UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 9th September 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS1/Indian Society

The ‘Domestic Sphere’ in a New India

Why in News?

The discourse surrounding women’s empowerment in India has been shaped by various political, cultural, and economic factors. Recently, the narrative of nari shakti (women’s power) has gained traction, particularly under the current government. However, this rhetoric often masks the ongoing neglect of women's lives and labor, especially within the domestic sphere.

Key Takeaways

• The rhetoric of women’s empowerment contrasts sharply with regressive political stances on women's autonomy.
• Statistics reveal alarming rates of violence against women, yet the government treats these issues as private matters.
• Women bear a disproportionate burden of unpaid domestic labor compared to men.
• Government narratives often glamorize gender inequality rather than address it.
• Women’s unpaid labor significantly contributes to the economy but remains unrecognized in wage structures.

Additional Details

• Rhetoric versus Reality: Political leaders often invoke women’s empowerment while maintaining regressive views on women's roles, exemplified by statements urging women to focus solely on reproduction.
• Violence and Silence in the Home: From 2017 to 2022, an average of 7,000 women were killed yearly in dowry-related incidents. Despite high rates of intimate partner violence, only a small percentage of cases are reported to authorities.
• The Gendered Burden of Work: The Time Use Survey 2024 shows that while only 25% of women engage in paid work, 93% are involved in unpaid domestic tasks, highlighting a significant gender disparity in labor.
• State Narratives and the Glorification of Inequality: The government celebrates women's caregiving roles as cultural virtues, downplaying the systemic inequalities that underlie these responsibilities.
• Capitalism and the Invisible Subsidy: A 2023 study indicated that recognizing unpaid domestic work could increase India’s GDP by over 7%, illustrating how women’s labor subsidizes both state and capital.

To address these systemic injustices, interventions are necessary across cultural, social, and policy domains. This includes treating domestic violence as a structural issue, affirming women's rights to equal work and pay, providing universal childcare, and transforming cultural narratives about domestic responsibilities. Ultimately, achieving true nari shakti requires confronting the harsh realities that define women's lives in India.

GS2/Polity

Election of the Vice-President

Why in News?

The Prime Minister has cast his first vote in the vice-presidential polls, highlighting the significance of this electoral process.

Key Takeaways

• The Vice-President of India holds the second-highest constitutional position and serves as the deputy to the President.
• The election of the Vice-President is governed by Article 66 of the Constitution, involving a unique electoral college system.

Additional Details

• Position: The Vice-President serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament.
• Qualifications:
  • Must be a citizen of India.
  • Minimum age requirement is 35 years.
  • Should not hold any office of profit.
  • Must be eligible for election to the Rajya Sabha.
• Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Presides over Rajya Sabha sessions and ensures order.
  • Classifies and refers money bills to the Lok Sabha Speaker.
  • No independent powers unless acting as President.
• Election Procedure:
  • Conducted by an electoral college comprising 543 Lok Sabha MPs, 233 elected Rajya Sabha MPs, and 12 nominated Rajya Sabha members.
  • Voting is done through proportional representation by a single transferable vote, along with a secret ballot.
  • No party whips allowed during voting.
  • The Election Commission oversees the conduct, with the Secretary-General of either House acting as the Returning Officer.
  • A candidate needs to secure 50% of valid votes plus one to win.
• Resignation and Removal:
  • According to Article 67(a), the VP submits resignation directly without parliamentary approval, taking effect immediately.
  • No provision for an acting Vice-President in the Constitution.
  • The Deputy Chairman presides in the absence of the VP.
  • The removal process requires a notice of 14 days and must achieve effective majority in Rajya Sabha and simple majority in Lok Sabha.
• Judicial Immunity: Article 122 prevents courts from questioning parliamentary proceedings related to the removal of the Vice-President.

To date, no Vice-President has been removed from office, reflecting the stability of this role in Indian politics.

Example Question:

With reference to Parliament, consider the following statements:

• 1. The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not members of that House.
• 2. While the nominated members of the two Houses of Parliament have no voting rights in the presidential election, they do have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only
• (b) 2 only
• (c) Both 1 and 2*
• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

GS2/Polity

SC Clarifies Aadhaar Establishes Identity, Not Citizenship

Why in News?

The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission to recognize Aadhaar as the 12th valid identity document for Bihar’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Court clarified that while Aadhaar can establish identity, it does not prove citizenship. This ruling enhances the capacity of individuals who may have been excluded to contest deletions or apply for inclusion in the voter list, given that Aadhaar covers over 87% of India's population.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court's directive allows Aadhaar to be used for electoral rolls in Bihar.
• Aadhaar serves as proof of identity but cannot establish citizenship.
• The Election Commission must ensure the authenticity of Aadhaar numbers before including individuals in the voter rolls.

Additional Details

• Aadhaar's Role: The Supreme Court emphasized that Aadhaar can serve as proof of a voter's identity and residence. However, it cannot be used to establish citizenship, as even non-citizens can possess Aadhaar cards.
• Verification Process: The Election Commission is tasked with verifying Aadhaar cards to prevent fraudulent entries in electoral rolls and to ensure that only genuine citizens are included.
• Citizenship Verification: Citizenship must be established through official documents, such as passports, birth certificates, or naturalization certificates. Only the central government can determine citizenship status, while booth-level officers can only verify local identity and residence.

This ruling is significant as Bihar's voter list revision is one of the largest in India, impacting over 7.24 crore voters. The inclusion of Aadhaar aims to protect genuine voters, especially those lacking formal identification. The Court also encouraged political parties to assist individuals at risk of exclusion during this revision process.

Although the ruling specifically pertains to Bihar, it has broader implications for future electoral processes, especially as the Election Commission plans a nationwide SIR in 2026. The question of whether the Election Commission has the authority to determine citizenship remains unresolved and may require further judicial clarification.

GS1/Geography

Freshwater Aquifers Found Beneath the Atlantic Ocean

Why in News?

The recent discovery of a significant freshwater aquifer beneath the Atlantic shelf presents new opportunities to tackle potential global water shortages.

Key Takeaways

• Location: Offshore northeastern U.S., possibly extending from New Jersey to Maine.
• Expedition 501: Drilled up to 400 m beneath the seabed, retrieving nearly 50,000 liters of water and numerous sediment cores.
• Findings: Freshwater and nearly fresh water identified at both shallower and deeper depths than anticipated, confirming the existence of a large, pressurized aquifer.
• Global Context: Similar offshore aquifers are suspected or have been identified in regions such as South Africa, Hawai‘i, Jakarta, and Canada’s Prince Edward Island.

Possible Origins of the Freshwater

• Glacial Meltwater Hypothesis: Ancient ice sheets during periods of lower sea levels allowed meltwater to permeate into porous sediments.
• Connected Aquifer Hypothesis: Modern terrestrial groundwater may still gradually flow offshore through geological formations.

Significance of the Discovery

• Water Security: Could potentially supply a metropolis the size of New York City for centuries if managed sustainably.
• Climate Change Resilience: Provides alternative options as coastal aquifers are threatened by saltwater intrusion and rising urban demand, exemplified by Cape Town’s “Day Zero” crisis in 2018.
• Scientific Impact: Marks the first systematic drilling of offshore freshwater for mapping and salinity profiling.

This discovery not only enhances our understanding of freshwater resources but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable management in the face of climate challenges.

UPSC 2021

With reference to the water on planet Earth, consider the following statements:

• 1. The amount of water in rivers and lakes is more than the amount of groundwater.
• 2. The amount of water in polar ice caps and glaciers is more than the amount of groundwater.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only* (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

GS3/Economy

Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India - Opportunities and Challenges

Why in News?

India has positioned itself as a significant hub for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), boasting nearly 1,600 centres operated by multinational companies across various sectors. While these centres play a crucial role in enhancing India's service exports and creating employment, there are growing concerns regarding their long-term effects on the domestic IT services sector, the innovation ecosystem, and intellectual property (IP) generation.

Key Takeaways

• GCCs are evolving from cost-saving back-office units to innovation hubs.
• India is home to over 1,600 GCCs, employing approximately 1.9 million individuals.
• The sector is projected to grow to $105 billion by 2030, with significant contributions to the economy.
• Concerns include potential overlaps with traditional IT outsourcing and limited IP creation.

Additional Details

• Definition of GCCs: GCCs are fully-owned, strategic offshore units of multinational corporations set up in talent-rich, cost-effective locations. They provide specialized functions such as IT, finance, research and development, and customer service.
• Current Landscape: As of 2024, GCCs in India employ about 1.9 million professionals and generate revenues of $64.6 billion, with major hubs in cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune.
• Growth Projections: The GCC sector is expected to expand significantly, with estimates suggesting it could reach $105 billion by 2030, further solidifying India's role as a global centre for enterprise operations and innovation.
• Driving Factors: Key drivers of GCC expansion include a large talent pool, cost advantages, favourable regulatory environments, and a global shift towards digitalisation.
• Concerns and Challenges: There is apprehension regarding the impact of GCCs on the traditional IT services sector, potential job quality issues, and the risk of job automation through AI tools.
• Government Response: The government is focusing on upgrading work quality, promoting mandatory IP localization, and encouraging IT firms to adopt innovative models similar to GCCs.

In conclusion, India must transition from a focus on cost arbitrage to high-value, innovation-driven work. Policy support is essential to foster research and development, enhance patent ownership, and encourage localization of intellectual property. If GCCs evolve into centres of core functions and innovation rather than mere back-offices, they could become a significant asset for India's economy.

GS3/Science and Technology

Neurogenesis in the Human Brain

Why in News?

A recent study published in 2025 in the journal Science has discovered the presence of young neurons in the adult human brain, challenging the long-held belief that neurogenesis, the process of neuron formation, occurs only during childhood.

Key Takeaways

• Neurogenesis involves the formation of new neurons from stem or progenitor cells.
• Previous studies established neurogenesis in animals like mice, rats, and monkeys, as well as during human childhood development.
• There has been ongoing debate regarding whether neurogenesis continues in adulthood, particularly in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and learning.

Additional Details

• Hippocampal Role: The dentate gyrus region of the hippocampus is believed to support lifelong neurogenesis, contributing to memory formation, cognitive flexibility, and stress regulation.
• Study Overview: Conducted by the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, the study analyzed 400,000 neurons from post-mortem hippocampus samples of individuals ranging from infants to 78 years old.
• Methodology: The researchers employed single nuclei RNA sequencing combined with machine learning to identify indications of new cell formation.
• Validation: The findings were confirmed through RNAscope and Xenium imaging techniques, which demonstrated the presence of neural stem cells, progenitor cells, and young neurons (neuroblasts) in both adolescent and adult brains.

The findings from this study are significant for several reasons:

• Evidence in Adults: This research provides compelling evidence that the formation of new neurons occurs in the adult brain, challenging previous assumptions.
• Evolutionary Insight: The study suggests that neurogenesis is a conserved characteristic across mammalian species, rather than being limited to certain animals.
• Brain Functions: Understanding neurogenesis may elucidate mechanisms underlying memory flexibility, the ability to overwrite existing memories, and overall resilience to stress.
• Therapeutic Potential: The findings open new avenues for regenerative treatments for brain disorders, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia, by targeting and stimulating local progenitor cells.
• Lifestyle Link: The study implies that factors such as exercise, social interactions, and stress management could significantly affect the extent of neurogenesis in individuals.

This research underscores the dynamic nature of the adult brain and its capacity for regeneration, highlighting the importance of lifestyle choices in promoting neurogenesis.

UPSC 2024

Which one of the following is synthesized in the human body that dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow?

• (a) Nitric oxide*
• (b) Nitrous oxide
• (c) Nitrogen dioxide
• (d) Nitrogen pentoxide

GS2/International Relations

Iran and India, Ancient Civilisations and New Horizons

Why in News?

The world is experiencing a significant transition characterized by a crisis in the Western-led international order. The traditional dominance of the U.S. and its allies is being challenged by various global issues, including violations of international law, trade wars, and the weakening of global institutions.

Key Takeaways

• The decline of Western dominance is creating new opportunities for ancient civilisations like India and Iran.
• India and Iran share common values and resilience, which are crucial for addressing global challenges.
• Initiatives like BRICS and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) are vital for fostering cooperation.

Additional Details

• Global South: This term refers to developing nations that are seeking independence and resilience through local models and technology.
• Palestinian Struggle: Represents the resistance of the Global South against Western dominance and underscores the right of all nations to resist oppression.
• Both India and Iran have historical legacies of influencing global culture through their contributions to statecraft, literature, and philosophy.

In conclusion, the partnership between India and Iran, grounded in their civilisational wisdom and strategic cooperation, can pave the way for a just global order that respects human dignity and autonomy.

GS1/Indian Society

Ranking Pitfalls: India Rankings (2025) based on NIRF

Why in News?

The India Rankings 2025 have highlighted significant issues within the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), which has been instrumental in assessing the performance of higher education institutions since its inception in 2016. Despite an increase in the number of participating institutions from 3,565 to 14,163, and an expansion of categories from four to seventeen, critical flaws in the ranking methodology remain. These include biased weightage towards subjective parameters, insufficient measures of inclusivity, and an excessive focus on institutional reputation, which may undermine the framework's potential to enhance equity and quality in higher education.

Key Takeaways

• The NIRF rankings are dominated by legacy public institutions, reflecting persistent inequalities in the Indian higher education sector.
• Methodological issues include reliance on subjective peer perception and incomplete inclusivity measurements, which neglect disadvantaged groups.
• Concerns exist regarding the adequacy of reservation policies for OBC, SC, and ST students in central institutions.

Additional Details

• Key Ranking Parameters:The NIRF employs five primary criteria:
  • Teaching & resources (30%)
  • Research (30%)
  • Graduation outcomes (20%)
  • Outreach & inclusivity (10%)
  • Peer perception (10%)
• Peer Perception Flaw: The Education Minister has criticized the reliance on reputation-based rankings, which can be biased against institutions outside metropolitan areas.
• Self-Declared Data: The heavy dependence on self-reported data raises concerns about the potential for manipulation, with little accountability for false submissions.
• Bibliometric Dependence: This approach, while verifiable, fails to account for non-English and socially impactful research outputs.

Despite the NIRF creating significant awareness around institutional performance, it must address critical issues of inclusivity and fairness. If not, it risks becoming merely a branding exercise rather than a genuine tool for reform. For India's higher education system to progress effectively, rankings should actively promote equity, excellence, and social justice.

Conclusion

The NIRF has broadened its scope and increased awareness of institutional performance, but fundamental flaws must be addressed to prevent elitism and ensure equitable access to quality education. By evolving beyond rankings to serve as a policy tool, NIRF can enhance inclusivity, ensure accountability, and foster collaboration in India's higher education landscape.

PYQ Relevance

[UPSC 2015] The quality of higher education in India requires significant improvement for international competitiveness. Does the entry of foreign educational institutions enhance the quality of technical and higher education in the country? Discuss.

• The NIRF 2025 rankings highlight gaps in research, inclusivity, and global competitiveness of Indian institutions.
• While reforming ranking parameters can facilitate improvements, the entry of foreign universities may introduce beneficial competition and elevate standards.

GS2/Governance

MHA’s Twin Decisions and Their Impact on Manipur

Why in News?

Ahead of PM Modi’s upcoming visit to Manipur, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced two significant measures. Firstly, it renewed the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups affiliated with the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the United People’s Front (UPF), introducing renegotiated terms. Secondly, it reached an agreement with the Kuki-Zo Council to reopen National Highway-02, a crucial route for the movement of commuters and essential supplies. These actions are viewed as vital steps towards easing tensions and restoring some level of normalcy in a state experiencing ethnic conflict since May 2023.

Key Takeaways

• The renewal of the SoO agreement with Kuki militant groups aims to uphold Manipur’s territorial integrity.
• Agreement to reopen National Highway-02 to facilitate essential movement amidst ongoing ethnic tensions.
• Government’s response includes addressing Kuki demands and ensuring regulation of militant activities.

Additional Details

• Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreement: Initially signed in 2008 as a tripartite ceasefire between the Centre, the Manipur government, and Kuki insurgent groups, the SoO aimed to facilitate political dialogue. It was periodically renewed until March 2023 when the Biren Singh government withdrew from the pact, accusing certain groups of inciting unrest.
• Renegotiated Terms:The renewed SoO agreement stipulates that Kuki militant groups must uphold Manipur’s territorial integrity and pursue a negotiated political solution. Key provisions include:
  • Relocation of camps from sensitive areas, with seven camps near the Meitei-dominated valley.
  • Consolidation of smaller camps into larger ones.
  • Depositing of weapons with CRPF or BSF to prevent misuse.
  • Strict verification and regulation of cadres' movements.
  • Direct transfer of remuneration to cadres’ bank accounts for transparency.
  • A Joint Monitoring Group to oversee enforcement of the agreement.
• Government Response to Kuki Demands: The Centre has addressed key Kuki demands, including the removal of Chief Minister Biren Singh, accused of partisanship. Following the imposition of President’s Rule, discussions with Kuki militant groups resumed, alongside a peace pact with the UNLF to address concerns over Meitei insurgent activities.
• Mixed Reactions: The renewal of the SoO agreement has faced criticism from both Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups. Concerns include perceived legitimacy granted to militant groups and the reaffirmation of Manipur's territorial integrity, conflicting with Kuki demands for a separate administration.
• Controversy Over ‘Free Movement’ on NH-02: Despite the MHA's announcement regarding the reopening of National Highway-02, Kuki-Zo groups challenged the assertion, emphasizing that essential goods were already being transported and that the term ‘free movement’ lacked clarity. They stated that cooperation with security forces did not imply unrestricted movement of Meiteis in Kuki areas.

In conclusion, while the MHA’s decisions aim to stabilize the situation in Manipur, the varied responses highlight the complexity of the ethnic dynamics and the ongoing political challenges within the state.

GS2/International Relations

WHO’s Model List of Essential Medicines (EML)

Why in News?

Semaglutide, a medication initially created for managing type 2 diabetes, has recently been recognized for its effectiveness in weight reduction and added to the WHO’s Model List of Essential Medicines (EML).

Key Takeaways

• Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used primarily for type 2 diabetes management.
• The drug aids in insulin secretion, reduces blood glucose levels, slows gastric emptying, and curbs appetite.
• Brand names include Ozempic (for diabetes) and Wegovy (for obesity).
• Its inclusion in the 24th EML emphasizes its dual application in diabetes and obesity treatment.
• The recognition aims to enhance accessibility and affordability in global health systems.
• In India, with over 100 million diabetics and a growing obesity crisis, Semaglutide could significantly impact public health if made affordable.

Additional Details

• About WHO’s Model List of Essential Medicines (EML): This list serves as a global reference for identifying the most effective, safe, and essential medications necessary for priority healthcare needs.
• History: The EML was first introduced in 1977 to improve medicine access in developing countries and is updated biennially by a WHO Expert Committee.
• Structure: It consists of a core list of basic medicines suitable for use with minimal infrastructure and a complementary list for medicines that require specialized training or facilities.
• Global Impact: More than 150 countries utilize the EML to develop national lists that guide procurement, reimbursement, and efforts towards universal health coverage (UHC).
• Selection Criteria: Medicines are chosen based on public health relevance, proven efficacy and safety, cost-effectiveness, and quality, with a preference for single-compound formulations unless combinations offer better outcomes.

In conclusion, the addition of Semaglutide to the WHO’s EML not only underscores its significance in managing diabetes and obesity but also highlights the need for improved access to such essential medicines globally, particularly in countries like India.

[UPSC 2024]

In which of the following are hydrogels used?

• 1. Controlled drug delivery in patients
• 2. Mobile air-conditioning systems
• 3. Preparation of industrial lubricants

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• Options: (a) 1 only
• (b) 1 and 2 only
• (c) 2 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2 and 3*

GS2/International Relations

US to Update MTCR Export Control Policies

Why in News?

The United States is set to reinterpret the 1987 Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) with the aim of increasing exports of heavy attack drones, such as the MQ-9 Reaper, to allied nations.

Key Takeaways

• The MTCR was established by G-7 countries to prevent the proliferation of missile technology.
• The US plans to classify large unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as "aircraft" rather than missile systems.
• This reinterpretation aims to position the US as a leading drone supplier globally.

Additional Details

• Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR): Established in 1987 by G-7 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK, USA), the MTCR seeks to prevent the spread of missiles and UAVs that could deliver nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons.
• Membership: Currently, 35 countries are members of the MTCR, with India joining in 2016.
• Categories:
  • Category I items: Complete missile/UAV systems with payloads over 500 kg and ranges exceeding 300 km, along with major subsystems and production facilities (exports presumed denied).
  • Category II items: Less sensitive or dual-use components/technologies, where exports are subject to national discretion under strict licensing.
• This policy change will allow for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) of heavy attack drones to countries like Saudi Arabia and India, while still ensuring US oversight on regional stability, end-use monitoring, technology security, and human rights compliance.
• This move is also expected to enhance India–US space and defence cooperation by lowering barriers for joint ventures and technology partnerships.

This reinterpretation of the MTCR represents a significant shift in US export policy, reflecting its strategic interests in maintaining an advantage in the global drone market.

Consider the following:

• 1. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
• 2. Missile Technology Control Regime
• 3. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

India is a member of which of the above?

• Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3