UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 12th August 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS1/History & Culture

Vitthal Rukhmini Temple

Why in News?

A recent language row has emerged at the renowned Vitthal-Rukhmini temple in Pandharpur, highlighting ongoing cultural and linguistic tensions in the region.

Key Takeaways

• The temple is located in Pandharpur, Maharashtra, along the banks of the Bhima River, also known as Chandrabhaga.
• It is dedicated to Lord Vithoba, a form of Lord Vishnu or Krishna, and his consort Rukhmini.
• Classified as one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams of the Vaishnavate tradition.

Additional Details

• Historical Significance: The temple was built by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire between 1108 and 1152 CE, inspired by the great devotee Pundalik.
• An inscription from Hoysala King Vira Someshwara, dating back to 1237 CE, granted the temple a village for its maintenance.
• The extensive temple structure was constructed in the second half of the 13th century following the Hemadpanti architectural style.
• The temple was attacked and severely damaged multiple times, with the current structure built in the 17th century in the Deccan style featuring dome motifs and lobed arches, supported by contributions from the Peshwas of Pune, the Shindes of Gwalior, and the Holkars of Indore.
• Notably, the temple became the first shrine in India to welcome individuals from backward categories as priests in 2014.

The Vitthal Rukhmini Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a focal point of cultural and social developments in Maharashtra, reflecting the evolving dynamics of faith and community.

GS1/Indian Society

Dhirio-Bull Fighting

Why in News?

Recently, legislators from various political parties in the Goa Assembly have called for the legalization of bull fighting, a local tradition known as Dhirio.

Key Takeaways

• Dhirio is an integral aspect of Goa's cultural heritage.
• The event is traditionally held after the harvest season.
• It has a long-standing history, dating back to the Portuguese era.

Additional Details

• About Dhirio: Bull fighting, referred to as dhirio or dhiri, is a popular event in Goa. It takes place in paddy fields and football grounds, where village shepherds bring their bulls to compete.
• These events are a significant part of local festivities, often being included in church festivals where villagers gather to watch.
• A typical bull fight involves two bulls charging at each other, locking horns, and engaging in head-butting while trainers provoke them from behind.
• Current Status: In 1997, the High Court directed the state to take immediate action to ban all forms of animal fighting, including dhirios.

This ongoing debate reflects the cultural significance of bull fighting in Goa, as advocates argue for its preservation against legal challenges.

GS2/Governance

Khelo India ASMITA Football League 2025-26

Why in News?

The Khelo India ASMITA Football League for the year 2025-26 was recently inaugurated by the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, marking a significant step towards promoting women's sports in India.

Key Takeaways

• The Khelo India ASMITA initiative aims to inspire women and increase their participation in sports.
• The league is part of the broader Khelo Bharat Niti, focusing on sports development and women's empowerment.
• This year, 852 ASMITA leagues are planned across 15 sports disciplines, targeting over 70,000 women athletes.

Additional Details

• Khelo India ASMITA: A program designed to promote gender equality in sports, encouraging greater involvement of women through various leagues and competitions.
• Objective: To foster inclusive and grassroots-driven sports development, providing a dedicated platform for young girls.
• The initiative aims to challenge historical imbalances in women's sports and to identify new talent across India.
• The program is supported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and involves collaboration with National Sports Federations.

This initiative is pivotal in changing the perception of women in sports, encouraging them to break stereotypes and emerge as new role models in the sporting arena.

GS3/Science and Technology

What is Pneumococcal Disease?

Why in News?

Pneumococcal disease has gained attention due to the recent launch of Pfizer's next-generation 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) in India. This vaccine aims to protect against 20 serotypes of pneumococcus, which are responsible for a significant proportion of pneumococcal diseases.

Key Takeaways

• Pneumococcal disease encompasses a variety of illnesses caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae.
• The disease can lead to mild infections, such as ear infections, as well as severe conditions like pneumonia and meningitis.
• Young children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to pneumococcal infections, especially in developing regions.
• Approximately one million children die from pneumococcal disease annually worldwide.

Additional Details

• Pneumococcus: This bacterium is encapsulated and possesses a polysaccharide capsule, which is crucial for its virulence.
• Transmission: Pneumococci are primarily spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions from infected individuals or healthy carriers.
• Treatment: Management typically involves the use of antibiotics, while vaccines can significantly lower the risk of infection, particularly in at-risk populations.
• Resistance Issues: There is a growing concern regarding pneumococcal resistance to antimicrobial treatments, which poses a serious public health challenge.

In conclusion, pneumococcal disease remains a critical global health issue, and the introduction of effective vaccines like PCV20 is essential for reducing its impact, especially among vulnerable groups.

GS3/Science and Technology

Tritium and Its Impact on Ocean Waters

Why in News?

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Tokyo and Fukushima University has concluded that the release of tritium wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant has a minimal impact on ocean waters.

Key Takeaways

• Tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen.
• It occurs naturally and can also be produced through human activities.
• The recent study affirms the safety of tritium wastewater release.

Additional Details

• Tritium: Tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen that contains the same number of protons and electrons as hydrogen but has two neutrons, making it unstable and radioactive.
• Natural Production: Tritium is formed naturally through the interaction of cosmic rays with gases in the upper atmosphere.
• Human Production: It can be produced during nuclear weapon explosions and in reactors designed to create tritium for weapons.
• Physical Properties: Tritium is a colorless and odorless gas with a half-life of 12.3 years. It can easily move through the environment in liquid form.
• Environmental Presence: Tritium exists in very low concentrations in the environment.

Uses of Tritium

• Glow-in-the-Dark Lighting: Tritium can be combined with phosphor to create lighting solutions such as exit signs and emergency lights.
• Medical Applications: It is utilized as a tracer in biomedical research for diagnosing conditions like heart disease, cancer, and AIDS.
• Electricity Generation: Tritium may also be harnessed for electricity generation in fusion reactors.

In conclusion, the research indicates that while tritium is a radioactive substance, its release from the Fukushima plant poses little risk to ocean health, affirming the safety measures in place.

GS2/Governance

Reviving Civic Engagement in Health Governance

Why in News?

Recent initiatives in Indian states, such as Tamil Nadu's Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam scheme and Karnataka's Gruha Arogya scheme, aim to deliver healthcare services directly to citizens' homes. While these programs are significant for enhancing health care access, they prompt a critical question: How can citizens effectively engage with and influence health governance even as services reach their doorsteps?

Key Takeaways

• India's health governance has become a complex ecosystem involving various stakeholders beyond the government.
• Meaningful public engagement is essential for affirming dignity and promoting democratic principles.
• Citizen participation enhances accountability and service delivery in health governance.

Additional Details

• Citizen Engagement: Engaging citizens in health governance is crucial as it empowers them to shape decisions that impact their health.
• Tangible Benefits: Inclusive participation leads to strengthened accountability, challenges corruption, enhances collaboration with healthcare workers, and builds trust within communities.
• Existing Frameworks: The National Rural Health Mission has institutionalized community participation, but challenges remain, including irregular meetings and weak coordination.
• Structural Barriers: Policymakers often perceive citizens as passive recipients, hindering active participation.

To achieve effective health governance, a shift in mindset is necessary, recognizing the value of participatory processes. By empowering communities and treating them as equal partners, India can transform health governance from a top-down approach to a more democratic and inclusive model.

GS2/Polity

A Court Ruling With No Room for Gender Justice

Why in News?

In July 2025, the Supreme Court of India made a significant ruling in the case of Shivangi Bansal vs Sahib Bansal, which has raised concerns regarding the suspension of arrests under Section 498-A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Critics argue that this decision undermines criminal justice and gender equality, particularly for women facing domestic violence.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court endorsed a two-month "cool-off" period before arrests in cases under Section 498-A.
• This ruling is perceived as a risk to the safety of complainants and may discourage victims from reporting domestic violence.
• Concerns over the "misuse" narrative of Section 498-A lack empirical evidence and may lead to erosion of women's protections.

Additional Details

• Section 498-A IPC: This law penalizes cruelty against women by their husbands or relatives, including dowry harassment and acts that may lead to suicide or injury. It was introduced in 1983 to combat domestic violence.
• The Supreme Court's endorsement of a "cool-off" period means that police cannot arrest accused individuals for two months, even with substantial evidence of serious offenses.
• The perception of misuse of Section 498-A has been reflected in several court rulings, but these judgments often lack comprehensive empirical support.
• Low conviction rates, cited as around 18% according to NCRB 2022 data, do not necessarily indicate misuse but may reflect systemic challenges in investigating domestic violence cases.
• Despite claims of misuse, the National Family Health Survey indicates significant under-reporting of violence against women, suggesting that greater legal awareness may be driving reported cases up.

The Supreme Court's recent ruling may hinder women's access to justice by creating barriers to immediate legal recourse in cases of domestic violence. By placing disproportionate scrutiny on certain criminal provisions, the ruling risks undermining the integrity of the criminal justice system.

GS1/Geography

Key Facts about Bhagirathi River

Why in News?

A significant cloudburst event in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand has led to the formation of a water body resembling a lake, stretching over a kilometer on the Bhagirathi River near Harsil. This situation has prompted authorities to initiate urgent drainage operations to manage the water levels.

Key Takeaways

• The Bhagirathi River is one of the two primary headstreams of the Ganges River, the other being the Alaknanda.
• According to Hindu mythology, Bhagirathi is regarded as the source stream of the Ganges, whereas hydrological studies identify Alaknanda as the true source due to its flow and length.
• The river originates from the Gaumukh Glacier, located at the base of the Khatling and Gangotri Glaciers in the Garhwal Himalayas.
• Major tributaries of the Bhagirathi include Kedar Ganga, Jadh Ganga, and Asi Ganga.
• The river joins the Alaknanda at Devprayag, where they collectively flow as the Ganges River towards the Bay of Bengal.

Additional Details

• Religious Significance: The confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers is a sacred site in Hindu mythology and forms a vital part of the Panch Prayag Yatra, which includes visits to the five holy confluences of Uttarakhand: Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Nandprayag, Karnaprayag, and Vishnuprayag.
• The banks of the Bhagirathi are home to numerous sacred cities and sites, including Gangotri, which is recognized as one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
• Major dams on the river include Maneri Dam, Koteshwar Dam, and Tehri Dam.

The Bhagirathi River not only plays a crucial role in the hydrology of the region but also holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for millions, making it an essential topic of study.

GS2/Polity

National Sports Governance and Anti-Doping Bills Passed by Lok Sabha

Why in News?

The Lok Sabha has successfully passed two significant pieces of legislation: the National Sports Governance Bill 2025 and the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill 2025. This marks a crucial shift in India's sports governance and anti-doping measures.

Key Takeaways

• The reforms are considered the largest sports reform initiative since India's independence.
• These bills aim to enhance transparency, accountability, and performance in the sports sector as India prepares to bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics.

Additional Details

• National Sports Governance Bill 2025: This bill aims to transform the administration of sports in India by establishing new governing bodies such as the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee. It introduces the National Sports Board (NSB), which will monitor national sports federations and ensure compliance with governance standards.
• National Sports Tribunal: A judicial body empowered to resolve disputes related to sports governance, ensuring that decisions can only be challenged in the Supreme Court.
• Accountability Measures: Federations receiving government funding will now be subject to the Right to Information (RTI) Act, promoting transparency, with specific exceptions like the BCCI.
• Leadership Provisions: Administrators aged between 70 and 75 may contest elections if allowed under international federation rules, a change from the previous age limit of 70 years.
• National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill 2025: This amendment aligns India’s anti-doping laws with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) standards, promoting operational independence for the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA).
• The National Anti-Doping Board will continue to exist but will not oversee NADA, ensuring adherence to global anti-doping norms.
• Strengthening India's commitment to international anti-doping standards while safeguarding athlete rights is a key objective of this amendment.

The passage of these bills signifies a crucial step towards reforming India's sports governance framework, aiming to enhance performance and accountability in sports. The successful implementation of these reforms will depend on effective enforcement and sustained investment in athlete development.

GS3/Environment

Recurring Monsoon Disasters in the Himalaya - Beyond Climate Change Narratives

Why in News?

The lower Himalayan states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are experiencing severe erosion and flash floods during the current monsoon season. While public perception often attributes these events directly to climate change, it is essential to consider historical patterns and local human activities, such as unplanned construction and poor land use, which significantly contribute to disaster vulnerability.

Key Takeaways

• Severe weather events are recurrent in the Himalayan region, influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors.
• Historical floods provide context for understanding current disasters beyond just climate change.
• Unplanned development and tourism pressures exacerbate the risks of flooding and erosion.

Additional Details

• Historical Precedence of Himalayan Disasters:Notable incidents include:
  • 2013 Kedarnath floods: Triggered by a glacial outburst due to excessive rain.
  • 2011 Assi Ganga floods near Uttarkashi: Resulted in significant damage to infrastructure.
  • 1970 and 1978 floods: Caused by landslides blocking minor tributaries, leading to catastrophic water surges.
  • 1880 Harsil flood: A significant flash flood event in the region.
• Structural and Environmental Vulnerabilities:The Himalayas are geologically young and unstable, facing risks such as hydrological extremes and seismic activity, compounded by human actions like:
  • Unplanned construction on riverbanks and in flood-prone areas.
  • Increased tourism pressure from ventures like Char Dham Yatra.
  • Urban encroachment in sensitive areas, despite existing regulations.
• Political and Administrative Factors: Issues include bureaucratic complacency and ineffective enforcement of land use regulations, leading to unsafe development practices.

In conclusion, addressing the risks associated with the fragile Himalayan ecosystem requires a shift from reactive disaster relief to proactive, science-based land-use planning that prioritizes ecological security over unchecked development. Integrating resilient infrastructure, regulating tourism, and fostering community participation can help transform the region into a model of sustainable mountain governance.

GS2/Polity

Google vs CCI: Implications for India’s Digital Market

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court has accepted Alphabet Inc.'s appeal against a judgment from the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) which partly upheld the findings of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) regarding Google's abuse of dominance in the Android ecosystem through anti-competitive practices. The Court also accepted related petitions from the CCI and the Alliance Digital India Foundation (ADIF), a coalition of Indian startups opposing the dominance of Big Tech.

Key Takeaways

• The CCI initiated an investigation against Google in 2020 following complaints from app developers about its dominance.
• In 2022, the CCI found Google engaged in multiple anti-competitive practices, resulting in significant penalties.
• The NCLAT's partial ruling in 2023 upheld some of the CCI's findings but reduced the penalty imposed on Google.
• The Supreme Court's forthcoming ruling could have far-reaching implications for India's digital market.

Additional Details

• CCI's Case Against Google: The CCI's investigation found that Google imposed mandatory use of its Google Play Billing System (GPBS) on app developers, compelling them to pay commissions ranging from 15-30%. This was seen as limiting fair competition.
• Preferential Treatment: YouTube was exempted from using GPBS, giving it a cost advantage over its competitors, which raised concerns about fairness in the market.
• Bundling of Apps: Smartphone manufacturers were required to pre-install Google apps like Search, Chrome, and YouTube to access the Play Store, restricting consumer choice and stifling innovation from alternative providers.
• The CCI imposed a fine of ₹936.44 crore on Google and issued directives regarding transparency in billing and the use of billing data.
• Google defended its practices by stating that they were aimed at enhancing user experience and ensuring security within the Android ecosystem, claiming that Android is open-source.

The ruling from the Supreme Court is anticipated to significantly influence the dynamics of India's digital market, affecting consumers, smartphone manufacturers, startups, and Google itself. A favorable ruling for the CCI could lead to a more competitive environment, potentially increasing app choices and reducing prices for consumers, whereas a ruling in favor of Google might maintain the status quo.

GS1/Indian Society

Kerala’s Muthuvan Tribe

Why in News?

The Muthuvan Adivasi Samudaya Sangam has organized a convention to commemorate the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, highlighting the cultural and social issues faced by the Muthuvan community.

Key Takeaways

• The Muthuvan tribe is recognized as a Scheduled Tribe (ST) in the Anaimalai Hills, spanning Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• They have a population of approximately 15,000 to 25,000 and are among the least educated tribes in Kerala.

Additional Details

• Location: The Muthuvan tribe primarily resides in the Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur districts of Kerala, as well as parts of Tamil Nadu.
• Etymology: The name "Muthuvan" translates to "one who carries weight on the back," a reference to their historical migration from Madurai with children and royal burdens.
• Origins: The tribe's roots can be traced back to the Pandya Kingdom and they are divided into two dialect groups: Malayalam Muthuvan and Pandi Muthuvan.
• Settlements: They live in "Kudis," which are traditional homes constructed from reeds, leaves, and mud, located deep within the hill forests.
• Governance: The tribal community is organized under a Kani System (village headman) and Chavadis (dormitories for unmarried youth).
• Language: The Muthuvan language is a Tamil-related dialect that is currently endangered, with efforts underway for its preservation.
• Livelihood: Traditionally engaged in shifting cultivation known as "Virippukrishi," they now cultivate cardamom, ginger, pepper, and lemongrass.
• Religion: Their spiritual beliefs encompass animism and spirit worship, with significant reverence for Subramanya and other Hindu deities.
• Customs: The tribe practices matrilineal descent, follows endogamy within the tribe, and exogamy between clans; they also have strong traditions of collective eating, known as "koodithinnuthu," and extensive knowledge of herbal medicine.
• Culture: The Muthuvan people are recognized for their distinct attire and strong ecological ethics, emphasizing harmonious coexistence with forest and wildlife.
• Festivals: The main cultural celebration is Thai Pongal, which serves both religious and harvest purposes.

The Muthuvan tribe exemplifies the rich cultural heritage and unique social structures among India’s indigenous communities, and their ongoing struggles for recognition and rights are critical to understanding the broader context of Scheduled Tribes in India.