Supreme Court Examines State Legislation: Insights from the Chhattisgarh Auxiliary Police Case

Overview
In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court of India clarified that the Chhattisgarh government’s decision to pass a new law after a prior Court order does not amount to contempt of court. This decision arose from the long-standing case of Nandini Sundar & Others vs. State of Chhattisgarh, and it reinforces the principle that new legislation is not inherently contemptuous unless it violates constitutional provisions.

Case Background:

In July 2011, the Supreme Court directed the Chhattisgarh government to cease deploying Special Police Officers (SPOs) in anti-Maoist operations. The Court held that employing undertrained and underpaid SPOs for such missions violated Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, which guarantee equality and the right to life. The Court ordered the disarmament of SPOs and instructed the Union Government to stop financing their recruitment.

Chhattisgarh’s Legislative Response:

Following this directive, the State enacted the Chhattisgarh Auxiliary Armed Police Forces Act, 2011. This law aimed to form an auxiliary force to support existing security personnel in dealing with insurgencies. To address the Supreme Court’s earlier concerns:

• Section 4(1) allowed auxiliary personnel to assist in non-combat roles.
• Section 5(2) explicitly prohibited their deployment in direct conflict.
• The law mandated six months of training and a rigorous selection process.

Despite these measures, a contempt petition was filed, alleging that the Act undermined the 2011 judgment.

Supreme Court’s Decision on Contempt: The Court dismissed the contempt charges, citing several key reasons:

• Adherence to Previous Orders: It found that the Chhattisgarh government had complied with all instructions from the 2011 ruling, including submitting relevant compliance reports.
• Legislative Authority: The Court affirmed that legislatures—both State and Central—have full authority to make laws within their domain, provided these laws do not conflict with the Constitution.
• No Automatic Contempt: Merely enacting a new law does not constitute contempt unless the law itself is unconstitutional.

Doctrine of Separation of Powers:

Referencing cases like Indian Aluminium Co. vs. State of Kerala (1996), the Court highlighted the need to respect the distinct roles of the judiciary, legislature, and executive. Judicial review remains limited to evaluating a law’s constitutional validity and does not extend to questioning the act of lawmaking itself.

Impact on Judicial Oversight and State Lawmaking:

This judgment strengthens the idea that courts cannot preempt or block legislative action unless there is a clear constitutional violation. It also recognizes the legislature’s ability to respond to judicial concerns through new legislation, as long as it stays within legal and constitutional limits.

Wider Significance

• Protecting Institutional Balance: The decision underscores that while courts uphold constitutional values and rights, they should not encroach upon legislative authority unless absolutely necessary.
• Clarification on Contempt Law: It sets an important precedent that passing new laws after a court decision is not automatically contemptuous.
• Guidance for Lawmakers: The judgment provides a roadmap for State governments on how to legislate responsibly on complex issues, particularly where previous judicial intervention exists.

Quad Nations Launch Critical Minerals Initiative to Cut Reliance on China

Quad Foreign Ministers Convene in Washington, DC:

At their second ministerial meeting in Washington, DC, the foreign ministers of India, Australia, Japan, and the United States—the Quad nations—reaffirmed their shared priorities across four strategic domains: maritime and transnational security, economic prosperity, emerging technologies, and humanitarian cooperation.

They also strongly denounced the terror attack in Pahalgam, calling for swift justice against those responsible.

New Critical Minerals Initiative Unveiled:

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the launch of the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative, a joint effort to establish secure and diversified supply chains for vital minerals and reduce dependence on China. These minerals are crucial for technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs), semiconductors, and defense equipment.

Strengthening Maritime and Logistics Cooperation:

The ministers also announced:

• The inaugural Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network field training exercise scheduled for this year.
• The launch of the Quad Ports of the Future Partnership, set to take place in Mumbai later in the year.

Addressing China’s Dominance in Critical Minerals:

The Quad initiative is aimed at countering China’s overwhelming control of the processing and refining of critical minerals. While rare earth elements are found globally, China leads in refining capabilities—particularly in producing neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets used in EV motors, braking systems, and power steering.

Once led by the U.S. and Japan, the mineral processing industry has shifted to China, prompting renewed efforts by countries like Japan to rebuild their capabilities.

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities Exposed by Geopolitical Tensions:

China has previously retaliated against U.S. tariffs and global criticism by imposing restrictions on critical mineral exports, raising alarms over economic coercion and strategic vulnerabilities.
Export restrictions have included requirements like end-use licenses and local government approvals, particularly limiting access for Indian companies.

India’s EV Industry Faces Setbacks:

India’s growing EV sector has been significantly impacted by China’s export curbs on rare earth magnets. Despite repeated attempts, Indian automakers have struggled to get approvals from China for critical mineral imports.

Meanwhile, China is encouraging foreign companies to buy entire electric motor assemblies from Chinese firms instead of sourcing individual components like magnets.

Companies like Volkswagen have secured export permits after extensive lobbying—an advantage Indian firms haven’t been able to replicate.

Foundation Laid by G7’s Critical Minerals Strategy: The Quad’s minerals initiative builds on the G7 Critical Minerals Action Plan, endorsed by India, which promotes partnerships with developing countries to enhance supply chain resilience and add value locally.
G7 finance ministers have also backed the World Bank-led RISE initiative—Resilient and Inclusive Supply Chain Enhancement—to support these goals.

India’s Strategic Steps: National Mission and Global Partnerships:

India’s ₹16,300 crore National Critical Mineral Mission, proposed by the Ministry of Mines, seeks external funding—potentially through RISE—for exploration, overseas acquisitions, research, and recycling.

India became part of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) in June 2023, joining G7 nations and others like Australia and South Korea.

India-US Collaboration Under the TRUST Framework

During Prime Minister Modi’s February 2025 visit to Washington, India and the U.S. signed the Transforming Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology (TRUST) initiative.
This agreement focuses on co-developing extraction and processing technologies for critical minerals like lithium and rare earths, with an aim to build a sustainable and self-reliant mineral supply chain.

The Rise of the Global South and the Emerging World Order: India’s Perspective

Context

India''s Prime Minister recently emphasized that the World Order established post-World War II is undergoing significant transformation, largely influenced by the emergence of the Global South as a key player in international affairs.

Historical Background

• Post-WWII World Order: The global system became bipolar, dominated by the United States and the Soviet Union.
• Post-Cold War Shift: After the Soviet Union''s collapse in 1991, the world transitioned into a unipolar order with the U.S. as the sole superpower.
• Today, the unipolar era is fading, giving rise to a multipolar world, with the Global South playing a pivotal role.

What is the Global South?

• The term refers to less economically developed nations, primarily located in the Southern Hemisphere, including most of Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
• The Brandt Report (1980) introduced the North–South divide, classifying nations based on development indicators like GDP, industrialization, and access to technology.

How the Global South is Shaping a New World Order

1. Economic Expansion

• The Global South now contributes to 40% of global trade (UNCTAD).
• Fast-growing economies like China, India, Brazil, and others are reshaping global financial and trade architectures.

2. Emergence of Alternative Institutions

• Countries of the Global South are promoting multilateral development institutions as alternatives to Western-led structures:
• New Development Bank (NDB) by BRICS
• BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA)

3. Assertive Global Diplomacy

• At forums like COP27, Global South countries successfully pushed for the Loss and Damage Fund to support climate-vulnerable nations.
• Growing demands for reform of the United Nations, IMF, World Bank, and greater representation in global decision-making platforms (e.g. G77, G20).

4. Demographic Advantage

• The Global South hosts the majority of the world’s population.
• Many countries are entering a demographic dividend phase, presenting opportunities for productivity, innovation, and market expansion.

5. South–South Cooperation

• Strengthening partnerships among developing nations in areas such as:
• Trade and technology transfer
• Capacity-building
• Humanitarian and disaster assistance

Conclusion

The rise of the Global South marks a decisive shift in international politics and economics, challenging traditional Western dominance. As countries like India gain influence, they are calling for a more balanced, inclusive, and representative world order. This transformation signals a move toward multipolarity, where power is distributed more equitably across regions and voices from the Global South play a central role in shaping global norms.

NITI Aayog Unveils Strategy to Boost Chemical Exports to $80 Billion by 2030

Targeting Export-Led Growth:

To address limited domestic demand and unlock the full potential of India’s chemical sector, NITI Aayog has outlined a comprehensive roadmap to nearly double chemical exports from $44 billion to $80 billion by 2030. The strategy emphasizes export-led growth to drive expansion and global competitiveness. Titled: “Chemical Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains.”

Key Recommendations Include:

• Establishing and expanding production clusters to achieve economies of scale
• Upgrading port infrastructure to streamline logistics and chemical storage
• Introducing a sales-linked incentive (SLI) scheme to localize production and incentivize exports of key chemical categories

Current Landscape of India’s Chemical Industry

• Global Position: India ranks 6th globally and 3rd in Asia in chemical production
• Contribution to Economy: Accounts for 7% of India’s GDP
• Export Ranking: 14th in global chemical exports (excluding pharmaceuticals)
• In FY23, chemical and petrochemical exports totaled $23.8 billion
• In 2023, the sector had a $31 billion trade deficit and just 3.5% participation in global value chains—compared to China’s 23%

The domestic market was valued at $220 billion in 2023, with ambitions to grow to $1 trillion by 2040. However, experts stress that export expansion is crucial, as domestic demand alone won’t meet this target.

Geographic Concentration and Industry Segments

• Key manufacturing hubs: Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu
• The industry spans 80,000+ commercial products across:
• Bulk chemicals
• Agrochemicals
• Specialty chemicals
• Polymers
• Petrochemicals
• Fertilizers

India’s Global Standing in Niche Segments

• 4th largest agrochemical producer
• 3rd largest polymer consumer
• A major exporter of dyes and colourants, accounting for:
• 16–18% of global dyestuff output
• ~15% of the global colourant market

Government Support and Policy Initiatives

PCPIR Policy (2020–2035)

• Aims to promote Petroleum, Chemicals, and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIRs)
• Investment targets:
• $142 billion by 2025
• $213 billion by 2030
• $284 billion by 2035

Chemical Promotion and Development Scheme (CPDS)

• Supports industry growth through:
• Research and innovation awards
• Market studies and surveys
• Creation and sharing of knowledge resources

Deregulation and Infrastructure Push

• Most chemical manufacturing is de-licensed (excluding hazardous substances)
• Promotion of plastic parks and industrial corridors to enhance capacity and employment

Strategic Shift Toward Specialty Chemicals

NITI Aayog recommends a transition from bulk to specialty chemicals—which are in high global demand. With the right policies, this shift could:

• Increase exports by $35–40 billion
• Double India’s global value chain (GVC) share to 5–6% by 2030

Sales-Linked Incentives as Opex Support

A proposed sales-linked incentive (SLI) scheme would offer operational subsidies to:

• Expand production in strategic sectors like:
• Agrochemical intermediates
• Pharma and battery chemicals
• Dyes, pigments, and petrochemicals
• Reduce dependency on key import sources

Addressing Supply Chain Bottlenecks

The roadmap calls for:

• Identifying critical supply chain vulnerabilities, taking cues from China’s 2018 industrial strategy
• Strategically allocating subsidies to fill these gaps

Revamping Existing Chemical Hubs and Port Infrastructure

• Dahej, Paradeep, and Vizag PCPIRs need urgent reforms due to issues with infrastructure, funding, and regulation
• Proposal to set up a dedicated Chemical Committee to resolve port-related logistics bottlenecks
• Plan to develop eight high-potential chemical clusters, strategically linked to 14 major and 12 minor ports to enhance connectivity and reduce logistics costs

Understanding Healthy Ageing

Healthy ageing involves maintaining physical, mental, and functional well-being in older age. It emphasizes quality of life, not just longevity, acknowledging that biological age can differ significantly from chronological age.

• Ageing is shaped by molecular changes (e.g., telomere shortening) and lifelong exposures like infections, pollution, and social factors.
• For example, a 60-year-old individual may show the organ health of a 75-year-old due to cumulative stressors.

Key Statistics and Trends

• Population Ageing: By 2050, 20% of Indians (319 million) will be aged 60 or older. (UNFPA India)
• Disease Burden Rising:
• Parkinson’s cases projected to rise by 168%
• Dementia cases may grow by 200% (Lancet, 2024)
• Gender Gap: Women live longer than men but suffer more from disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
• Economic Strain:
• Elderly dependency ratio is rising
• Only 28% of seniors receive formal pensions (NSSO 75th round)
• Healthcare Shortfalls:
• <5% of PHCs have geriatric outpatient services (MoHFW)

Core Components of Healthy Ageing

• Functional Independence: Ability to perform daily tasks like walking, cooking, or bathing
• Resilience: Ability to recover from illness or surgery
• Mental Health: Protection against isolation, depression, and cognitive decline
• Preventive Biomarkers: Early indicators like CRP, HDL, or metabolite levels to detect age-related decline
• Culturally Relevant Standards: Diagnostic thresholds adjusted for Indian genetics and diets

Why India Needs a Tailored Approach

• Faster Demographic Shift: States like Kerala may see elderly dependency ratios hit 35%
• Diagnostic Mismatch: Western lab values don''t match Indian baselines
• E.g., Low B12 levels are common in vegetarians but don’t always indicate deficiency
• Weak Social Security Net:
• Indira Gandhi Pension Scheme reaches <20% of eligible elderly
• Rural-Urban Divide:
• Geriatric facilities are concentrated in urban areas
• Rural elders lack access to care, transport, and support
• Eroding Family Structures:
• Smaller families and urban migration lead to more elders in care homes

Challenges in Promoting Healthy Ageing

• Lack of Indigenous Data: Most biomarker research is based on Western cohorts (e.g., Framingham, NHANES)
• Cultural Hesitancy: Resistance to screening or AI tools, especially in tribal or remote populations
• Low Budget Allocation:
• No standalone ageing component in NHM, despite NPHCE
• Sampling Difficulties: Hard to find healthy elders without comorbidities for studies like BHARAT
• Environmental & Early-life Factors:
• Early infections and undernutrition can lead to early-onset diseases like diabetes

Key Initiatives

• BHARAT Study: India’s first large-scale biobank for ageing-related indicators
• National Programme for Health Care of Elderly (NPHCE): Focus on geriatric care at district and primary levels
• Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI): Tracks elder health and social trends
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance: Coverage under RSBY and Ayushman Bharat for common geriatric illnesses
• Academic Push: Geriatrics included in AYUSH and MBBS as a super-specialty subject

The Road Ahead: Policy Recommendations

• Develop India-Specific Health Norms: Redefine thresholds for CRP, HDL, B12, and blood pressure
• National Expansion of BHARAT: Include all dietary, ecological, and ethnic profiles
• Leverage AI for Early Diagnostics: Predict organ ageing (e.g., liver, kidney) to enable timely interventions
• Boost Public Awareness: Launch healthy ageing campaigns via ASHA and Anganwadi workers
• Integrate with NDHM: Link elderly health data to the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission for better tracking and continuity of care

Conclusion

India’s ageing population is growing rapidly, and the current systems are not fully equipped to meet their unique health and social needs. Healthy ageing must become a public health priority—shifting focus from simply living longer to living better. Efforts like the BHARAT study, if scaled and supported with contextual policies, can pave the way for a more resilient, dignified, and productive ageing population.

India’s First Transgender-Led Health Clinic Reopens as ''Sabrang'' in Hyderabad

Context

India’s pioneering transgender-led health clinic, earlier known as Mitr Clinic, has reopened in Hyderabad under the name Sabrang Clinic, backed by renewed funding from Tata Trusts. The clinic had previously shut down due to a funding freeze by USAID.

About Sabrang Clinic

• What It Is:
  Sabrang Clinic is India’s first health facility fully operated and managed by transgender individuals, catering specifically to the healthcare needs of the transgender community.
• Key Services Offered:
• Gender-affirming care
• HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment
• Mental health support
• Primary and general healthcare services
• Unique Features:
• A safe, stigma-free space for transgender patients
• Empowerment through employment in the healthcare sector for transgender staff

Significance

• Addresses persistent discrimination and marginalization of transgender individuals in mainstream medical institutions
• Promotes inclusive healthcare access and sets a precedent for community-led care models
• Demonstrates a shift toward community empowerment and health equity

WHO Launches “3 by 35” Initiative to Tackle Non-Communicable Diseases

Overview

The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the “3 by 35” initiative, aimed at reducing the global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by significantly increasing health taxes on:

• Tobacco
• Alcohol
• Sugary drinks

Key Goal

Raise the price of these harmful products by at least 50% through taxation over the next 10 years.

Expected Outcomes

• Generate $1 trillion in additional global public revenue
• Reduce premature deaths linked to NCDs
• Improve long-term health equity and financial stability

What Is a Health Tax?

A health tax is levied on products harmful to public health to:

• Discourage consumption
• Offset healthcare costs
• Fund health services

Why Health Taxes Are Needed

• Health Burden: NCDs cause over 75% of global deaths, with tobacco and unhealthy diets as major drivers
• Economic Cost: Tobacco alone cost the global economy $1.4 trillion in 2012
• Revenue Potential: A 50% health tax could generate $740 billion annually, about 0.75% of global GDP
• Equity Impact: Poorer populations are more affected by NCDs, making health taxes a tool for reducing health inequities

India’s Efforts to Curb Unhealthy Consumption

Domestic Tax Measures

• Aerated drinks: Taxed at 28% GST + 12% compensation cess
• HFSS Foods (High Fat, Sugar, Salt): Taxed at 12% GST
• FSSAI Norms: Trans fats capped at 2% by mass in edible oils and fats

Global Best Practices

• Colombia (2016): Cigarette tax hike led to a 34% drop in smoking rates
• Saudi Arabia: A 50% sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) tax led to a 19% decline in consumption within a year

Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025

Released by: Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP)

Edition: 19^th

Coverage: 163 countries

Indicators Used: 23 indicators across three main domains:

• Level of Societal Safety and Security
• Extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict
• Degree of Militarisation

Key Findings:

• Global peacefulness has worsened on average.
• South Asia is the second least peaceful region, suffering the largest regional decline.
• Top ranked country: Iceland (1st place)
• India''s rank: 115th
• Least peaceful country: Russia (163rd)

SAKSHAM-3000 – India''s High-Capacity Switch-Router

Launched by: Ministry of Communications and Rural Development

Developed by: Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT)

What is it?

• 25.6 Tbps switch-router designed for next-gen digital infrastructure
• Tailored for data centres, telecom operators, and AI-driven enterprises

Key Features:

• Supports: 32 ports of 400G; Ethernet speeds from 1G to 400G
• Applications: Powers 5G/6G networks, cloud infrastructure, AI workloads
• Network compatibility: Leaf to super-spine roles in CLOS architecture

Technology Highlights:

• Uses C-DOT Router Operating System (CROS)
• Compatible with Layer-2, IP, and MPLS networks
• Equipped for time-sensitive applications using PTP and Sync-E
• Energy-efficient, with hot-swappable power and fan units
• Advanced QoS management with WRR and WRED

Strategic Importance:

• Supports India’s push for self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in high-end telecom and data tech
• Future-ready platform for legacy and cloud-native network environments

Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)

• Plastics not only pollute oceans and landfills but also enter the human body via microplastic particles and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).
• Endocrine System:
• Made up of glands that produce hormones.
• Hormones are chemical messengers that carry information and instructions between cells.
• Influences nearly every cell, organ, and bodily function.
• About Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs):
• EDCs are natural or synthetic chemicals that disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system.
• Exposure occurs through air, food, water, and skin contact.
• EDCs interfere with hormones by:
• Mimicking hormones, tricking the body.
• Blocking natural hormones from working.
• Changing hormone levels by affecting their production, breakdown, or storage.
• Altering body sensitivity to hormones.
• There are about 85,000 man-made chemicals globally; over 1,000 are identified as EDCs.
• Common EDC examples include Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates found in plastics.

DengiAll

• India has achieved 50% enrolment in the first phase III clinical trial for its indigenous tetravalent dengue vaccine, DengiAll.
• About DengiAll:
• Developed by Panacea Biotec Limited under a licensing agreement with the US National Institutes of Health (NIH).
• Contains weakened forms of all four dengue virus subtypes.
• The virus composition is the same as the NIH-developed vaccine, differing only in inactive ingredients.
• Phase I and II trials in India showed a balanced, strong immune response to all four dengue types.
• The vaccine was found to be safe and well tolerated.
• Multiple Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) institutes are involved in evaluating efficacy, immunogenicity, and safety.
• ICMR’s National Institute of Translational Virology (NITVAR) and AIDS Research Institute coordinate the trial.
• Key Facts about Dengue:
• It is a mosquito-borne viral infection.
• Common in tropical and subtropical regions, especially urban and semi-urban areas.
• Transmission:
• Spread by bites from infected Aedes mosquitoes carrying one of four dengue virus types.
• Not contagious person-to-person except from mother to child during pregnancy.
• Symptoms:
• High fever, headache, body aches, nausea, rash.
• Most recover in 1-2 weeks.
• Severe cases can cause dengue hemorrhagic fever.
• Treatment:
• No specific cure; treatment focuses on relieving pain and symptoms.

Apache AH-64E Attack Helicopter

• The Indian Army will soon receive its first batch of Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from the United States.
• About Apache AH-64E:
• The world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter.
• Used for reconnaissance, precision strikes, and close air support missions.
• Origin: United States.
• Manufacturer: Boeing.
• Also called Apache Guardian.
• The AH-64E is the latest model used by the US Army.
• Global Users:
• Countries including India, Egypt, Greece, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, UAE, and UK use it.
• Apache in India:
• Indian Air Force currently operates 22 AH-64E helicopters.
• In 2020, Boeing signed an agreement to supply six more to the Indian Army.

Garcinia kusumae – New Garcinia Species Discovered in Assam

Overview:

• Discovered in: Assam
• Genus: Garcinia (locally known as thoikora in Assamese)
• Species name: Garcinia kusumae

Key Features:

• Type: Dioecious evergreen tree
• Height: Up to 18 metres
• Flowering Season: February to April
• Fruit Maturity: May to June
• Unique Traits:
• Up to 15 staminate flowers per fascicle
• Fewer stamens per flower (except Garcinia assamica)
• Fruits produce blackish resinous exudate

Cultural and Medicinal Uses:

• Sun-dried pulp: Used in sherbet with salt and sugar – prevents heat stroke, quenches thirst
• Culinary use: Cooked with fish in curries
• Medicinal value: Traditional remedy for diabetes and dysentery
• Seed aril: Eaten raw with salt, chillies, and mustard oil

Roll Cloud Over Portugal

Recent Event:

• A rare roll cloud was observed off Portugal''s coast during an extreme heatwave, surprising onlookers.

About Roll Clouds:

• A type of arcus cloud – tube-shaped, horizontal, and detached from parent thunderstorms
• Altitude: Typically forms between 2,000 to 7,000 metres
• Common in: Coastal and mountainous areas – Alps, Japan, Scotland, northern Australia

What is an Arcus Cloud?

• Low, horizontal cloud associated with thunderstorm outflows or cold fronts
• Two Types:
• Shelf Cloud – attached to the storm
• Roll Cloud – detached, appears to roll around a horizontal axis
• Formed when cold downdraft air from a storm pushes into warm, moist air

Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)

• Ethiopia’s Prime Minister announced that the GERD on the Blue Nile is complete and will be officially inaugurated in September.
• About GERD:
• Formerly called the Millennium Dam.
• Located in Benishangul-Gumuz region of Ethiopia near the Sudan border.
• Built on the Blue Nile, a major tributary of the Nile River.
• Capacity: 6.45 Gigawatts, making it the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa.
• Construction began in April 2011.
• Owned by Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation (EEPCO).
• Dispute:
• Egypt and Sudan fear the dam will reduce their Nile water share.
• Both countries have repeatedly requested Ethiopia to halt filling the dam until a comprehensive agreement is reached.

Polar Anticyclone

Context: Chile and Argentina ranked among the coldest places on Earth outside the polar regions, due to polar anticyclones.

What is a Polar Anticyclone?

• A high-pressure wind system formed by cooling of surface air layers.
• Cooling makes surface air denser, causing sinking air and inflow of air at higher levels, increasing pressure.
• High-pressure center surrounded by low-pressure areas, with winds flowing outward.
• Wind rotation:
• Northern Hemisphere: Outward and clockwise
• Southern Hemisphere: Outward and anti-clockwise

Chhattisgarh Forest Department Withdraws Directive on Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR)

Context:

• The Chhattisgarh Forest Department withdrew a directive that restricted other government departments, NGOs, and private entities from working on Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR), which undermined the Forest Rights Act (FRA).

About CFRR:

• CFRR is part of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA).
• It grants communities the right to protect, regenerate, conserve, and manage community forest resources via Gram Sabhas (village councils).
• CFR areas are common forest lands traditionally protected by communities for sustainable use.
• Communities can formulate rules for forest use, fulfilling their responsibilities under the FRA.

National Working Plan Code 2023:

• A guiding document issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) first in 2004, amended in 2014.
• Provides scientific management principles for forest divisions.
• The withdrawn directive tried to align CFRR with this code but was seen as restrictive.

Forest Rights Act, 2006:

• Aim: To correct historical injustices faced by forest-dwelling communities, ensuring their livelihood, food security, and rights.
• Rights recognized include:
• Individual Rights: Self-cultivation, habitation, in-situ rehabilitation.
• Community Rights: Grazing, fishing, access to water bodies, intellectual property, traditional knowledge, and protecting customary rights.

PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan Dissemination Portal

• Recently launched to provide open access to National and State-level student performance data.
• Purpose:
• Helps States and Union Territories design targeted plans to improve learning outcomes and bridge skill gaps.
• What is PARAKH?
• Stands for Performance Assessment, Review and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development.
• Established within NCERT in 2023.
• Aims to standardize school board assessments across India.
• Staffed by leading assessment experts with knowledge of Indian and international education systems.
• Works to bring school boards across States and UTs onto a common platform.
• Supports mandates of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• Major Areas of Focus:
• Capacity development in competency-based assessment.
• Conducting large-scale achievement surveys.
• Ensuring equivalence of different school boards.
• Developing holistic progress cards for all school stages: foundational, preparational, middle, and secondary.

Television Rating Point (TRP)

• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has proposed amendments to the Policy Guidelines for Television Rating Agencies-2014 to better reflect India’s diverse and changing media consumption habits.
• What is TRP?
• TRP measures the popularity and viewership of television programs.
• Higher viewership means a higher TRP.
• TRP is calculated over a period, usually a week.
• Broadcasters and advertisers use TRP to assess which programs attract more viewers.
• Advertisers decide where to place ads based on TRP; investors use it to make financial decisions.
• How is TRP Calculated in India?
• TRP is calculated by the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC).
• BARC installs devices called “BAR-O-meters” in selected households (over 58,000 homes).
• These meters record which channels or programs are watched by family members or selected people.
• This method is known as People Meters.
• Another method is picture matching, where the device records a small portion of the screen being watched.
• Collected data is analyzed to calculate TRPs.
• BARC releases weekly TRP ratings every Thursday, ranking channels and programs.

Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)

Context:

• The DAC recently approved capital acquisition proposals worth ₹1.05 lakh crore, emphasizing 100% indigenous sourcing to strengthen India’s defence capabilities.

Recent Approvals:

• ₹1.05 lakh crore worth of capital acquisitions were approved under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.
• Naval acquisitions got Approval of Necessity (AoN) for Moored Mines, Mine Counter Measure Vessels, Submersible Autonomous Vessels, and Super Rapid Gun Mounts.
• The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is close to finalizing procurement of three regiments of Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QR-SAM) worth about ₹30,000 crore for the Indian Army’s air defence.
• The Cabinet Committee on Security approved a ₹62,700 crore contract for 156 Light Combat Helicopters (Prachand) from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), marking the biggest-ever helicopter deal.

About Defence Acquisition Council (DAC):

• DAC is the top decision-making authority in the Ministry of Defence for all procurement-related matters.
• Established in 2001 after reforms following the Kargil War (1999) based on the Group of Ministers Report on National Security.
• It operates under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.

Composition:

• Chaired by the Defence Minister.
• Members include the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chiefs of Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Objectives:

• Ensure timely, cost-efficient, and capability-focused defence procurement while optimizing the allocated budget.

Key Functions:

• Approves the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals.
• Gives in-principle approval to the 15-year Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTIPP).
• Categorizes procurement into Buy (Indian), Buy & Make, and Make categories.
• Decides on Transfer of Technology (ToT) and offset obligations for contracts above ₹300 crore.
• Addresses single-vendor procurement issues.
• Oversees field trial evaluations and assesses performance of defence equipment.

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)

Context:

• The Prime Minister announced during his visit to Trinidad and Tobago that people of Indian origin up to the sixth generation in that country will now be eligible for OCI cards.

About OCI:

• OCI is a type of permanent residency granted to foreign nationals of Indian origin, allowing them to live, work, and travel in India without needing a visa.
• Launched in August 2005 under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2005.
• Administered by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

Objective:

• To maintain a connection with the global Indian diaspora by providing long-term rights to stay and participate in India''s economic and cultural life, without granting dual citizenship.

Eligibility (as per Section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955):

• Foreign citizens who:
• Were Indian citizens after 26 January 1950.
• Were eligible for Indian citizenship on 26 January 1950.
• Belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15 August 1947.
• Their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
• Minor children with at least one parent being an Indian citizen.
• Spouses of Indian citizens or OCI holders (marriage must be at least 2 years old).

Not Eligible:

• Applicants or ancestors who were citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, or any country notified by the Indian government.

Key Features of OCI Card:

• Provides a multiple-entry, lifelong visa to India.
• No requirement for police reporting, even for extended stays.
• Allows employment in India without a visa.
• Equal rights with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in education, finance, housing, and property ownership, except for agricultural land.
• Permits purchase of residential and commercial properties in India.
• Does not grant dual citizenship, but offers most rights except voting and holding constitutional offices.
• Applications and status tracking are done online via the OCI portal.

Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines (MVAG), 2025

Context:

• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways updated the MVAG to include new mobility trends like bike taxis, electric vehicles (EVs), and app-based autorickshaws.

About MVAG:

• Regulatory framework under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, governing app-based ride-hailing platforms (e.g., Ola, Uber, Rapido).
• Issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Key Features:

• Driver Welfare and Earnings:
• Drivers using their own vehicle get at least 80% of the fare.
• Drivers using aggregator-owned vehicles get at least 60%.
• Mandatory health insurance of ₹5 lakh and term insurance of ₹10 lakh per driver.
• Low-rated drivers (bottom 5%) must undergo quarterly training.
• Passenger Protection:
• ₹5 lakh travel insurance mandatory per passenger.
• Aggregators must resolve complaints within 3 days and inform passengers of outcomes.
• Fares charged only from pick-up to drop-off.
• Fare Regulation:
• States to fix base fares per vehicle category.
• Aggregators can charge between 50% less than base fare up to twice the base fare as a dynamic pricing cap, limiting surge pricing.
• Penalties for Cancellations:
• 10% penalty (up to ₹100) on driver or rider for unjustified cancellations.
• Valid cancellation reasons must be listed publicly.
• Bike-Taxi Legal Recognition:
• Non-transport motorcycles allowed for ride-hailing with state approval.
• Clarifies legality for bike taxi services like Rapido.
• EV Promotion & Accessibility:
• States may set annual EV adoption targets for aggregators.
• Inclusion of vehicles accessible for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) is mandatory.
• Driver Screening:
• Mandatory police verification, medical and psychological tests before onboarding.
• Aggregators to provide induction and annual refresher training.
• Grievance and Licensing:
• Aggregators must appoint grievance officers and display contact details publicly.
• Centralized portal to manage licenses, renewals, and deposits.
• Compliance and Penalties:
• Violations can result in fines from ₹1 lakh to ₹1 crore.
• Repeat violations may lead to license suspension (3 months) or cancellation.

RBI’s New Policy on Pre-Payment Charges

Context:

• RBI has prohibited lenders from charging pre-payment fees on floating-rate loans taken by individuals and Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), effective from 1 January 2026.

Pre-Payment Mechanism:

• Pre-payment means repaying a loan partially or fully before the scheduled time.
• It can reduce the interest amount or loan tenure.

How it Works:

• Loan agreements state if pre-payment is allowed, any charges, lock-in periods, and payment limits.
• Types:
• Part-prepayment: Paying a lump sum along with EMIs to reduce the principal.
• Full prepayment (foreclosure): Paying off the entire loan early.
• Benefits: Lowers interest burden and shortens EMI or tenure.

New RBI Decision:

• No pre-payment penalties on floating-rate loans for individuals (non-business) and MSEs.
• Applies to new or renewed loans from 1 January 2026.
• Covers both partial and full pre-payments without penalty, no lock-in period, no restriction on source of funds.

Reason for Policy:

• RBI found inconsistent and unclear pre-payment charges by lenders.
• Borrowers, especially MSEs, faced difficulties closing loans early, leading to financial strain.
• The move supports credit mobility and promotes competition among lenders.

Significance:

• Reduces hurdles for MSEs, aiding economic growth and employment.
• Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and startup ecosystems by increasing financial freedom.
• Protects consumers from hidden fees and enforces clear disclosure of pre-payment terms in loan documents.
• Encourages financial inclusion for first-time borrowers, rural users, and women entrepreneurs.
• Harmonizes rules for loans up to ₹50 lakh across banks, NBFCs, cooperative banks, and regional rural banks.

Russia Officially Recognises the Taliban

Context:

• Russia became the first country to formally recognise the Taliban-led Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan since the Taliban took over in 2021.

About Russia:

• Location: Northern Eurasia, spanning Eastern Europe and Northern Asia.
• Size: Largest country in the world (~17 million sq. km) across 11 time zones.
• Capital: Moscow.
• Neighbours: Shares land borders with 16 countries (most in the world), including Norway, China, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan; maritime borders with Japan and the USA.
• Governance: Federal semi-presidential republic.
• President: Vladimir Putin (Head of State)
• Prime Minister: Mikhail Mishustin (Head of Government)
• Geography:
• Mountain ranges: Ural (divides Europe and Asia), Caucasus (Mount Elbrus - highest peak in Europe), Altai, Sayan, Kamchatka.
• Rivers & Lakes: Volga (Europe’s longest river), Lena, Yenisei, Ob (Siberian rivers), Lake Baikal (world’s deepest freshwater lake), Lake Ladoga (Europe’s largest lake).
• Landscapes include tundra, taiga, steppes, semi-deserts, and large permafrost areas.
• Rich in natural resources like oil, gas, metals, timber.

Surveillance Pricing (Personalized/Dynamic Pricing)

Context: New York State was sued by the National Retail Federation over surveillance pricing practices.

What is Surveillance Pricing?

• Business practice of adjusting prices for products or services based on data collected about individuals.
• Data can include browsing history, purchase patterns, location, and more.
• Enables personalized or dynamic pricing tailored to consumer behavior and profiles

OPCW’s 23rd Regional Meeting of National Authorities of States Parties in Asia — New Delhi

Event:

• OPCW, in collaboration with India’s National Authority Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC), hosted the 23rd regional meeting in New Delhi.

About OPCW:

• Implementing body of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
• CWC was adopted in 1992, enforced from 1997.
• First multilateral disarmament treaty eliminating a whole class of weapons of mass destruction within a fixed timeline.
• Has 193 member states, including India (original signatory).
• Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013.

India’s Role:

• NACWC implements the CWC in India under the Chemical Weapons Convention Act, 2000.
• In 2024, the Indian Chemical Council (ICC) received the OPCW-The Hague Award for advancing CWC goals and enhancing chemical industry safety in India — the first chemical industry body worldwide to earn this honor.
• ICC is India’s oldest chemical industry association.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) Flags Issues Amid India’s 2036 Olympics Bid

Context:

• IOC recently raised concerns over governance issues in the Indian Olympic Association and a rise in doping violations as India pushes to host the 2036 Olympics.

About IOC:

• Founded in 1894.
• Independent, nonprofit international organization.
• Acts as the guardian of the Olympic Games and promotes ethics and good governance in sports worldwide.
• Members represent the IOC globally, not their countries.
• Fully privately funded.