption of low-sodium salt substitutes due to the rising concern over excessive salt consumption in India.

Key Takeaways

• The epidemic of silent salt consumption is linked to chronic diseases, particularly hypertension and heart ailments.
• There is a significant urban-rural disparity in salt consumption levels across India.
• WHO recommends a maximum daily salt intake of 5 grams per person, while many exceed this limit.

Additional Details

• About the Silent Salt Consumption Epidemic: This epidemic refers to the widespread, unmonitored intake of excess salt, which leads to health issues that develop gradually and often unnoticed.
• Cultural and Behavioral Factors: Traditional dietary practices and a general lack of public awareness contribute to the ongoing issue of high salt consumption.
• Salt Consumption in India: Urban Indians have an average salt intake of about 9.2 grams per day, while rural populations consume around 5.6 grams, both of which are above safe limits.
• Gender-Based Consumption Data: A national survey conducted in 2023 revealed daily salt consumption of 8.9 grams for men and 7.1 grams for women.
• Health Impact: High salt intake is associated with several health problems, including kidney stones, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and strokes.
• Mortality Burden: Excess salt intake is estimated to cause approximately 5 million deaths worldwide each year.

In conclusion, addressing the silent salt consumption epidemic requires concerted efforts in public education and the promotion of healthier dietary practices, particularly the adoption of low-sodium salt substitutes.

10 Years of Skill India Mission

Why in News?

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has initiated a week-long celebration to mark the completion of 10 years of the Skill India Mission.

Key Takeaways

• The Skill India Mission was launched in 2015 to empower India's youth with employable skills.
• The mission aims to train 40 crore individuals by 2022 across various economic sectors.
• Over 2.27 crore people have been trained under the program, focusing on rural youth, women, and marginalized communities.
• Training and certifications are aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) for quality assurance.
• The courses are digitally integrated with DigiLocker and the National Credit Framework (NCrF).

Components of Skill India Mission

• Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0): Focuses on short-term training, reskilling, and upskilling for youth aged 15 to 59 years, offering over 400 new courses in emerging technologies.
• Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS): Aims to promote apprenticeship training with financial support, targeting individuals aged 14 to 35 years.
• Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme: A community-based vocational training initiative that empowers women, rural youth, and economically weaker sections through flexible skilling programs.

Additional Details

• Progress Achieved: The mission has successfully trained over 2.27 crore individuals, enhancing employability among various demographics.
• Digital Integration: Courses are integrated with digital platforms for secure storage and easier academic progression.
• Recognition of Skills: The program promotes the formal recognition of skills, ensuring better job alignments and educational opportunities.

The Skill India Mission stands as a crucial initiative in transforming the skill landscape of India, aiming to link education with employment and enhance the overall economic growth of the nation.

Jarawa Tribe

Why in News?

Experts have addressed concerns regarding the enumeration of isolated indigenous tribes, particularly the Jarawa Tribe of the Andaman Islands, stating that reaching the Jarawas will not be challenging due to existing contact and welfare initiatives.

Key Takeaways

• The Jarawa Tribe is among the world's oldest surviving indigenous communities.
• They are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
• Population estimates range from 250 to 400 individuals.
• The tribe inhabits the Middle and South Andaman Islands in nomadic bands of 40–50.
• Their habitat includes dense tropical forests, mangroves, and coastal zones.

Additional Details

• Origin & History: The Jarawas are believed to be descendants of the extinct Jangil tribe and some theories link their ancestry to the first wave of human migration out of Africa, marking them as some of the earliest human settlers in Asia. They have survived British colonization since 1789 and World War II, despite a significant decline in population.
• Cultural & Lifestyle Characteristics: The Jarawas are hunter-gatherer-fishermen who rely on forest produce, hunting, and coastal fishing. They are known for their robust physical health, attributed to their nutritional lifestyle. Their traditional attire is minimal, suitable for the humid tropical climate of the Andaman Islands. Historically, they have been recognized as territorial defenders, resisting intrusion into their lands.

The Government of India has announced that the 16th Census of India will be conducted in two phases: the first phase starting on October 1, 2026, in snow-bound states and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, followed by the second phase on March 1, 2027, for the rest of India. This census will also include nationwide caste enumeration, the first since 1931.

India’s Gender Gap Report Ranking: A Warning Sign

Why in News?

India finds itself at a critical juncture in its development trajectory. Despite being recognized as a global economic powerhouse, a leading digital innovator, and home to the world’s youngest population, the nation grapples with a stark contradiction. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report (2025) ranks India at 131 out of 148 countries, highlighting a persistent and structural gender inequality that impedes national progress.

Key Takeaways

• India's low ranking underscores significant gender disparities, particularly in health and economic participation.
• The country faces an alarming skew in health outcomes for women, including high rates of anaemia.
• Economic exclusion of women poses a risk to India's overall economic potential, with missed opportunities for GDP growth.
• The demographic shift in the population necessitates urgent action for gender inclusion.
• Policy frameworks exist, but real investment and systemic reforms are crucial for addressing gender inequality.

Additional Details

• Structural Failures: India's ranking is particularly concerning in health and survival, which are foundational to gender equity. Although educational attainment has improved, it has not led to increased workforce participation for women. The skewed sex ratio at birth reflects a dangerous cultural preference for sons.
• Skewed Health Outcomes: Approximately 57% of Indian women aged 15-49 suffer from anaemia, severely affecting their capacity for learning and economic contribution. Insufficient policy responses and a lack of investment in women's healthcare exacerbate this issue.
• Economic Exclusion: India ranks 143rd in Economic Participation and Opportunity, with women earning significantly less than men. Women’s underrepresentation in leadership roles further illustrates the depth of economic exclusion and the burden of unpaid domestic work.
• Demographic Transition: The shift in India's demographic profile, with a rising elderly population and declining fertility rates, highlights the urgent need for women to be empowered and economically active.
• Need for Real Investment: Addressing gender inequality requires comprehensive investment in public health, care infrastructure, and gender-sensitive budgeting. Women must be recognized as active contributors to economic growth.

In conclusion, India's aspirations of becoming a global superpower are at risk if gender disparities remain unaddressed. The issues of gender inequality in health and labor are not merely social concerns; they are significant obstacles to the nation's potential. Transformative action that places women at the center of economic and demographic planning is essential for sustainable development.

TALASH Initiative

Why in News?

The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) and UNICEF India have launched the TALASH (Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub), marking the first national initiative aimed at the holistic development of tribal students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs).

Key Takeaways

• TALASH focuses on fostering self-awareness, emotional resilience, life skills, and career clarity among tribal youth.
• The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, advocating for inclusive, equitable, and competency-based education.
• Approximately 1,38,336 students across 28 States and 8 Union Territories are expected to benefit from this initiative.
• TALASH aims for implementation in all EMRSs nationwide by the end of 2025.

Additional Details

• Psychometric Assessments: Inspired by NCERT’s ‘Tamanna’, TALASH provides aptitude tests that help students identify their interests, abilities, and potential. Based on these results, students receive Career Cards suggesting suitable career options.
• Career Counselling: The initiative offers structured career guidance, enabling students to make informed decisions aligned with their strengths and aspirations.
• Life Skills & Self-Esteem Modules: TALASH includes interactive modules that teach essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and self-confidence.
• E-Learning for Teachers: A dedicated online portal is available for teacher training and resources, enhancing their ability to mentor students effectively. So far, 189 teachers from 75 EMRSs have been trained to lead school-level sessions.

This initiative represents a significant step towards empowering tribal youth through education, ensuring they acquire the necessary skills for personal and professional success.

Aiding India’s Progress with Choice, Control, and Capital

Why in News?

The recent observance of World Population Day on July 11, 2025, has sparked renewed discussions surrounding global and national strategies focused on empowering youth, reproductive rights, and the implications of declining fertility rates. The theme for this year emphasizes the importance of empowering young people to create the families they desire, highlighting the need for informed reproductive choices and improved access to health, education, and economic opportunities, particularly for India's vast youth population.

Key Takeaways

• India's youth population, numbering over 371 million aged 15-29, represents the largest demographic of its kind globally.
• Empowering youth can significantly enhance national productivity, potentially adding up to $1 trillion to India's GDP by 2030.
• Barriers such as limited access to family planning services, socio-cultural norms, and economic insecurity impede reproductive autonomy and choices.

Additional Details

• Reproductive Autonomy: Limited access to modern contraceptives and comprehensive sexual education has led to significant gaps in reproductive healthcare. For instance, the UNFPA reports that 36% of Indian adults have faced unintended pregnancies, indicating systemic healthcare access problems.
• Socio-cultural Barriers: Cultural norms, including early marriages and patriarchal attitudes, restrict young women’s independent fertility decisions. Child marriage rates, although declining, remain a concern at 23.3% according to NFHS-5 data.
• Economic Constraints: Financial limitations and lack of childcare options hinder couples from achieving their desired family size, with surveys indicating that 38% cite financial insecurity as a barrier.
• Programs aimed at empowering women, like Project Udaan in Rajasthan, have successfully reduced child marriage by promoting girls' education.
• Engaging communities in behavior change strategies has proven effective in challenging harmful gender norms and supporting girls' education and economic participation.

In conclusion, the focus on empowering women and youth through education, health services, and economic opportunities is essential for fostering reproductive autonomy and addressing the challenges posed by declining fertility rates in India. This empowerment will not only allow individuals to make informed choices but will also contribute significantly to the nation’s overall development and demographic dividend.

Biomarkers of Healthy Aging, Resilience, Adversity, and Transitions (BHARAT)

Why in News?

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru has initiated a groundbreaking project called BHARAT, which aims to investigate the biological, lifestyle, and environmental factors that contribute to aging in India.

Key Takeaways

• The project is a national research initiative led by IISc, Bengaluru.
• Its primary goal is to establish India's first scientific baseline for understanding how Indians age.
• It aims to provide India-specific data, addressing gaps in global aging research.
• BHARAT will redefine health standards that may inaccurately assess Indian health parameters.
• Focus is on biomarkers of biological aging rather than chronological age for early disease detection.

Additional Details

• India-Centric Baseline: The project will develop a database of reference biomarker cut-offs tailored to the unique genetics, diet, and lifestyle of the Indian population.
• Wide Biomarker Range: It will include genomic, metabolic, and environmental indicators to monitor organ aging and resilience early.
• AI-Driven Analysis: Machine learning tools will be utilized to identify aging patterns and predict health risks.
• Holistic Ageing Model: The study will consider factors such as nutrition, pollution, infections, and social influences impacting aging.
• Equity for Global South: The project seeks to rectify global biases that misdiagnose Indian health by using locally validated data.
• Healthspan Focus: The emphasis is on enhancing the quality of life rather than merely extending lifespan.

This initiative is crucial for improving our understanding of aging in the Indian context and is expected to lead to significant advancements in public health and policy.