UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 2026-02-16

Table of Contents
1. The UAE-India Corridor is Sparking a Growth Story
2. Building Trusted AI Ecosystems in Asia - From Fragmentation to Shared Governance
3. Bridging a Divide with an 'Indian Scientific Service'
4. Vande Mataram Row: Debate Over Singing the Full National Song
5. Tug of War Over Refurbished Medical Devices Market in India
6. U.S.-India Interim Trade Deal
7. Judicial Oversight of Religious Practices in India
8. Chirality-Based Electronics
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GS2/International Relations

The UAE-India Corridor is Sparking a Growth Story

Why in News?

The economic partnership between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has gained considerable momentum following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022. This agreement has significantly strengthened bilateral trade, allowing both countries to achieve their initial target of $100 billion in trade five years ahead of the 2030 deadline.

Key Takeaways

• The India-UAE economic corridor is now targeting $200 billion in trade by 2032.
• Non-oil trade between India and the UAE grew by nearly 20% last year, reaching $65 billion.
• UAE investments in India have surpassed $22 billion, while Indian investments in the UAE exceed $16 billion.

Additional Details

• Rising Trade and Deep Economic Integration: The partnership has evolved beyond energy, with nearly five million Indians residing in the UAE and contributing to extensive air connectivity.
• Shift Toward Advanced Sectors: Key projects include Reliance Industries' collaboration with TA'ZIZ on a $2 billion low-carbon chemicals initiative, Ashok Leyland's electric bus production shift, and Larsen & Toubro's solar projects in Abu Dhabi.
• Strong Reverse Investment Flows: UAE investments in India include DP World's commitment of $5 billion for infrastructure and ADNOC's agreements with Indian oil companies.
• Trust and Policy Foundations: The CEPA has eliminated tariffs on nearly 90% of goods, fostering a stable environment for businesses.
• Expanding Into Third Markets: The upcoming Bharat Mart in the UAE is set to enhance Indian exports to Africa, West Asia, and Eurasia.
• AI as the Next Frontier: Both nations are exploring collaborations in artificial intelligence and advanced computing, recognizing the significance of strategic partnerships in technology.

The India-UAE corridor is not only a testament to the growing economic ties but also reflects a broader strategic alignment between the two nations, poised for deeper integration in capital, technology, and infrastructure.

GS2/Governance

Building Trusted AI Ecosystems in Asia - From Fragmentation to Shared Governance

Why in News?

The significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in driving economic growth, enhancing public service delivery, and boosting national competitiveness has become increasingly evident across Asia. However, the development and governance of AI remain fragmented, leading to challenges in establishing trust within AI systems.

Key Takeaways

• AI is crucial for advancements in public health, education, and human rights in Asia.
• Trust is fundamental to overcome public skepticism and regulatory obstacles in AI governance.
• Diverse national agendas in Asia reflect different strategic focuses on AI development.

Additional Details

• Trust in AI Governance: Trust is essential as AI systems face risks of public rejection and regulatory hurdles. Governance decisions must be made closer to affected communities.
• Asian countries like South Korea and Singapore are creating national policies to establish themselves as leaders in the global AI landscape.
• Emerging governance initiatives, such as India's AI Governance Guidelines (2025) and UNESCO's ethical recommendations, emphasize the need for measurable and interoperable trust frameworks.
• Foundational Layers of a Trusted AI Ecosystem: Key components include trusted datasets, resilient AI infrastructure, and a robust cybersecurity framework.
• Challenges include a fragmented regulatory landscape, technological disparities, and the risk of digital colonialism affecting developing nations.
• India's strategic opportunity lies in leveraging its strong digital public infrastructure and expanding talent pool to foster regional cooperation and trust in AI governance.

In conclusion, Asia stands at a crossroads where the effective governance of AI could either exacerbate existing inequalities or promote inclusive growth. Establishing a shared, trust-based framework is vital for transforming AI into a driver of human-centric development.

GS2/Governance

Bridging a Divide with an 'Indian Scientific Service'

Why in News?

The proposal for establishing an Indian Scientific Service (ISS) emerges from the need to address the limitations of current governance structures in integrating scientific expertise into policymaking, particularly in the context of India's evolving administrative challenges.

Key Takeaways

• The historical reliance on generalist civil servants has created a gap between administrative needs and scientific expertise.
• Current governance challenges require specialized scientific understanding rather than just administrative experience.
• The integration of scientists into government structures is hindered by existing bureaucratic frameworks.

Additional Details

• Historical Context: At the time of Independence, India prioritized administrative coherence over technical expertise. This approach, while effective for early governance, now faces challenges as modern issues demand scientific insights.
• The Administrator-Scientist Paradox: Scientists, trained to question and evaluate evidence, often find themselves in bureaucratic roles that do not support their professional independence or scientific inquiry.
• International Models: Countries like the USA, UK, and Germany have established dedicated scientific cadres that ensure scientific integrity and facilitate informed policy-making without compromising democratic authority.
• Proposed Structure of ISS: The ISS would serve as a permanent all-India cadre, working alongside current civil services, enabling a seamless integration of scientific expertise into government functions.

The establishment of an Indian Scientific Service is seen as a necessary evolution of the current administrative framework, aimed at enhancing accountability and improving policy quality by embedding scientific reasoning into governance. This initiative would not only address technological and environmental challenges but also strengthen India's capacity to respond proactively rather than reactively to emerging issues.

GS1/History & Culture

Vande Mataram Row: Debate Over Singing the Full National Song

Why in News?

The recent directive from the Union government, issued on January 28, mandates the singing of all six stanzas of the National Song Vande Mataram at official functions. This has led to objections from various organizations. The notification specifies that the full version, lasting 3 minutes and 10 seconds, must be played before the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, with the audience standing in attention. Traditionally, only the first two stanzas are sung at public events, as the later stanzas include explicit religious imagery that has historically caused discomfort among certain communities.

Key Takeaways

• The government directive coincides with the celebration of 150 years of Vande Mataram.
• Only the first two stanzas have been sung at public functions due to controversies surrounding the later verses.
• Concerns regarding the religious undertones of Vande Mataram have been raised since its inception.

Additional Details

• Origins: Vande Mataram was composed in 1875 by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in Sanskritised Bengali and later featured in his novel Anandamath (1882).
• Historical Context: The song became a nationalistic anthem during the Swadeshi movement (1905-08) as a symbol of resistance against British rule.
• Congress Compromise: In 1937, the Congress Working Committee recommended that only the first two stanzas be sung at national events due to concerns over the religious imagery in later stanzas.
• National Song Status: The first two stanzas were officially adopted as India's National Song in 1950, but no mandatory protocols regarding its performance were established until now.
• Objections have been raised from Muslim scholars regarding the portrayal of "Mother India" as a goddess, which contradicts Islamic beliefs.
• The later stanzas have intensified controversy, with references to arms and shrines potentially alienating non-Hindu communities.

This recent directive has reignited debates about the historical and contemporary relevance of Vande Mataram, raising questions about religious freedom and nationalism in a secular state.

GS3/Economy

Tug of War Over Refurbished Medical Devices Market in India

Why in News?

Recently, the Department of Pharmaceuticals informed the Rajya Sabha that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has established a committee to draft a policy for regulating refurbished medical devices. This panel's objectives include defining the scope of refurbished devices, establishing assessment methods for safety, performance, and remaining useful life, and recommending guidelines for disposal and waste management.

Key Takeaways

• The debate focuses on regulating refurbished medical devices to balance healthcare access with industrial policy.
• Refurbished medical devices are previously used equipment restored to original operating standards and sold at reduced prices.

Additional Details

• Cost Advantage Over New Equipment:Refurbished systems significantly lower costs, making advanced diagnostics more affordable for hospitals in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. For example:
  • 1.5T MRI machine: New - ₹4-8 crore | Refurbished - ₹1-3.5 crore
  • PET-CT system: New - ₹20 crore+ | Refurbished - ₹60 lakh-3.5 crore
  • CT scanner: New - ₹2-4 crore | Refurbished - ₹20 lakh-2.5 crore
• Dependence on Imports: India remains reliant on imports for advanced imaging devices despite growth in domestic manufacturing. Refurbished equipment is often sourced from countries like the US and Germany.
• Current Regulatory Framework: India has a regulatory pathway for refurbished medical devices under the Medical Devices Rules, 2017, but lacks a separate licensing mechanism for these products.
• Regulatory Conflicts: A recent contradiction arose when a MoEFCC technical committee approved refurbished devices for reuse, while the CDSCO stated they cannot be imported for sale due to licensing issues.
• Industry Perspectives: The Medical Technology Association of India argues against a blanket ban on refurbished devices, citing that they can enhance affordability and access. Conversely, the Association of Indian Medical Device Industry raises concerns about safety and the risks associated with unregulated imports.

In conclusion, the refurbished medical devices market in India represents a significant segment, estimated at around ₹1,500 crore. The ongoing policy debate highlights the need for a coherent regulatory framework that balances healthcare accessibility with the promotion of domestic manufacturing, especially in the context of Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

GS2/International Relations

U.S.-India Interim Trade Deal

Why in News?

India and the United States have recently signed an interim trade agreement, igniting discussions regarding its economic impact, agricultural implications, and concerns over sovereignty.

Key Takeaways

• The U.S. will significantly reduce tariffs on Indian imports.
• India is set to lower tariffs on various industrial and agricultural products from the U.S.
• The agreement includes a commitment from India to purchase a substantial amount of U.S. energy products.
• Concerns arise regarding the impact on Indian farmers and agricultural policy.
• The deal raises questions about India's strategic autonomy and trade negotiations.

Additional Details

• Background of U.S.-India Trade Relations: India and the U.S. share a robust strategic and economic partnership, with bilateral trade in goods and services expanding significantly over the last decade. India has enjoyed a trade surplus, primarily exporting pharmaceuticals, textiles, and IT services, while importing energy and high-value technology products.
• Key Provisions of the Interim Agreement:
  • Tariff Reduction by the U.S.: Tariffs on Indian imports will drop from 50% to 18%.
  • India's Market Access Concessions: India will remove or significantly cut tariffs on various U.S. industrial and agricultural imports.
  • Energy Purchases: India plans to buy $500 billion worth of U.S. energy products over the next five years.
  • Russian Oil Imports: An Executive Order indicates India may halt imports of Russian oil, although this is not confirmed by Indian officials.
  • Monitoring Mechanism: The U.S. has indicated that tariffs may be reinstated if India resumes Russian oil imports.
• Potential Benefits:
  • Supporters believe reduced U.S. tariffs will create opportunities for Indian exporters, especially in labor-intensive sectors.
  • This tariff reduction could enhance India's competitiveness compared to countries with higher duties.
• Concerns Regarding the Agricultural Sector:
  • The agreement leaves open the possibility of reduced tariff protection on sensitive agricultural products, potentially harming Indian farmers.
  • The U.S.'s objections to India's restrictions on genetically modified food imports could lead to significant regulatory changes.
• Sovereignty and Strategic Autonomy: The stipulations regarding Russian oil imports raise concerns about India's strategic independence and the conditional nature of tariff relief.
• Broader Economic and Political Implications: The deal is a precursor to a more comprehensive trade agreement, with significant implications for India's export opportunities and domestic agricultural policies.

The interim deal represents a critical step towards a more extensive U.S.-India trade agreement, balancing economic gains with the need to protect India's agricultural sector and maintain its strategic autonomy.

GS2/ Indian Polity

Judicial Oversight of Religious Practices in India

Why in News?

The recent rulings by the Madras High Court in the disputes regarding the Thiruparankundram Deepathoon and the Thenkalai sect's right to recite hymns at the Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple have sparked renewed interest in the judiciary's role in religious matters. These cases highlight the increasing involvement of constitutional courts in addressing religious disputes, particularly through the lens of the Essential Religious Practices (ERP) test to evaluate contested customs.

Key Takeaways

• Thiruparankundram Deepathoon Dispute : The Madras High Court ruled that the state administration cannot ban a long-standing religious ritual simply to avoid potential communal tension. The court emphasized that the administration should facilitate rituals rather than using security concerns as an excuse to block them.
• Thenkalai Sect Case : In another ruling, the court upheld the exclusive right of the Thenkalai sect to lead hymn recitations (Adhyapaka Mirasi) at the Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple. This decision reinforced the idea that an individual's right to worship (protected under Article 25 of the Constitution) cannot interfere with the denominational rights and established ritual offices of a sect, which are protected under Article 26.
• Essential Religious Practices (ERP) Test : The ERP test is used by the judiciary to determine which religious practices are essential to a faith and therefore entitled to constitutional protection. This test aims to balance religious freedom with constitutional morality and denominational rights.
• Criticisms of the ERP Doctrine : The ERP doctrine has faced criticism for its inconsistency, potential judicial overreach, and challenges in enforcement. Critics argue that it may not always provide a clear framework for resolving religious disputes.
• Need for a Principled Approach : There are calls for adopting a more principled, rights-based approach to religious disputes, focusing on core principles rather than micromanaging specific rituals. This would involve promoting inter-sect dialogue and fostering a citizenry that values both freedom of conscience and the rule of law.

Evolution of Religious Disputes in India

Civil Rights Era

• Over 100 years ago, disputes regarding temple entry were viewed through the lens of civil rights.
• In the case of Sankaralinga Nadan v. Raja Rajeswara Dorai (1908), the Privy Council in London was tasked with determining whether the Nadar community had the right to enter the Kamudhi temple. This case reflected broader societal struggles for access and co-worship within the framework of civil law.

Legislative Oversight

• In 1927, the Madras Presidency enacted the Hindu Religious Endowments Act. This legislation marked the beginning of auditing temple funds and establishing local committees to oversee temple administration.
• The Act set the stage for the Presidency government's supervisory role in managing Hindu religious endowments and temple affairs.

Constitutional Transition

• With the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950, Articles 25 and 26 were introduced, granting individuals the right to practice religion.
• However, these rights were subject to public order, health, and morality, allowing the state to intervene in religious practices that offended public conscience.

Judicial Interpretation of Essential Religious Practices (ERP) in India

The Essential Religious Practice (ERP) Test is a legal principle used by the Indian judiciary to identify which religious practices are fundamental to a faith and deserve constitutional protection under Articles 25 and 26.

• When a practice is deemed "essentially integral" to a religion, like the reading of the Guru Granth Sahib in Sikhism, it is safeguarded from state regulation or prohibition.
• Conversely, if a practice is social, economic, or commercial in nature, even if linked to religion, it is classified as "secular," allowing the state to regulate these for social reform.

Evolution of the ERP Test:

• Shirur Mutt Case (1954): The Supreme Court of India asserted that the determination of what is "essential" should be based on the tenets of the religion itself.
• Durgah Committee Case (1961): The Supreme Court ruled that superstitious beliefs or "unessential accretions" do not receive constitutional protection. It clarified that protection under Article 26 is limited to religious practices that are integral to the religion.
• Ananda Marga Case (2004): The Supreme Court held that a practice is considered essential only if its absence fundamentally alters the religion.
• Shayara Bano Case (2017): The Supreme Court determined that Triple Talaq is not an essential practice of Islam. It clarified that a practice that is merely "permitted" but not "mandatory" cannot be classified as an essential religious practice.
• Sabarimala Case (2018): The court ruled that even practices deemed "essential" cannot be protected if they violate Constitutional Morality, which encompasses principles of equality, dignity, and liberty.

Recent Developments:

• Thiruparankundram Deepathoon Ruling (2026): The Madras High Court ruled that the State administration cannot prohibit a long-standing religious ritual merely to prevent potential communal unrest. The court emphasized that the administration should facilitate such rituals instead of using security concerns as a rationale for blocking them.
• Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple (2026): The court upheld the exclusive right of the Thenkalai sect to lead hymn recitations (Adhyapaka Mirasi) at the Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple. The ruling highlighted that an individual's right to worship, as per Article 25, should not infringe upon the denominational rights and established ritual practices of a sect, which are protected under Article 26.

Constitutional Provisions Related to Freedom of Religion

• Article 25: This article guarantees freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practice, and propagate religion.
• Article 26: It provides the freedom to manage religious affairs.
• Article 27: This article ensures freedom concerning the payment of taxes for the promotion of any particular religion.
• Article 28: It grants freedom concerning attendance at religious instruction or religious worship in certain educational institutions.

Criticisms of Judicial Jurisprudence on Essential Religious Practices in India

• Judicial Expertise Gap: There are concerns that courts may overstep into theological areas where they lack specialized knowledge. This could lead to outcomes that are contested within the religious community.
• ERP Inconsistency: The Essential Religious Practice test often lacks doctrinal clarity. Different benches may arrive at varying conclusions regarding what constitutes an "essential" practice, leading to confusion and inconsistency.
• Conflict of Autonomy: Balancing Article 26, which pertains to Denominational Autonomy, with Constitutional Morality can be challenging. Critics argue that this sometimes results in "secular paternalism," where the state imposes its understanding of what is best for a religious group.
• Implementation Hurdles: Landmark judgments, such as the Sabarimala case, frequently encounter significant local opposition, social boycotts, and institutional resistance. This makes it difficult for the executive to enforce religious reforms without causing major law-and-order issues. As a result, some judicial rulings become "dead letter" laws, where the court's decisions are not followed by society.
• Risk of Politicization: High-profile religious rulings are often politicized. Judicial outcomes can be used by various actors to mobilize support or deepen social divisions. Additionally, the judiciary's constant involvement in religious disputes may jeopardize its image of "secular neutrality."

Reforms Needed in the Judicial Approach to Religious Disputes

• Principled Distance: The judiciary should adopt a "Principled Distance" approach, intervening only when religious practices violate core human dignity and equality principles. This aligns with the 21st Law Commission's recommendation for "reform from within," advocating changes to personal laws to eliminate discriminatory provisions and ensure equality.
• Clear ERP Standards: There is a need for clear and consistent standards regarding Essential Religious Practices. The focus should be on core principles rather than micromanaging specific rituals, allowing for a more coherent judicial approach.
• Administrative Training: Members of temple management bodies and government departments should receive training in Constitutional Literacy. This ensures that administrative decisions respect sectarian autonomy protected under Article 26 and do not infringe upon religious rights.
• Inter-sect Dialogue: Promoting regular communication between rival sects, such as the Thenkalai and Vadakalai sects in Kanchipuram, can help prevent polarization. This dialogue can reduce the likelihood of protracted legal disputes and foster a more harmonious religious environment.
• Constitutional Mindedness: Educational curricula should encourage a citizenry that values both Freedom of Conscience and the Rule of Law. Citizens should understand that faith and the Constitution are not in conflict but rather mutually respectful components of societal governance.

Conclusion

 The involvement of the Constitution in religious practices does not signify a replacement of faith but rather its refinement. By ensuring that religious practices align with constitutional principles, the judiciary safeguards the spiritual essence of religion while eliminating elements that violate human dignity. This approach strikes a balance between protecting religious freedoms and upholding fundamental rights, fostering a harmonious coexistence of faith and constitutional values.

GS3/ Science and Technology

Chirality-Based Electronics

Why in News?

A recent study published in the journal Nature has introduced a groundbreaking device capable of separating electrons based on their chirality, or handedness, without the need for strong magnetic fields. This advancement signifies a step towards the development of low-power electronic devices. 

Understanding Chirality in Electrons

•  Chirality in electrons refers to their intrinsic handedness, similar to how our left and right hands are mirror images of each other. In topological semimetals, electrons can possess either left-handed or right-handed chirality. 
•  This property represents a specific quantum state of electrons as they move within a crystal lattice. 

Characteristics of Semimetals

•  Semimetals, also known as metalloids, are brittle solids that exhibit a metallic appearance but possess nonmetallic chemical properties. 
•  They are not efficient conductors of electricity or heat, yet they make excellent semiconductors and are capable of forming amphoteric oxides. 

The Challenge of Detecting Chiral Electrons

•  Chiral electrons are often mixed with ordinary, non-chiral electrons, making their detection challenging. 
•  Previous methods for detecting chiral electrons relied on strong magnetic fields or chemical doping, which hindered large-scale applications. 

The Role of Band Structure and Quantum Geometry

•  In crystalline materials, electrons behave like waves that are constrained by the band structure of the material. 
•  Unlike the straightforward motion of electrons in copper wiring, the band structure of palladium gallium (PdGa) crystals is "twisted," causing electrons to drift sideways. 
•  This sideways drift is dependent on the chirality of the electrons, meaning left-handed and right-handed electrons will drift in different directions. 

Mechanism of the Device

•  The research team designed and fabricated a three-armed device. By passing an electric current through this device, the quantum geometry of the PdGa crystal acts as a valve, funneling left-handed electrons into one arm and right-handed electrons into another. 
•  This process effectively demonstrates the concept of a chiral valve, showcasing the device's ability to separate electrons based on their chirality. 

Potential Applications

•  The successful demonstration of this chiral valve device opens up possibilities for low-power computing technologies. 
•  Additionally, it may lead to the development of novel forms of magnetic memory devices, paving the way for advanced electronic applications. 

Related Reading for GS3: Quantum Technology