UPSC CSAT : June 2025

Monday, 30 June 2025

India’s Remittance Trends 2024

India’s Remittance Trends 2024

Why in the News?

The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) 6th Round of India’s Remittances Survey (2023-24) reveals that advanced economies (AEs), notably the US and the UK, have surpassed Gulf nations as the leading contributors to remittances to India.

Key Findings from the 6th Round of India’s Remittances Survey
Shift in Remittance Sources:
India’s total remittances have more than doubled, rising from USD 55.6 billion in 2010-11 to USD 118.7 billion in 2023-24.

In 2023-24, the US contributed the largest share at 27.7%, followed by the UAE at 19.2%.
AEs, including the UK, Singapore, Canada, and Australia, together accounted for over 50%.
The UK’s share has increased to 10.8%, up from 3.4% in 2016-17, thanks to increased Indian emigration.
Australia has also emerged as a significant contributor, with 2.3%.
The total share from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain) has decreased to 38% in 2023-24, down from around 47% in 2016-17.

State-wise Distribution of Remittances:

India’s Disinvestment Strategy in FY25

India’s Disinvestment Strategy in FY25

Why in the News?

The Indian government's disinvestment receipts in FY25 have reached their lowest point since 2014-15, indicating a shift in strategy from aggressive stake sales to enhancing the performance of Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs).

Disinvestment Receipts:
As of FY25, the government has raised only Rs 9,319 crore through disinvestment, down from Rs 16,507 crore in FY24. This marks the lowest level of disinvestment receipts since 2014-15, despite the economic recovery post-pandemic.

Shift in Disinvestment Policy:
Since FY24, the government has moved away from setting annual disinvestment targets. Instead, it has adopted a "value creation" approach for PSEs. The new strategy focuses on increased capital expenditure, improved dividends, gradual market dilution, and strategic privatization when appropriate.

What is Disinvestment?
Disinvestment refers to the government's process of selling its stake in PSEs to raise funds, reduce fiscal burden, and encourage private sector participation. It includes:

Strategic Disinvestment: A full or substantial stake sale, often with management transfer.
Minority Stake Sale: A partial stake sale without transferring management control.

Disinvestment Methods:

Initial Public Offer (IPO) for unlisted companies
Further Public Offer (FPO) for listed companies
Offer for Sale (OFS) for quick stake dilution
Buyback of Shares to consolidate ownership or utilize surplus cash
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)

The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM), under the Ministry of Finance, oversees the disinvestment process

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Saturday, 28 June 2025

Menhirs

Menhirs

Why in the News?

The Mudumal megalithic menhirs in Telangana’s Narayanpet district have been included in UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage Sites in 2025.

What are Menhirs?
A megalith is a large stone used in prehistoric structures, typically serving as a burial site or a commemorative monument. Menhirs are large upright stones, often tapering at the top, erected by humans.

Mudumal Menhirs:

The Mudumal menhirs are the oldest known menhirs in India, dating back 3,500 to 4,000 years before present (BP) and are located near the banks of the Krishna River.
The site consists of well-preserved megalithic burial sites, with stones aligned to solar events like equinoxes and solstices.
One of the stones features cup marks depicting Ursa Major (Saptarshi Mandal), the earliest known star representation in South Asia.
Locally, the menhirs are worshipped as "Niluralla Thimmappa," with one stone being revered as Goddess Yellamma, preserving ancient traditions.

Comparison with Hero Stones:

Melioidosis

Melioidosis

Why in the News?

A recent study highlights how climate factors, especially those related to the monsoon, influence the spread of melioidosis.

What is Melioidosis?
Melioidosis is a bacterial infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. It is linked to rainfall, temperature, and humidity, and is primarily contracted through the inoculation, inhalation, or ingestion of soil- and water-dwelling environmental bacteria.

South Asia, including India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, accounts for 44% of global melioidosis cases, with Odisha being a hotspot due to its agriculture and extreme weather conditions. The disease is also prevalent in Northern Australia and Southeast Asia.

Symptoms & Severity:
Melioidosis can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild skin infections to severe pneumonia and sepsis. In septic cases, the fatality rate can be as high as 50%. The disease is not transmitted from animals to humans, and human-to-human transmission is rare.

Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment:

Diverse Symptoms: The disease manifests in various forms, making it difficult to diagnose and treat.
Diagnostic Difficulties: It is often misidentified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a more common bacterium, leading to incorrect treatment.
Complex Treatment: Treatment requires prolonged antibiotic therapy (12-20 weeks), and recurrence is possible if not managed properly.

Pi Day

Pi Day

Why in the News?

Pi Day is celebrated every year on March 14th to honor the mathematical constant π (pi). The day also marks the birth anniversary of Albert Einstein (1879) and the death anniversary of Stephen Hawking (2018).

Significance of Pi:
Pi represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter and is an irrational, infinite number. The Greek letter π was first introduced in 1706 by Welsh mathematician William Jones, inspired by the words “periphery” and “perimeter.”

India’s Contribution to Pi:
Aryabhata (476-550 CE), an Indian mathematician and astronomer, approximated pi as 3.1416 in his work Aryabhatiya.
Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, in 1914, published the first algorithms for calculating pi to millions of digits.

Applications of Pi:
Pi is crucial in mathematics and engineering for calculating properties of circles, wave equations, and structural designs.
Space agencies like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) rely on pi to determine orbital paths, satellite positioning, and spacecraft trajectories.
Pi is also used in everyday life, such as in the construction of domes and bridges, making it a fundamental constant in both science and technology.

Wednesday, 25 June 2025

Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Why in the News?

The Central Government, in collaboration with various States, has approved the development of 116 new tourist destinations under initiatives like Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0), Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD), and the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).

Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme
Launched in 2020-21 during the Covid-19 pandemic, the SASCI scheme aims to assist state governments in capital investment projects, thus boosting capital expenditure and enhancing economic productivity.

What is the Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SDS)?
The Swadesh Darshan Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Tourism in 2015, is a 100% centrally funded initiative (Central Sector Scheme) designed to promote sustainable and responsible tourism in India.

The scheme focuses on the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits across India, such as those focused on Buddhist, Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, and Northeast tourism. It offers financial support to State Governments, Union Territory (UT) Administrations, and Central Agencies for developing tourism infrastructure.

The operation and maintenance (O&M) of approved projects is the responsibility of the respective State/UT governments.

Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0):
SD2.0 takes a more holistic approach to the development of sustainable and responsible tourism destinations. It aligns with the ‘Vocal for Local’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives and aims to boost private sector investments in tourism, hospitality, and asset management. This approach shifts from circuit-based tourism to a destination-centric model that fosters long-term growth.

Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD):
CBDD is a sub-scheme under SD2.0, taking a competitive approach to develop tourism destinations. It emphasizes sustainability, digitalization, skill development, MSME support, and effective management of tourism sites.

What is the Current Status of the Tourism Sector in India?

Narasu Appa Mali Case 1951

Narasu Appa Mali Case 1951

Why in the News?

The landmark State of Bombay v. Narasu Appa Mali case, decided in 1951, continues to influence the ongoing debate about whether personal laws can be subjected to constitutional scrutiny. The case is still relevant in current discussions on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and gender justice within religious laws.

What is the State of Bombay v. Narasu Appa Mali Case, 1951?

Background: Narasu Appa Mali, a resident of Maharashtra, was convicted under the Bombay Prevention of Hindu Bigamous Marriages Act, 1946 for marrying a second wife according to customary practice. The Act criminalized bigamy. The court upheld the law, stating it did not violate Article 14, even though it applied exclusively to Hindus, while Muslim men were permitted to practice polygamy.
Bombay High Court: The court upheld the constitutionality of the law, asserting that personal laws, unless codified, are not subject to constitutional scrutiny. It ruled that personal laws are exempt from review under Article 13 of the Constitution, thereby allowing practices considered regressive to continue without legal challenge.

Influence on Later Cases:

Triple Talaq Case, 2017: The Supreme Court (SC) struck down the practice of instant triple talaq, ruling that it was codified under the Shariat Act, 1937, and thus could be scrutinized under the Constitution.
Sabarimala Case, 2018: The SC criticized the Narasu judgment, stating that all laws, including personal laws, must adhere to constitutional principles.

Current Debate:
Legal experts argue that the Narasu ruling should be revisited, particularly with regard to gender justice. The case is frequently cited to justify non-interference in personal laws, which has led to inconsistent rulings on issues like marriage, inheritance, and customs.

Other Cases Related to Judicial Intervention in Personal Laws:

India’s CAR T-Cell Therapy

India’s CAR T-Cell Therapy

Why in the News?

India's first Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-Cell Therapy has been shown to have a 73% response rate in leukemia and lymphoma patients, according to clinical trial results published in The Lancet Haematology.

Key Findings of India’s CAR T-Cell Therapy Clinical Trial:

High Success Rate: The trial focused on patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell cancers, including leukemia (affecting bone marrow and blood) and lymphoma (affecting the lymphatic system), which often have few treatment options. Of those analyzed, 73% showed a positive response, providing new hope for patients with limited alternatives.
Global Comparisons: India’s CAR T-cell therapy offers comparable effectiveness to global therapies but at a fraction of the cost. While global treatments can cost between Rs 3-4 crore, with total expenses potentially exceeding Rs 8 crore, India’s therapy is priced at Rs 25 lakh.
Side Effects: The clinical trials revealed manageable side effects, including neutropenia (low white blood cells), thrombocytopenia (low platelets), and anemia (low red blood cells). Some patients experienced cytokine release syndrome (CRS), which caused fever and inflammation. Although two treatment-related deaths occurred, the overall safety profile was deemed manageable.

What is CAR T-Cell Therapy?

About: CAR T-cell therapy is an advanced cancer treatment that involves modifying a patient's T-cells (a type of immune cell) to enhance their ability to fight cancer.
How It Works: T-cells are extracted from the patient's blood, genetically modified to recognize and attack cancer cells, then multiplied and reintroduced into the body. These modified Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cells specifically target B-cells, aiming to prevent relapses.
Importance: For patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell tumors, treatment options are often limited, and the tumors can lead to severe complications. By providing a targeted, patient-specific treatment, CAR T-cell therapy offers long-term immunity against cancer recurrence, unlike traditional chemotherapy.

NexCAR19: In 2023, NexCAR19 became India’s first approved indigenous CAR T-cell therapy, developed through a collaboration between IIT Bombay, Tata Memorial Centre, and ImmunoACT (a company incubated at IIT Bombay). This therapy is not only the most affordable globally but also places India at the forefront of advanced cell and gene therapy.

Implications: Researchers are exploring broader applications for CAR T-cell therapy, including its potential combination with other immunotherapies, paving the way for wider adoption of gene-modified cell treatments in India.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Prelims
Q. Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body? (2022)
(a) They protect the body from environmental allergens.
(b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.
(c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body.
(d) They protect the body from diseases caused by pathogens.

Ans: (d)

Sunday, 22 June 2025

Debate on Making Cancer a Notifiable Disease

Debate on Making Cancer a Notifiable Disease

Why in the News? There is increasing advocacy for making cancer a notifiable disease in India, though the Union government resists this move, citing the non-communicable nature of cancer. The decision to classify snakebites as a notifiable disease in 2024, alongside global examples such as the US listing lead poisoning as a notifiable disease in 1995, challenges this viewpoint. This has prompted a re-examination of India’s stance on cancer notification.

What is a Notifiable Disease in India? A notifiable disease is one that must be legally reported to government authorities by healthcare providers for timely epidemiological monitoring, resource allocation, and early intervention. The Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 governs the notification of epidemic diseases, which spread rapidly among large populations. The World Health Organization (WHO) requires the notification of certain diseases for global disease surveillance and control. Common notifiable diseases in India include tuberculosis, malaria, and Covid-19, due to their contagious nature. In contrast, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has classified snakebites as notifiable despite being non-communicable.

The Debate on Making Cancer a Notifiable Disease Arguments in Favor:

India-New Zealand Relations: Key Highlights and Challenges

India-New Zealand Relations: Key Highlights and Challenges

Key Highlights:

Economic Cooperation: India and New Zealand have agreed to initiate negotiations for a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement, aligned with New Zealand’s “Opening Doors to India” policy. Additionally, an Authorized Economic Operators Mutual Recognition Arrangement (AEO-MRA) was signed to streamline the movement of goods between the two nations.
Security Cooperation: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation was signed, paving the way for regular military exercises and naval visits. New Zealand also expressed interest in joining India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
Global Cooperation: Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a free, inclusive, and stable Indo-Pacific. They emphasized the importance of a rules-based order and navigation freedom under UNCLOS. New Zealand endorsed India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council and supported India’s entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
Climate Change: New Zealand expressed continued support for India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) and joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Both nations committed to working together on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Climate Agreement, and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
Education and Sports: New MoUs on Education and Sports Cooperation were signed, focusing on academic partnerships, student exchanges, and sporting collaborations, with plans to celebrate 100 years of sports relations in 2026.
Diaspora: The leaders acknowledged the role of the Indian diaspora (which makes up 6% of New Zealand’s population) in strengthening bilateral ties and committed to ensuring the safety of Indian students and tourists in New Zealand. India also raised concerns over pro-Khalistan activities in New Zealand.

Importance of India-New Zealand Relations:

India’s Importance for New Zealand:

Economic Opportunities: India’s 1.4 billion population, expanding middle class, and growing services sector present significant opportunities for New Zealand’s agricultural exports, including dairy, meat, and wine.
Skilled Workforce: India is New Zealand’s largest source of skilled migrants and the second-largest source of international students, providing expertise in sectors like IT, engineering, and healthcare.
Digital Economy: India’s growing digital economy, with 880 million internet users, presents opportunities for New Zealand tech companies to collaborate on IT, AI, fintech, and digital commerce.
Strategic Cooperation: India’s increasing influence in the Indo-Pacific aligns with New Zealand’s goals for regional stability, enhancing its strategic position.

New Zealand’s Importance for India:

Agriculture: Ensuring Agricultural Sustainability in India

Agriculture: Ensuring Agricultural Sustainability in India

For Prelims: National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), Soil Degradation, Sequestering Carbon, National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), Disease-resistant Crops
For Mains: The necessity of sustainable agriculture to prevent environmental degradation.

Why is this Important?

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare recently emphasized the policy paper released by ICAR titled ‘A Spatial Assessment of Sustainability in Indian Agriculture’ and highlighted the significance of the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA).

The paper reveals that India’s agricultural sustainability is at great risk due to issues like water scarcity, soil degradation, and socio-economic vulnerabilities.

Key Findings from ICAR’s Policy Paper:

Composite Index: The national average sustainability index stands at 0.49, indicating a moderate level of sustainability, based on 51 indicators covering environmental health, soil and water quality, and socio-economic development.
State Performance: States such as Mizoram, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Manipur, West Bengal, and Uttarakhand perform better than the national average due to factors like crop diversification, infrastructure, credit access, and sustainable inputs. On the other hand, states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar, Haryana, Jharkhand, and Assam face higher risks due to arid conditions, climate change, and intensive farming practices.

Major Threats to Agriculture:

Resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

Resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

On March 18, 2025, Armenia and Azerbaijan finalized the text of a peace agreement, marking a significant step towards ending the long-standing hostilities over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Background of the Conflict:
During the Soviet era, Nagorno-Karabakh was an autonomous region within Muslim-majority Azerbaijan. However, its ethnic Armenian (Christian) population sought to unify with Armenia. Following the collapse of the USSR, tensions escalated into a full-scale war (1988–1994). The war ended in a 1994 ceasefire, leaving Nagorno-Karabakh under Armenian-backed control, although it was internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan.

Key Conflicts:

First Nagorno-Karabakh War (1988–1994): Armenia gained control of Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding Azerbaijani territories.
Second Nagorno-Karabakh War (2020): Azerbaijan recaptured significant portions of the region.
Azerbaijani Offensive (2023): Azerbaijan regained full control of the region in a one-day military operation, leading to the dissolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave. Over 100,000 people, nearly the entire population of Nagorno-Karabakh, fled to Armenia.

India has maintained a neutral stance in the conflict but advocates for a diplomatic resolution through the OSCE Minsk Group. Both Armenia and Azerbaijan are also participants in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a significant initiative for India’s trade routes.

On March 18, 2025, Armenia and Azerbaijan finalized the text of a peace agreement, marking a significant step towards ending the long-standing hostilities over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Key Conflicts:

First Nagorno-Karabakh War (1988–1994): Armenia gained control of Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding Azerbaijani territories.
Second Nagorno-Karabakh War (2020): Azerbaijan recaptured significant portions of the region.
Azerbaijani Offensive (2023): Azerbaijan regained full control of the region in a one-day military operation, leading to the dissolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave. Over 100,000 people, nearly the entire population of Nagorno-Karabakh, fled to Armenia.

Wednesday, 18 June 2025

India’s Space Docking Milestone

India’s Space Docking Milestone

On March 18, 2025, India became the fourth country, after the US, Russia, and China, to successfully demonstrate space docking and undocking capabilities.

ISRO autonomously undocked two satellites, SDX01 (the Chaser) and SDX02 (the Target), in space, showcasing India’s proficiency in performing complex orbital maneuvers critical for future space missions.

Space Docking is the process of gradually bringing two spacecraft in orbit closer together until they join. This enables the assembly of large spacecraft in space, which would be too heavy to launch in a single mission.

Space Undocking refers to the separation of a spacecraft from a space station or another spacecraft. This ability is vital for India’s upcoming projects, including the Bhartiya Antriksh Station (planned for 2035) and a human mission to the Moon (targeted for 2040). The Chandrayaan-4 mission, which aims to return lunar soil and rock samples, will rely on this technology.

Historical milestones include:

1966: NASA’s Gemini VIII, commanded by Neil Armstrong, performed the first manual space docking with the Agena vehicle.
1967: The USSR’s Kosmos 186 and Kosmos 188 spacecraft achieved the first autonomous docking.
2011: China carried out its first unmanned docking.
2012: China achieved its first crewed docking.

Uniyala Keralensis

Uniyala Keralensis

On March 18, 2025, researchers confirmed the discovery of a new plant species, Uniyala keralensis (family Asteraceae), in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala.

About Uniyala keralensis:

Genus: Uniyala
Plant Type: A dense shrub with light purple flowers, growing 1-3 meters tall. It flowers and fruits between August and April.
Distinct Features: The plant has larger leaves, longer petioles, and fewer lateral veins compared to U. comorinensis and U. salviifolia.
Distribution: Endemic to southwest India, found in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve at an elevation of 700-1,400 meters.
Population: Approximately 5,000 individuals across 4 subpopulations spread over 250 km².
IUCN Status: Data Deficient (DD)

Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve:

Location: Situated in the Southern Western Ghats, spanning both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Protected Areas: Includes Shendurney, Peppara, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.
Biodiversity: Home to 2,254 higher plant species, including 405 endemic species, and notable wildlife like the Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaque, Bengal Tiger, and Indian Elephant.
Tribes: Kani tribes inhabit both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
UNESCO Recognition: Recognized under the Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme in 2016.

Neuroscience of Addiction

Neuroscience of Addiction

Why in News?

A recent study, released during Brain Awareness Week (March 10-16), reveals that addiction involves a complex neural circuit in the brain that affects craving, emotional regulation, and decision-making. This highlights addiction as a chronic brain condition, rather than a moral failing, paving the way for more effective treatment strategies.

How Does Neuroscience Explain Addiction?

Role of the Brain in Addiction:
The study identifies three key brain regions involved in addiction: the basal ganglia, extended amygdala, and prefrontal cortex.
- Basal Ganglia: This region helps the brain repeat pleasurable activities, whether related to food, social interaction, or addictive substances. It works with neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin to reinforce rewarding behaviors.
- Extended Amygdala: It triggers negative emotions such as anxiety, irritability, and discomfort when substance use is stopped, pushing individuals to continue using substances despite the harm.
- Prefrontal Cortex: This region explains why individuals persist in using substances despite being aware of their harmful effects. It plays a critical role in decision-making, impulse control, and prioritization, making it a key element in addiction.
Vulnerability in Adolescence: Adolescence is a crucial period of heightened vulnerability to substance use as the brain is still developing. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for impulse control and decision-making, matures last, making teens particularly susceptible to addiction.

Other Factors Contributing to Addiction:

Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals are genetically more prone to addiction.
Psychological Factors: Trauma, stress, and mental health disorders increase the likelihood of developing an addiction.
Environmental Influences: Family history, peer pressure, and socioeconomic factors significantly contribute to the risk of addiction.
Age of First Use: Early exposure to addictive substances increases the likelihood of developing long-term dependency.

Note:

Brain imaging techniques, such as MRI, have revealed structural and biochemical changes in the brain due to addiction.
Cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) and neurofeedback techniques are helping to rewire the brain and promote recovery.

What is Brain Awareness Week (BAW)?

About: Brain Awareness Week is observed annually in the third week of March to raise awareness about brain science and its role in understanding biology, preventing diseases, and improving healthcare.
It is organized by the Dana Foundation, a private philanthropic organization in New York dedicated to advancing the neurosciences.

Sunday, 15 June 2025

4th Conference of Global Intelligence & Security Chiefs

4th Conference of Global Intelligence & Security Chiefs

Why in News?

India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) hosted the 4th Conference of Global Intelligence and Security Chiefs, organized by India’s external intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), in collaboration with the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS).

The event saw the participation of intelligence officials from over 20 countries, including the heads of the Five Eyes Alliance.

What is the Conference of Intelligence and Security Chiefs?
This is a high-level annual security dialogue conducted as part of the Raisina Dialogue, which is organized by India’s Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).
The conference was first held in 2022.
Modeled after prominent events like the Munich Security Conference and Singapore’s Shangri-La Dialogue, it serves as a strategic platform for intelligence and security officials to discuss emerging threats, collaborative security frameworks, and current geopolitics and geo-strategies.
The 2025 edition focused on topics such as counterterrorism, transnational crime, intelligence-sharing mechanisms, immigration and extradition, Indo-Pacific cooperation, and efforts to combat terrorism financing and the narcotics trade.

What is the Raisina Dialogue?
[Click Here to Read More: Raisina Dialogue]

What is the Five Eyes Alliance?

About: The Five Eyes is an intelligence-sharing coalition consisting of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Formation and Evolution: It was established during World War II, originating from UK-US collaboration in deciphering German and Japanese codes.
The alliance is primarily based on the UKUSA Agreement (1946), which facilitates extensive surveillance, intelligence collection, and data sharing among the five member countries.
Scope of Operations:
- Interception, collection, analysis, and decryption of global communications.
- Automatic intelligence-sharing among member nations.
- Integrated programs, staff, bases, and analytical processes for global surveillance.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims:
Q. From which of the following did India purchase the Barak anti-missile defense systems? (2008)
(a) Israel
(b) France
(c) Russia
(d) USA

Ans: (a)

Q. Recently, the USA decided to support India’s membership in multi-lateral export control regimes called the “Australia Group” and the “Wassenaar Arrangement”. What is the difference between them? (2011)

The Australia Group is an informal arrangement aimed at minimizing the risk of aiding chemical and biological weapons proliferation, while the Wassenaar Arrangement is a formal group under the OECD with identical objectives.
The Australia Group consists primarily of Asian, African, and North American countries, while Wassenaar Arrangement members are mainly from Europe and the Americas.

Regulating India’s Online Gaming

Regulating India’s Online Gaming

For Prelims: Online Gaming, Real Money Gaming (RMG) Industry, Digital Payment Systems, State List, Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA).

For Mains: Factors driving the rise of the gaming industry in India, the need for a code of ethics, and deregulating India's online gaming sector.

Why in News?

Experts are raising concerns about the over-regulation of online gaming, highlighting issues like heavy taxation and legal uncertainties, while advocating for greater operational freedom for these platforms.

Additionally, India's real money gaming (RMG) sector has united to establish a code of ethics to promote ethical and transparent business practices.

What is the RMG Industry?

About: The RMG sector includes platforms like Dream11 and PokerBaazi, where users wager real money with the chance to win or lose funds. The industry generated USD 3.8 billion in revenue during FY 2023-24.
Need for a Code of Ethics:
- Legal Pressures: States such as Tamil Nadu have attempted to impose stringent regulations, including Aadhaar verification and gameplay restrictions (e.g., midnight to 5 AM blackouts).
- Lack of Central Regulation: The Union government's proposed rules for the RMG sector are still not enforced, leaving companies to self-regulate.
- Industry Image: Self-regulation is crucial for RMG companies to demonstrate responsibility and credibility.
- Competition from Offshore Platforms: International gambling websites, which evade GST and ID verification requirements, are rapidly expanding. Ethical commitments are essential for domestic platforms to stand out.

What is Online Gaming?

About: Online gaming involves playing video games over the internet, enabling real-time interaction and competition among players across various devices, such as computers, consoles, and smartphones.
Classification:
- Skill-Based Games: These focus on the player's ability and strategy rather than luck, and they are legal in India (e.g., Dream11, Mobile Premier League).
- Games of Chance: These depend mostly on luck, and are illegal in India (e.g., Roulette).
Market Size:
- In 2023, India became the largest gaming market globally with 568 million gamers and 9.5 billion app downloads.
- The market, valued at USD 2.2 billion in 2023, is expected to reach USD 8.6 billion by 2028.
Key Drivers of Growth:
- Young Demographic: Nearly half of India's population is under 25, creating a massive audience for gaming.
- Smartphone Penetration: The number of smartphone users is expected to increase from 468 million in 2017 to 1.2 billion by 2025.
- Internet Accessibility: India has the second-largest internet user base, and is expected to reach 900 million users by 2025.
- Localized Content: Games are being tailored to Indian tastes, with regional language options and festival-themed events.
- Booming IT Sector: The number of online game development companies in India has increased significantly, contributing to global gaming development.
- Digital Payment Adoption: Digital payment systems have expanded, facilitating smooth online transactions.

Side Effects of Online Gaming:

Addiction: The WHO has officially classified "gaming disorder" as a behavioral addiction under the International Classification of Diseases.
Emotional Symptoms: These include restlessness, irritability, and social isolation.
Physical Symptoms: Players may experience fatigue, migraines, and conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Distinguishing Between Games of Skill and Games of Chance

Aspect	Games of Skill	Games of Chance
Definition	Outcome depends on knowledge, strategy, and skill.	Outcome mainly determined by randomness and luck.
Key Determining Factor	Player skill, decision-making, and practice.	Randomness, probability, and luck.
Control Over Outcome	High – Player’s actions influence the results.	Low – Little to no control over results.
Examples	Chess, Poker, Fantasy Sports, Esports	Slot Machines, Roulette, Lottery, Scratch Cards
Legal Status	Often lightly regulated or exempt from gambling laws.	Strictly regulated due to risk of exploitation.

How is Online Gaming Regulated in India?

Legal Provisions:
- State governments have the power to make laws on gaming, betting, and gambling under the Constitution’s State List (Entry 34).
- Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023: Defines terms related to online gaming, online gaming intermediaries, self-regulatory bodies, and permissible games.
- Prize Competitions Act, 1955: Governs prize-based competitions.
- Public Gambling Act, 1867: Exempts skill-based games from penalties.
- FDI Restrictions: India's policy restricts foreign investment in lotteries, gambling, and betting sectors, including technology partnerships.
- Judicial Stance: In the Dr. KR Lakshmanan Case (1996), the Supreme Court ruled horse race betting as a game of skill, exempting it from most gambling restrictions. However, the Geeta Rani Case (2019) is still pending a decision on whether sports betting qualifies as a game of skill.
- Taxation:
  - The Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Act, 2023 imposes a 28% tax on the total entry value in online gaming.
  - Income Tax Act, 1961: Winnings above Rs 10,000 from any gaming activity are taxed at 30%.

Need for Relaxation of Rules in the Online Gaming Sector

Economic Growth and Employment: The online gaming sector is a burgeoning industry with an expected market size of USD 8.6 billion by 2028, which can create 2-3 lakh jobs.
Enhancing Competitive Advantage: India’s gaming market can thrive globally with regulations that foster innovation and minimize legal and tax barriers.
Ensuring Regulatory Clarity: The Supreme Court's stay on a retrospective GST demand underscores the necessity for clearer and more stable regulations.
Preventing Capital Flight: High taxation drives businesses to offshore platforms, resulting in lost tax revenue and unregulated gaming activities.
Encouraging Innovation: Deregulation can allow gaming startups to focus on growth rather than legal battles, attracting investment and technological advancements.

Way Forward:

Rationalizing Taxation: The government should consider tiered taxation for different types of games to ensure fairness, and reconsider retrospective GST demands.
Categorizing Gaming Platforms: Differentiating platforms by user base can help implement targeted regulations, such as:
- Children & Teens (Under 18): Parental controls, time limits.
- Young Adults (18-25): Awareness campaigns, spending limits.
- Adults (25+): Betting caps, mental health support.
Uniform Regulatory Framework: A co-regulatory model involving both industry and government can ensure compliance and foster responsible gaming.
Responsible Gaming: Platforms should implement awareness campaigns and provide helpline support to prevent addiction, especially in youth. The Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority exemplifies efforts to promote responsible gaming.
Stricter Data Protection Enforcement: User data protection laws should be more rigorously enforced to prevent exploitation.

Drishti Mains Question:
Discuss the key drivers of growth in India’s online gaming industry and the challenges posed by excessive regulation.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Water Circularity

Water Circularity

For Prelims: Composite Water Management Index, Water Circularity, Industry 4.0, 3G Ethanol Production, AMRUT 2.0, Central Pollution Control Board

For Mains: Water crisis and management in India, Wastewater treatment and reuse in India, Circular economy.

Why in the News?
A study titled "Waste to Worth: Managing India’s Urban Water Crisis Through Wastewater Reuse," published by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), emphasizes the importance of water circularity. It advocates the reuse of treated wastewater as a solution to both the growing water scarcity and environmental degradation in India.

Key Findings of the Study on Wastewater Reuse

India’s Growing Water Scarcity: India ranks 132nd globally in per capita water availability (India-WRIS), with freshwater resources declining by 73% since 1951 (from 5,200 cubic meters per capita to 1,486 m³ in 2021). Projections suggest a further drop to 1,367 m³ per capita by 2031. India already faces water stress (below 1,700 m³ per capita) and risks becoming water-scarce (below 1,000 m³ per capita) without urgent intervention.
Water Supply vs. Demand: India accounts for just 2% of the world’s landmass but only has 4% of global freshwater resources, despite supporting 18% of the world’s population and 15% of its livestock. This imbalance creates significant pressure on India’s water supply.
Wastewater Generation Crisis: In 2020-21, urban India generated 72,368 million liters per day (MLD) of sewage, but only 44% (31,841 MLD) of it had treatment capacity, and only 28% (20,236 MLD) was treated. The remaining 72% went untreated, causing severe water pollution. Wastewater generation is expected to increase by 75-80% over the next 25 years, reaching 48 billion cubic meters (BCM) annually by 2050—far exceeding current treatment capacity.
Water Governance Challenges: Indian cities depend on distant rivers (e.g., Cauvery for Bengaluru, Krishna and Godavari for Hyderabad), increasing costs and exacerbating shortages, particularly in urban peripheries and informal settlements. The NITI Aayog’s Composite Water Management Index shows 16 states scoring below 50 out of 100, signaling poor water management. Additionally, untreated sewage is commonly discharged into water bodies.
Policy Gaps: While the Ministry of Jal Shakti mandates cities to reuse at least 20% of treated water, compliance remains low. Informal reuse of wastewater in agriculture and industry occurs without structured policies, and untreated sewage is used by farmers, risking health.

What is Water Circularity?
Water circularity involves recycling, reusing, and recovering resources within the water treatment cycle, aiming to maximize value for individuals, businesses, and the environment. This practice reduces waste, lowers pollution, and regenerates natural ecosystems.

Benefits of Water Circularity:

Cost Reduction: Recycling treated wastewater reduces industrial water costs, particularly in power plants and data centers supporting Industry 4.0.
Agricultural Benefits: India generates approximately 317 km³ of municipal wastewater annually, which could irrigate 40 million hectares, about 10% of the nation’s irrigated land.
Economic Value: Wastewater recycling in thermal power plants can save 10 million cubic meters of water per year and generate $300 million annually in benefits.
Nutrient Recovery: Cities generate 2,500 tonnes of nutrients daily from sewage, valued at Rs 19.5 million. Recovering nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater to produce organic fertilizers can reduce reliance on synthetic alternatives, improving soil health and boosting agricultural productivity.
Groundwater Recharge: Using treated sewage for artificial groundwater recharge helps replenish aquifers and enhance water security.
Energy Generation: Extracting biogas from wastewater can power water utilities, while algal biofuel production (3G ethanol) can reduce environmental impact and support India’s climate policies.

Measures to Strengthen Wastewater Reuse in India

Water Credit System: Similar to carbon trading, water reuse credits can incentivize industries to adopt water-efficient practices.
Decentralized Treatment Systems: Implementing decentralized wastewater treatment systems at the household, community, or institutional levels can reduce pressure on centralized sewage treatment plants (STPs) and increase local reuse. Integrating localized systems within Smart Cities under AMRUT 2.0 is essential.
Mandates for Industries and Power Plants: Enforce 100% treated wastewater use in thermal power plants within a 50 km radius of STPs, as per the Power Tariff Policy of 2016.
Wastewater Distribution Networks: Repurposing unused canal networks to channel treated wastewater for irrigation, as demonstrated by Uttar Pradesh, can enhance resource utilization.
Incentives and Regulations: Provide tax incentives, low-interest loans, and financial support for private investments in wastewater recycling. Enforce zero-liquid discharge (ZLD) systems in industries and offer subsidies for adopting these technologies.
Monitoring and Compliance: Enforce stringent standards by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for wastewater discharge, alongside regular audits. Utilize IoT-based sensors for real-time water quality monitoring at STPs.

Drishti Mains Question:
What is water circularity, and how can it help address India’s water crisis?

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims
Q.1. Which of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management, including the construction of dams and water reservoirs? (2021)
(a) Dholavira
(b) Kalibangan
(c) Rakhigarhi
(d) Ropar

Ans: (a)

Dholavira, located on Khadir Beyt in the Rann of Kutch, is noted for its sophisticated water management system, including dams and interconnected reservoirs. It is one of the most significant Harappan sites and showcases advanced urban planning, construction, and water management techniques.

Q.2. With reference to ‘Water Credit,’ consider the following statements: (2021)

It applies microfinance tools to the water and sanitation sector.
It is a global initiative launched under the World Health Organization and the World Bank.
It aims to help poor communities meet their water needs without relying on subsidies.

Which of the statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Ans: (c)

WaterCredit is a microfinance program that addresses the need for affordable water and sanitation solutions, helping poor communities access financing for water infrastructure without relying on subsidies. However, it is not a World Health Organization or World Bank initiative but is launched by Water.org, a non-profit organization.

Mains
Q.1. What are the key features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, launched by the Government of India for water conservation and security? (2020)

Q.2. Suggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation systems to ensure efficient use amid depleting water resources. (2020)

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