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

GS2/Polity

What is Psephology?

Why in News?

The Supreme Court has recently stayed criminal proceedings against psephologist Sanjay Kumar due to a social media post that discussed an incorrect analysis of the upcoming 2024 Maharashtra Assembly election.

Key Takeaways

• Psephology is a specialized branch of political science focused on the scientific analysis of elections and polls.
• Psephologists utilize various statistical tools to analyze voting data and predict election outcomes.

Additional Details

• Psephology: This field is dedicated to offering a meticulous quantitative analysis of elections, employing a range of instruments for statistical examination, including voting data, opinion polls, and campaign insights.
• Although India does not have a formal position titled 'Psephologist', major political parties often employ in-house analysts who perform similar roles. Several accomplished media editors and political analysts also contribute to this field.

Psephologists study electoral patterns by analyzing historical voting figures and public opinion polls, using statistical applications to forecast results in future elections. Their expertise is vital in understanding voter behavior and election dynamics.

GS3/Environment

Anamalai Tiger Reserve

Why in News?

A recent year-long study conducted by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has revealed that at least eight different species of fireflies contribute their bioluminescence to the forests of Anamalai Tiger Reserve.

Key Takeaways

• The Anamalai Tiger Reserve is located at an altitude of 1400 m in the Anamalai Hills, spanning the Pollachi and Coimbatore Districts.
• This protected area was designated a tiger reserve in 2007, highlighting its ecological significance.
• It features a rich diversity of vegetation, hosting various habitat types and flora.

Additional Details

• Location:The Anamalai Tiger Reserve is situated south of the Palakkad Gap in the Southern Western Ghats. It is bordered by:
  • Parambikulam Tiger Reserve to the east
  • Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Eravikulam National Park to the southwest
  • Several reserved forests of Kerala, including Nenmara, Vazhachal, Malayattur, and Marayur.
• Indigenous Communities: The reserve is home to six indigenous communities: Kadar, Muduvar, Malasar, Malai Malasar, Eravalar, and Pulayar.
• Vegetation:The area supports a variety of habitats, including:
  • Wet evergreen forests
  • Semi-evergreen forests
  • Moist and dry deciduous forests
  • Dry thorn and shola forests
  • Unique montane grasslands, savannah, and marshy grasslands.
• Flora:The reserve boasts a rich diversity of flora, including wild relatives of cultivated species such as:
  • Mango
  • Jackfruit
  • Wild plantain
  • Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
  • Turmeric
  • Pepper (Piper longum)
  • Cardamom
• Fauna:Key wildlife species found in the reserve include:
  • Tiger
  • Asiatic elephant
  • Sambar
  • Spotted deer
  • Barking deer
  • Jackal
  • Leopard
  • Jungle cat

The findings from the study underscore the ecological richness of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve and its importance in conserving biodiversity, particularly the unique firefly species.

GS1/History & Culture

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Why in News?

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is currently under public scrutiny due to the controversial transfer of archaeologist K. Amarnath Ramakrishna, raising questions about the organization's integrity and operations.

Key Takeaways

• The ASI is a key organization under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
• Established in 1861 by Sir Alexander Cunningham, ASI is headquartered in New Delhi.
• It became a statutory body under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 (AMASR Act).
• ASI manages the protection and maintenance of 3679 monuments and sites of national importance.

Additional Details

• Established Body: The ASI was founded in 1861 to oversee archaeological research and protect India's cultural heritage.
• Key Legislation: The organization operates under the AMASR Act and the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972, regulating archaeological activities across the country.
• Workforce: ASI employs a diverse team of trained professionals including archaeologists, conservators, and scientists to conduct research and preservation efforts.
• Operational Branches: The ASI has several branches, such as Excavation, Epigraphy, and Underwater Archaeology, which handle various aspects of archaeological work.

The ASI plays a crucial role in safeguarding India's archaeological heritage, but recent controversies highlight the challenges it faces in maintaining its credibility and effectiveness in this vital mission.

GS3/Defence & Security

INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri Commissioning

Why in News?

The Indian Navy is poised to enhance its fleet with the commissioning of the latest Project 17A multi-mission stealth frigates, INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam on 26 August 2025. This event marks a significant milestone in India's naval capabilities and shipbuilding achievements.

Key Takeaways

• The frigates are part of the Project 17 (Shivalik) class, showcasing advanced naval technology.
• INS Udaygiri is constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL), while INS Himgiri is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE).
• Both vessels were designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB).

Additional Details

• Propulsion System: The ships are equipped with modern Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion systems that enhance operational efficiency.
• Indigenous Content: Approximately 75% of the ships' components are sourced from local manufacturers, demonstrating a commitment to the Government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defense.
• Udaygiri also holds the record as the fastest ship of its class to be delivered post-launch, attributed to innovative modular construction techniques.

The commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri is expected to significantly boost the combat readiness of the Indian Navy and underscores India's strategic focus on self-reliance in warship design and manufacturing.

GS2/Polity

Vithalbhai Patel and the Legacy of India’s Legislative Traditions

Why in News?

The Delhi Assembly recently hosted a two-day All India Speakers’ Conference to commemorate the centenary of Vithalbhai Patel becoming the first Indian President of the Central Legislative Assembly, which is the precursor to today’s Parliament.

Key Takeaways

• Vithalbhai Patel was a prominent figure in India’s legislative history.
• He played a crucial role in establishing the authority of the Speaker in the legislative process.
• His contributions to the freedom struggle were significant, especially in advocating for international support for India’s cause.

Additional Details

• Early Life: Vithalbhai Jhaverbhai Patel (1873–1933) was the elder brother of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He was a trained lawyer who studied law in England and practiced in Bombay.
• Political Career: He served as a member of the Bombay Legislative Council in 1912 and the Imperial Legislative Council in 1918. He was elected in 1924 from Bombay city and became the first Indian President of the Central Legislative Assembly in 1925, akin to today’s Lok Sabha Speaker under British rule.
• His Political Legacy: Vithalbhai co-founded the Swaraj Party in 1923 with notable leaders like Motilal Nehru and Chittaranjan Das, opposing Gandhi's suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement.
• Strengthening Speaker’s Authority: He asserted that the Assembly President (Speaker) had paramount authority, even over the Viceroy within the House.
• Parliamentary Security: He insisted that Assembly security remain under the Speaker’s control, a policy that continued until 2024 when the CISF took over responsibilities.
• Independent Parliament Secretariat: He established a system where staff reported only to the Speaker, ensuring independence from executive interference.
• Institution Builder: With support from leaders like Motilal Nehru and Lala Lajpat Rai, he contributed to creating a separate Legislative Assembly Department in 1929.
• Freedom Struggle Role: He was a critic of the Gandhian withdrawal strategy and collaborated abroad with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose to garner international support for India's cause.
• Controversial Will: He left part of his wealth to support Bose’s political work, but this decision was later overturned in court after a challenge from his family.

Vithalbhai Patel's contributions to India’s legislative framework and his role in the freedom struggle are pivotal in understanding the evolution of India’s parliamentary system. His legacy continues to influence the functioning of the legislature in contemporary India.

GS2/Polity

Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0

Why in News?

The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025 has been introduced in the Lok Sabha as a continuation of the government's efforts to decriminalise and rationalise laws. This is the second iteration of the Jan Vishwas Bill, following the first one in 2023, which aimed to decriminalise 183 provisions across 42 Acts.

Key Takeaways

• Introduced in Lok Sabha in August 2025 as the second Jan Vishwas reform.
• Seeks to amend 16 Central Acts spanning 10 ministries/departments.
• Builds upon the Jan Vishwas Act of 2023, which decriminalised 183 provisions.
• Aims to enhance trust-based governance and improve ease of living and doing business.
• Currently under review by a Lok Sabha Select Committee.

Additional Details

• Scope: The Bill proposes amendments to 355 provisions, with 288 decriminalised due to technical and procedural defaults and 67 rationalised for better ease of living.
• Acts covered: Includes significant legislation such as the RBI Act (1934), Drugs & Cosmetics Act (1940), Motor Vehicles Act (1988), Electricity Act (2003), and others.
• First-time Offences: Introduces a "warning" and "improvement notice" for 76 offences, such as minor violations of the Motor Vehicles Act.
• Decriminalisation: Removes imprisonment clauses for minor defaults, replacing them with fines or warnings. For instance, in the Electricity Act, imprisonment is substituted with fines ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹10 lakh.
• Penalty Rationalisation: Establishes an automatic 10% increase in penalties every three years for repeat offences, ensuring deterrence without overburdening the judiciary.

The introduction of this Bill addresses the over-criminalisation of Indian laws, where 882 central laws contain criminal provisions for over 7,305 offences, many of which are trivial or outdated. The Bill aims to reduce fear among entrepreneurs due to excessive legal repercussions, thereby promoting business growth and aligning with the governance reform agenda of the current administration.

GS2/Polity

Key Features of Online Gaming Act 2025

Why in the News?

The Indian Parliament has passed the Online Gaming Act 2025, which aims to regulate the growing digital gaming industry by banning Real Money Games (RMGs) while promoting e-sports and social gaming through a structured framework. This legislation responds to rising concerns regarding addiction, fraud, and economic losses associated with RMGs.

Key Takeaways

• The Act categorizes online games into e-sports, social gaming, and RMGs.
• Real Money Games are banned entirely, including related advertisements and endorsements.
• Stringent penalties are imposed for violations, focusing on operators rather than players.
• The Act aims to promote safe online gaming ecosystems and support e-sports through government funding.

Additional Details

• Classification of Online Games:The Act distinguishes between three categories:
  • E-sports: Recognized competitive video games with prize pools, such as Call of Duty and Grand Theft Auto.
  • Social Gaming: Games played for recreational or educational purposes, typically without monetary stakes.
  • Real Money Games: Games involving money, credits, or tokens, like Poker and Fantasy Cricket, are banned.
• Penalties and Enforcement:
  • Offering RMGs can lead to up to three years of imprisonment or a fine of Rs. 1 crore.
  • Unlawful advertisements may incur two years of imprisonment or a fine of Rs. 50 lakh.
• Government Oversight: CERT-IN is authorized to disable non-compliant apps, and collaborations with Interpol are planned to address offshore operators.
• Rationale for Legislation: The Act is a proactive response to issues such as addiction, financial fraud, tax evasion, and potential links to terrorism funding.
• Legal Challenges: The Act faces scrutiny regarding the classification of games and jurisdictional overlaps with state laws.

The Online Gaming Act 2025 represents a significant regulatory shift in India's gaming landscape, aiming to balance innovation with public safety. By supporting e-sports and social gaming while cracking down on RMGs, the government seeks to create a safer gaming environment.

GS1/Indian Society

Understanding India’s Internal Diasporas

Why in News?

The concept of 'diaspora' has evolved significantly since the High-Level Committee on the Indian Diaspora report (2001-02). While much attention has been given to India's international diaspora, estimated at over 30 million, the term must also encompass internal migrants, reflecting a broader understanding of diasporic experiences that cross significant cultural boundaries within the nation.

Key Takeaways

• Internal diasporas encompass historical and recent migrations that create lasting cultural and linguistic communities.
• Research indicates that India's internal diaspora exceeds 100 million, surpassing the international diaspora in scale.
• Language preservation is a key aspect of diasporic identities, although it tends to weaken over generations.

Additional Details

• Internal Diaspora: This refers to the movement of people within India that creates diverse cultural identities, such as the presence of over 60,000 Gujarati speakers in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, despite few recorded migrants.
• There are significant clusters of communities, such as the Telugu diaspora in West Bengal and Maharashtra, which highlight the deep-rooted connections formed through internal migration.
• Communities sustain their identities through associations and festivals, such as Bengali groups celebrating Durga Puja and Gujarati Samaj organizing cultural events.
• Challenges of integration and intergenerational conflicts are evident in both internal and international migration scenarios.
• Viewing diasporas through the lens of linguistic dispersion reveals the interconnectedness of Indian communities, with internal migration often preceding international migration.

In conclusion, India's internal diaspora is a vital aspect of its cultural and linguistic landscape, representing a significant population that shapes customs, cuisines, and cultures both within the country and abroad. Understanding these internal movements is crucial for a comprehensive view of the Indian diaspora experience.

GS3/Environment

Vaquita Conservation Efforts and Challenges

Why in News?

A recent report by the North American Environmental Commission has highlighted Mexico's inadequate measures to protect the critically endangered vaquita porpoise, with alarming estimates indicating that only ten individuals remain in the wild.

Key Takeaways

• The vaquita is the smallest porpoise species, making it the most endangered marine mammal globally.
• Its habitat is primarily limited to the northern Gulf of California, where it thrives in shallow waters rich in fish and shrimp.
• Current conservation status: Critically Endangered according to the IUCN.

Additional Details

• Vaquita Characteristics: Vaquitas are distinguished by their chunky bodies and rounded heads, lacking pronounced snouts, which sets them apart from dolphins. Their dorsal fins are notably taller and wider than those of other porpoises.
• Behavior: Known for their elusive nature, vaquitas tend to avoid boats and human interactions. They utilize echolocation, emitting high-frequency clicks for communication.
• Threats: The drastic decline in the vaquita population is largely attributed to the illegal fishing of totoaba, a fish species endemic to the Gulf of California, which is hunted for its valuable swim bladder.

With just ten vaquitas left, urgent action is required to prevent their extinction. The ongoing threats and challenges pose significant barriers to conservation efforts, underscoring the critical need for effective protective measures.

GS1/Geography

Key Facts about Minicoy Island

Why in News?

Recently, a 12-year-old tigress that had been unwell and wandering near the forest boundary in the Singara forest range of the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) passed away. This news brings attention to the biodiversity and conservation efforts in regions like Minicoy Island.

Key Takeaways

• Minicoy Island is the second largest and southernmost island in the Lakshadweep archipelago.
• Famous for its stunning coral reefs and white sand beaches, Minicoy is surrounded by the Arabian Sea.
• The island covers an area of 4.80 sq.km and is crescent-shaped.
• It is located near the busy 9-degree channel, approximately 130 km from the northernmost Maldives island.

Additional Details

• Lagoon: The island features a large lagoon on its western side, which is about 6 km wide with two entrances—one on the west and another at the northernmost point. The lagoon's area is approximately 30.60 sq.km.
• Elevation: The island sits about 2 m above mean sea level on the western side and 3 to 4 m on the eastern side, stretching approximately 11 km in length.
• Historical Lighthouse: Minicoy is home to one of the oldest lighthouses in the region, constructed in 1885.
• Cultural Distinction: The island's culture sets it apart from the Northern group of islands, featuring carefully organized villages known as ‘Avah’, each led by a Moopan.
• Language: The predominant languages spoken include Hindi, English, Malayalam, and Mahal, with Mahal being a linguistic minority unique to Minicoy.
• Folk Dances: Traditional folk dances of Minicoy include ‘Lava’, ‘Thaara’, ‘Dandi’, ‘Fuli’, and ‘Bandiya’.

Minicoy Island, with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, remains a significant part of India's geographical and ecological landscape.

GS2/International Relations

Shipki-La Pass

Why in News?

Recently, during the visit of China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi to India, an agreement in principle was reached to resume trade through the Shipki-La Pass located in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh.

Key Takeaways

• Shipki-La Pass is a vital motorable mountain pass between India and China.
• The pass has historical significance as a trade corridor between India and Tibet.
• Its reopening is aimed at boosting economic growth in the border regions of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.

Additional Details

• Shipki-La Pass: Situated at an altitude of 3,930 meters, this pass serves as a boundary post and is one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
• Significance: The Sutlej River, known as Langqen Zangbo in Tibet, enters India through this pass, enhancing its importance as a trade route.
• The pass was originally named Pema La, or Shared Gate, and was rebranded by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police post-1962.

The opening of Shipki-La to tourists and trade is part of a broader economic strategy aimed at revitalizing the Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti regions, which share a 240-km border with China.