Why in news?

The government has discontinued the Gold Monetisation Scheme’s medium- and long-term deposits from March 26, citing market conditions and scheme performance.

However, short-term deposits will continue at the discretion of banks based on commercial viability.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS): An Overview
• Government and RBI on Gold Monetisation Scheme Closure
• Gold Mobilised Under the Gold Monetisation Scheme
• Status of Other Gold Schemes in India

Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS): An Overview

• Introduced in November 2015, the GMS aimed to make idle gold productive by allowing individuals and institutions to sell or deposit gold with banks.
• The goal was to integrate gold into the formal economy, reduce gold imports, and lower the current account deficit.
• It was a revamped version of the earlier Gold Deposit Scheme.
• Key Features
  • Allowed deposits from households, trusts, and institutions.
  • Minimum deposit: 10 gm of raw gold (bars, coins, jewellery without stones/metals).
  • No maximum deposit limit.
• Three Deposit Categories
  • Short-term bank deposits (1-3 years) – Managed by banks.
  • Medium-term government deposits (5-7 years) – Managed by the government.
  • Long-term government deposits (12-15 years) – Managed by the government.
• Gold Monetisation Scheme: Interest Rates
  • Short-Term Deposits
    • Interest rates were determined by banks based on international lease rates, market conditions, and other costs.
    • Interest was borne by the banks.
  • Medium- and Long-Term Deposits
    • Interest rates were set by the government in consultation with the RBI.
    • Interest was paid by the Central government.
    • Medium-term deposits (5-7 years):25% per annum
    • Long-term deposits (12-15 years):5% per annum

Government and RBI on Gold Monetisation Scheme Closure

• Discontinuation of the Scheme
  • The Ministry of Finance announced the discontinuation of Medium- and Long-Term Government Deposits (MLTGD) under the GMS from March 26, 2025.
  • Only short-term deposits managed by banks will continue.
  • From March 26, 2025, no new deposits will be accepted at collection centers, testing agents, or designated bank branches.
• Impact on Existing Deposits
  • Existing medium- and long-term deposits remain unaffected and will continue until maturity unless withdrawn prematurely.
  • The RBI has not issued a separate release but has updated the scheme details on its website.
• RBI Guidelines
  • The RBI will issue detailed guidelines regarding the scheme’s closure.
  • It confirmed that the renewal of medium- and long-term deposits has been discontinued from March 26, 2025.

Gold Mobilised Under the Gold Monetisation Scheme

• Total Gold Collected - As of November 2024, a total of 31,164 kg of gold was mobilised under the scheme.
• Breakdown by Deposit Type
  • Short-term deposits: 7,509 kg
  • Medium-term deposits: 9,728 kg
  • Long-term deposits: 13,926 kg
• Depositor Participation - Total depositors: 5,693
• Gold Collection from Different Sources
  • From individuals/HUFs (FY 2016-17 & 2017-18): 1,134 kg
  • From temples, trusts, mutual funds, gold ETFs, and firms: 10,872 kg

Status of Other Gold Schemes in India

• Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) Closure
  • The GMS is the second gold-related scheme to be discontinued after the halt on sovereign gold bonds.
  • The decision comes amid a sharp rise in gold prices, which increased by 41.5% from ₹63,920 per 10 gm (Jan 1, 2024) to ₹90,450 per 10 gm (March 25, 2025).
• Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB) Discontinued
  • The government stopped fresh issuance of sovereign gold bonds and did not announce any new tranche in Budget 2025-26.
  • Reason: SGBs were considered a high-cost borrowing for the government.
• Government’s Gold Strategy
  • Officials had earlier stated that SGBs aimed to boost gold investment, but the cut in gold import duty (Budget 2024-25) already aligned with this goal and helped increase demand.

Why in the News?

In a report to Parliament, its Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has sought a comprehensive review of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• PAC Report on GST (Context, Key Issues, Delays in Refunds, Suggestions, Way Forward)

Background:

• India's GST, introduced in 2017, was envisioned as a game-changer to unify India’s fragmented indirect tax system.
• However, nearly eight years later, a Parliamentary report has highlighted deep-rooted issues in GST implementation that impact businesses, State finances, and the overall efficiency of the tax system.
• The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), in its latest report to Parliament, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of the GST system, a “GST 2.0”, to reduce complexity, improve transparency, and enhance ease of compliance.

Compensation to States Remains a Key Concern:

• One of the biggest concerns flagged by the PAC is the lack of transparency and audit in the disbursal of GST compensation to States.
• The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has not audited the GST Compensation Fund for over six years, reportedly due to the non-submission of proper financial data by the Ministry of Finance.
• This has hampered the release of compensation amounts to several States that heavily rely on these funds, especially industrial States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which feared revenue loss under GST.
• Further, a review of 10,667 cases showed 2,447 inconsistencies, and around ₹32,577 crore remains pending, underscoring the urgency for better fund management and auditing mechanisms.

Compliance Complexities and Technical Glitches:

• The PAC noted that several procedural inefficiencies continue to plague GST compliance, leading to either delayed revenue inflow to the government or cash flow constraints for businesses.
• Key issues include:
  • Confusion over tax jurisdictions delaying refund.
  • Unjustified cancellation of GST registrations: Of 14,998 cases studied, show-cause notices were not issued in 6,353 instances, violating legal norms
  • Registration challenges: Taxpayers are not allowed to withdraw or modify applications, and in some cases, registrations were rejected without clear reasons
  • Delays in Input Tax Credit (ITC) refunds, affecting MSMEs and exporters who rely on regular cash flows
• The Ministry claimed that some processes have been automated, but the Committee expressed concern over the lack of robust documentation and limited manual oversight, questioning the effectiveness of the automated systems.

Delays in Refunds and Their Economic Impact:

• The report specifically emphasised the inadequacy of the refund mechanism, with businesses experiencing long waiting periods, affecting working capital and daily operations, especially for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and exporters.
• The Finance Ministry responded by promising improvements, including clearer timelines for refund processing and more real-time updates on the status of refund applications.
• The upcoming ‘Antarang Portal’ is expected to centralise filing, tracking, and documentation to enhance transparency.

Need for Institutional Reforms:

• The report also highlighted the absence of a functional GST Appellate Tribunal, causing legal bottlenecks and prolonged pendency in dispute resolution.
• As of March 2022, over 19,730 cases involving tax implications of ₹1.45 lakh crore were pending investigation.
• Legal experts argue that these unresolved cases, many of which have been pending for more than two years, hamper both compliance and business confidence.

Way Forward: Recommendations for GST 2.0

• Public Accounts Committee has recommended the government undertake a comprehensive stakeholder consultation to roll out GST 2.0, focusing on:

• Simplifying compliance by removing unnecessary procedures
• Ensuring timely audits and release of compensation to States
• Establishing the long-awaited GST Appellate Tribunal
• Improving digital platforms for registration, refunds, and returns
• Prioritising ITC refund processing, especially for MSMEs and exporters

• A tiered approach could be explored to allow differentiated compliance requirements for large corporates, mid-sized firms, and small traders to make the system more inclusive.

Conclusion:

GST was introduced as India’s biggest indirect tax reform, but implementation gaps and systemic inefficiencies have created avoidable hurdles for businesses and State governments alike.

While digital initiatives like the Antarang Portal and automation of notices are steps in the right direction, only a comprehensive revamp backed by regular audits, robust grievance redressal, and stakeholder consultation can unlock GST’s true potential.

Why in News?

The India-US civil nuclear deal, signed two decades ago, has taken a significant step forward with regulatory approval from the US Department of Energy (DoE).

The approval allows US-based Holtec International to transfer Small Modular Reactor (SMR - a capacity of 30MWe to 300 MWe per unit) technology to Indian private firms.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Key Developments in the India-US Civil Nuclear Deal
• Conditions and Safeguards of the Recent Deal
• Strategic and Diplomatic Significance
• Geopolitical and Economic Factors
• Future Prospects
• India’s Strategic Vision for SMRs
• Conclusion

Key Developments in the India-US Civil Nuclear Deal:

• US DoE authorisation:
  • Regulation involved: "10CFR810" (Part 810 of Title 10, US Atomic Energy Act, 1954).
  • Authorised recipients:
    • Holtec Asia (Holtec's Indian subsidiary).
    • Tata Consulting Engineers Ltd (TCE).
    • Larsen & Toubro Ltd (L&T).
• Excluded entities (pending Non-proliferation assurances):
  • Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
  • National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC).
  • Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).

Conditions and Safeguards of the Recent Deal:

• Duration: 10 years (subject to 5-year reviews).
• Restrictions:
  • No retransfer of technology to other Indian entities or foreign countries without US consent.
  • Use only for peaceful nuclear activities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.
  • No access to enrichment technology or Sensitive Nuclear Technology.
  • Prohibition on military or naval propulsion use.
• Reporting requirements: Holtec to file quarterly reports to DoE.

Strategic and Diplomatic Significance:

• Revival of the 123 Civil Nuclear Agreement:
  • The agreement, signed in 2007, aimed at full civil nuclear cooperation, including enrichment and reprocessing.
  • Despite diplomatic progress, operational hurdles delayed implementation.
• India’s nuclear sector implications:
  • Technological advancements:
    • India’s civil nuclear programme has primarily relied on Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
    • Holtec’s SMRs use Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) technology, which dominates global nuclear energy.
    • Opportunity to modernize India’s nuclear energy capabilities.
  • Private sector involvement:
    • Holtec’s collaboration with Indian firms could boost domestic manufacturing of SMR components.
    • The potential to position India in the global SMR supply chain.

Geopolitical and Economic Factors:

• US-India collaboration vs. China’s SMR expansion:
  • China is aggressively expanding in the SMR domain, leveraging it for diplomatic influence in the Global South.
  • India-US collaboration could provide a counterbalance to China’s dominance in nuclear technology.
• Impact on US-India trade relations: Despite protectionist policies under previous US administrations, this deal signifies a commitment to technology transfer and economic cooperation.
• Challenges in implementation:
  • India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (2010) has deterred foreign investment due to liability concerns.
  • Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act (1962) needed to allow private sector participation in nuclear power generation.

Future Prospects:

• Next steps for Holtec in India - Possible collaborations:
  • TCE for engineering expertise.
  • L&T for manufacturing nuclear components.
• Potential entry of NPCIL and NTPC: Government may provide necessary assurances to include state-owned enterprises in future agreements.
• Holtec’s expansion plans: Holtec Asia’s facility in Dahej, Gujarat, could see workforce expansion if manufacturing is approved.

India’s Strategic Vision for SMRs:

• Clean energy transition: SMRs are seen as a viable option for reducing carbon emissions and meeting energy demands. Key part of India's renewable energy strategy.
• Global nuclear competitiveness: India’s engagement in SMR development could enhance its standing in the international nuclear energy market.

Conclusion:

The US regulatory approval for Holtec marks a milestone in operationalizing the India-US civil nuclear deal. This development aligns with India’s goals for energy security, technological advancement, and geopolitical positioning.

However, regulatory and legal challenges need resolution to fully leverage the deal’s potential.

Why in news?

The Union government has notified the repatriation of Justice Yashwant Varma to the Allahabad High Court, following the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendation.

His transfer comes amid allegations of charred currency notes being recovered from his residence after a fire, prompting Delhi High Court Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya to seek an in-house inquiry.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Transfer of High Court Judges: Constitutional Framework and Judicial Interpretation
• Criticisms of Judicial Transfers in India
• Striking Down of the NJAC: Reasons and Judicial Verdict

Transfer of High Court Judges: Constitutional Framework and Judicial Interpretation

• Article 222(1) of the Constitution empowers the President, in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI), to transfer a judge from one High Court to another.
• Judicial Evolution of Transfer Process
  • First Judges Case (1981): The Supreme Court held that the President's consultation with the CJI did not require concurrence, affirming the executive’s primacy in judicial transfers.
  • Second Judges Case (1993): Overturned the earlier ruling, institutionalizing the collegium system and granting the CJI primacy in transfer decisions. The Court emphasized that transfers must serve the public interest and enhance judicial administration.
  • Third Judges Case (1998): Further refined the collegium system, mandating consultation with the four seniormost judges and seeking inputs from Supreme Court judges familiar with the concerned High Court.
• Process of Transfer
  • The collegium recommends the transfer.
  • The Law Minister reviews and advises the Prime Minister.
  • The Prime Minister forwards the recommendation to the President.
  • Upon presidential approval, the transfer is formalized through a gazette notification.
• Key Considerations
  • The CJI must consult relevant judges and legal experts to prevent arbitrariness.
  • A judge’s consent is not required for transfer.
  • Judicial review of transfer decisions is limited to prevent external interference.

Criticisms of Judicial Transfers in India

• Concerns Over Judicial Independence
  • The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has raised concerns about increasing executive interference in judicial appointments and transfers, undermining judicial independence.
• Lack of Transparency and Accountability
  • Judicial transfers, often carried out without the affected judge’s consent, are justified on vague grounds like “public interest” and “better administration of justice.”
  • This ambiguity makes it difficult to differentiate between legitimate and punitive transfers.
• Recommendations for Reform
  • The ICJ has suggested the establishment of a Judicial Council to oversee appointments and transfers based on transparent, objective, and predetermined criteria.
  • It recommends that the council be composed mainly of judges, aligning with international standards of judicial independence.

Striking Down of the NJAC: Reasons and Judicial Verdict

• In 2014, the then government introduced the 99th Constitutional Amendment and the NJAC Act to replace the opaque collegium system for judicial appointments.
• The NJAC was designed as an independent body to appoint Supreme Court and High Court judges.
• Composition of the NJAC
  • The NJAC was to be chaired by the CJI and included:
    • Two senior-most Supreme Court judges
    • Union Law Minister
    • Two eminent civil society members (one from SC/ST/OBC or a woman). These members were nominated by a panel consisting of the CJI, Prime Minister, and Leader of the Opposition.
• Political and Legal Challenges
• The amendment passed almost unanimously in Parliament and was ratified by 16 State legislatures.
• However, it was challenged in the Supreme Court, with critics arguing that the veto power granted to any two NJAC members—potentially including the Law Minister—could undermine judicial independence.
• Supreme Court Verdict (2015)
  • In October 2015, a five-judge Bench ruled (4:1) that the NJAC was unconstitutional, stating that it violated the basic structure of the Constitution, particularly judicial independence.
  • The majority held that the Law Minister and non-judicial members could interfere with judicial appointments, compromising autonomy.
  • Dissenting opinion by Justice Jasti Chelameswar: He criticized the collegium’s lack of transparency, arguing that NJAC could have prevented "unwholesome trade-offs" and "incestuous accommodations" between the judiciary and executive.
  • The verdict restored the collegium system, reinforcing the judiciary’s primacy in appointments but leaving concerns over transparency unresolved.

Why in the News?

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture has criticised the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) for the persistent existence of accident-prone “black spots” on national highways (NHs).

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Background (Context, About Black Spots)
• Parliamentary Panel’s Report (Key Findings, Action Plan, Audits, Targets vs Actuals, etc.)

Background:

• India has one of the highest numbers of road accidents in the world.
• A significant portion of these fatalities happen on national highways (NHs) due to poorly designed or managed road segments called “black spots”, specific locations where a high number of accidents and fatalities have been recorded over the years.
• Despite various efforts by the MoRTH to reduce road deaths, a recent report by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture reveals worrying gaps in execution.
• According to MoRTH’s own data, out of 13,795 black spots identified across India’s NHs, long-term rectification has been completed on only 5,036 spots.
• This translates to a large number of dangerous zones still unaddressed, posing daily risks to drivers and pedestrians.

About Black Spots:

• A “black spot” is a hazardous location on a national highway identified by the frequency and severity of road accidents, particularly those causing grievous injuries or deaths across three consecutive years.
• These spots can occur due to poor road design, lack of signage, bad lighting, sharp curves, or congested junctions.

Parliamentary Panel’s Findings: A Governance Failure

• In a report related to the Demands for Grants for FY 2025-26, the parliamentary panel called the poor progress a “significant governance failure”.
• It emphasised that these black spots represent preventable dangers that could be fixed with faster, coordinated intervention.
• The committee expressed deep concern about the mismatch between the ministry’s commitments and the reality on the ground.

Three-Tier Action Plan for Fixing Black Spots:

• To address the issue, the panel has recommended a three-tier prioritisation framework based on:
  • Severity (how often and how serious the accidents are),
  • Complexity of the fix required, and
  • Population exposure (how many people use the spot regularly).
• The plan includes strict time-bound interventions:
  • Category A black spots (highest risk):
    • Temporary safety measures must be deployed immediately.
    • Permanent rectification must begin within 30 days of identification.
  • Category B black spots (moderate risk):
    • Must be fixed within 90 days.
  • Category C black spots (lower priority):
    • Deadline of 180 days.
    • Agencies that fail to meet the timelines should face penalties.

Need for Post-Implementation Audits:

• The panel didn’t just focus on fixing black spots, it also highlighted the importance of follow-up.
  It recommended that safety audits be carried out at 3-month and 12-month intervals after rectification to ensure the solutions actually work.
• To promote accountability, the panel suggested creating a public dashboard that would show the status of each black spot, the progress of rectification, and the responsible implementing agency.

MoRTH’s Targets and Reality:

• The ministry has set an ambitious goal to reduce road fatalities by 95% by 2028.
• As part of this, it has committed to fixing 1,000 black spots in FY 2025–26 and eliminating all identified black spots by FY 2027-28 through better signage, road design, and junction management.
• However, the numbers so far reflect a lag in long-term fixes:
• 
• Short-term solutions (like installing signage, speed breakers, or barriers) are often implemented, but long-term structural fixes, such as underpasses, road widening, or redesign—remain slow.

Conclusion:

Fixing black spots on national highways isn’t just a technical challenge, it’s a matter of saving lives. The current pace of work is not in sync with the ministry’s stated ambitions.

The parliamentary panel’s recommendations provide a clear and actionable path forward, focusing on urgency, accountability, and transparency.

To truly make Indian roads safer, quick identification must be followed by equally fast execution, because behind every black spot, there’s a life that can be saved.

Context

• The global energy landscape has undergone significant transformations in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war.
• As African nations strive to diversify their energy sources, nuclear power is emerging as a critical component of their energy transition.
• However, this shift has also attracted the attention of global powers eager to secure a stake in Africa’s nuclear market.
• China, in particular, has positioned itself as the dominant player, challenging traditional Western influence and raising concerns about geopolitical dependencies.

Africa’s Nuclear Energy Aspirations

• Currently, Africa has only one operational nuclear power plant, the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station in South Africa, which was built by a French consortium.
• However, several African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan, Rwanda, Kenya, and Zambia, are actively planning to incorporate nuclear energy into their national power grids.
• Projections suggest that Africa could generate up to 15,000 MW of nuclear energy by 2035, representing a significant opportunity for investment, estimated at $105 billion.
• The potential for nuclear energy in Africa is not only an economic opportunity but also a solution to the continent’s chronic electricity shortages and unreliable power supply.

The Scramble for Africa’s Nuclear Market

• Historically, France dominated Africa’s nuclear market, particularly in Francophone nations.
• However, France’s influence is waning as other global powers aggressively pursue nuclear partnerships in Africa.
• The United States, through the US-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit (USANES), has sought to establish itself as a major player.
• However, the future of U.S. involvement depends on the political direction of President Donald Trump’s administration.
• Russia, another key contender, has signed multiple nuclear agreements with African nations, including Egypt, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Burundi.
• The Russian state-owned nuclear corporation, Rosatom, has been constructing a reactor in El Dabaa, Egypt, since 2022, albeit with slow progress.
• South Korea, through Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power (KHNP), has also shown interest in Africa’s nuclear market.
• However, it is China that has emerged as the most influential and aggressive investor in African nuclear energy.

China’s Dominance in Africa’s Nuclear Expansion

• Recent but Rapidly Expanding
  • In 2012, the China Atomic Energy Authority launched a scholarship program in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to train African and South Asian students in nuclear science.
  • This initiative strategically familiarised African nations with Chinese nuclear technologies and procedures, increasing the likelihood of future partnerships.
  • Today, China operates more than 50 nuclear reactors, reinforcing its status as a global nuclear power.
• Growing MoUs
  • Two state-owned enterprises, the China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) and the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), are spearheading China’s nuclear expansion in Africa.
  • In 2024, during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, Nigeria signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China for the design, construction, and maintenance of nuclear power plants.
  • Similarly, Uganda signed an MoU with China to build a 2 GW nuclear power plant, with the first unit expected to be operational by 2031.
  • Kenya, while still undecided on its nuclear partner, plans to have a research reactor by 2030.
  • Meanwhile, Ghana has opted for U.S.-based NuScale Power and Regnum Technology Group to develop its Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), while China National Nuclear Corporation will construct a Large Reactor (LR).
• Diminishing Influence of Russia
  • In West Africa, pro-Russian governments in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali have signed nuclear cooperation agreements with Rosatom.
  • However, Russia’s economic challenges, exacerbated by sanctions due to the Ukraine war, may hinder its ability to make large-scale investments in African nuclear projects.
  • This could push these nations toward China, which is better positioned to provide financial and technical support.

The Impact on India’s Energy Security

• Africa’s nuclear ambitions have broader implications for global energy security, particularly for India.
• As India aims to increase its nuclear power capacity from 8,180 MW to 100 GW by 2047, securing uranium supplies will be crucial.
• India has previously signed a civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Namibia and is exploring uranium mining projects in Niger and Namibia.
• However, China’s growing influence in Africa’s nuclear sector could pose challenges for India’s energy security by limiting its access to uranium and nuclear-related infrastructure.
• Furthermore, many African countries lack the transmission networks necessary to distribute power from nuclear plants.
• China, through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has the capability to develop these networks, further cementing its dominance in Africa’s clean energy market.
• If China successfully integrates nuclear power with its broader infrastructure projects, it will not only strengthen its position in Africa but also gain greater geopolitical leverage over nations dependent on its investments.

Conclusion

• Africa’s shift toward nuclear energy presents both opportunities and challenges.
• While nuclear power can provide a stable and reliable source of electricity, the sector has become a battleground for global powers seeking to expand their geopolitical influence.
• China has emerged as the dominant force in Africa’s nuclear market, outpacing traditional players like France, the U.S., and Russia.
• This growing Chinese influence raises concerns about economic dependencies and strategic vulnerabilities for African nations.

Context

• India has historically been an influential global player, balancing economic growth with diplomatic relations.
• However, recent geopolitical shifts have raised concerns about India’s limited role in resolving international conflicts.
• While India has taken decisive action in regional crises, such as its interventions in Bangladesh (1971), the Maldives (1988), and Sri Lanka (2009), it has recently adopted a cautious stance.
• The question arises: should India be more proactive in global geopolitics? Experts argue that India must recalibrate its foreign policy, balancing economic ambitions with strategic engagement to secure its position as a major global power.

India’s Historical and Current Diplomatic Approach

• India’s leadership in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) reflected its early commitment to shaping global politics.
• In contrast, its current multi-alignment strategy prioritises bilateral ties over collective geopolitical influence.
• India has made significant contributions to global welfare through initiatives like ‘Vaccine Maitri,’ climate action, and humanitarian aid.
• However, its reluctance to actively engage in major conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war or the Israel-Palestine crisis, raises questions about its long-term vision as a global power.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic outreach to Russia and Ukraine has been commendable, but India has largely remained a bystander in peace negotiations.
• Its abstention from UNSC votes on the Ukraine war influenced developing nations, yet India has not capitalised on its unique position to mediate effectively.
• Given its economic and diplomatic credibility, should India not aspire for a seat at the “high table” of global conflict resolution?

The Risks of Remaining Passive

• Ceding Influence to Emerging Middle Powers
  • In the absence of Indian leadership, other nations are stepping in to fill the diplomatic vacuum.
  • Countries like Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have taken on active mediation roles in various conflicts, thereby expanding their geopolitical influence.
  • Türkiye’s Role in the Ukraine-Russia Conflict
    • Türkiye hosted direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in 2022, demonstrating its ability to mediate in European conflicts.
    • This enhanced Türkiye’s credibility as a neutral broker and strengthened its diplomatic standing.
  • Saudi Arabia’s Multi-Alignment Strategy
    • Saudi Arabia recently hosted high-profile U.S.-Russia and U.S.-Ukraine negotiations, positioning itself as a major diplomatic force.
    • It is leveraging its oil wealth and strategic location to assert itself as a key player in global geopolitics.
  • Qatar’s Mediation in Africa: Qatar successfully facilitated a ceasefire between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, proving that small but influential states can play a major role in global conflict resolution.
  • If India does not step up, it risks falling behind these emerging middle powers in diplomatic influence.
  • By playing an active role, India could shape discussions on global security rather than merely reacting to them.
• Diminishing Credibility as a Global Leader
  • India has often projected itself as the leader of the Global South, advocating for the interests of developing nations.
  • However, if it remains hesitant to engage in conflict resolution, it may lose credibility in the eyes of its allies.
  • Expectations from a Rising Power
    • India, as the world’s fifth-largest economy and an aspiring permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), is expected to contribute more than just statements.
    • If India seeks a leadership role in global governance, it cannot afford to be perceived as indifferent to global crises.
  • Implications for UNSC Aspirations
    • India argues that UNSC decisions lack legitimacy without the world’s largest democracy.
    • However, this argument weakens if India is unwilling to take decisive action in global affairs outside the UNSC framework.
  • The ‘Not an Era of War’ Doctrine
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement to Vladimir Putin that ‘this is not an era of war’ was widely appreciated.
    • However, beyond rhetoric, India has not taken concrete steps to push for peace.
    • If India remains passive, such statements may be seen as diplomatic posturing rather than genuine efforts at conflict resolution.
• Strategic Setbacks in a Shifting Global Order
• The global balance of power is shifting, with increasing geopolitical fragmentation.
• If India does not actively engage, it may find itself left out of crucial negotiations that could shape the future world order.
• U.S.-China ‘Deal’ and the Risk of Regional Marginalisation
  • As tensions between the U.S. and China evolve, there is a possibility of a new understanding between the two superpowers, dividing regions into spheres of influence.
    • If India does not assert itself, it could be excluded from key geopolitical arrangements in Asia.
• Threat to the Quad’s Relevance
  • The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), consisting of India, the U.S., Japan, and Australia, is meant to counterbalance China’s influence.
    • However, if India remains hesitant to engage more proactively, the Quad itself could lose its strategic significance, weakening India’s position in the Indo-Pacific.
• China’s Expanding Influence
  • China’s growing presence in Africa, Latin America, and South Asia through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is reshaping global geopolitics.
    • While India has expressed concerns over China’s economic and strategic expansion, its passive approach limits its ability to counterbalance Chinese influence effectively.

The Way Ahead for India to Establish Itself as a Key Geopolitical Player

• Strengthening Regional Policies
  • India’s bilateral relations in West Asia, Central Asia, and East Asia must be supplemented with active participation in regional frameworks.
  • While India has maintained strong ties with Central Asian nations, its reduced engagement in the SCO limits its influence in the region.
  • Similarly, after opting out of RCEP, India must find alternative ways to strengthen economic ties with East Asian nations.
• Deepening Ties with Europe
  • With Europe facing internal and external pressures, India has a strategic opportunity to enhance its presence in the region.
  • A trade agreement with the U.S. could serve as a foundation for deeper economic and political collaboration with the European Union.
• Playing a More Proactive Role in Conflict Resolution
  • India does not need to position itself as a mediator but should be ready to facilitate dialogue and negotiations.
  • Its past role in the Korean War (1951-52) and its recent diplomatic efforts in the UNSC (2021-22) show that India can bridge divergent geopolitical interests.

Conclusion

• India’s ambition to be a global power must go beyond economic growth; it must also involve strategic geopolitical engagement.
• The world is undergoing a structural shift, with rising unilateralism and realignments in global politics.
• By proactively shaping global events rather than reacting to them, India can strengthen its influence and secure its place as a key pole in a multipolar world.
• As the international order evolves, India’s leadership will be judged not only by its economic prowess but also by its willingness to shape a stable and balanced global landscape.

Context:

• India, once a leading producer and exporter of cotton, is now facing a severe decline in production and has become a net importer of the natural fibre.
• The crisis is largely due to policy paralysis and restrictions on genetically modified (GM) crops rather than external factors.

The Rise of India's Cotton Production:

• Technological advancements: India became a major cotton producer due to hybrid technology and later, genetically modified (GM) Bt cotton.
• GM cotton revolution:
  • 1970: H-4, the world’s first cotton hybrid, developed by C.T. Patel.
  • 1972: Varalaxmi, the first interspecific cotton hybrid, developed by B.H. Katarki.
  • 2002-03: Introduction of GM Bt cotton, which offered resistance against the American bollworm.
  • 2006: Bollgard-II technology introduced, providing additional protection against pests.
  • 2013-14: 95% of India's cotton cultivation adopted Bt cotton, pushing yield to a peak of 566 kg per hectare.

The Decline in Cotton Production:

• Production trends:
  • 2002-03 to 2013-14: Production surged from 13.6 million bales (mb, 1 bale=170 kg) to 39.8 mb. The imports halved to 1.1 mb and exports surged well over hundredfold to 11.6 mb (from not even 0.1 mb in 2002-03).
  • 2024-25: Projected at 29.5 mb, the lowest since 2008-09.
  • Imports surpassing exports: 3 mb imports vs. 1.7 mb exports.
• Reasons for decline:
  • Policy restrictions on GM technology and regulatory hurdles. For example, the treatment of GM crops as “hazardous substances” under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
  • Resistance to scientific advancements in agriculture.
  • Pink bollworm infestation due to lack of new pest-resistant varieties.

Regulatory and Policy Failures:

• Ban on GM crops:
  • 2010: Moratorium on GM Bt brinjal, setting a precedent for halting GM crop approvals.
  • Field trials of new GM cotton hybrids blocked under the NDA government.
  • Regulatory deadlock despite scientific validation and biosafety data.
• Judicial and activist interventions:
  • Activist-driven opposition led to stagnation in agricultural biotech research.
  • Courts stepping into technical domains have further slowed progress.

Economic Implications:

• Impact on trade:
  • A country that was the world’s no. 1 producer in 2015-16 and a close second biggest exporter to the US by 2011-12 has today been “inundated” by American, Australian, Egyptian and Brazilian cotton.
  • Cotton imports doubled in value in 2024-25 compared to the previous year (from $518.4 million to $1,040.4 million) alongside a dip in exports (from $729.4 million to $660.5 million).
  • Pressure from the US and Brazil to remove the 11% import duty on cotton.
• Impact on farmers:
  • Indian farmers are denied access to the latest GM technologies.
  • Despite resistance to GM crops, GM soyameal and corn are being imported.

Need for Policy Reforms:

• Scientific approach over activism: Policy decisions should be based on scientific validation rather than public consultations dominated by activists.
• Revival of GM research: Approval of new pest-resistant GM cotton varieties. Establishment of a transparent and evidence-based regulatory framework.
• Reducing import dependence: Encouraging domestic production through technology adoption. Balancing environmental concerns with the need for agricultural progress.

Conclusion:

• In 1853, Karl Marx famously wrote how British rule “broke up the Indian handloom and destroyed the spinning wheel”, and finally “inundated the very mother country of cotton with cottons”.
• Something similar has taken place with Indian cotton over the last decade. However, it was not by any grand imperialist design, but by sheer domestic policy paralysis and ineptitude.
• India’s cotton crisis underscores the urgent need for a balanced, science-driven approach to agricultural policy.
• The failure to act decisively has not only hurt farmers but also made India reliant on foreign cotton, benefiting global competitors like the US and Brazil.

Why in News?

The discovery of large sums of cash at the residence of Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma has raised concerns about corruption in India’s higher judiciary.

This incident has strengthened calls for public disclosure of judges’ assets and liabilities, which, unlike other public servants, they are not obligated to reveal—and most have not done so.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Supreme Court’s Position on Judges’ Asset Disclosure
• Situation in High Courts Regarding Judges’ Asset Disclosure
• Public Servants and Asset Disclosure

Supreme Court’s Position on Judges’ Asset Disclosure

• 1997 Resolution
  • In 1997, under then CJI J S Verma, the Supreme Court adopted a resolution requiring judges to declare their assets, including those of their spouses and dependents, to the Chief Justice.
  • However, this did not mandate public disclosure.
• 2009 Resolution
  • In September 2009, the SC full Bench decided to publish judges' asset declarations on its website, but only on a voluntary basis.
  • These disclosures appeared in November 2009, and some High Courts followed suit.
• Lack of Updates Since 2018
  • The SC website has not been updated since 2018.
  • It only lists the judges who have submitted declarations to the CJI without publishing the actual disclosures.
  • Former judges’ declarations have also been removed.
• 2019 RTI Case and SC Ruling
  • In 2019, the Supreme Court ruled that judges' assets and liabilities do not qualify as “personal information.”
  • This case originated from an RTI request filed in 2009 by an activist to verify if SC judges had disclosed their assets as per the 1997 resolution.

Situation in High Courts Regarding Judges’ Asset Disclosure

• Low Compliance with Public Disclosure
  • As of March 1, 2024, only 97 out of 770 High Court judges (less than 13%) have publicly declared their assets.
  • These judges belong to seven High Courts: Delhi, Punjab & Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Madras, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, and Karnataka.
  • Most High Courts oppose public disclosure.
• Resistance from High Courts
  • In 2012, the Uttarakhand High Court passed a resolution strongly objecting to judges’ asset disclosure under the RTI Act.
  • The Allahabad High Court rejected an RTI request for judges' asset details, claiming it was outside the RTI Act’s scope.
  • Similar denials came from Rajasthan, Bombay, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Gauhati, and Sikkim High Courts.
• Parliamentary Committee’s Recommendation
  • In 2023, Parliament’s Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, and Law and Justice recommended a law mandating the disclosure of Supreme Court and High Court judges’ assets.
  • However, no legislative action has been taken so far.

Public Servants and Asset Disclosure

• Mandatory Asset Declarations
  • Unlike judges, most public servants are required to declare their assets, with this information often being publicly accessible.
  • The RTI Act of 2005 has played a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations.
• RTI’s Role in Public Disclosure
  • Government officials must annually declare their assets to their respective cadre-controlling authorities, and in most cases, these details are available in the public domain.
  • Several states, including Gujarat, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh, have strict provisions mandating asset declarations by bureaucrats, which can be accessed through RTI applications.
• Ministers and MPs
  • Since 2009, it has become standard practice for Union Ministers, including the Prime Minister, to submit asset declarations to the PMO, which are accessible via its website.
  • Many state governments have followed this practice.
  • MPs submit their asset details to the Speaker (Lok Sabha) or Chairperson (Rajya Sabha), and while not publicly available by default, they can generally be accessed through RTI applications.
• Asset Disclosure for Election Candidates
  • Candidates contesting elections for Parliament, State Assemblies, or Legislative Councils must publicly declare their assets and liabilities as part of the nomination process.
  • This requirement was established by a 2002 Supreme Court ruling mandating asset disclosure for electoral candidates.
  • These declarations are the most detailed among public servants, and even minor errors can lead to the rejection of a candidate’s nomination.

Why in News?

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, causing buildings to collapse in Mandalay and bringing down a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok.

The quake, the strongest globally in two years, was followed by at least three aftershocks. The epicenter was 17.2 km from Mandalay at a shallow depth of 10 km.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Cause of the Myanmar Earthquake
• Earthquake Frequency in Myanmar
• The Destructive Impact of Recent Earthquake
• Preparedness of Myanmar

Cause of the Myanmar Earthquake

• The Earth's lithosphere consists of tectonic plates that have been moving for billions of years.
• Earthquakes occur when these plates suddenly slip past each other, releasing stored energy as seismic waves, causing the ground to shake.
• Strike-Slip Faulting
  • The Myanmar earthquake was caused by strike-slip faulting between the Indian and Eurasian plates, where the plates moved sideways against each other.
• The Sagaing Fault
  • The earthquake occurred on the Sagaing Fault, a north-south fault line in Myanmar known for seismic activity.
  • This fault marks the boundary between the Indian plate (moving north) and the Eurasian plate.
  • The movement along this fault triggered the earthquake.
  • 

Earthquake Frequency in Myanmar

• Myanmar frequently experiences earthquakes due to the Sagaing Fault.
• Since 1900, at least six earthquakes of magnitude greater than 7 have occurred near this fault, according to USGS data.
• Notable Earthquakes
  • January 1990 (Magnitude 7.0)
  • February 1912 (Magnitude 7.9): Occurred just south of the epicenter of the recent quake.
  • 2016 (Magnitude 6.9): Struck in roughly the same area.
• Major Earthquakes in the Last Century
  • Over the past 100 years, Myanmar has witnessed 14 earthquakes of magnitude 6 or above.
• The 1839 Catastrophic Earthquake
  • One of the worst earthquakes in the region occurred in 1839, estimated at magnitude 8.3.
  • This event is considered the best recent analogue for the March 28, 2025, earthquake.

The Destructive Impact of Recent Earthquake

• Largest Quake in Decades
  • The recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake was likely the strongest in Myanmar’s mainland in 75 years.
  • Previous significant quakes caused casualties but were less severe.
• Shallow Depth Intensified Damage
  • The quake occurred at a shallow depth of just 10 km, meaning the seismic shockwaves did not dissipate before reaching the surface.
  • This resulted in stronger ground shaking and greater structural damage.
• Widespread Impact Beyond Epicenter
  • Experts emphasized that seismic waves radiate from the entire fault line, not just the epicenter, affecting a much larger area.

Preparedness of Myanmar

• High Fatality and Economic Risk
  • The USGS Earthquake Hazards Program estimated potential fatalities between 10,000 and 100,000, with economic losses possibly reaching 70% of Myanmar’s GDP.
• Infrastructure Not Built for Large Quakes
  • Myanmar has not experienced a major earthquake in this region since 1956, leading to poor seismic preparedness.
  • Buildings, especially in densely populated Mandalay, were not designed to withstand such powerful tremors.
• Geographic Factors
  • Most earthquakes in Myanmar occur west of the Sagaing Fault, while this one struck the central region, which is less accustomed to high-magnitude quakes, further worsening the impact.

Why in News?

• India's e-commerce market has reached $60 billion in gross merchandise value (GMV), becoming the world's second-largest online shopper base.
  • GMV is the total value of merchandise that's sold over a given period through a customer-to-customer (C2C) exchange site.
• However, growth slowed to 10-12% in 2024, down from the historical 20%, due to higher inflation and stagnant real wages, according to a Flipkart-Bain report.
• Despite short-term challenges, long-term prospects remain strong, driven by three key trends: quick commerce, trend-first commerce (especially in fashion), and hyper-value commerce.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Government Initiatives Boosting E-commerce in India
• E-Retail Slowdown
• Key Drivers of E-Retail Growth

Government Initiatives Boosting E-commerce in India

• Digital Infrastructure & Policy Support
  • The Indian government has launched key initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, Start-up India, and Skill India, driving e-commerce growth.
  • The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has surpassed ₹4 lakh crore GMV in FY24, enhancing procurement efficiency.
• Expanding E-commerce Access
  • Collaborations like CSC-ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) aim to extend e-commerce to rural areas.
  • The National Retail Policy focuses on digitization and ease of business, while FDI in B2B e-commerce is now allowed up to 100%.
• Regulatory & Tax Measures
  • Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules 2020 ensure fair competition.
  • 5G expansion is expected to further accelerate digital commerce adoption.

E-Retail Slowdown

• India’s private consumption growth has slowed from 11% (2017–19) to 8% (2022–24), driven by high inflation and stagnant real wages.
• This has impacted e-retail, with growth dropping to 10–12% in 2024, compared to historical rates of over 20%.
• Expected Rebound and Future Growth
  • Fiscal and monetary policy interventions are anticipated to revive e-retail growth, particularly from the 2025 festive season.
  • By 2030, the market is expected to reach $170–190 billion, growing at over 18% annually.
  • As India's GDP per capita crosses $3,500–4,000, discretionary spending is set to rise, with nearly 1 in 10 retail dollars projected to be spent online.

Key Drivers of E-Retail Growth

• High-frequency categories like grocery, lifestyle, and general merchandise will fuel e-retail expansion, making up two-thirds of total online spending by 2030.
• E-retail penetration in these segments is expected to grow 2–4 times over this period.
• Rise of Tier-3 and Smaller Cities
  • Online shopping adoption is shifting from Tier-2 to Tier-3 cities, with 60% of new shoppers since 2020 coming from smaller cities.
  • The Northeast has 1.2 times higher e-retail penetration than the rest of India.
  • Additionally, 60% of new sellers since 2021 are from Tier-2 or smaller cities, diversifying the seller base.
• Quick Commerce’s Rapid Expansion
  • Quick commerce dominates e-grocery, accounting for two-thirds of orders and 10% of total e-retail spending.
  • It is projected to grow over 40% annually until 2030, expanding across new categories and geographies.
• Trend-First and Hyper-Value Commerce on the Rise
  • Trend-first fashion is set to grow fourfold, reaching $8–10 billion by 2028, with over half of sales happening online.
  • Hyper-value commerce, driven by ultra-low-price assortments, has grown from 5% of e-retail GMV in 2021 to over 12% in 2024, gaining traction among lower-middle-income consumers in smaller cities.
    • Hyper-value commerce refers to a retail model that focuses on offering ultra-low-priced products to attract cost-conscious consumers.

Why in the News?

Recently, India completed wet testing of its Matsya-6000 submersible, capable of diving up to 6 km below the surface to look for underwater minerals off the coast.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Background (Context of the Article)
• About Deep Sea (Importance of Deep Sea, Challenges, Suggestions, etc.)

Background:

• India is steadily moving forward in its journey to explore and harness the vast potential of the deep ocean.
• A key step in this direction was the recent wet testing of Matsya-6000, a deep-sea submersible developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) under the Samudrayaan Project.
• Capable of diving up to 6 km beneath the sea surface, Matsya-6000 is part of the broader Deep Ocean Mission, which aims to place India among a handful of nations with human-rated submersibles capable of operating at such extreme depths.
• However, as per experts, developing deep sea capabilities is not just about science—it’s about economic strength, digital infrastructure, national security, and global competition, especially with countries like China far ahead in this field.

Importance of Deep Sea Matters for India:

• The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) gives countries exclusive rights over natural resources within their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), extending 200 nautical miles (about 370 km) from the coastline.
• India’s EEZ holds massive untapped potential on the seabed and in the water column.
• Some key reasons why India needs to invest in this domain include:
  • Mineral and energy resources: The seabed holds valuable resources like polymetallic nodules, gas hydrates, oil, and other rare-earth materials that are critical for India’s growing industrial and energy needs.
  • Food and nutraceuticals: Fisheries and marine bio-resources offer economic and nutritional benefits.
  • Oceanographic and climate data: Deep ocean exploration can support climate modelling, weather forecasting, and environmental research.
  • Digital economy infrastructure: Over 95% of global internet traffic passes through undersea fiber-optic cables. Ensuring these cables are secure, well-maintained, and possibly expanded with Indian participation is crucial to the digital economy.
  • National security: Deep sea is increasingly a space of strategic competition. China, for example, recently unveiled a cable-cutting device capable of damaging critical undersea infrastructure. India must prepare with domain awareness, monitoring systems, and countermeasures.

Challenges of Deep Sea Technology:

• Developing deep sea capability is no small feat. The average depth in India’s EEZ is around 3,741 metres, nearly four-and-a-half times the height of the Burj Khalifa.
• The pressure at such depths exceeds 380 atmospheres, requiring specially designed submersibles and materials.
• Some key technological challenges include:
  • Communication underwater: Unlike air, sound in water is affected by temperature, pressure, and salinity, making communication difficult. Very Low Frequency (VLF) and Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) sound systems are essential but expensive to develop.
  • Pressure resistance: The deeper the dive, the more robust the vessel needs to be. The OceanGate Titan submersible tragedy in 2023 is a sobering reminder of what can go wrong without rigorous safety and engineering standards.
  • Cost and expertise: Building these technologies demands large financial investments, specialised research, and a highly skilled workforce—areas where countries like China, the US, Japan, and France have made significant progress.

What India Needs to Do Next:

• While the Deep Ocean Mission launched in 2018 is a step in the right direction, experts believe much more needs to be done. Key suggestions include:
• Create a dedicated Ministry: Upgrade the Department of Ocean Development into a full-fledged Ministry of Ocean Affairs, with a Cabinet-rank Minister to drive coordination and accountability.
• Boost funding and speed: Approve projects in mission-mode with clear deadlines, adequate budgets, and transparent review mechanisms.
• Establish centres of excellence: Invest in academic institutions and research labs focused on deep ocean science and technology, encouraging innovation and skill development.
• Support industrial partnerships: Incentivise private companies to enter deep sea mining, cable-laying, salvage, and submersible development.
• Create a 10-year roadmap: Formulate a long-term plan with defined milestones across technology, governance, infrastructure, and security.
• Importantly, the dual-use nature of deep sea technologies, serving both scientific and military goals, makes it essential for India to view ocean development as not just a technical project but a national strategic priority.

Conclusion:

India’s ambition to be a global economic and strategic power cannot ignore the depths of the ocean. Whether it's for minerals, data, food, or security, the deep sea holds the key to the future. With Matsya-6000 as a starting point, India must now accelerate efforts to build a robust, well-funded, and forward-looking deep ocean capability that matches its global aspirations.

Context:

• The government has proposed the abolition of the 6% Equalisation Levy on online advertising in the Finance Bill 2025, reducing the tax burden on digital ad consumers and lowering costs on platforms like Google and Meta.
• This is a significant move in the context of the ongoing Indo-US bilateral trade talks, and the imminent threat of reciprocal tax, which is likely to come into force from 2nd April, 2025.
• If passed in parliament, the 6% Equalisation Levy would cease to exist from 1 April 2025. The origins of the equalisation levy have generated interest as we say goodbye to it.

The Genesis of Equalisation Levy:

• Introduced in 2016 via the Finance Act, rather than the Income-tax Act, to avoid treaty override.
• Aimed at taxing online advertising revenues earned by foreign digital companies in India.
• Large multinational digital corporations opposed the levy, citing double taxation concerns.

The Global Taxation Landscape:

• International tax efforts sought to close loopholes but lacked consensus on digital taxation.
• The OECD's Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) initiative left digital taxation unresolved.
• India was the first country to impose such a tax, despite criticisms of unilateralism. Other countries followed suit, leading the US to intervene.

International Negotiations and the Role of OECD & UN:

• Dispute over profit allocation: US preferred taxation only on residual returns. India advocated for formulary apportionment.
• OECD attempted a consensus-driven approach but faced US influence.
• Growing discontent among developing nations led to UN intervention.
• In 2024, 110 countries supported an UN-led international tax convention.
• The UN’s proposal for a withholding tax on digital services faced obstacles similar to OECD’s.

US Opposition and Trade Disputes:

• In 2020, the US launched investigations under USTR, calling India’s levy discriminatory.
• The US threatened retaliatory tariffs, leading to India’s withdrawal of a similar levy of 2% on digital e-commerce supplies and services.
• With Donald Trump’s return, trade tensions resurfaced, likely prompting the 6% levy’s removal.

Impact and Future of Digital Taxes:

• India collected ₹40 billion from the levy in 2022.
• Critics argue the tax burden was passed on to consumers, though evidence is lacking.
• The withdrawal raises concerns as there is still no global tax framework in place.
• Despite its discontinuation, the equalisation levy showcased India’s ability to assert its economic interests independently of global consensus.

Conclusion:

• The withdrawal of the equalisation levy marks the end of India’s bold attempt to tax digital giants in the absence of a global consensus.
• While the levy served as an effective tool to ensure fair taxation, geopolitical pressures, particularly from the US, played a crucial role in its rollback.
• The episode highlights the complexities of international tax diplomacy, where developing nations like India must navigate economic interests while asserting their sovereignty.
• As global negotiations continue, the future of digital taxation remains uncertain, but India's pioneering approach has set a precedent for alternative models of taxation beyond OECD-driven frameworks.

Context

• India's defence sector is at a crucial crossroads, balancing indigenous production with strategic foreign partnerships.
• The Indian Armed Forces have long relied on Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), and this dependence has deepened under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign.
• However, the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces a significant challenge in maintaining its operational strength due to the slow production rate of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
• Therefore, it is important to critically examine the state of India’s defence procurement, the implications of U.S. strategic partnerships, and the necessity of safeguarding India’s strategic autonomy.

India’s Defence Imports and Indigenous Efforts

• India remains the world’s second-largest arms importer, as reported by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
• While there has been a 9.3% reduction in imports from 2015–2019, high-cost and technologically sophisticated weapon systems continue to be sourced from abroad.
• Despite this, the IAF is investing heavily in indigenous fighter jets like the Tejas Mk1A, Tejas Mk2, and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
• However, these aircraft rely on American-made engines, making India’s operational capabilities partially dependent on U.S. strategic decisions.
• Given that Russia supplies 36% of India’s arms, questions arise regarding India’s ability to diversify its supply chain while maintaining technological superiority.

U.S.-India Defence Partnership and Comparisons with Other Defence Partnerships

• U.S.-India Defence Partnership
  • India's evolving defence relationship with the U.S. is a double-edged sword.
  • While bilateral agreements such as the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) have promised cutting-edge technology transfer, their long-term impact remains uncertain.
  • The unpredictability of U.S. foreign policy, particularly under transactional administrations, raises concerns about the reliability of such arrangements.
  • The notion of "partnership" in India-U.S. defence ties must be scrutinised. As per Professor Anna Simons' perspective, a true partnership is based on "mutual indispensability."
  • The key question remains: Is India indispensable to U.S. strategic interests?
  • Unlike NATO allies or historical U.S. partners, India’s role in Washington’s geopolitical calculus remains fluid, making dependency a risk rather than an advantage.
• Comparisons with Other Defence Partnerships
  • India’s strategic relationships with Russia, Israel, and France offer alternative models of cooperation.
  • Unlike the U.S., Russia has been a consistent supplier, providing crucial defence equipment, including the Sukhoi Su-30 fighters and S-400 missile systems.
  • Similarly, Israel has contributed significantly to India’s missile defence and surveillance capabilities, while France remains a reliable partner through deals like the Rafale fighter jets.
  • India must evaluate whether its defence relationships are built on long-term political indispensability or short-term transactional exchanges.
  • The example of the U.S.-Pakistan alliance, which collapsed when Islamabad lost its strategic value, serves as a cautionary tale for India’s approach to defence partnerships.

The Necessity of Safeguarding India’s Strategic Autonomy

• Diversification of Defence Sources
  • India’s current defence procurement heavily relies on both indigenous production and foreign imports.
  • Historically, the country has depended on countries like Russia for advanced weapon systems, but the increasing collaboration with the U.S. in areas such as fighter jets and surveillance technology has created a potential for over-dependence.
  • To ensure strategic autonomy, India must diversify its sources of defence equipment.
  • While India has made significant strides with the development of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), it must continue to build up its indigenous defence manufacturing capacity.
• Technology Transfer and Domestic Innovation
  • A cornerstone of ensuring strategic autonomy is fostering technology transfer and encouraging domestic defence innovation.
  • In its current partnerships, especially with the U.S., India has focused on acquiring sophisticated technologies like engines for aircraft (e.g., the GE F414 engine for the Tejas Mk2).
  • However, technology transfer must go beyond simple purchase agreements; it should include know-how, intellectual property rights (IPRs), and the ability to locally manufacture and upgrade defence systems.
  • India needs to invest in defence research and development (R&D) and enhance collaboration between the private sector and DPSUs.
  • With the active participation of Indian universities, research institutions, and private firms, India can move closer to self-reliance.
• Strengthening Indigenous Defence Capabilities
  • Ensuring strategic autonomy also involves ramping up the development of indigenous defence platforms that meet India’s unique security requirements.
  • This includes not only aircraft like the Tejas and AMCA, but also systems such as advanced missile defence technologies, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and cyber warfare capabilities.
  • India should focus on the entire spectrum of defence needs, ranging from tactical short-range weapons to long-range strategic deterrence systems.
  • By doing so, India can mitigate the risk of being vulnerable to changes in global defence supply chains or political shifts in other countries.
• Adapting to Geopolitical Shifts
  • A major aspect of strategic autonomy is the ability to navigate geopolitical uncertainties.
  • India’s defence needs cannot be dictated solely by short-term political alignments or international agreements.
  • For instance, U. S.-India defence ties, although promising, are susceptible to the vagaries of U.S. domestic politics.
  • A change in leadership or policy, as seen under the Trump administration, could lead to a shift in priorities, leaving India exposed to abrupt policy reversals or unanticipated supply chain disruptions.
  • Therefore, India must actively engage in multi-alignment, maintaining strong defence relationships with multiple global powers, such as Russia, Israel, and France, while simultaneously strengthening its domestic capabilities.
• Strategic Defence Planning and Self-Sufficiency
  • By prioritising self-sufficiency in areas such as defence logistics, supply chains, and maintenance of weapon systems, India can reduce its vulnerability to external disruptions.
  • Ensuring that the Indian Armed Forces have the capability to maintain and upgrade their equipment domestically will minimise dependence on foreign contractors for critical repairs and updates.
  • This long-term focus on self-sufficiency will bolster India’s strategic position in both regional and global security architectures.
• Securing National Interests Against Policy Reversals
  • India must also ensure that its national security interests are protected against sudden shifts in global power dynamics.
  • For instance, the U.S. has a history of recalibrating its foreign policies based on its national interests.
  • India should adopt policies that create buffers against any abrupt policy reversals, particularly in areas related to defence supplies.
  • This could involve stockpiling critical components, developing multiple sources for key defence technologies, and creating contingency plans for potential supply chain disruptions.

Conclusion

• India’s defence procurement strategy must strike a balance between indigenization and strategic partnerships.
• While foreign alliances, particularly with the U.S., offer technological advantages, India must be cautious to avoid over-reliance.
• By focusing on self-sufficiency and negotiating partnerships that enhance its strategic leverage, India can secure its defence future without compromising its autonomy.

Context

• The case involving Justice Yashwant Varma is a striking example of the complexities surrounding judicial integrity, government intervention, and the broader debate over the appointment and accountability of judges in India.
• This incident, which began as a suspicious fire at the judge’s official residence, quickly escalated into a national controversy, leading to an investigation and reigniting debates over judicial appointments and government influence.
• Therefore, it is important to analyse the case, its implications for judicial independence, and the larger issue of corruption within the judiciary.

The Case and Its Immediate Fallout

• The controversy began when an accidental fire in an outhouse at Justice Varma’s official residence in New Delhi led to the discovery of large amounts of burnt ₹500 currency notes.
• With Justice Varma out of town at the time, questions arose regarding the source and purpose of the money.
• The Delhi police chief reported the incident to the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, who then informed the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
• The CJI took swift action by calling a Collegium meeting and transferring Justice Varma back to the Allahabad High Court.
• However, the situation escalated when public outrage over the incident led the CJI to initiate a formal in-house inquiry.
• A three-judge committee was appointed to investigate the matter, and Justice Varma was temporarily relieved of judicial duties.
• Despite his claims that the money was planted as part of a conspiracy, the inquiry’s findings were eagerly awaited as they held the key to understanding the full scope of the incident.
• The CJI’s decision to make all findings public was seen as a positive step toward transparency.

Government Intervention and NJAC Debate

• While the inquiry into Justice Varma’s case was ongoing, the government seized the opportunity to revisit its longstanding efforts to exert greater control over judicial appointments.
• The Vice President of India initiated discussions with political leaders on reinstating the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC), an act that had previously been struck down by the Supreme Court for violating the Constitution’s basic structure doctrine.
• The NJAC was designed to include government representatives in judicial appointments, a move seen as undermining judicial independence.
• The Supreme Court had ruled against it on the grounds that government involvement in appointments would compromise the impartiality of the judiciary.
• Nevertheless, the government has persistently sought to exert influence over the Collegium system, often delaying or rejecting judicial recommendations without justification.

The Government’s Role in Judicial Appointments

• The Modi government’s interference in judicial appointments has been a recurring concern.
• Despite legal provisions that mandate the Collegium’s recommendations be honoured, the government has used procedural delays to block the appointment of independent judges.
• By selectively approving only those judges aligned with its ideology, the government has undermined the judiciary’s independence.
• The Justice Varma case has provided the government with another opportunity to question the current appointment process.
• If the government succeeds in reinstating the NJAC, it would further erode judicial autonomy, placing it under political control.
• Given the government’s track record of suppressing dissent and controlling institutions, this move raises significant concerns about the future of judicial impartiality.

The Larger Issue of Corruption and Judicial Accountability

• The Scope of Corruption in the Judiciary
  • Judicial corruption is a serious concern in India, where the integrity of the judiciary is fundamental to upholding the rule of law and ensuring democratic governance.
  • Allegations of corruption among judges, including bribery, favouritism, and political influence, have surfaced multiple times, eroding public trust in the judicial system.
  • Cases like that of Justice Yashwant Varma raise important questions about how deeply corruption may be embedded in the judiciary and what mechanisms exist to address it.
  • While the judiciary is meant to function independently, its closed nature has led to a lack of transparency and accountability.
  • The existing system of judicial oversight is weak, as complaints against judges often go unaddressed due to the absence of a structured mechanism to investigate misconduct.
  • The Justice Varma case highlights the urgent need for reforms in how allegations of corruption are handled.
• Limitations of the Impeachment Process
  • The Indian Constitution currently provides only one method for removing a corrupt judge:
  • This process is highly impractical and has never been successfully implemented in India's history.
  • Initiating impeachment requires the signatures of at least 100 Members of Parliament (MPs) in the Lok Sabha or 50 MPs in the Rajya Sabha.
  • Since MPs belong to political parties with vested interests, impeachment proceedings are often influenced by political considerations rather than merit.
  • Even if the required number of MPs initiate impeachment, the process involves an investigation by a committee, followed by debates and votes in both houses of Parliament.
  • A two-thirds majority is required in both houses for the judge’s removal, making it extremely difficult to execute.

The Way Forward

• The Need for a Judicial Complaints Commission
  • Given the inefficiency of the impeachment process, an alternative approach is required.
  • One potential solution is the creation of a Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC), an independent body responsible for investigating complaints against judges and ensuring accountability. The key features of such a commission should include:
  • Independence from Government and Judiciary
    • The commission should not be controlled by the government or the judiciary to avoid conflicts of interest.
    • It should consist of a panel of retired judges, eminent legal scholars, and respected public figures with no direct affiliation to the government or the sitting judiciary.
  • Authority to Investigate Complaints
    • The commission should have the power to receive complaints from citizens, lawyers, and even government agencies.
    • It should have investigative authority, including the ability to summon witnesses, access financial records, and conduct hearings.
  • Transparent Disciplinary Process
    • If a complaint is found to have merit, the commission should conduct a fair and transparent trial-like inquiry.
    • Depending on the severity of the misconduct, the commission should have the authority to recommend disciplinary actions such as suspension, removal from office, or criminal prosecution.
  • Judicial Review of Decisions
    • To prevent misuse, the decisions of the JCC should be subject to review by the Supreme Court in exceptional cases.
    • This would ensure that judges are held accountable while protecting them from false or politically motivated complaints.
• Ensuring Transparency in Judicial Appointments
  • Judicial corruption is closely linked to the appointment process, as politically favoured or compromised individuals may be selected as judges.
  • The current Collegium system, while independent, lacks transparency and accountability.
  • The appointment of judges must be reformed to prevent corruption and undue influence.
  • A Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC), separate from the government, should be responsible for selecting judges based on merit, integrity, and judicial competence.

Conclusion

• The Justice Yashwant Varma case highlights both the vulnerabilities within the judiciary and the persistent attempts by the government to control it.
• While judicial corruption is a serious issue that needs urgent reform, allowing government intervention in judicial appointments is not the answer.
• Instead, an independent and transparent mechanism for appointing and disciplining judges should be established. If judicial independence is compromised, the very foundation of democracy will be at risk.
• The public and opposition parties must recognise these dangers and resist any attempts to undermine the judiciary’s autonomy.

Why in news?

The Supreme Court stayed an Allahabad High Court ruling that downgraded charges against three accused from attempted rape to mere preparation, calling the judgment insensitive.

The High Court had removed attempted rape charges and directed trial under lesser offences, including IPC Section 354B (using criminal force against a woman) and Sections 9/10 (aggravated sexual assault) of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO Act).

The case highlights the critical legal distinction between “preparation” (generally not punishable) and “attempt” (criminally punishable), prompting Supreme Court intervention.

What’s in Today’s article?

• Background of the case
• Distinction Between ‘Preparation’ and ‘Attempt’
• Allahabad HC Downgrades Attempted Rape Charges
• Historical Precedents in Attempted Rape Cases

Background of the case

• The High Court was hearing an appeal against a POCSO court order that had summoned the accused for trial under Section 376 IPC (rape) and Section 18 of the POCSO Act (punishment for attempt).
• On March 17, the HC removed attempted rape charges, terming the act as mere "preparation."
• Key Legal Distinction: Preparation vs. Attempt
  • The case highlights the crucial difference between "preparation" (generally not punishable) and "attempt" (which is criminally punishable), leading to Supreme Court intervention.

Distinction Between ‘Preparation’ and ‘Attempt’

• The Supreme Court has clarified that an attempt to commit an offence goes beyond preparation and involves concrete steps toward committing the crime.
• Preparation is merely a stage that precedes an attempt.
• Legal Criteria for ‘Attempt’
  • In Abhayanand Mishra v. State of Bihar (1961), the SC outlined key requirements to establish an attempt:
    • The accused had the intention to commit the offence.
    • The accused prepared to commit the offence.
    • The accused took actions towards committing the offence (not necessarily the final act).
    • The penultimate act occurred during the course of committing the offence (proximity requirement).
• Key SC Ruling: Where Attempt Begins
  • In State of Maharashtra v. Mohd. Yakub (1980), the SC ruled that “attempt begins where preparation ends”—an accused cannot be punished for mere preparation without an overt act leading to the crime.

Allahabad HC Downgrades Attempted Rape Charges

• The Allahabad High Court ruled that the accused could not be charged with attempted rape, stating that the prosecution failed to prove the offence had progressed beyond preparation.
• HC’s Reasoning
  • The court held that the allegations did not meet the legal threshold for attempted rape, as no concrete steps towards the offence were proven.
  • It relied on the 1836 English case Rex v. James Lloyd, which required evidence that the accused intended to gratify their passions despite resistance.
  • The HC noted no claim of penetrative assault, a key requirement for proving rape under the IPC.
• Reduced Charges and Punishment
  • The HC ruled that the accused could only be charged under Section 354B IPC (assault with intent to disrobe a woman), which carries a punishment of 1-5 years in prison, rather than attempted rape under the IPC and POCSO Act.

Historical Precedents in Attempted Rape Cases

• The Lloyd ruling (1836), despite being nearly two centuries old, continues to influence Indian courts in determining whether an accused has attempted to commit rape.
• Recent Applications of the Lloyd Ruling
  • May 2024: The Rajasthan High Court applied the Lloyd test and altered an attempted rape conviction, reducing the charge to Section 354 IPC (assault on a woman with intent to outrage modesty).
  • 2004: In Aman Kumar & Anr v. State of Haryana, the Supreme Court adopted a similar approach, lowering the conviction from attempted rape to a lesser offence.
• SC’s Criticism and Potential Legal Reassessment
  • On March 25, 2025, the Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of the Allahabad HC’s ruling and issued a stay, strongly criticizing its reasoning.
  • The SC remarked that the observations were legally flawed, insensitive, and inhumane.
  • This case presents an opportunity for the Supreme Court to reconsider and redefine the legal standard for attempted rape.

Why in news?

The India BioEconomy Report 2024, released by the Department of Biotechnology, estimates India's bioeconomy to be worth over $165 billion, contributing 4.2% of GDP.

The report highlights significant growth potential, projecting the sector to reach $300 billion by 2030 and $1 trillion by 2047.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Bioeconomy
• Growing Footprint of India's Bioeconomy
• BioE3 Policy: Boosting India's Bioeconomy
• Other Initiatives & Policy Push
• Challenges and Way Forward

Bioeconomy

• It refers to the industrial use of biological resources (plants, animals, microorganisms) and natural biological processes for producing goods and services.
• Traditional and Expanding Applications
  • Biological resources have long been used in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
  • Their use is now expanding to fuels, textiles, plastics, construction materials, and chemicals due to their renewability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
• Sustainable Alternatives
  • Ethanol, produced via fermentation of sugarcane or corn, is replacing hydrocarbon-based fuels.
  • Biotechnology enables biomedicines and synthetic biology, allowing the design of microorganisms with specific traits.
• Scope for Rapid Growth
  • The economic use of biological resources is still in its early stages but has vast untapped potential.
  • With advancements in biotechnology and sustainability, the bioeconomy is expanding rapidly.

Growing Footprint of India's Bioeconomy

• India’s bioeconomy nearly doubled in five years, from $86 billion (2020) to $165 billion (2024).
  • Growth has surpassed the initial target of $150 billion by 2025.
• The number of bioeconomy companies increased by 90%, from 5,365 (2021) to 10,075 (2024), and is projected to double by 2030, creating 35 million jobs.
• Sector-wise Contributions
  • The sector now contributes 4.25% to GDP with a CAGR of 17.9% in the last four years.
  • Industrial sector (biofuels, bioplastics) contributed $78 billion (~47%).
  • Pharma sector contributed 35%, with vaccines as the key driver.
  • Fastest-growing segment (2024): Research & IT, including biotech software, clinical trials, and bioinformatics.
• Regional Disparities
  • Five states (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh) generated over two-thirds of bioeconomy value.
  • Eastern & Northeastern regions contributed less than 6%.
• Challenges & Future Prospects
  • Sustaining high growth will require innovation, scaling-up incentives, and policy reforms.
  • Addressing regional imbalances is crucial.
  • While India’s bioeconomy (4.2% of GDP) is comparable to China & the US, it lags behind Spain & Italy (20% of GDP).

BioE3 Policy: Boosting India's Bioeconomy

• Launched in 2024, the BioE3 policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) aims to make India a global hub for bio-manufacturing and R&D in biotechnology.
• Key Objectives
  • Strengthen bio-manufacturing in areas like:
    • Bio-based chemicals & enzymes
    • Functional foods & precision biotherapeutics
    • Marine & space biotechnology
    • Climate-resilient agriculture
  • Foster a network of universities, research institutions, start-ups, and industries.
• Implementation
  • Assam became the first state to adopt the BioE3 framework, signaling nationwide expansion.
  • New initiatives include Bio-AI Hubs, Bio Foundries, and Bio-Enabler Hubs for integrating advanced tech into biomanufacturing.
  • Address policy bottlenecks to unlock the sector’s full potential.

Other Initiatives & Policy Push

• New initiatives include Bio-AI Hubs, Bio Foundries, and Bio-Enabler Hubs for integrating advanced tech into biomanufacturing.
• Boosting Startups & Innovation
  • India's biotech startups grew from 50 in 2014 to over 10,075 in 2024.
  • The BioSaarthi mentorship program was launched to support startups with global mentorship, leveraging Indian diaspora expertise.
  • Public-private partnerships have fueled sectoral expansion and innovation.
• Breakthroughs in Biotechnology
  • Development of Nafithromycin, India’s first indigenous antibiotic for respiratory diseases.
  • Successful gene therapy trials for hemophilia.
  • Completion of India’s whole genome sequencing project, mapping 10,074 individuals across 99 communities to revolutionize precision medicine.
• Space Biotechnology & Future Prospects
  • Collaboration between the Department of Biotechnology and ISRO to advance space biology and medicine.
  • Biotechnology will play a key role in astronaut health and space research as India prepares for its first space station.
• R&D Investment Surge
  • India's Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD) doubled, from ₹60,196 crore in 2013-14 to ₹1,27,381 crore in 2024.
  • This funding push underscores the government’s commitment to scientific research and innovation.

Challenges and Way Forward

• India has strong existing capabilities in some biotech fields, making commercialization easier.
• However, regulatory challenges remain, especially in genetically modified (GM) crops, which could enhance agricultural productivity.
• Recommendations for Future Growth
  • Establish a National BioEconomy Mission.
  • Implement single-window regulatory mechanisms to streamline biotech innovations.

Why in news?

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) submitted a status report to the Delhi High Court highlighting key concerns about deepfakes.

Deepfake technology creates realistic videos, audio, and images. It can change a person’s face, voice, and actions. This can mislead people and spread false information.

What’s in today’s article?

• Regulation of Deepfakes in India
• Background
• Government Report on Deepfakes: Key Concerns and Stakeholder Insights

Regulation of Deepfakes in India

• In India, while there's no specific law directly addressing deepfakes.
• Existing provisions under the Information Technology Act (IT Act) and other laws can be used to address their misuse, such as defamation, impersonation, and copyright infringement. 
• Existing Legal Framework:
  • Information Technology Act, 2000:
    • Section 66D:Penalizes cheating by impersonation using a computer resource, which could apply to deepfakes used for fraudulent impersonation. 
    • Section 66E:Addresses violation of privacy, which could be relevant if deepfakes are used to share private content. 
    • Sections 67, 67A, and 67B:Prohibit and punish the publication or transmission of obscene or sexually explicit material. 
    • Defamation Laws: Deepfakes used to spread misinformation or damage someone's reputation can be challenged under defamation laws. 
    • Copyright Act, 1957:Copyright holders can initiate legal proceedings against individuals who use copyrighted material without permission to create deepfakes, with penalties outlined in Section 51. 

Background

• Several petitions have been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking regulation of deepfakes and AI-generated content.
• Three petitions filed
  • Rajat Sharma's Petition (Journalist, India TV Editor-in-Chief)
    • Seeks regulation of deepfake technology.
    • Requests blocking of public access to apps enabling deepfake creation.
    • Argues that deepfakes pose a threat to society by spreading misinformation and disinformation, undermining public discourse and democracy.
  • Chaitanya Rohilla's Petition (Lawyer)
    • Calls for regulations on AI usage, addressing concerns over its unregulated deployment.
  • Kanchan Nagar's Petition (Model)
    • Seeks a ban on non-consensual commercial deepfakes.
    • Advocates for fair compensation for original artists in commercial advertising.
• Formation of Committee
  • In November 2024, the court instructed the Centre to appoint members to the committee.
  • The MeitY had announced the formation of a committee on November 20, 2024, to address this issue.
  • A nine-member MeitY committee, formed in November 2024, met stakeholders on January 21, 2025.

Government Report on Deepfakes: Key Concerns and Stakeholder Insights

• Rising Threats from Deepfakes
  • Deepfakes targeting women during state elections.
  • Increasing AI-generated scam content, particularly post-elections.
  • Need for better enforcement rather than new laws
  • Lack of a uniform definition for "deepfake."
• Call for AI Content Regulation
  • Stakeholders emphasized mandatory AI content disclosure, labeling standards, and grievance redressal mechanisms, focusing on malicious actors rather than creative uses of deepfake technology.
• Debate on Intermediary Liability
  • MeitY's panel proposed mandatory compliance for intermediaries regarding deepfake content.
  • Stakeholders cautioned against over-reliance on intermediary liability frameworks, advocating better investigative and enforcement mechanisms instead of new regulations.
    • Intermediary liability frameworks determine the extent to which intermediaries can be held liable for content on their platforms.
    • The frameworks range from holding intermediaries entirely responsible for the content posted on their platform to complete immunity.
  • A representative from X stressed the need to distinguish between deceptive and benign AI content.
• Challenges in Deepfake Detection
  • The Data Analysis Unit (DAU), part of the Meta-supported Misinformation Combat Alliance, highlighted:
    
    • Audio-based deepfakes are harder to detect.
    • Stakeholders underscored the need for collaboration and standard detection frameworks.
• Law Enforcement and Regulatory Actions
• The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has been tasked with gathering data on deepfake-related cases from law enforcement agencies.
• Proposed solutions include awareness campaigns via platforms like YouTube.
• Ongoing Consultations and Next Steps
  • MeitY has requested three more months from the Delhi High Court to complete its consultations.
  • The ministry is yet to consult victims of deepfakes and is collaborating with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to gather their inputs.
  • Discussions so far have focused more on reactive measures rather than preventive solutions.

Context

• On World Water Day (March 22, 2025), Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the necessity of collective action for water conservation, highlighting the importance of securing water resources for present and future generations.
• Coinciding with this, the Ministry of Jal Shakti launched the Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain 2025, a campaign that underscores the need for community participation in water management.
• While such initiatives reflect a growing awareness of water-related challenges, a critical analysis of India's rural water policies reveals significant gaps that need urgent attention.

The Role of Communities in Water Management

• A fundamental issue in India’s water policies is the limited role of communities in decision-making processes.
• Indigenous and local communities possess valuable ecological knowledge, yet their participation in water governance remains superficial.
• Current policies largely focus on community involvement in the management of water sources, while decision-making power remains concentrated with state authorities.
• This restricts the ability of communities to implement their own traditional water conservation methods, leading to a top-down, one-size-fits-all approach that often disregards local environmental dynamics.
• For instance, Water User Associations (WUAs), introduced in various states since the 1990s, were designed to promote participatory irrigation management.
• However, while these associations give farmers the responsibility of managing irrigation sources, they lack real authority in shaping broader water policies.
• This limited autonomy reduces their effectiveness and highlights the need for a more decentralized and inclusive governance framework.

Key Issues in Water Governance and Solutions

• Addressing Water Vulnerability Among Marginalised Groups
  • Water policies must also consider the unequal impact of water crises on different social groups.
  • Subaltern and economically marginalised communities are disproportionately affected by environmental challenges.
  • This is particularly evident among groups that experience both social and economic marginalisation, as they often lack access to adequate water resources and infrastructure.
  • To create equitable water policies, it is essential to ensure the participation of vulnerable groups in water governance.
  • Recognising their agency and traditional knowledge can lead to more inclusive and sustainable water management systems.
  • A truly participatory approach should not only provide marginalised communities with a voice but also equip them with the necessary resources and support to actively shape water policies.
• Moving Beyond Fragmented Water Governance
  • A major challenge in India’s water management framework is the fragmentation of policies and governing bodies.
  • Currently, different aspects of the ecosystem, such as forests, land, water, and biodiversity, are governed by separate policies and authorities.
  • This siloed approach ignores the interdependent nature of these elements, leading to inefficiencies and unintended negative consequences.
  • A successful integrated approach can be seen in the traditional ecological practices of rural communities in western India.
  • A notable example is the establishment of orans, sacred forests that hold religious, cultural, and ecological significance.
  • Many communities use orans for water conservation, as they enhance tree and grass cover, which in turn traps surface runoff and supports rainwater harvesting.
  • This holistic understanding of ecosystem interdependence serves as a model for future water policies.
  • Instead of fragmented governance, India must adopt an integrated policy approach that recognizes the mutual relationship between water, land, forests, and biodiversity.
• Incorporating a More-Than-Human Perspective
  • Globally, environmental governance is shifting towards a more-than-human perspective, which acknowledges that nature has intrinsic value beyond human needs.
  • Many legal frameworks worldwide have started recognising the rights of nature, with courts developing jurisprudence that grants ecosystems legal protection.
  • However, India’s water policies remain anthropocentric, focusing exclusively on human water needs.
  • Interestingly, certain rural communities in India have already embraced a more-than-human approach in their water governance.
  • For example, in some regions of western India, irrigation practices are adjusted based on the availability of water for animals, ensuring that ecosystem health is prioritised.
  • India’s formal water policies should learn from these community-led practices and incorporate legal frameworks that protect natural water bodies as living entities rather than mere resources for human consumption.

The Climate Change Imperative

• Climate change poses a significant threat to India’s water security. A recent study in Nature predicts that India’s water gap will widen as global temperatures rise.
• Given this alarming projection, water policies must prioritise climate resilience by:
  • Developing climate-resilient water systems that can withstand erratic rainfall patterns and extreme weather events.
  • Enhancing the resilience of existing water infrastructure to prevent water shortages and depletion.
  • Integrating climate adaptation policies that focus on ecosystem restoration to reduce the impact of droughts and floods.
• For instance, India must promote traditional rainwater harvesting techniques, such as stepwells and check dams, while simultaneously leveraging modern innovations like smart irrigation systems and climate-responsive water storage facilities.

The Way Forward: Beyond Rhetoric, A Call for Action

• While current policies emphasise community participation, they often fall short in practical implementation.
• Rural water policies must move beyond symbolic engagement and ensure that local voices play a central role in shaping decision-making processes.
• At the same time, it is crucial to acknowledge that traditional community practices may have certain limitations.
• Addressing these requires capacity-building initiatives and sensitization programs to equip communities with the latest scientific knowledge and technology without undermining their ecological wisdom.

Conclusion

• India’s water policies must undergo a fundamental shift to align with contemporary environmental challenges.
• This requires empowering communities, addressing social vulnerabilities, adopting integrated ecosystem-based governance, and ensuring climate resilience.
• Moreover, policymakers must incorporate a more-than-human perspective, recognizing that water conservation is not just a human concern but a broader ecological necessity.
• By creating genuine community participation and moving beyond fragmented governance, India can create a sustainable and equitable water management framework that serves both present and future generations.

Context

• Scientific progress is a cornerstone of national development, and nations that prioritise research and innovation tend to lead the global economy.
• At a recent National Science Day function, India’s Union Minister for Science and Technology made an ambitious claim: India will overtake the United States in the number of scientific publications by 2029.
• However, a deeper examination of international research metrics, funding allocation, and research quality suggests that this assertion is more aspirational than realistic. 

Comparing Research Output and Investments

• A crucial factor in scientific progress is the level of investment in research and development (R&D).
• The data for six leading research nations illustrate a stark contrast: Israel spends 6.3% of its GDP on R&D, South Korea 4.9%, Japan 3.3%, the United States 3.46%, Germany 3.13%, China 2.4%, and India a mere 0.67%.
• These figures highlight a fundamental problem, India cannot expect to compete with scientific powerhouses while investing significantly less in R&D.
• China’s research dominance is backed by long-term strategic investments in education and scientific infrastructure.
• Since 2006, China has implemented a well-planned Medium-to-Long-Term Plan (MLP) for science and technology development, leading to a research output of 898,949 publications.
• In contrast, the U.S. produced 457,335 publications, while India lagged with 207,390 papers.
• Given these figures, India's claim that it will surpass the U.S. in research output by 2029 appears unfounded.

The Issue of Research Quality

• A more relevant measure of impact is the quality of research, which can be evaluated using citation impact, the Hirsch Index (H-Index), and the Impact Factor (IF) of journals in which papers are published.
• According to Clarivate, a global research analytics firm, India’s citation impact (CNCI) stands at 0.879, compared to 1.12 for China and 1.25 for the U.S. Among 30 ranked countries, India is positioned at a disappointing 28th place.
• A case study in chemistry research provides further insight. An analysis of publications in top-tier chemistry journals between 2017 and 2024 revealed that the U.S., China, and India contribute vastly different numbers of papers.
• For instance, in the prestigious Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS), the U.S. published 8,503 papers, China 5,521, and India only 305.
• Moreover, a breakdown of Chinese institutions shows that even second-tier Chinese universities produce significantly more research than India’s premier institutions, such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
• This disparity underscores India's weak research ecosystem and the need for deeper systemic changes.

The Challenge of Ethics and Research Integrity in Indian Science

• The Proliferation of Predatory Journals
  • These journals often have misleading impact factors, fake editorial boards, and little to no editorial oversight.
  • A 2018 study found that 62% of the world's standalone predatory journals originate in India.
  • This means that a significant portion of Indian research is published in outlets that do not ensure academic rigor, thereby diminishing its global credibility.
  • The most infamous case is the Hyderabad-based Omics Group, which was fined $50 million by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 2019 for deceptive publishing practices.
  • The Omics Group published thousands of articles in questionable journals, falsely claiming that they were peer-reviewed and had high impact factors.
  • It also tricked researchers into paying hefty publication fees, exploiting the pressure on Indian academics to publish in large numbers for career advancement.
  • With 69,000 articles published through this unethical model, Omics significantly polluted global scientific literature, making it difficult to distinguish legitimate research from junk science.
• Plagiarism and Fabrication of Data
  • Plagiarism and data fabrication are other pressing concerns in Indian academia. Many research papers have been found to be either copied from existing work or based on manipulated data.
  • This unethical behaviour is often driven by institutional pressures to meet publication quotas for promotions and funding.
  • Several high-profile cases have exposed these issues. In 2020, a senior professor at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) was accused of plagiarising multiple research papers.
  • Similarly, the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) saw a scandal where fabricated data was used in published research.
  • Retractions of Indian research papers due to plagiarism and falsification have been steadily increasing, leading to embarrassment for the country’s scientific community.
• The Weakness of the Peer Review System
  • A robust peer review system is essential for maintaining scientific quality, but in India, this system is often compromised.
  • Many researchers manipulate the peer review process by suggesting their friends and colleagues as reviewers, ensuring favourable reviews.
  • In some cases, journal editors have been found to approve papers without proper scrutiny, particularly in low-quality or predatory journals.
  • A notable example occurred in 2019, when more than 250 Indian research papers were retracted by international publishers due to concerns over manipulated peer reviews and duplicated content.
• The Pressure to Publish: ‘Publish or Perish’ Culture
  • A major reason behind the rise of unethical practices in Indian research is the ‘publish or perish’ culture.
  • Academic promotions, funding grants, and job security in Indian universities are often linked to the number of publications rather than their quality.
  • As a result, researchers are incentivised to publish as many papers as possible, often without regard for originality or impact.
  • In contrast, leading scientific nations like the United States and Germany emphasize research quality over quantity.

The Impact on India's Scientific Reputation and The Path Forward for Indian Science

• The Impact on India's Scientific Reputation
  • The global scientific community is increasingly aware of India’s research integrity crisis.
  • Several major international journals and indexing platforms, such as Clarivate and Scopus, have started scrutinising Indian research more closely.
  • This means that even genuine Indian scientists now face scepticism when submitting their work to prestigious journals.
  • Furthermore, international collaborations are at risk. Many foreign universities and research institutions hesitate to partner with Indian researchers due to concerns about scientific integrity.
  • This affects India's ability to attract global research funding, grants, and talent.
• The Path Forward for Indian Science
  • Increasing R&D Investment: India must aim to raise its R&D spending from the current 0.67% of GDP to at least 2%, aligning itself with other leading nations.
  • Strengthening Higher Education and Research Infrastructure: China’s success stems from its strategic investment in universities and research institutions. India must similarly improve the quality of education, research facilities, and funding for scientists.
  • Enhancing Research Integrity: The prevalence of unethical publishing practices must be curbed through stricter regulations, better peer review mechanisms, and more rigorous academic oversight.
  • Focusing on Innovation and Industry Collaboration: Collaboration between universities, research institutions, and the private sector should be encouraged to translate research into practical applications.

Conclusion

• India's dream of becoming a global leader in science is achievable, but not without significant reform.
• Merely increasing the number of scientific papers will not propel the country forward if the quality remains poor and ethical concerns persist.
• As Einstein aptly put it, ‘Not everything that can be counted counts. Not everything that counts can be counted.’
• If India genuinely seeks to rival scientific giants like the U.S. and China, it must address the fundamental flaws in its research ecosystem, prioritise quality over quantity, and make substantial long-term investments in science and technology.

Why in the News?

Both the Houses of the Parliament have passed the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which allows bank account holders to have up to four nominees.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• About Banking Laws Bill (Objective, Key Features, etc.)
• News Summary (Gov’s Arguments, Oppositions’ Concerns, etc.)

Understanding the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024:

• The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 9, 2024, and passed on December 3, 2024.
• The Bill amends five major laws governing India’s banking sector:
  • Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934
  • Banking Regulation Act, 1949
  • State Bank of India Act, 1955
  • Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Acts of 1970 and 1980

Key Features of the Bill:

• Four nominees for deposits:
  • Deposit holders can now appoint up to four nominees, either successively or simultaneously. Previously, only one nominee was allowed.
• Updated definition of ‘fortnight’:
  • For calculating cash reserves, banks will now follow fixed calendar periods—1st to 15th or 16th to month-end—instead of the old Saturday-to-Friday format.
• Extended director tenure in co-operative banks:
  • Directors can now serve for 10 consecutive years, up from the earlier limit of 8 years.
• Dual directorship allowed in certain co-operative banks:
  • A director of a central co-operative bank can now serve on the board of a state co-operative bank if they are a member.
• Increased threshold for ‘substantial interest’:
  • The definition now includes shareholdings worth up to ₹2 crore, replacing the outdated ₹5 lakh cap set decades ago.
• Unclaimed funds broadened:
  • Unclaimed dividends, shares, and bond payments older than seven years will be transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF).
• Bank autonomy in auditor pay:
  • Banks will now decide the remuneration of their auditors instead of the RBI and Central Government doing so.

News Summary:

• The Rajya Sabha passed the Bill on March 26, 2025, amid both support and criticism.
• Over 20 MPs took part in a four-hour discussion, which highlighted different aspects of the banking system’s health and governance.
• Government’s Stand:
  • Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the Bill, saying it brings necessary reforms. She made the following key points:
    • Public sector banks posted a record ₹1.41 lakh crore profit in FY 2023–24.
    • Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) have significantly reduced.
    • Over 912 bank fraud cases involving wilful defaulters are under probe by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
    • Loan write-offs are accounting practices, not waivers—banks still pursue recovery.
• Opposition’s Concerns:
  • Wilful Defaulters & Write-offs
    • They highlighted that ₹87,000 crore owed by 50 wilful defaulters—including names like Mehul Choksi and Rishi Agarwal—were written off, while poor and small borrowers face harsh actions.
  • Need for Deeper Scrutiny
    • Opposition members criticised the practice of amending five laws at once without detailed review, calling for a Joint Parliamentary Committee to examine the Bill.
  • Concerns About NPAs
    • Opposition said Indian banks are burdened with ₹10 lakh crore in NPAs over five years, largely due to a small group of high-profile defaulters.
  • Issues in Rural and Cooperative Banks
    • Opposition raised concerns about the rising financial frauds in cooperative banks (over 4,000 cases in five years) and outdated tech infrastructure.
    • They also questioned the static ₹2 crore cap and suggested linking it to inflation.
• Government’s Counterpoints
  • The government said the Bill gives new strength to the banking sector and pointed to improvements under the government post-2014, including widespread financial inclusion and direct benefit transfers.

Conclusion:

The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 represents a major update in India's banking regulation, addressing everything from customer convenience to board governance.

While the provisions are largely forward-looking, concerns about oversight, transparency, and the handling of large-scale NPAs remain.

Context:

• The controversy surrounding the discovery of massive cash at Delhi HC judge Justice Yashwant Varma's home last week has reignited interest in the debate of judicial appointments in India.
• “Things would have been different” if the Supreme Court had not struck down the National Judicial Appointments Commission Act passed by Parliament in 2014." (Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar)

Judicial Appointments in India:

• Article 124 of the Constitution establishes and governs the Supreme Court of India.
• Article 124 (2): The President, on the advice of the Council of Ministers, appoints Supreme Court judges in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
• B.R. Ambedkar opposed granting veto power to the CJI, rejecting the substitution of “consultation” with “concurrence.”

Evolution of Judicial Appointments:

• Early years (1950-1970s):
  • Initially, the executive had full discretion in appointing judges.
  • Judicial independence was not a major issue despite constitutional amendments.
  • The 1970s saw executive interference, including the supersession of judges, leading to concerns over judicial autonomy.
  • For example, Justice M H Beg was appointed CJI in 1977, overlooking Justice H R Khanna, who was first in seniority.
• First Judges case (1981) - S P Gupta case: The Supreme Court ruled that “consultation” (in Article 124) does not mean “concurrence.” The executive retained discretion in judicial appointments.
• Second and Third Judges cases (1993 and 1998):
  • The Court reversed its earlier stance, ruling that “consultation” meant “concurrence.”
  • The collegium system was established, transferring power from the executive to a body of judges.

The Collegium System:

• Established through judicial rulings, not mentioned in the Constitution.
• Headed by the CJI, it includes the four senior-most Supreme Court judges.
  • It makes recommendations for the appointment of judges to the SC, the appointment of Chief Justices of the High Courts, and the transfer of judges of High Courts.
• A three-member collegium, headed by the CJI and comprising the two senior-most judges of that court, makes recommendations for the appointment of judges to the High Courts.
• The collegium system is often criticized for lack of transparency, accountability, and lobbying within the system.

The National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC):

• The Parliament passed the Constitution (99th Amendment) Act, 2014, and the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Act, 2014.
• These two laws provided for an independent commission to appoint judges to the SC and High Courts, replacing the collegium system.
• The NJAC comprised six members:
  • Chief Justice of India (Chairperson)
  • Two senior-most Supreme Court judges
  • Union Minister of Law and Justice
  • Two eminent persons from civil society (one from SC/ST/OBC/minorities or women) to be nominated by a committee comprising the CJI, the PM, and the LoP in Lok Sabha.
• It enjoyed near-unanimous political support and was ratified by 16 state legislatures.

Striking Down of NJAC (2015):

• The Supreme Court declared NJAC unconstitutional in a 4:1 judgment.
• Key issue: Veto power of non-judicial members, allowing any two NJAC members to reject a recommendation and risking the judiciary being outnumbered by the executive.
• The Court invoked the Basic Structure Doctrine, ruling that judicial primacy in appointments is essential for judicial independence.
• Justice Jasti Chelameswar’s dissenting opinion: Criticized the collegium system’s secrecy, lack of transparency, and lobbying. Argued that NJAC was a better alternative if properly structured.
• Justice Kurian Joseph (concurring judgment):
  • Acknowledged lack of transparency, accountability, and credibility in the collegium system.
  • Later regretted striking down NJAC, citing collegium failures.

Can NJAC be Revived?

• The NJAC was struck down before being tested in practice, leaving room for revisiting judicial reforms.
• Alternative proposals suggest modifications:
  • Giving the CJI a casting vote to ensure judicial predominance.
  • Eliminating the veto power of non-judicial members.
  • Ensuring appointments are not subject to executive reconsideration.

Conclusion and the Way Forward:

• The NJAC case was a missed opportunity for judicial reforms.
• Growing concerns over collegium opacity and internal politics warrant a fresh debate on judicial appointments.
• A balanced system ensuring both judicial independence and accountability remains a key issue in India’s constitutional framework.

Why in news?

A new UNESCO report, The United Nations World Water Development Report 2025 – Mountains and Glaciers: Water Towers, highlights the alarming impact of rising temperatures on the world's mountain ranges.

It reveals that higher elevations are warming faster than lower ones, leading to accelerated glacier melt, increased permafrost thawing, and a decline in snow cover. Snowfall patterns have also become more erratic, further affecting water availability.

Released on March 21 to mark the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, the report underscores the urgent need for climate action to address these critical issues.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Key Highlights of the Report
• Significance of this Study

Key Highlights of the Report

• Glacier Melting at an Unprecedented Rate
  • Glaciers worldwide are disappearing faster than ever, with the past three years witnessing the largest glacial mass loss on record.
  • Since 1975, glaciers (excluding the Greenland and Antarctica ice sheets) have lost over 9,000 billion tonnes of mass, equivalent to an ice block the size of Germany with a thickness of 25 meters.
  • In 2024 alone, glaciers lost 450 gigatons of mass, with Scandinavia, Svalbard, and North Asia experiencing the largest annual losses.
• Causes of Accelerated Glacier Melting
  • While rising temperatures remain a primary factor, wildfires and dust storms are also contributing to glacier melt.
  • The deposition of black carbon and particulate matter on glacier surfaces darkens the ice, increasing solar radiation absorption.
  • This accelerates melting, particularly in areas and periods of high sunlight exposure.
• Urgent Need for Climate Action
  • With five of the last six years recording extreme glacier loss, the UNESCO report underscores the critical need for global efforts to mitigate climate change and reduce environmental pollutants to slow down glacier retreat.
• Accelerating Permafrost Thaw
  • Permafrost, which remains frozen for at least two consecutive years, is rapidly melting due to rising temperatures.
  • This is concerning as mountain permafrost stores ~4.5% of global soil organic carbon.
  • When thawed, this carbon is released into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change.
  • Additionally, permafrost plays a crucial role in stabilizing rock slopes, moraines, and debris-covered areas.
  • As it melts, these landscapes become more prone to erosion, landslides, and other geological hazards.
• Decline in Snow Cover
  • Snow cover across nearly all mountain regions has been steadily declining, particularly in spring and summer.
  • This trend is expected to worsen in the coming decades.
  • A 2024 study published in Nature revealed a 7.79% global decrease in persistent snow cover between 1979 and 2022, highlighting the widespread impact of warming temperatures on mountain ecosystems.
• Erratic Snowfall Patterns
  • Atmospheric warming is shifting the altitude at which rainfall transitions to snowfall, leading to reduced snow depth and duration at lower elevations.
  • In some mountain ranges, more precipitation is falling as rain rather than snow, causing earlier snowmelt and shrinking snow-covered areas.
  • These changes disrupt water availability, ecosystems, and local communities reliant on snow-fed rivers.

Significance of this Study

• Mountains: A Vital Source of Freshwater
  • Mountains cover 33 million sq km of the Earth’s surface and play a crucial role in sustaining life.
  • Nearly 2 billion people depend on freshwater from melting glaciers.
  • However, rapid glacier melting due to climate change threatens water availability, making flows more erratic, uncertain, and variable.
  • This will disrupt the timing, quantity, and quality of water resources downstream, impacting agriculture, drinking water supply, and hydropower.
• Rising Threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)
  • Glacier melting and permafrost thawing are increasing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs)—sudden, catastrophic floods caused by the failure of natural glacial dams.
• Glacier Melting and Rising Sea Levels
  • Melted glacier ice accounts for 25-30% of the rise in global sea levels.
  • Between 2006 and 2016, the world lost 335 billion tonnes of glacier ice annually, leading to an almost 1 mm increase in sea levels per year.
  • Every millimeter of sea level rise puts up to 300,000 people at risk of annual flooding, increasing the urgency for climate action.

Why in news?

A Parliamentary Standing Committee has raised concerns over the Government’s plan to allocate ₹20,000 crore as a 50-year interest-free loan to deep tech sectors.

While acknowledging the initiative’s potential to boost research, the committee warned of possible fund misallocation, national security risks, and a low return on investment.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Deep Tech
• Evolution of India’s Deep Tech Ecosystem
• Parliamentary Panel Flags Concerns Over ₹20,000 Cr Deep Tech Fund

Deep Tech

• Deep Tech refers to advanced and disruptive technologies that rely on significant scientific and engineering breakthroughs.
• These innovations often require long-term research and development and have the potential to create transformative changes across industries such as healthcare, defense, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology.
• Examples:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning – Self-learning algorithms, autonomous systems.
  • Quantum Computing – High-speed computation beyond classical computing limits.
  • Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering – CRISPR gene editing, personalized medicine.
  • Semiconductors & Advanced Materials – Nanotechnology, graphene-based materials.
  • Aerospace & Defense Technologies – Hypersonic vehicles, advanced missile systems.
  • Renewable Energy & Battery Technologies – Solid-state batteries, hydrogen fuel cells.
• Key Features:
  • High Research & Development Intensity – Requires deep scientific knowledge and long-term investment.
  • Disruptive Innovation – Capable of significantly transforming industries.
  • High-Risk, High-Reward – Often uncertain in early stages but can yield substantial economic and strategic benefits.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach – Combines multiple fields such as AI, biotech, and quantum physics.

Evolution of India’s Deep Tech Ecosystem

• India’s DeepTech ecosystem is growing rapidly, though still in its early stages compared to global markets.
• According to NASSCOM’s report "India’s DeepTech Dawn: Forging Ahead", the country had over 3,600 DeepTech startups, with 480 launched in 2023—double the number from 2022.
• While India ranks as the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, its DeepTech sector stands at the 6th position.
• Government Policies and Investments Driving Growth
  • The Indian government is actively promoting DeepTech through key initiatives, including:
    • Draft National DeepTech Start-up Policy – Aimed at fostering innovation.
    • ₹1 Lakh Crore Corpus (Interim Budget 2024) – To boost research and development.
    • ₹1,000 Crore Venture Capital Fund for the Space Sector – Supporting space-tech startups.
    • National Quantum Mission (2023) – Investment in quantum computing and communications.
    • India AI Mission – Strengthening AI research, innovation, and startups.
    • Other Initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog’s programs, and Start-up India are providing support through accelerators and incubators.
• Union Budget 2025-26 and Deep Tech
  • Research, Development and Innovation - ₹20,000 crore to be allocated to implement private sector driven Research, Development and Innovation initiative announced in the July Budget.
  • Deep Tech Fund of Funds - Deep Tech Fund of Funds to be explored to catalyze the next generation startups.
  • It also unveils key initiatives for the tech sector, such as enhanced India AI mission funding, an AI Centre of Excellence for Education etc.

Parliamentary Panel Flags Concerns Over ₹20,000 Cr Deep Tech Fund

• A Parliamentary Standing Committee has raised concerns over the Government’s ₹20,000 crore interest-free loan scheme for deep tech sectors, warning that private entities could benefit disproportionately at the government’s expense.
• It also questioned the ability of fund managers to select impactful projects and suggested that directing funds to government institutions could have yielded better outcomes.
• Underutilisation of Funds in Scientific Research
  • The committee noted that the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research had not fully utilised its budget.
    • Over half of the allocated funds remaining unused as the financial year nears its end.
  • It supported an additional allocation of ₹363.9 crore but flagged that 62% of the department’s budget was spent on salaries and pensions, leaving only 31% for research, which limits infrastructure development and innovation.
• Concerns Over Biotechnology PSUs
  • The committee expressed concern over the poor state of two public sector undertakings under the Department of Biotechnology—BIBCOL and IVCOL.
  • It stressed the importance of reviving these PSUs to ensure affordable vaccine availability and strengthen India's position in the global vaccine market.
  • The committee recommended securing revival packages to enable these PSUs to support vaccine exports and enhance self-reliance in vaccine production.
• Recommendations for Policy Framework
  • The panel urged the government to address these concerns while formulating guidelines for the deep tech fund, ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective allocation to maximize national benefits.

Why in the News?

The Rajya Sabha passed the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 by a voice vote.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• Background (Context of the Article, About Freebies)
• Disaster Management Bill (Objective, Misuse of Funds for Disaster Relief, etc.)
• News Summary

Background:

• In recent years, the practice of offering freebies, free electricity, cash transfers, consumer goods, or subsidies, has become common in Indian politics.
• Political parties often announce such schemes before elections to attract voters. While some of these are legitimate welfare measures, others are considered unsustainable and can strain state finances.
• Critics argue that freebies divert public funds from essential services like health, education, and disaster relief.
• The Supreme Court, former RBI Governors, and even government officials have raised concerns about the long-term economic effects of this culture.
• The latest development in this debate is the passage of the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which seeks to prevent states from using disaster funds to compensate for populist spending.

About Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024:

• The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 was passed by voice vote in the Rajya Sabha on March 25, 2025.
• It aims to bring clarity to the use of funds under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
• Speaking in Parliament, Union Home Minister Amit Shah made it clear that these funds must be used strictly according to Finance Commission guidelines—for genuine disaster relief only.
• He strongly criticised states that send inflated fund requests, citing demands for ₹50,000 crore when guidelines allow only ₹5,000 crore.
• He stressed that states cannot use these funds to compensate for freebies already given by them.
• He also clarified that if states are unclear about the fund usage norms, Chief Ministers should contact him directly, and he will ensure they receive the necessary documentation.

News Summary:

• The Rajya Sabha passed the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 on March 25.
• Home Minister Amit Shah said freebies distributed by states cannot be covered using disaster relief funds. The Finance Commission has fixed norms for SDRF and NDRF fund allocation.
• He urged states to send realistic proposals that comply with these norms.
• Shah defended the PM-CARES fund, calling it transparent and well-managed, in contrast to the earlier PMNRF (Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund), which he claimed was controlled by one political family.
• Opposition leaders criticised the bill, calling it incomplete and demanding that it be sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
• Some MPs also pointed out that the bill doesn’t include manmade disasters, like stampedes or law-and-order failures, in its relief framework.

Significance of the Amendment Bill:

• The new law aims to bring accountability and transparency in how disaster relief funds are used.
• It also signals the Centre’s intent to stop the misuse of public money meant for emergencies.
• At the same time, it brings back the larger debate over the freebie culture in Indian politics.
• While welfare schemes are essential for public support, their funding must come from planned budgets, not from emergency reserves meant for floods, cyclones, or earthquakes.
• The challenge going forward will be ensuring that genuine relief efforts are not hampered, while still putting an end to financial misuse disguised as disaster aid.

Context:

• Elon Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), has filed a lawsuit against the Indian government in the Karnataka HC, challenging the use of Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, 2000 and the newly introduced Sahyog portal for issuing takedown notices.
• The case has significant implications for digital regulations in India and broader geopolitical considerations in India-US relations.

Legal Aspects of the Dispute:

• Understanding Section 79 and Section 69A of the Information Technology (IT) Act:
  • Section 79: Provides a safe harbor for online intermediaries (like X) against liability for third-party content.
  • Section 79(3)(b): Revokes this protection if platforms fail to remove unlawful content after receiving official notice.
  • Section 69A: Prescribes a detailed and structured legal process for content takedown.
• Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015): The Supreme Court ruled that only Section 69A should be used for content removal.
• X’s argument against the government’s interpretation:
  • The government has increasingly relied on 79(3)(b) to issue takedown notices without proper safeguards.
  • The Sahyog portal, introduced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, centralizes content takedown requests, which X claims results in unlawful censorship.
  • X argues that 79(3)(b) lacks clarity and may be legally redundant in light of Supreme Court rulings.
• Implications for India's digital regulations:
  • The lawsuit will shape how social media platforms operate in India.
  • The outcome could influence the drafting of the Digital India Act, the proposed replacement for the IT Act.
  • A need for greater procedural transparency in how content regulation is enforced.

Geopolitical Implications:

• Impact on India-US relations:
  • The case comes at a time when Musk’s influence in US politics is rising, especially with a potential return of Donald Trump to power.
  • The Trump administration has been pushing for a more business-friendly global regulatory environment for American tech companies.
  • A legal victory for X could benefit other US-based tech giants like Meta and Google.
• Strategic timing of the lawsuit:
  • X’s lawsuit follows Musk’s recent regulatory wins in India, such as:
    • Starlink’s partnerships with Jio and Airtel.
    • Tesla’s expansion in India.
  • This suggests a broader strategy to loosen government regulations on digital platforms.

Government’s Possible Response:

• The Indian government insists that X must comply with local laws.
• It has hinted at potential legal actions against X’s AI system, Grok, for provocative content.
• There are ongoing informal discussions between the government and X regarding regulatory concerns.

Conclusion:

• The legal battle between X and the Indian government is not just a domestic issue but part of a larger trade and geopolitical debate.
• Its outcome will influence India’s digital governance, its relationship with US tech giants, and the evolving framework of internet regulation in India.

Context

• Over the past few years, the Indian judiciary has witnessed a surge in petitions related to vaccine approvals and administration.
• While most of these petitions focus on COVID-19 vaccines, concerns have also been raised regarding the rabies and rotavirus vaccines.
• These legal challenges highlight serious issues such as transparency in regulatory processes, informed consent, adverse event monitoring, and compensation for vaccine-related injuries.
• Addressing these concerns through policy reform rather than prolonged litigation is crucial for maintaining public trust in vaccines.

Concerns Raised in Vaccine-Related Petitions

• Lack of Transparency
  • It is incorrect to categorise these petitions as mere offshoots of the global "anti-vax" movement, which often relies on conspiracy theories.
  • Instead, these cases highlight genuine concerns about vaccine safety and regulatory transparency.
  • For instance, a petition from Kerala brought before the Supreme Court alleged deaths due to the failure of an anti-rabies vaccine.
  • Other petitions challenge the lack of publicly available clinical trial data, insufficient disclosure of side effects, poor adverse event monitoring, and the absence of a structured compensation mechanism for those affected by vaccines.
• Declining Trust in CDSCO
  • A significant issue is the public’s declining trust in the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), India’s regulatory authority.
  • This lack of trust is evident from petitioners’ demands for independent committees to reassess clinical trial data rather than relying on the CDSCO’s decisions.
  • Additionally, vaccine manufacturers such as Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech have filed defamation lawsuits against critics, with courts granting ex-parte injunctions in some cases.
  • Such actions undermine public confidence and highlight the urgent need for policy intervention rather than judicial proceedings.

Some Other Factors Driving the Petitions

• Transparency Issues in Vaccine Approval
  • One of the primary concerns driving these petitions is the opaque manner in which the CDSCO approves vaccines. Two key transparency-related issues must be addressed.
  • First, while the CDSCO makes regulatory decisions with input from "independent" experts, the identities of these individuals and any conflicts of interest are not disclosed.
  • To restore public confidence, the government must publish details of these experts and provide transcripts of their deliberations.
  • Second, there is no public access to the clinical trial data that forms the basis of vaccine approvals.
  • Currently, pharmaceutical companies submit trial data to the CDSCO, but this information remains confidential.
  • For transparency, the CDSCO should release raw clinical trial data and its internal evaluations, ensuring that patient privacy is protected through necessary redactions.
• Consent and Adverse Event Monitoring
  • Another significant concern raised in petitions is the lack of adequate disclosure about vaccine side effects.
  • Informed consent requires that individuals receive clear and understandable information before vaccination.
  • However, in India, informed consent laws apply only to clinical trials and not to general vaccination programs.
  • The government’s practice of publishing vaccine-related information on obscure websites is inadequate.
  • Instead, information on potential side effects should be made available in accessible formats at vaccination centres.
• Lack of a Strong Legal Framework
  • Furthermore, India’s system for monitoring vaccine-related adverse events, known as Adverse Event Following Immunisation (AEFI), lacks a strong legal framework.
  • Current AEFI guidelines are not legally binding and suffer from poor implementation.
  • Establishing a robust pharmacovigilance system backed by parliamentary legislation would ensure high-quality data collection, independent of pharmaceutical companies’ influence.

The Issue of Compensation for Vaccine-Related Injuries

• A critical issue that remains unresolved is compensation for individuals who suffered severe side effects or lost family members due to COVID-19 vaccines.
• In the case of Sayeeda v. Union of India (2022), the Kerala High Court directed the government to formulate a compensation policy, but the government challenged this order in the Supreme Court, where final arguments are still pending.
• From a legal standpoint, compensation claims should be directed at vaccine manufacturers, as they developed, sold, and profited from the vaccines.
• The government’s role in compensating victims would depend on whether it had agreed to indemnify vaccine manufacturers, but the lack of transparency regarding vaccine purchase agreements makes this unclear.
• Notably, foreign vaccine manufacturers hesitated to enter the Indian market due to the government’s refusal to provide indemnity, allowing Indian manufacturers to dominate the industry and profit significantly.
• Given this, they should also bear responsibility for vaccine-related risks.

The Way Forward: Need for Policy Intervention

• While the compensation issue remains a matter for the courts, other concerns, such as regulatory transparency, informed consent, and adverse event monitoring, should not be left to legal proceedings.
• These are policy matters with significant long-term implications for public trust in vaccines.
• Instead of allowing these issues to be litigated over years with uncertain outcomes, the Ministry of Health should address them proactively through legislative and policy measures.
• The Health Minister should reassure concerned petitioners that their grievances are being taken seriously and commit to implementing reforms.
• A well-drafted law covering vaccine approval transparency, informed consent, and adverse event reporting would be a step in the right direction.
• Such a policy-driven approach would not only improve public confidence in vaccines but also prevent unnecessary litigation that burdens both the courts and the healthcare system.

Conclusion

• The growing number of vaccine-related petitions in India reflects legitimate concerns rather than unfounded scepticism.
• These petitions underscore the need for greater transparency in vaccine approvals, better disclosure of side effects, robust adverse event monitoring, and a fair compensation mechanism for affected individuals.
• Instead of relying on prolonged and often ineffective litigation, policymakers must take responsibility for addressing these issues through legislative reforms.
• Strengthening regulatory transparency and public trust in vaccines is essential for the success of India’s immunization programs and overall public health.

Context

• The political turmoil in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of U.S. forces and the subsequent rise of the Taliban has sparked global debates on foreign policy and international responsibility.
• While some argue that engaging with the Taliban is a pragmatic move, others warn against the potential risks of legitimising a radical regime.
• Therefore, it is important to discuss the parallels between past and present U.S. actions in Afghanistan and highlights India's shifting stance toward the Taliban regime.

U.S. Involvement and Its Consequences

• The U.S. intervention in Afghanistan, particularly under Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden, played a crucial role in shaping the country's political landscape.
• Trump’s negotiations with the Taliban, which culminated in the 2020 Doha Accords, effectively sidelined the elected Afghan government and paved the way for the Taliban’s return to power.
• This agreement lacked provisions for a sustainable political framework, protections for women and minorities, or guarantees against terrorism.
• The result was a rapid collapse of the Afghan Republic and the establishment of Taliban rule in 2021.
• For Afghans, particularly those in exile, the U.S. withdrawal is seen as a "Great Abandonment," leaving the country in a worse state than before.
• Despite the Taliban’s lack of international recognition, it has consolidated power, enforcing strict laws that have reversed two decades of progress, particularly regarding women's rights.
• The global community’s response has been divided, with the U.S. and Europe largely disengaged, while Russia, China, Pakistan, and Central Asian nations have extended varying degrees of support to the regime.

India’s Changing Approach

• India initially distanced itself from the Taliban following their takeover, closing its embassy in Kabul in 2021.
• However, it has since reopened a ‘technical mission’ and engaged Taliban leaders at official levels.
• Reports suggest that India is considering expanding its presence in Kabul and possibly accepting a Taliban-appointed ambassador in New Delhi.
• This shift marks a significant departure from India’s previous policies of supporting democratic Afghan governments and opposing Taliban rule.
• The Indian government justifies this engagement on the grounds of pragmatism and realpolitik.
• Proponents argue that the Taliban is an undeniable reality in Afghanistan, and engaging with them is necessary for maintaining influence and protecting Indian interests.
• They also claim that diplomatic ties are essential for humanitarian aid and development projects in the country. However, these justifications are met with scepticism.

Challenges and Risks of Engagement

• The Taliban’s Internal Conflicts and Uncertain Future
  • Although the Taliban appears to have a firm grip on power, internal divisions exist, particularly between the Haqqani faction and Kandahari clerics over policies such as girls' education.
  • Some leaders who advocated for moderate reforms have reportedly fled the country, indicating deep-seated tensions within the regime.
  • Additionally, Afghanistan’s economic situation is dire, exacerbated by the loss of foreign aid and worsening relations with Pakistan.
  • Given these uncertainties, assuming the Taliban’s permanence in power may be premature.
• Strategic Risks for India
  • The argument that India must engage with the Taliban to maintain strategic influence is flawed.
  • Unlike its past relationship with the Afghan Republic, where India enjoyed strong security and intelligence cooperation, any strategic alignment with the Taliban remains highly uncertain.
  • Historically, the Taliban has been hostile to Indian interests, targeting Indian diplomatic missions and personnel.
  • Expecting a radical Islamist regime to shift its stance toward India would be a risky assumption.
• Erosion of Goodwill Among Afghan People
  • Perhaps the most significant risk is the loss of goodwill among Afghan citizens, especially those who supported India in the past.
  • India’s refusal to provide visas to Afghans fleeing the Taliban, including those who worked closely with Indian institutions, has led to resentment.
  • Many of these individuals previously contributed to strengthening Indo-Afghan ties, and their exclusion weakens India’s long-term influence.

The Way Forward: The Need for a Balanced Policy

• Support for Afghan Women and Civil Society
  • India should use its influence to advocate for women's rights and provide platforms for Afghan women to voice their concerns.
  • For instance, India could push for the recognition of the Afghan women’s cricket team and other cultural and professional initiatives.
• Engagement with the Afghan Diaspora and Opposition Groups
  • Instead of solely engaging with the Taliban, India should strengthen ties with exiled Afghan leaders and democratic forces.
  • Allowing Afghan opposition figures to hold conferences and discussions in India would ensure that alternative voices are heard.
• Selective Engagement with the Taliban: If India must engage with the Taliban, it should do so cautiously, ensuring that humanitarian aid and development projects do not serve as tools for Taliban propaganda.

Conclusion

• India’s evolving approach to Afghanistan presents both opportunities and risks.
• While realpolitik may dictate some level of engagement with the Taliban, blindly embracing the regime would be detrimental to India's long-term interests.
• A balanced strategy, one that engages with the Taliban without alienating Afghan civil society and opposition groups, would allow India to maintain its influence while upholding its values.
• In the ever-changing geopolitical landscape of Afghanistan, flexibility and foresight are essential to ensuring that India remains a relevant and respected player.