UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 5th August 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/International Relations

India–U.S. Trade Friction Escalates Amid Russian Oil Dealings

Why in News?

Recent tensions in India-U.S. economic relations have escalated following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of significant tariff increases on Indian imports. This decision is primarily attributed to India's continued purchases of oil from Russia, which the U.S. perceives as problematic. India has responded firmly, calling the tariffs "unjustified and unreasonable," emphasizing its energy security needs amidst ongoing global geopolitical complexities.

Key Takeaways

• Trump's tariff hikes are a response to India's oil imports from Russia.
• India defends its energy security, highlighting Western countries' continued trade with Russia.
• This situation poses challenges for India's foreign policy and economic strategy.

Additional Details

• Tariffs: A tariff is a tax imposed by a government on imported goods, raising costs for consumers and potentially protecting domestic industries. However, it may also lead to retaliation and higher prices.
• Sectors Likely to be Affected:
  • Pharmaceuticals: India’s major generic drug exports to the U.S. may face price increases.
  • Metals and Engineering Goods: Steel and aluminum sectors are particularly vulnerable.
  • Textiles and Apparel: This sector operates on thin margins and could be heavily impacted.
  • IT Services: While not directly affected, broader trade tensions could have indirect repercussions.
  • Petrochemicals: India's refining of Russian crude may come under scrutiny.
  • Defence: Strategic relations may be strained, affecting high-tech transfers.
  • Startups: New tech collaborations might slow down due to deteriorating relations.
• Reasons for U.S. Tariff Imposition:
  • Allegations of India purchasing large volumes of Russian oil.
  • High Indian tariffs and non-tariff barriers limiting U.S. goods access.
  • Concerns over India’s defense and energy cooperation with Russia.
• India’s Stance:
  • India argues that its oil purchases from Russia were necessary due to supply disruptions from traditional sources.
  • The U.S. previously encouraged these imports to stabilize global markets.
  • India points out that Western nations continue to trade with Russia in various sectors.

This situation is a critical test for India's balancing act between maintaining strategic autonomy and navigating economic pragmatism. As global economic nationalism rises, India must carefully assert its right to energy security while preserving essential trade relationships. A multi-faceted approach, including bilateral negotiations and diversification of trade partnerships, will be crucial moving forward.

GS2/Polity

A Crisis of Trust in Electoral Democracy: The Need for a Transparent and Impartial Election Commission

Why in News?

Recent allegations regarding the conduct of elections in India have raised significant concerns about the credibility of the Election Commission of India (ECI). Prominent political figures, including Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav, have questioned the neutrality and transparency of the ECI following the 2024 general elections. This situation underscores a critical issue: can India's democracy thrive without public trust in its electoral processes? The integrity and accountability of the ECI are fundamental to maintaining democratic legitimacy.

Key Takeaways

• Electoral credibility is essential for democratic legitimacy.
• Public trust erodes if elections are perceived as biased or manipulated.
• Transparency from electoral bodies is crucial to avoid crises of trust.

Additional Details

• Discrepancies in Voter Rolls: Allegations have emerged regarding significant inconsistencies in the electoral rolls, with claims of missing names affecting voters, such as Tejashwi Yadav in Bihar.
• Opacity in VVPAT Functioning: Concerns have been raised about the transparency of the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT), which is essential for ensuring the integrity of electronic voting machines (EVMs).
• Arbitrary VVPAT Tallying: The process of tallying VVPAT slips with EVM results has been criticized for its discretionary nature, which diminishes public confidence.
• ECI’s Defensive Posture: The ECI has largely dismissed allegations of tampering and advised political parties to present objections at a later time, which has not alleviated public concerns.
• Impact on Indian Democracy: A lack of visible impartiality can undermine public trust in democratic institutions, affecting citizen engagement, voter turnout, and social cohesion.
• Calls for Reforms: There is a growing demand for judicial oversight of ECI decisions and reforms in the appointment process for Election Commissioners to enhance independence and transparency.

In conclusion, the strength of India’s electoral democracy relies heavily on the public's belief in its fairness. The Election Commission, as a constitutional guardian, must uphold not only legal compliance but also institutional credibility and democratic trust. A significant recalibration is essential—this is necessary not just for politicians and political parties, but fundamentally for the citizen-voter, who remains the ultimate stakeholder in India's democratic process.

GS3/Environment

Pollution Control can Levy Environmental Damages: Supreme Court Ruling

Why in News?

A landmark ruling by the Supreme Court of India has granted Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) the authority to impose and collect restitutionary and compensatory damages under the Water and Air Acts. This decision is pivotal in enhancing the enforcement of environmental protection standards across the country.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court has empowered PCBs to impose and collect damages related to environmental harm.
• PCBs can demand bank guarantees in anticipation of potential environmental damage.

Additional Details

• Legal Basis:The ruling is grounded in:
  • Section 33A of the Water Act, 1974: Grants authority to direct the closure or regulation of industries that violate water pollution norms.
  • Section 31A of the Air Act, 1981: Provides similar powers to control air pollution, with non-compliance recognized as a legal violation.
• Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB): Established in September 1974 under the Water Act, the CPCB is a statutory technical body responsible for promoting clean air and water. It operates under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
• Key Functions of CPCB:
  • Control and abate water and air pollution; promote cleanliness of streams and wells.
  • Advise the Central Government on pollution-related issues.
  • Coordinate with State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and resolve disputes.
  • Monitor pollution in Union Territories through powers delegated under relevant Acts.
  • Develop and revise National Ambient Air Quality Standards and Water Quality Criteria.
• State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs): Formed by State Governments, these boards monitor and control local pollution, enforce compliance, and conduct awareness campaigns.

This ruling emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in environmental governance, enabling PCBs to take decisive actions against pollution and thereby enhancing the protection of natural resources in India.

GS3/Economy

Ethanol Blending - A Cleaner Step with Mileage and Maintenance Trade-offs

Why in News?

Amid the nationwide rollout of E20 fuel, concerns over reduced mileage and vehicle damage due to ethanol's corrosive nature and lower energy content have emerged.

Key Takeaways

• India has successfully rolled out E20 fuel, blending petrol with 20% ethanol, five years ahead of the 2030 target.
• The transition supports energy security, helps sugarcane farmers, and reduces crude oil imports.
• Concerns about fuel efficiency and vehicle maintenance have been raised among vehicle owners and experts.

Additional Details

• Ethanol Blending Policy: Ethanol, derived from sugarcane and other biomass, reduces carbon emissions and dependency on imported fossil fuels. The government's Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, launched in 2003, achieved a 10% ethanol blending (E10) milestone in 2022, with E20 rollout completed in 2025.
• Environmental and Economic Gains: The E20 program is expected to reduce India's crude oil import bill by over Rs. 50,000 crore annually and significantly cut carbon dioxide emissions. It also benefits farmers by increasing demand for sugarcane.
• Mileage Concerns: Ethanol contains about 30% less energy than petrol, potentially leading to increased fuel consumption. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas estimates a mileage loss of 1-2% for E10-designed vehicles and 3-6% for others. However, independent experts suggest real-world losses could be as high as 6-7% for non-optimized vehicles.
• Corrosion and Maintenance Issues: Ethanol's hygroscopic nature can lead to corrosion of metal components and degradation of rubber and plastic parts in vehicles not designed for E20. Major automobile manufacturers are responding by producing E20-compatible models and updating service advisories.
• Future Outlook: Discussions on higher blends like E30 or E40 are underway, but concerns about infrastructure, vehicle retrofitting, and consumer awareness need to be addressed before expansion.

The rollout of E20 fuel presents both opportunities for environmental benefits and challenges for vehicle performance and maintenance, necessitating careful consideration by consumers and manufacturers alike.

GS3/Defence & Security

RS-28 Sarmat

Why in News?

The tensions between the United States and Russia have brought significant attention back to the RS-28 Sarmat Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), which is ominously referred to as 'Satan 2' by NATO.

Key Takeaways

• The RS-28 Sarmat is a new generation Intercontinental Ballistic Missile.
• It is named after the Sarmatian people who existed in the fourth and fifth century BC.
• It is also known in the West as “Satan II.”

Additional Details

• Features: The missile is a three-stage, liquid-fueled system with a remarkable range of 18,000 km.
• Weight: It has a launch weight exceeding 208 tonnes, making it the world's heaviest ICBM.
• Dimensions: The missile measures 35.3 meters in length and has a diameter of 3 meters.
• Speed: It can achieve a maximum speed of 25,500 kph (approximately Mach 20).
• Payload Capacity: It can carry a payload of up to 10 tons and is capable of loading various warhead options.
• Warhead Capability: The missile can deliver up to 16 independently targetable nuclear warheads, as well as Avangard hypersonic glide vehicles.
• Guidance System: Each warhead is equipped with its own guidance system utilizing inertial navigation, GLONASS (Russia’s Global Navigation Satellite System), and Astro-inertial technology to ensure accuracy.
• Launch Capability: While it can be launched in a conventional manner like other ICBMs, it is also believed to be capable of fractional orbital bombardment, which involves firing an ICBM into a low orbit around the Earth.
• Potential Destruction: The Sarmat is reported to have the potential to deliver warheads that are 2,000 times more powerful than the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.

This missile represents a significant advancement in strategic military capabilities and poses a serious threat in the context of global security dynamics.

GS2/Polity

Supreme Court Empowers Pollution Control Boards to Impose Environmental Compensation

Why in News?

The Supreme Court recently ruled that Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) have the authority to impose environmental compensation on polluting entities. This decision stems from their statutory mandate under the Water Act and Air Act, highlighting the need for proactive measures to prevent environmental harm.

Key Takeaways

• PCBs can demand restitutionary or compensatory damages through fixed monetary sums or bank guarantees.
• The Supreme Court overturned a previous ruling that restricted the imposition of penalties to the courts only.
• Compensation can only be levied when actual environmental damage has occurred or is imminent.

Additional Details

• Background of the Case: The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) challenged a 2012 Delhi High Court ruling that canceled its notices demanding compensation from properties lacking valid environmental consents.
• PCBs' Authority: The Supreme Court affirmed that PCBs can impose and collect compensatory damages for the restoration of polluted air and water under Sections 33A (Water Act, 1974) and 31A (Air Act, 1981).
• The court emphasized that compensation must be framed under subordinate legislation ensuring adherence to the principles of natural justice.
• Judicial Precedents: The ruling referenced landmark cases such as Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum (1996) which established that environmental restitution is a constitutional obligation.
• Polluter Pays Principle: This principle applies when environmental thresholds are breached, and even when potential risks are identified.

The Supreme Court's ruling significantly expands the powers of PCBs, enabling them to act proactively to prevent environmental harm. The decision underscores the importance of environmental protection in light of the ongoing climate crisis, linking the duties of PCBs to the state's constitutional obligations. The court noted that merely issuing injunctions is insufficient; effective remedial measures are essential for ecosystem restoration.

GS2/International Relations

Sahel Region and Russia's Influence

Why in News?

Recently, Russia has strengthened its presence in the Sahel region of West Africa by signing a significant nuclear agreement with Niger. This move highlights the geopolitical interests of Russia in this strategically important area.

Key Takeaways

• The Sahel is a semi-arid region situated in western and north-central Africa.
• It spans approximately 5,000 kilometers, extending from Africa’s Atlantic Coast to the Red Sea.
• The region serves as a transitional zone between the arid Sahara desert to the north and the humid savannas to the south.
• Countries within the Sahel include Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Chad, Sudan, and Eritrea.

Additional Details

• Vegetation:The Sahel is characterized by a semi-arid steppe ecosystem, primarily featuring dry grasslands. The vegetation is predominantly of the savanna type, with limited continuous cover, consisting of:
  • Low-growing grasses
  • Thorny shrubs
  • Scattered acacia and baobab trees
• Challenges: Since gaining independence in the 1960s, the Sahel has faced challenges such as:
  • Violent extremism linked to weak governance and economic decline
  • Adverse effects of climate change exacerbating living conditions
• The Sahel serves as a crucial transit hub for migrants traveling from sub-Saharan Africa towards northern coastal states and further into Europe.

In summary, the Sahel region remains a focal point for geopolitical interests and humanitarian challenges, making it an area of significant concern for international relations and security.

GS3/Environment

Reintroduction of the Asian Giant Tortoise

Why in News?

The Asian giant tortoise, recognized as the largest tortoise species in mainland Asia, has recently been successfully reintroduced into the Zeliang Community Reserve located in the Peren district of Nagaland. This initiative aims to enhance the conservation of this critically endangered species.

Key Takeaways

• The Asian Giant Tortoise (Manouria emys phayrei) holds the title of the largest tortoise in Asia.
• It represents one of the most ancient tortoise lineages globally, displaying unique behaviors similar to crocodilians, such as egg protection and temperature regulation during incubation.

Additional Details

• Appearance: Hatchlings exhibit a grayish-brown coloration, transitioning to a more charcoal hue as they reach adulthood.
• Habitat: This species thrives in tropical and subtropical hill forests.
• Distribution: It is found in various regions including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
• Diet: Their diet primarily consists of bamboo shoots, tubers, juicy vegetation, and occasionally includes invertebrates and frogs.
• Threats: Major threats to their survival include hunting for consumption, habitat destruction, and human activities such as construction and slash-and-burn practices.
• Conservation Status: Classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN and listed in CITES Appendix II.

The reintroduction of the Asian giant tortoise is a significant step towards preserving this remarkable species and its habitat, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in sustaining biodiversity.

GS2/Polity

Article 370 - Jammu & Kashmir Six Years After Abrogation

Why in News?

The abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, and the transformation of Jammu & Kashmir into a Union Territory (UT) were aimed at promoting national integration, development, and peace. Six years later, a critical review shows mixed outcomes in politics, security, economy, and tourism, alongside ongoing structural and governance challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Political developments show a mix of democratic revival and limited authority.
• Security improvements overshadowed by significant incidents like the Pahalgam attack.
• Economic growth seen through increased investments and revenue, but challenges persist.
• Tourism thrived despite security concerns, highlighting the region's fragility.

Additional Details

• Political Developments: The National Conference (NC) is leading a new elected government, indicating a return to democratic representation. However, key powers remain with the Lieutenant Governor, limiting the Chief Minister's authority. The government has pushed for statehood and reaffirmed special status, stirring tensions with the Centre.
• Security Improvements: There has been a significant decline in terrorism, with only 28 terrorists killed in 2025 compared to 67 in 2024. However, the Pahalgam attack, which resulted in 26 civilian deaths, exposed security gaps in tourism zones.
• Economic Growth: The region has attracted substantial industrial investments, with proposals totaling Rs 1.63 lakh crore. Tax revenues have increased significantly, with the state's GDP doubling from Rs 1.17 lakh crore in 2015-16 to Rs 2.63 lakh crore in 2024-25. However, core sectors like agriculture and industry underperform.
• Tourism Development: The record of 2.11 crore tourists in 2023 highlights a booming tourism sector, contributing 7% to GDP. Nevertheless, security incidents led to the temporary closure of several tourist sites.

In conclusion, six years after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu & Kashmir presents a complex landscape with notable gains in security and investment; however, challenges in political autonomy, fiscal sustainability, and private sector confidence remain. The recent Pahalgam attack underscores the need for a balance between security and development to achieve lasting integration and prosperity.

GS3/Economy

Sawalkote Hydro Project

Why in News?

The Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project is gaining attention as India asserts control over water resources in Jammu and Kashmir following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. This project is set to be the largest hydroelectric endeavor in the Union Territory.

Key Takeaways

• Location: Ramban and Udhampur districts, Jammu and Kashmir.
• River: Built on the Chenab River, classified as a western river under the Indus Waters Treaty.
• Implementing Agency: National Hydroelectric Power Corporation.
• Revival Context: The project was revived after the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty in response to the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack.
• Status (2025): Forest clearance is granted; tenders were floated on July 29, 2025; the project is declared a national importance initiative.
• Timeline: Expected to be commissioned by or after 2032, with a 96-month completion period post-clearance.

Additional Details

• Type: The project is a run-of-the-river hydroelectric system, which utilizes the natural flow and elevation drop of the river.
• Capacity: It is designed to have a capacity of 1,856 Megawatts, comprising eight units of 225 MW and one unit of 56 MW.
• Dam Specifications: The dam will be 192.5 meters high and constructed from roller-compacted concrete, with a reservoir capacity of 550 million cubic meters.
• Powerhouse: The powerhouse will be situated underground and will utilize Francis turbines for energy generation.
• Project Cost: The estimated cost of the project is ₹22,704.8 crore (approximately 2.6 billion United States Dollars).

The Sawalkote Hydro Project represents a significant step in India’s energy infrastructure, showcasing the country’s strategic initiatives in water management and energy production amidst geopolitical challenges.

GS3/Science and Technology

Seabuckthorn: The Wonder Plant of Cold Deserts

Why in News?

The seeds of seabuckthorn and buckwheat cultivated in the cold desert of Ladakh are currently part of experiments aboard the International Space Station conducted by NASA's Crew-11 mission.

Key Takeaways

• Seabuckthorn is often referred to as the 'Wonder Plant', 'Ladakh Gold', 'Golden Bush', or 'Gold Mine' of cold deserts.
• This plant species thrives in extreme temperatures and is notably drought-resistant.

Additional Details

• Distribution: Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is found across Europe and Asia, particularly in the Himalayan region of India, where it grows above the tree line in dry areas like Ladakh and Spiti.
• Characteristics: The plant produces small orange or yellow berries that are sour yet rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C. It can endure temperatures ranging from -43°C to 40°C and retains its berries during winter, making it resilient in harsh climates.
• Uses: Traditionally, every part of the seabuckthorn plant—fruit, leaves, twigs, roots, and thorns—has been utilized for various purposes such as medicine, nutritional supplements, fuel, and fencing. Furthermore, its berries provide food for numerous bird species during periods of food scarcity.
• The leaves serve as a protein-rich fodder for animals in cold desert regions, including sheep, goats, donkeys, cattle, and double-humped camels.

In summary, the seabuckthorn plant is not only vital for its ecological benefits but also holds significant cultural and nutritional value in the regions it grows, making it a key subject of study in space and terrestrial environments.

GS1/History & Culture

Mahabodhi Temple

Why in News?

The Supreme Court has agreed to review a petition aimed at repealing the Bodh Gaya Temple Act of 1949. The petition advocates for the establishment of a central law to improve the management of the Mahabodhi Temple located in Bihar.

Key Takeaways

• The Mahabodhi Temple is one of the four most sacred sites in Buddhism.
• The temple marks the spot where Buddha attained Enlightenment, known as Bodhi.
• The site also includes the Sacred Bodhi Tree, a direct descendant of the original tree.

Additional Details

• Location: The Mahabodhi Temple is situated in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, on the banks of the Niranjana River.
• Historical Significance: The first temple at this location was established by Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The current temple structure was constructed during the Gupta period in the 5th to 6th centuries AD. It is one of the earliest brick temples still standing in India.
• The temple underwent significant restoration in the 19th century, conducted by Myanmar Buddhists and British archaeologist Sir Alexander Cunningham.
• In 2002, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Architecture: The temple stands 180 feet (55 meters) tall and features a pyramid-shaped central tower known as a shikhara, adorned with multiple layers of niches and fine engravings. Four smaller towers are positioned at each corner of the two-story structure.
• Inside the temple, a yellow sandstone statue of the Buddha is encased in glass, while the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne) marks the exact spot of Buddha's meditation and enlightenment.
• Stone railings surround both the temple and the Sacred Bodhi Tree, and one of Ashoka’s famed pillars is located at the southeast corner of the temple.
• The entire complex spans 4.8 hectares, featuring ancient shrines as well as modern structures built by devotees.

The Mahabodhi Temple remains a vital pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world, symbolizing peace and enlightenment.