UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 20th September 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Economy

Rising Public Debt of States - A Decadal Analysis by CAG

Why in News?

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has published a pioneering decadal report covering the period from 2013-14 to 2022-23, which evaluates the fiscal health of states. This report highlights a significant rise in public debt and discusses its implications for fiscal sustainability.

Key Takeaways

• The public debt of states has increased substantially over the past decade.
• Inter-state variations in debt burdens raise concerns about fiscal management.
• Debt sustainability indicators suggest rising fiscal risks for several states.

Additional Details

• Meaning of Public Debt: Public debt occurs when government spending surpasses its revenue from taxes and other sources, necessitating borrowing from domestic and international markets. This debt encompasses all government liabilities financed through the Consolidated Fund of India or the Consolidated Fund of State.
• Debt-to-GDP/GSDP Ratio: This ratio is crucial for assessing a state's ability to service its debt. A higher ratio indicates greater fiscal risk, while a lower ratio suggests a stable financial position. The NK Singh Committee recommended a debt-to-GDP ratio of 40% for the central government and 20% for states.
• Growth in States’ Public Debt: Total public debt rose from ₹17.57 lakh crore in 2013-14 to ₹59.60 lakh crore in 2022-23, marking a 3.39 times increase. The debt-to-GSDP ratio increased from 16.66% to 22.96% during the same period.
• Inter-State Variations in Debt Burden: States like Punjab and Nagaland have the highest debt-to-GSDP ratios, while Odisha and Gujarat have the lowest. As of March 31, 2023, eight states had public debt liabilities exceeding 30% of their GSDP.
• Sources of States’ Public Debt: Key sources include loans from the open market, banks, and the Reserve Bank of India, as well as loans from financial institutions and the union government.
• Debt Sustainability Indicators: Debt as a percentage of revenue receipts ranged between 128% and 191% over recent years, indicating potential sustainability issues.
• Fiscal Management Concerns: The golden rule of borrowing states that debt should finance capital expenditure, yet many states have used borrowings for current expenditures, risking fiscal health and macroeconomic stability.
• Way Forward: Recommendations include improving fiscal discipline, establishing a Public Debt Management Agency (PDMA), diversifying revenue sources, and strengthening adherence to the FRBM Act.

In conclusion, the rising public debt of states poses significant challenges for fiscal sustainability and economic stability. Addressing these issues through responsible fiscal management and strategic planning is imperative for the future economic health of the states.

GS2/International Relations

The Saudi-Pakistan Pact: A Questionable Insurance Policy

Why in News?

The Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, signed on 17 September 2025, has garnered significant attention. This agreement is framed as a pivotal development in military cooperation, yet its actual impact may be more superficial than substantial. The timing and context of the SMDA, amidst a volatile regional landscape, raises concerns about its effectiveness in enhancing security in West Asia.

Key Takeaways

• The SMDA is the first major defence pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in decades, following a long history of military ties.
• It serves more as a symbolic gesture aimed at demonstrating unity against perceived threats from Iran, Yemen, and Israel.
• The pact's signing was influenced by geopolitical factors, including the declining credibility of the U.S. as a security guarantor in the Gulf.
• There are speculations regarding nuclear cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, although actual transfers of technology are unlikely.

Additional Details

• Historical Context: The peak of Saudi-Pakistan military cooperation occurred between 1979 and 1989, when 20,000 Pakistani troops were stationed in Saudi Arabia. This historical backdrop illustrates the complexities of their military ties, which have been hampered by differing threat perceptions.
• U.S. Influence: The Pentagon has historically supported Saudi-Pakistan defence relations. Recent interactions, including a significant meeting between U.S. officials and Pakistani leadership, indicate a continued American interest in the dynamics of this relationship.
• Riyadh's Calculations: Saudi Arabia seeks to avoid relying on Arab or Turkish troops due to past experiences. The Kingdom aims to bolster its military capabilities through massive arms purchases while considering Pakistan's nuclear potential as a deterrent against Iran.
• Islamabad's Position: Pakistan aims to leverage Saudi insecurity for economic and military gains without committing to direct involvement in regional conflicts.
• Implications for India: As a major oil importer and with a significant expatriate community in Saudi Arabia, India must navigate its diplomatic relations carefully while monitoring the evolving dynamics between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

The Saudi-Pakistan pact is viewed as a political insurance policy rather than a solid security alliance. While it provides temporary reassurance for Riyadh and potential financial benefits for Islamabad, the long-term sustainability of this agreement is uncertain, given the varied threat perceptions and the broader geopolitical rivalry between the U.S. and China. For India, this situation underscores the importance of strengthening energy diplomacy, leveraging its diaspora, and enhancing strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia while remaining vigilant against Pakistan's maneuvers.

GS3/Science and Technology

Gaganyaan Analog Experiments (Gyanex)

Why in News?

The Gyanex (Gaganyaan Analog Experiments) are ground-based astronaut simulations being conducted by ISRO, in collaboration with the ICMR and the Institute of Aerospace Medicine in Bengaluru. These experiments aim to prepare Indian astronauts for the upcoming Gaganyaan mission, scheduled for 2027.

Key Takeaways

• First systematic program in space medicine and astronaut psychology in India.
• Focus on preparing protocols for future missions, including space stations and lunar expeditions.

Additional Details

• Purpose: The Gyanex initiative aims to develop protocols necessary for astronaut health and mission readiness in various space environments.
• Setup: Conducted at a mock spacecraft simulator, astronauts and defense personnel undergo confinement, consuming space food developed by DRDO.
• Activities: Participants follow strict space-like routines that include scientific experiments, resource management, schedules, and limited supplies, along with communication tests that simulate time delays.
• Gyanex-1: Group Captain Angad Pratap and two colleagues were confined for 10 days, completing 11 experiments focused on psychology, biomedicine, and communications.
• Microgravity Simulation: To study microgravity effects, a 7-day bed confinement at a 6° head tilt was implemented, as true weightlessness cannot be replicated on Earth.
• Other Indian Analog Missions:
  • Ladakh Human Analog Mission (Nov 2024): Simulated interplanetary survival in a cold, barren terrain.
  • HOPE Habitat at Tso Kar (Aug 2025): Tested an 8 m habitat and a 5 m utility module under Mars-like conditions with low pressure, saline permafrost, and high UV radiation.

These experiments mark a significant step towards the successful execution of the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send three astronauts into low Earth orbit for three days, followed by a splashdown in the Arabian Sea. As of September 2025, the Indian space program is on track with an 80-85% completion rate in development activities, including validation of avionics and crew safety systems.

GS2/Polity

Process of Voter Name Deletion From the Electoral Roll

Why in News?

Recently, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha claimed that an attempt was made to delete the names of 6,018 voters from the electoral rolls of Karnataka’s Aland constituency in 2023. This deletion was purportedly done through online forms filed without the knowledge of the local residents. Furthermore, he stated that the state CID has sent 18 letters to the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the past 18 months seeking information, which has not yet been provided.

Key Takeaways

• Allegations of unauthorized voter name deletions in Karnataka.
• Election Commission has not responded to multiple inquiries from state CID.

Legal Provisions for Voter Deletion

• Section 22 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950: Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) can correct or remove names from electoral rolls based on inquiries or applications.
• Names can be deleted if the person has died, changed residence, or is ineligible (e.g., under 18 or not a citizen).

Applying for Voter Deletion

• Under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, voters can seek deletions using Form 7.
• This form can be submitted for oneself or another elector in the same constituency.
• It is available on the Election Commission’s voter portal (eci.gov.in) or can be filed online via the ECINet app.

Filing Form 7 Online for Voter Deletion

• To file online, applicants must create an account and link their phone number to their EPIC number on the voter portal or app.
• Only electors registered in the same constituency may submit Form 7 for name deletion.
• The form requires details such as the applicant's name, EPIC number, phone number, and the details of the person whose name is being objected to.
• Applicants must select one of five reasons for deletion: death, underage, permanently shifted, already enrolled, or not an Indian citizen.
• No proof is required, but applicants must sign a declaration affirming the truth of their claims.
• The completed form can be submitted online or printed for offline submission to the Booth Level Officer (BLO).

Processing of Voter Deletion Forms

• Since 2018, the Election Commission has utilized ERONet, a centralized portal for EROs, replacing state-level systems.
• The system was upgraded in 2024 to include the new ECINet portal, integrating various existing applications for voters and officials.
• All applications filed online or offline are routed to the ERO or Assistant ERO of the respective area.
• EROs must issue a notice to the elector, allow seven days for a response, conduct a hearing, and then make a decision.
• BLOs are responsible for field visits to verify claims before a final decision is made.

Gaps in the Online Voter Deletion System

• The voter deletion system has vulnerabilities, as no proof is required when filing Form 7, and applicants’ EPICs and phone numbers are not verified.
• This can lead to misuse, such as linking another person's EPIC to a different phone number, as observed in the Aland constituency case.
• The Election Commission has acknowledged this vulnerability but stated that deletion attempts are halted during ERO inquiries.
• Officials assert that safeguards exist since deletions necessitate a thorough inquiry by the ERO and BLO before approval.

This process emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral rolls while ensuring that the rights and identities of voters are protected.

GS2/Governance

CAG Flags Fraud in State Schemes via AI Audits

Why in News?

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, K Sanjay Murthy, has disclosed that the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in forensic audits has uncovered numerous fraudulent activities within state beneficiary schemes. During the second State Finance Secretaries Conference, he highlighted that these advanced audits can significantly mitigate the misuse of funds and conserve substantial financial resources for state governments.

Key Takeaways

• The CAG is prioritizing AI and ML for enhancing auditing processes.
• Digital governance initiatives are crucial for effective financial management.
• Remote audits can streamline operations and improve efficiency across departments.

Additional Details

• AI/ML in Fraud Detection: The use of AI and ML in forensic audits has already led to the identification of multiple fraudulent cases in various states. These technologies have the potential to save substantial amounts of money that are currently lost to fraudulent practices.
• Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS): A digital platform used by government entities to automate and integrate financial functions such as budgeting, accounting, and reporting.
• Works and Accounts Management Information System (WAMIS): A comprehensive system for managing construction projects, developed by C-DAC, tracking financial transactions from inception to completion.
• Government e-Procurement Platform (GePNIC): A software developed by India's National Informatics Centre (NIC) for streamlined government procurement processes.
• Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP): A scheme aimed at digitizing and modernizing land records and registration processes across the nation.
• Despite the progress in digitization, the maturity level of these applications varies widely among states. However, digitization has already enhanced the finalization of Monthly Civil Accounts.

In conclusion, the CAG of India has successfully conducted remote audits covering GST, stamp and registration, e-procurement, and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes. The next step is to extend remote auditing capabilities to all government departments with digitized records. Given that urban local bodies (ULBs) and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) play a significant role in the economy, auditing these entities is essential. Continuous adoption of advanced digital tools, including AI and ML, is critical for improving transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public financial management.

GS3/Environment

A Climate-Health Vision with Lessons From India

Why in News?

In July 2025, Brazil hosted the Global Conference on Climate and Health, where 90 nations drafted the Belém Health Action Plan, set to launch at COP30. This plan aims to establish a global agenda for climate and health. Notably, India was not officially represented, missing a significant opportunity to showcase its developmental approach and position itself as a model for implementing the Belém Plan.

Key Takeaways

• India’s welfare schemes provide valuable lessons for integrating climate and health goals.
• Successful programs highlight the importance of leadership and community engagement.
• Intersectoral governance faces challenges that need addressing for effective implementation.

Additional Details

• Nutrition and Climate-Resilient Food Systems: The PM POSHAN scheme reaches 11 crore children in 11 lakh schools, linking health, education, agriculture, and food procurement. This initiative promotes millets and traditional grains, addressing malnutrition while enhancing climate-resilient food systems.
• Sanitation, Livelihoods, and Clean Energy: The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has improved sanitation and public health while promoting sustainability. Programs like MNREGA have restored degraded ecosystems, and PM Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) has reduced household air pollution by promoting clean cooking fuels.
• Political Leadership: Strong backing from the Prime Minister has facilitated inter-ministerial cooperation and public support for initiatives like Swachh Bharat and PMUY.
• Community Engagement: Successful programs have invoked cultural symbols and grassroots participation, showing the need for climate action to resonate with societal values of health and prosperity.
• Institutional Strengthening: Utilizing existing frameworks, such as ASHA workers, SHGs, and local governance bodies, can enhance credibility and sustainability at the community level.

India faces a critical choice: to continue addressing climate change and health issues separately or to adopt a bold, intersectoral model treating them as interconnected challenges. Embracing an integrated climate-health model can leverage India's welfare experiences, leadership, and community action, ultimately leading to transformative solutions.

GS2/Polity

Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPP)

Why in the News?

The Election Commission of India has de-listed 474 Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPP) for failing to contest elections in the past six years. This action is part of a broader electoral clean-up initiative.

Key Takeaways

• The Election Commission's delisting aims to streamline the political landscape.
• RUPPs often fail to contest elections, which can create confusion among voters.

Additional Details

• Election Commission of India (ECI): Governed under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The ECI lacks explicit powers to de-register parties post-registration, except under circumstances of fraud or anti-Constitutional allegiance.
• Judicial Interpretation: In the case of INC vs Institute of Social Welfare (2002), the Supreme Court ruled that while the ECI cannot de-register parties, it can delist them, which removes privileges but does not affect their legal status.
• Definition of RUPPs: These are political associations registered with the ECI but not recognized as national or state parties due to insufficient vote shares or seats in previous elections.
• Privileges of RUPPs:
  • Tax exemptions under Section 13A of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
  • Eligibility for common poll symbols during elections (as per the Symbols Order, 1968).
  • Can nominate up to star campaigners.
• Obligations:
  • Must contest elections periodically.
  • Required to file annual audit accounts and contribution reports.
  • Must disclose donations above ₹20,000.
  • No cash donations exceeding ₹2,000 are permitted.
• Issues: Many RUPPs exploit their privileges without participating in elections, leading to a cluttered political field and voter confusion.

Recognised Political Parties

• Types: Recognised parties are categorized into National Parties and State Parties.
• Privileges: These parties enjoy exclusive reserved symbols, free access to electoral rolls, broadcasting time on national media, and consultation rights with the ECI.
• Recognition Criteria: Recognition is contingent upon vote share or seats secured in Lok Sabha or Assembly elections.

Conditions for Recognition

• National Party: Must secure 6% of valid votes in Lok Sabha/Assembly elections in four or more states and win four Lok Sabha seats in state Assembly elections or win two Assembly seats.
• State Party: Must win 2% of Lok Sabha seats (currently 11 seats) from at least three states in their respective Lok Sabha elections and win one Lok Sabha seat for every 25 seats allotted to that state.

In conclusion, the recent actions by the Election Commission reflect an effort to enhance the integrity of the electoral process by addressing the issue of inactive political parties. Recognized political parties play a critical role in the democratic landscape, providing essential privileges and responsibilities that contribute to a functioning political system.

GS2/International Relations

Turmoil, Tragedy, and Tenacity in Nepal

Why in News?

In September 2025, Nepal experienced a significant youth uprising, marking the most intense civil unrest since the monarchy's end in 2008. This movement began as peaceful protests against corruption and inequality, primarily organized through social media, but escalated into violent confrontations, resulting in 73 fatalities and extensive damage to government properties. The political landscape has shifted dramatically with the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and the appointment of Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister, highlighting the increasing influence of Gen Z digital activism in reshaping Nepal's political dynamics.

Key Takeaways

• The protests were triggered by a government ban on key social media platforms.
• Corruption and elitism were central grievances among the youth.
• The unrest led to significant political changes, including the resignation of the Prime Minister and the appointment of an interim leader.
• The role of digital tools in mobilizing protests was crucial, but misinformation also posed challenges.
• Ongoing challenges include ensuring political legitimacy and addressing socio-economic issues.

Additional Details

• Trigger - Social Media Ban: On September 4, 2025, the government ordered the registration and blocking of 26 social media platforms, including X, Facebook, and Instagram. This action cut off Gen Z's main avenues for organization and expression, perceived as a direct attack on civic freedoms, sparking widespread protests.
• Corruption & Elitism: There was a growing perception of elite capture and resource misuse, which fueled public outrage. The #NepoKids / #NepoBabies campaign highlighted the stark contrast between the lavish lifestyles of politicians' children and the struggles of ordinary youth.
• Escalation of Protests: Initial peaceful demonstrations on September 8 were met with tear gas and live ammunition, leading to riots and attacks on government buildings, resulting in numerous casualties.
• Political Fallout: The protests caused the resignation of key political figures and led to the appointment of Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister, who has pledged to hold elections within six months.
• Digital Mobilization: Youth utilized platforms like Discord and TikTok to coordinate protests, fostering a shared identity while misinformation also circulated, creating panic and confusion.

The 2025 Gen Z uprising in Nepal serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of digital activism in contemporary politics. It underscores the urgent need for political accountability, socio-economic reforms, and the importance of addressing the aspirations and grievances of young people to prevent further unrest and ensure a stable democratic future.

GS3/Economy

WAVES Bazaar 2.0: Empowering Digital Content Creators

Why in News?

The Information & Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry has launched the second phase of WAVES Bazaar, introducing innovative features such as AI matchmaking, online pitching, and secure viewing rooms. This initiative aims to empower Indian content creators and enhance their global outreach.

Key Takeaways

• The WAVES Bazaar platform serves as a hybrid content marketplace.
• The initiative is designed to connect various stakeholders within the media and entertainment industry.
• New features include online pitching and AI-driven matchmaking tools.
• The platform has already facilitated significant business leads and investment discussions.

Additional Details

• About WAVES Bazaar: WAVES Bazaar is a government-backed initiative that connects creators, investors, production houses, OTT platforms, distributors, and financiers on a single digital platform. It aims to create a networking and marketplace hub for various media sectors including films, television, animation, and music.
• Achievements: The platform has onboarded over 6,000 creators and sellers, 5,500 buyers and companies, enabled 2,000+ projects to go live, and generated over Rs. 1,300 crore in business leads.
• Key Features in the Second Phase:
  • Online pitching sessions allow creators to present their projects directly to potential investors.
  • Secure viewing rooms enhance trust by allowing buyers to preview projects safely.
  • AI-driven matchmaking connects creators with suitable financiers and production houses, improving visibility and project profiling.
  • Knowledge hubs will offer webinars and masterclasses from industry experts.
• Significance for India’s Creative Economy: This initiative aims to democratize content creation, boost India’s position as a global content hub, and attract investments across various media sectors.
• Challenges and Future Outlook: The success of WAVES Bazaar will depend on ensuring data security, expanding access to regional creators, and sustaining international partnerships.

The I&B Ministry envisions WAVES Bazaar as a flagship initiative that aligns with the government's broader goals of enhancing India’s soft power and creative exports, potentially transforming it into a centralized gateway for Indian creative exports.

GS2/Polity

Supreme Court Cites Preamble to Reject a Plea

Why in News?

The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea challenging the inauguration of the Mysuru Dasara by a religious leader. The Court emphasized that the Preamble of the Constitution highlights secularism, liberty, equality, and fraternity as fundamental ideals essential for national unity.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court reaffirmed the importance of the Preamble in upholding secularism as a core constitutional principle.
• The Court clarified that the Dasara inauguration is a state event, thereby underlining the state's neutrality in religious matters.

Additional Details

• Secular Character: The Court reiterated that the Preamble enshrines secularism, liberty, equality, and fraternity as unifying ideals crucial for the nation.
• State’s Neutrality: The inauguration of the Dasara festival was deemed a state event rather than a private ritual, reinforcing the concept that the state does not endorse any particular religion, as echoed in the ruling of M. Ismail Faruqui (1994).
• Key Precedents:
  • Kesavananda Bharati (1973): Established secularism as a basic feature of the Constitution.
  • S.R. Bommai (1994): Further solidified the importance of secularism in governance.
  • R.C. Poudyal (1994): Affirmed that even before the term "secular" was officially included in the Constitution, the principle of equal treatment of all religions was upheld.
  • Dr. Balram Singh v. UOI (2024): Highlighted the state's authority to regulate religious practices that may hinder equality and development.

The Preamble serves as an introductory statement that encapsulates the philosophy, vision, and objectives of the Constitution of India. Initially based on the Objectives Resolution introduced by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1946, it was adopted in 1947, declaring India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic, committed to ensuring Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity for all citizens.

While the Supreme Court has ruled that the Preamble is part of the Constitution and can be amended, changes should not violate the Basic Structure of the Constitution. The only amendment made to the Preamble occurred during the Emergency (42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976), which added the terms "Socialist" and "Secular" to the existing text.

Several judicial pronouncements have defined the status of the Preamble:

• Berubari Union Case (1960): Initially held that the Preamble was not part of the Constitution but merely a tool for interpretation.
• Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): Overruled the previous judgment, asserting that the Preamble embodies the Constitution's basic structure but cannot override its provisions.
• S.R. Bommai Case (1994): Affirmed the significance of secularism.
• LIC of India Case (1995): Reiterated that the Preamble is integral but non-justiciable, meaning it cannot be enforced in a court of law.

In conclusion, the Preamble is a vital component of the Constitution, reflecting the foundational values that govern India and shaping its identity as a secular nation.

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