Digital Firms Voice Concerns Over India''s Draft Mobile Number Validation Rules

India’s proposed Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2025 have triggered strong reactions from digital firms, which warn of excessive regulatory overreach, legal ambiguity, and increased compliance costs. The new rules—currently in draft form—have been put forth by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) as an amendment to the existing cyber security framework within the telecommunications sector.

Overview of the Proposed Regulations

Under the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Amendment Rules, 2025, the DoT has introduced a framework requiring mobile number validation to verify the authenticity of telecom subscribers. The stated goal is to bolster cyber security by ensuring mobile numbers used for digital services are tied to legitimate identities.

A key provision is the creation of a new classification: Telecommunication Identifier User Entity (TIUE). This term broadly encompasses any individual or organization—apart from licensed telecom service providers—that uses telecom identifiers like mobile numbers to deliver services or identify users. This expansive definition potentially brings a wide spectrum of digital platforms under regulatory scrutiny, including:

• Fintech and digital payments firms
• Social media platforms
• E-commerce and mobility services
• OTT content providers
• Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)

The draft rules also allow telecom operators to charge up to ₹3 per mobile number verification request, effectively monetizing identity confirmation services.

Industry Concerns: Jurisdiction, Cost, and Scope

The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI)—representing major global tech players like Google, Amazon, and Apple—has raised objections, calling the draft regulation a case of legislative overreach. In its submission to the DoT, IAMAI argued that applying telecom-style compliance requirements to non-telecom service providers lacks legal justification under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

IAMAI cautioned that if enacted, the rules could significantly disrupt various digital sectors and burden businesses with unnecessary compliance obligations. Startups and MSMEs, in particular, may face operational strain from recurring verification costs. Even a nominal fee of ₹3 per verification could become financially unsustainable for platforms serving millions of users. These costs might be passed on to consumers through service fees or reduced offerings.

Independent Assessments and Economic Implications

Policy think tank CUTS International echoed similar concerns in its regulatory impact assessment. CUTS highlighted the potential for negative net benefits from the proposed validation regime, especially when alternative cybersecurity measures are already being implemented. The think tank recommended that the government prioritize enhancing existing frameworks rather than adding fragmented, potentially redundant requirements.

Uncertainty Around Mandatory Implementation

Although the DoT has signaled that validation could remain voluntary for private entities, experts have pointed out that the language of the draft leaves open the possibility for mandatory enforcement in the future. This regulatory ambiguity adds uncertainty for digital businesses trying to plan ahead.

Legal analysts have also questioned whether the DoT possesses the legal authority to impose such rules on non-telecom entities, arguing that doing so could infringe on the separation of regulatory powers between telecom and other digital sectors.

Context: India’s Broader Push Toward Digital Regulation

The controversy over the draft telecom cyber security rules comes amidst a broader regulatory shift in India’s digital governance landscape. Recent legislative and policy initiatives include:

• The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
• The forthcoming Digital India Act
• Increased authority for CERT-In and MeitY

These developments reflect the government’s assertive approach to securing India’s digital ecosystem. However, growing concerns are emerging over overlapping regulations, increased compliance burdens, and their potential impact on innovation and the ease of doing business.

Conclusion: Balancing Security and Innovation

As India aspires to become a global digital innovation hub, it faces a critical challenge: how to balance national security imperatives with business viability, particularly for smaller firms and startups. The debate around the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2025 underscores the need for clear, proportional, and sector-appropriate regulation that fosters both trust and innovation in the digital economy.

India’s Economic Growth vs Trump’s “Dead Economy” Remark: A Closer Look

Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comment labelling India a “dead economy,” alongside his announcement of a 25% tariff on Indian imports and possible penalties over India’s defence and energy ties with Russia, has sparked significant political and economic debate within India.

Political Reactions: Divided Opinions

Trump’s remarks have triggered a sharp domestic political divide.

• Opposition leaders have echoed Trump’s criticism, accusing the Indian government of damaging the economy.
• The government, however, has firmly defended its record, citing India’s transformation from being part of the "fragile five" to becoming one of the world’s top five economies.

Economic Data Challenges Trump’s Claim

Trump’s claim that India has a "dead economy" is inconsistent with decades of international economic data.

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF):

• From 1995 to 2025, India’s GDP has grown nearly 12 times, placing it among the fastest-growing large economies—second only to China.
• The U.S. economy, over the same period, has expanded fourfold.
• The United Kingdom and Germany have seen their GDPs grow less than threefold and less than twofold, respectively.
• Japan’s GDP in 2025 is projected to be lower than in 1995, showing economic stagnation.

These statistics directly contradict Trump’s assertion and show that both India and Russia—countries he criticized—have posted significant economic growth.

India’s Global Economic Standing

India stands out as one of the few major economies that has increased its global economic share in relation to the United States:

• In 1995, India’s economy was less than 5% the size of the U.S.
• By 2025, it is expected to be nearly 14% the size of the U.S. economy.

In contrast:

• Long-time U.S. allies like Japan, Germany, and the U.K. have lost relative economic ground, shrinking in proportion to the American economy.

This trend highlights India’s economic rise and undermines the narrative of it being a “dead economy.”

Growth Amid Structural Challenges

Despite strong macroeconomic performance, India’s growth story is accompanied by serious structural weaknesses:

• Slower Growth Rates: Since 2011-12, growth has moderated, averaging around 6% in recent years, down from the 8-9% range seen before the 2008 financial crisis.
• Lagging Behind China: India’s GDP growth has not matched the pace of China’s rapid expansion.
• Global Trade Share: India accounts for only 1.8% of global goods exports and 4.5% of global services exports.
• Persistent Agricultural Distress: With manufacturing unable to absorb surplus rural labor, agriculture remains overburdened and underproductive.
• Manufacturing Growth Slump: Since 2019-20, agriculture has outpaced manufacturing in terms of growth.
• Inequality and Poverty: Around 24% of Indians still live below the poverty line, and income inequality continues to rise.
• Human Development Deficits: India continues to struggle with poor outcomes in health, education, and employment quality.
• Labor Market Issues: The country faces high-skilled unemployment and low female workforce participation, further underscoring deep-rooted socio-economic challenges.

Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Indian Apparel Sector

Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on Indian textiles and apparel has further aggravated concerns, particularly in India’s export sector.

• Indian exporters argue this places them at a distinct disadvantage compared to competitors:
• Bangladesh: 20%
• Vietnam: 20%
• Indonesia: 19%
• Cambodia: 19%
• These higher tariffs—effective from August 7—are expected to severely impact India’s apparel exports to the U.S., its largest market.

Exporters are urging the government to intervene, warning that the tariff difference will hurt competitiveness and threaten jobs in the sector.

Conclusion: A Mixed Picture

India is far from being a “dead economy.” Decades of sustained GDP growth and rising global economic influence contradict such claims. However, this growth masks several enduring structural issues—from employment and inequality to weak export performance and underdeveloped public services.

As India navigates global pressures, domestic political discourse, and trade challenges, the balance between economic performance and structural reform remains central to its long-term trajectory.

Indian Apparel Exporters Urge Immediate Government Relief Amid U.S. Tariff Shock

Indian textile and apparel exporters have sounded the alarm following the United States’ decision to impose a steep 25% tariff on Indian garments. The move threatens to severely erode profit margins, undermine export competitiveness, and potentially lead to significant job losses in the sector.

Exporters Warn of Operational Strain and Price Pressures

Industry players have cautioned that to stay afloat in the U.S. market—India’s largest destination for ready-made garment (RMG) exports—manufacturers may be forced to sell at or below cost. Such price pressures could jeopardize the viability of several businesses, especially small and mid-sized enterprises.

Experts and stakeholders are urging the Indian government to intervene swiftly. Their demands include:

• Easier access to raw materials
• Subsidies or incentives to counteract the tariff impact
• Policy support to prevent layoffs and preserve export momentum

They emphasize that the tariff-induced disadvantage will worsen existing challenges faced by the industry, such as global competition, supply chain disruptions, and rising input costs.

India''s Rising Market Share in the U.S. Despite Obstacles

Despite the newly imposed tariffs, India has made notable gains in the competitive U.S. apparel market.

• China, the top exporter, has seen its share decline from 27.4% in 2020 to 21.9% in 2024.
• India, on the other hand, has grown its share from 4.5% to 5.8% over the same period.

The U.S. remains critical for India’s garment exports:

• In 2024, the U.S. accounted for 33% of India’s total RMG exports.
• India currently ranks as the fourth-largest RMG exporter to the U.S.

Top Indian apparel exports to the U.S. include:

• Cotton T-shirts (9.71% share of U.S. global imports)
• Women’s or girls’ cotton dresses (6.52%)
• Babies’ cotton garments (5.46%)

These figures highlight India’s growing presence in key product categories, even amid stiff competition and trade policy headwinds.

Government Strategies to Strengthen Textile Exports

To bolster the sector, the Indian government has undertaken several initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and competitiveness:

• Textile and handicraft exports rose by 5% in FY25, reaching $37.7 billion, up from $35.8 billion the previous year (Ministry of Textiles).
• Implementation of the Scheme for Integrated Textile Park (SITP) is underway, aimed at developing modern infrastructure for textile production clusters.
• The government has also approved the setup of seven PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM-MITRA) parks in:
• Tamil Nadu
• Telangana
• Gujarat
• Karnataka
• Madhya Pradesh
• Uttar Pradesh
• Maharashtra

With a total investment of ₹4,445 crore, these parks are designed to enhance the manufacturing ecosystem and are scheduled for completion by 2027–28.

India-U.S. Trade Negotiations Stalled Over Agricultural Issues

Meanwhile, broader India-U.S. trade talks remain deadlocked, largely due to disagreements over sensitive sectors like agriculture and automobiles.

• A major point of contention is the U.S. push for India to permit imports of genetically modified (GM) crops, including GM corn and soya.
• India has resisted these demands, citing domestic policy and public health concerns.

Agriculture has historically been a flashpoint in bilateral trade relations. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has frequently criticized bans on GM imports as discriminatory trade barriers.

Due to the impasse, negotiations are expected to resume only after mid-August, delaying progress toward a comprehensive trade agreement.

Conclusion: Sector Under Strain, Support Urgently Needed

India’s apparel exporters face a critical moment as rising U.S. tariffs threaten to undo recent gains in market share. Despite steady growth and strong export performance, the sector’s competitiveness is at risk without urgent and targeted government intervention.

Simultaneously, stalled trade negotiations and tariff hikes are adding uncertainty, underscoring the need for strategic policymaking to protect India''s position in global textile trade.

India–U.S. Tariffs 2025: A Strategic-Economic Tension Point

Context

In 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff and penalty on Indian imports, citing India’s ongoing defence and energy ties with Russia. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reaffirmed the strength and resilience of the India–U.S. strategic partnership, despite growing friction.

Current Nature of India–U.S. Relations

• The partnership is often described as a comprehensive global strategic alliance, grounded in shared democratic values and collaboration across trade, defence, and interpersonal exchanges.
• Nonetheless, strategic divergences are re-emerging, particularly on issues such as Russia, BRICS, market access, and regional alliances.

Key Structural Faultlines in Bilateral Ties

1. Strategic Autonomy vs. Alignment on Russia

• India maintains strong defence and energy ties with Russia, including purchases of S-400 missile systems and Russian crude oil.
• The U.S. has responded with new punitive tariffs and indirect pressure through mechanisms resembling CAATSA.
• This reflects a clash between India’s emphasis on strategic autonomy and U.S. expectations of alignment in major power rivalries.

2. Tariffs and Market Access Conflicts

• Trump’s tariff hike (25%) impacts major Indian export sectors such as textiles, telecom, autos, and gems.
• The U.S. justifies its move by highlighting India’s average tariff rate (17%) and non-tariff barriers (NTBs) that restrict American market access.
• However, Washington imposes even steeper tariffs on sectors like agriculture, dairy, and metals.
• Example: Indian exports such as garments, leather goods, and gems now face 30–38% import duties in the U.S.

3. Divergent Views on BRICS and Global South Alignment

• Trump criticizes BRICS as fostering anti-U.S. sentiment, viewing India’s participation as problematic.
• India, however, considers BRICS to be a platform that complements its Global South leadership and QUAD alignment.
• Example: India actively engages with both BRICS and I2U2, showcasing a multipolar diplomatic strategy.

4. U.S.–Pakistan Engagement vs. Indian Concerns

• Renewed American overtures toward Pakistan—especially around counter-terrorism cooperation—undermine India’s global efforts to diplomatically isolate Pakistan.
• Example: The announcement of a U.S.–Pakistan oil deal triggered significant unease in New Delhi.

5. Clashing Nationalisms: ‘America First’ vs. ‘India First’

• India’s assertive global diplomacy (e.g., “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”) collides with U.S. apprehensions about a nuclear-armed, non-aligned India.
• A growing perception shift in Washington—from strategic altruism to skepticism—is emerging regarding India’s long-term ambitions.
• Example: U.S. think tanks like Carnegie Endowment and experts such as Ashley Tellis have critiqued India’s supposed “great-power delusion.”

Economic Impact of U.S. Tariffs on India

• Declining Export Competitiveness: Indian goods in sectors like textiles, telecom, gems, and agriculture become costlier, losing ground to countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh.
• Stress on Labour-Intensive Sectors: MSMEs in garments, footwear, and handicrafts face falling demand and profit margins, jeopardizing jobs and incomes.
• Disruption to Global Value Chains: Higher U.S. tariffs discourage companies from sourcing from India, reducing its integration in U.S.-led supply chains.
• Shrinking Trade Surplus: A narrowed India–U.S. trade surplus impacts foreign exchange inflows and weakens India’s leverage in future negotiations.
• Reduced FDI and Investor Confidence: Trade uncertainty deters investment in export-driven sectors, undermining the objectives of “Make in India.”

Strategic Implications Beyond Economics

• From Altruism to Transactionalism: The tariff move reflects a U.S. policy shift—prioritizing national interest over shared values, reducing strategic trust.
• Pressure on India’s Multipolar Vision: Washington’s increasing scrutiny of India’s ties with Russia, Iran, and BRICS complicates India’s diplomatic balancing act.
• Revival of Strategic Trust Deficit: Trump’s critical stance risks reviving Cold War-era tensions, challenging India’s non-aligned and autonomous posture.
• Impact on People-to-People and Tech Exchanges: Rising mistrust could affect educational ties, visa regimes, and technological collaboration, eroding long-term goodwill.
• Energy Sovereignty Undermined: The tariffs signal U.S. attempts to influence India’s strategic decisions, particularly its defence and energy partnerships with Russia.

Conclusion

While India–U.S. ties remain fundamentally strong, they are being tested by entrenched structural differences—spanning geopolitics, economics, and competing national priorities. Moving forward, India must balance its multipolar diplomatic vision with a pragmatic approach to bilateral ties, ensuring this partnership continues to evolve as one of the 21st century’s defining relationships.

ICJ Ruling Revives Legal Status of Kyoto Protocol

Context

In a landmark advisory opinion, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) clarified that the Kyoto Protocol of 1997 remains legally valid and binding, even after the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015. This ruling re-establishes the protocol''s relevance in global climate law.

Understanding the Kyoto Protocol

• Adopted in 1997, and entered into force in 2005 under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
• Marked the first international legally binding treaty requiring developed countries (Annex-I nations) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Anchored in the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR–RC).
• Implemented in two commitment periods: 2008–2012 and 2012–2020.

Core Commitments:

• Emission reduction obligations for Annex-I countries, measured against 1990 baseline levels.
• Financial and technological support from developed to developing countries.
• Creation of market-based mechanisms like the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).

Why Kyoto Was Seen as Outdated

• The Paris Agreement (2015) introduced a universal, bottom-up approach, replacing Kyoto’s top-down binding targets with voluntary Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
• Major countries including the U.S. (never ratified), Canada, and Japan withdrew or stopped complying.
• No third commitment period was ever adopted after 2020.
• Kyoto became considered legally dormant and functionally obsolete, though it was never formally repealed.

Key Findings of the ICJ Ruling

• Kyoto Protocol Remains Legally Active: The ICJ affirmed that the absence of new commitment periods does not equate to legal termination.
• Potential for Legal Accountability: Failure to meet Kyoto obligations could now be seen as an “internationally wrongful act”, reviving state responsibility under international law.
• Retroactive Compliance Reviews: Past commitments—such as during the first commitment period—can still be assessed and evaluated.
• Catalyst for Climate Litigation: Although advisory, the opinion empowers states and civil society to pursue stronger legal actions related to climate obligations.

Implications for Global Climate Governance

• Treaty Coexistence Affirmed: The ruling establishes that Kyoto and Paris are not mutually exclusive, but rather coexist under international climate law.
• CBDR–RC Principle Reinforced: The judgment strengthens the equity-based framework of climate responsibility, which had been weakened in the Paris regime.
• Renewed Legal Focus on Historical Emissions: Developed nations may now face increased legal scrutiny for past emission levels and unmet obligations.

Ongoing Challenges

• U.S. Non-Ratification: The U.S.’s refusal to ratify Kyoto reduced the protocol’s global influence and emboldened other countries to withdraw.
• Lack of Enforcement Mechanisms: Kyoto lacked penalties or enforcement tools, making its targets difficult to impose in practice.
• Structural Conflict Between Paris and Kyoto: Paris’ voluntary pledge system undermines the binding nature of Kyoto obligations, creating legal inconsistencies.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Persistent U.S.–China rivalry hampers consensus-building on climate commitments and treaty reform.

Path Forward

• Reinstate Kyoto Monitoring: Resume tracking of previous commitments to bolster legal accountability in climate governance.
• Enhance Transparency in Paris: Apply Kyoto’s rigorous reporting standards to Paris pledges to build credibility and comparability.
• Expand Climate Jurisprudence: Leverage the ICJ and other tribunals to establish clear legal norms around state responsibilities in climate change.
• Revive North–South Equity: Uphold the principles of financial support, technology transfer, and fair burden-sharing as per CBDR–RC.
• Integrate Legal and Voluntary Approaches: Develop a hybrid framework that combines Kyoto’s binding commitments with Paris’ flexible model, enabling more effective and inclusive climate governance.

Conclusion

The ICJ’s advisory opinion has revived the Kyoto Protocol''s legal authority, transforming it from a sidelined treaty into a renewed tool of climate accountability. It reinforces that historical emissions, past commitments, and the principle of equity remain central to international climate law. While non-binding, the ruling exerts significant legal and moral pressure on developed nations to fulfill their long-standing climate responsibilities.

Why the World Needs Better Green Technologies in 2025

Context

Amid intensifying climate challenges, increasing geopolitical instability, and India''s growing focus on energy self-reliance, experts are advocating for a transition from traditional solar technologies to more advanced, efficient alternatives.

What Are Green Technologies?

Green technologies encompass scientific and engineering innovations aimed at:

• Reducing environmental damage,
• Lowering carbon emissions,
• Promoting sustainable energy production and efficient resource use.

Why Improved Green Technologies Are Critical

1. Limitations of Conventional Solar Panels

• Silicon-based photovoltaics, which dominate the market, offer only 15–18% field efficiency.
• Advanced alternatives like gallium arsenide panels can reach ~47% efficiency, but remain underutilized at scale.
• Example: Doubling efficiency could cut land use in half—crucial in the face of rising urbanization and competing land needs.

2. Land Scarcity and Energy Density Constraints

• Solar power’s low energy density means it requires extensive land areas.
• This causes friction with land demands for housing, farming, and biodiversity protection.
• Example: In densely populated nations like India, balancing land use with energy expansion is increasingly urgent.

3. Sustainability Concerns Around Green Hydrogen

• Producing green hydrogen via electrolysis requires more energy than it yields.
• Hydrogen’s low density and leakage risks make it hard to store and transport.
• Example: Converting hydrogen to ammonia or methanol for storage adds an extra energy-intensive layer, undermining its “green” label.

4. Rising CO₂ Levels Despite Renewable Growth

• Global CO₂ concentrations rose from 350 ppm in 1990 to 425 ppm in 2025, despite significant solar energy growth.
• This indicates that renewables aren’t scaling fast enough to offset emissions.
• Example: India’s 6 GW solar cell capacity remains insufficient unless matched with efficiency upgrades and new technologies.

5. Urgency for Disruptive Innovations

• Technologies like Artificial Photosynthesis (APS) and Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO) are emerging solutions.
• APS replicates natural photosynthesis to produce fuel from sunlight, water, and CO₂.
• RFNBO, promoted by the EU, aims to create carbon-neutral fuels directly from sunlight and air.
• Example: These innovations can simplify energy systems, cut emissions at the source, and enable energy independence.

Barriers to Developing Advanced Green Technologies

1. High R&D Investment and Long Timelines
• Next-gen technologies (e.g., APS, gallium arsenide solar cells) require significant funding and years of development.
2. Heavy Reliance on China for Solar Components
• India imports over 80% of its solar inputs from China, posing supply chain and geopolitical risks.
3. Limited Real-World Testing
• Breakthroughs like Artificial Photosynthesis or multi-junction solar cells are largely confined to laboratories.
4. Private Sector Reluctance
• Without market certainty, investors are hesitant to back technologies that lack proven commercial returns.

Strategic Pathways Forward

1. Boost R&D Funding
• Allocate greater portions of climate budgets to disruptive innovations such as APS and RFNBO.
2. Foster Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs)
• Facilitate collaboration between Indian startups, industry players, and national research institutes.
3. Promote Technology Diversification
• Build an innovation ecosystem that includes solar, wind, hydrogen, waste-to-energy, and nuclear technologies.
4. Encourage Land-Efficient Solutions
• Scale up floating solar systems, rooftop panels, and building-integrated photovoltaics to address space constraints.
5. Strengthen Global Collaboration
• Engage in tech transfer agreements, joint research, and multilateral efforts like Mission Innovation and the India–EU Green Deal.

Conclusion

As the world grapples with climate instability, geopolitical upheavals, and surging energy demand, current green technologies, though essential, fall short of what’s needed. The goal must be to accelerate innovation faster than energy demand grows, ensuring that "green" is not just a label but a standard of real efficiency, sustainability, and sovereignty. For India, leadership in technology foresight—not just deployment—will be key to shaping a resilient energy future.

OECD Report on Plastic Pollution in Southeast and East Asia (2025)

Context

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has issued a stark warning: without immediate and rigorous policy intervention, the use and waste of plastic in Southeast and East Asia could almost double by 2050, posing serious environmental and health risks.

What Is the OECD Report on Plastic Pollution?

A detailed environmental projection and policy assessment focused on the ASEAN Plus Three (APT) region, which includes Southeast Asia along with China, Japan, and South Korea.
The report evaluates current trends and future trajectories in:

• Plastic production and consumption
• Waste generation and mismanagement
• Environmental leakage
• Climate impact
• Policy options for mitigation

Key Findings and Trends

1. Escalating Plastic Consumption

• Plastic use in APT countries is expected to grow significantly:
• From 152 million tonnes in 2022
• To 280 million tonnes by 2050

2. Surge in Plastic Waste

• Waste generation will rise in tandem:
• From 113 million tonnes in 2022
• To 242 million tonnes by 2050

3. Increase in Packaging Waste

• Packaging-related plastic waste is projected to nearly double:
• From 49 million tonnes in 2022
• To 91 million tonnes by 2050

4. Persistent Mismanagement of Waste

• Although the percentage of mismanaged waste will decline:
• From 29% in 2022 to 23% by 2050
• The absolute volume of mismanaged plastic will still increase:
• From 33 million tonnes to 56 million tonnes

5. Growing Plastic Leakage into the Environment

• Plastic leakage — i.e., plastic entering land, waterways, and oceans — is a rising concern:
• From 8.4 million tonnes in 2022
• To 14.1 million tonnes by 2050
• This threatens marine ecosystems, river systems, and public health.

6. Rising Climate Impact

• Lifecycle emissions from plastics (including production, use, and disposal) will:
• Nearly double from 0.6 GtCO₂e (gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent)
• To 1 GtCO₂e by 2050

Conclusion

The OECD report paints a critical picture of the plastic pollution trajectory in the ASEAN Plus Three region. Without urgent and robust policy action, the region faces a future of soaring plastic use, growing environmental leakage, and significant climate consequences. The findings serve as a call to action for governments to adopt systemic reforms and stronger regulatory frameworks to stem the plastic tide.

UNCTAD’s Global Trade Update: Mobilizing Trade to Combat Plastic Pollution

Context

The update coincides with ongoing negotiations in Geneva on the UN Global Plastic Treaty, emphasizing the need for coordinated international efforts.

Key Highlights

1. Growth in Global Plastic Production and Trade

• Plastic production surged from 2 million metric tonnes (MMT) in 1950 to 436 MMT by 2022, largely driven by single-use plastics.
• Of the total produced:
• Only 10% is recycled.
• Around 75% ends up as waste.
• In 2022, 78% of plastic output was involved in international trade.

2. Lack of Binding Global Agreements

• Unlike biodiversity (Convention on Biological Diversity) and climate change (Paris Agreement), plastic pollution lacks a unified international legal framework.

3. Underutilized Alternatives

• Although bio-based and compostable plastics are available in various countries, they account for just 1.5% of total global plastic production.

4. Trade Policy Imbalance

• Over the last 30 years, tariffs on plastic and rubber products dropped from 34% to 7.2%.
• In contrast, eco-friendly substitutes such as bamboo and paper face tariffs around 14.4%, creating a market disincentive for sustainable materials.

Way Forward: UNCTAD’s Recommendations

1. Sector-Specific Reforms:
• Single-use plastics: Tackle through bans or taxes.
• Durable plastics (e.g., used in infrastructure like roads): Improve design and R&D for extended life and reuse.
2. Robust Plastic Data Infrastructure:
• Develop systems that track the entire plastic life cycle to enable better regulation and comparison.
3. Leverage Existing Frameworks:
• Align policies with the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions for synergetic environmental governance.

India’s Measures to Curb Plastic Pollution

• National Initiatives

• Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016: Foundation of India’s plastic regulation.
• Key Amendments:
• PWM Rules (2021): Enforced a ban on single-use plastics effective from July 2022.
• PWM Rules (2022): Introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging.
• PWM Rules (2024): Assigned specific duties to Urban Local Bodies and Panchayats for plastic waste handling.

• Global Commitments

• Annex V of MARPOL Convention: Regulates pollution from ships, including plastic discharge.
• Bridgetown Covenant: UNCTAD’s multilateral push for sustainability in trade.

Supreme Court of India on Environment vs. Revenue

Context

The Supreme Court (SC) upheld a Himachal Pradesh government notification banning private construction in declared Green Areas, emphasizing:

“Revenue cannot be earned at the cost of environment and ecology.”

Critical Environmental Issues in the Himalayan Region

1. Infrastructure Development

• Driven by connectivity and tourism (including religious tourism), it leads to:
• Highway construction on fragile slopes.
• Unregulated private infrastructure, increasing environmental stress.

2. Hydropower Expansion

• Projects alter river ecosystems and reduce water flow.
• Example: River Sutlej has shrunk to a narrow stream.

3. Increased Disaster Risk

• Unchecked construction weakens soil integrity, heightening landslide risks.
• Examples: Landslides in Shimla (2023), Kullu (2025), and Mandi (2025).

4. Glacier Retreat

• The Bara Shigri Glacier in Lahaul-Spiti has receded by 2–2.5 km, reflecting accelerated melting.

5. Legislative and Administrative Gaps

• Municipal laws on waste management are outdated and not aligned with PWM Rules (2016).
• Removal of forest check posts has worsened illegal deforestation.

Recommended Solutions

1. Transparent Monitoring & Accountability:
• Ensure green tax funds are used for environmental conservation, not diverted elsewhere.
2. Curbing Illegal Activities:
• Offer alternative livelihoods to reduce illegal mining and quarrying.
3. Stakeholder Consultation:
• Seek input from geologists, environmental scientists, and local communities before launching development projects.
4. Sustainable Waste Management:
• Promote localized waste segregation, community awareness, and decentralized processing.

Heavy Metal Pollution in Himalayan Clouds: Bose Institute Study

Key Findings

• The Bose Institute, Kolkata, under the Department of Science and Technology, found heavy metal pollutants in non-precipitating clouds over:
• Western Ghats
• Eastern Himalayas

• Detected Toxic Elements: Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Chromium (Cr)

Notable Observations

• Eastern Himalayas have 1.5 times more pollution with 40–60% higher metal concentrations.
• Children are 30% more vulnerable to toxic exposure, especially from dissolved chromium, a known carcinogen.

Sources of Pollution

• Vehicle emissions from nearby foothills.
• Industrial discharge from adjoining plains.

About Heavy Metals (HM)

• Defined by high atomic weight (63.5–200.6) and density > 4000 kg/m³.
• Common examples: Zinc, Lead, Cadmium, Arsenic, Chromium
• Over 50 elements qualify as HMs; around 17 are highly toxic.

Key Conservation Initiatives

1. National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE):
• Aims to scientifically assess climate vulnerability in the Himalayas.
2. SECURE Himalaya Project:
• Part of the Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded partnership for wildlife conservation and anti-poaching efforts.
3. Himalayan State Regional Council:

Established by NITI Aayog to ensure interstate coordination on Himalayan development and environmental sustainability.

AI Governance: EU Code of Practice and Global Developments

EU AI Code of Practice on GPAI

• 26 major tech firms (e.g., Amazon, Google, Microsoft, IBM) voluntarily signed the code.
• Aimed at guiding the safe and transparent use of General-Purpose AI (GPAI) before the EU AI Act becomes binding.
• The Code covers three pillars:
1. Transparency
2. Copyright
3. Safety & Security

About the EU AI Act

• World’s first comprehensive AI legislation
• Uses a risk-based approach:
• Higher-risk AI systems face stricter oversight.
• Expected to become a global regulatory benchmark, like the GDPR.
• Non-compliance penalties: Up to 7% of global turnover.

Industry Concerns

• The voluntary code may introduce legal ambiguities beyond what the AI Act demands.
• Increased regulatory complexity and compliance costs could hamper EU’s AI competitiveness.

India’s Approach to AI Regulation

• India does not yet have a specific AI law.
• Focuses instead on the IndiaAI Mission, which aims to:
• Develop a safe, innovative, and inclusive AI ecosystem.
• Foster skills development, trust, and adoption in line with India’s tech goals.

Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project

Overview

• The Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) initiative is nearing completion of its first phase.
• Its primary objective is to sequence the genomes of 70,000 eukaryotic species native to Britain and Ireland.
• This effort forms part of the broader Earth BioGenome Project, which aims to decode the DNA of all complex life forms on Earth.

Key Features

• The project involves systematic collection of specimens, followed by high-quality genome sequencing using state-of-the-art techniques.
• Advanced computational tools are employed to analyze the sequences and interpret how DNA contributes to the biological diversity of life.
• It is a collaborative venture involving ten key partners from biodiversity, genomics, and data analysis sectors.

What Are Eukaryotes?

• Eukaryotic organisms include animals, plants, fungi, and protists.
• They are characterized by:
• A defined nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane.
• Membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria and Golgi apparatus.
• The presence of linear chromosomes within the nucleus.
• Reproduction: Eukaryotes can reproduce both asexually (mitosis) and sexually (meiosis and gamete fusion).

Liver Cirrhosis: A New Treatment Breakthrough

Recent Development

• Researchers from Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, and NIPER, Guwahati, have discovered a novel therapeutic approach to address liver cirrhosis.

What Is Liver Cirrhosis?

• Cirrhosis refers to the advanced scarring of liver tissue due to prolonged damage or disease.
• It leads to the distortion of blood and lymphatic vessels in the liver and intestines.

Common causes:

• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
• Hepatitis B and C infections

Symptoms

• The disease often remains asymptomatic until it becomes severe. When symptoms appear, they may include:
• Fatigue, easy bruising/bleeding, loss of appetite, and swelling in legs and ankles (edema).

Treatment Outlook

• If diagnosed early, cirrhosis is manageable or even reversible.
• Antiviral medications are available to treat hepatitis B and C.
• Alcohol abstinence can also help slow or reverse liver damage.

Oreshnik Hypersonic Missile

Recent Announcement

• Russian President Vladimir Putin has confirmed that the Oreshnik hypersonic missile has entered production and will be deployed in Belarus by end of 2025.

About the Missile

• The Oreshnik is a mobile, solid-fueled intermediate-range ballistic missile.
• First used in combat on November 21, 2024, targeting a facility in Dnipro, Ukraine.

Key Capabilities

• Speed: Can reach Mach 10 (10 times the speed of sound).
• Warheads: Equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs)—can strike several targets at once.
• Payload: Supports both nuclear and conventional warheads.
• Range: Approx. 5,000 km (3,100 miles).
• Maneuverability and speed make it highly resistant to interception by current missile defense systems.

BlueBird Satellite by AST SpaceMobile

Upcoming Launch

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to launch the Block 2 BlueBird communication satellite, developed by AST SpaceMobile (USA), within the next few months.

About the Satellite

• The BlueBird is a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite designed to provide direct communication to smartphones from space.
• It features:
• A large 64 m² antenna
• Weighs approximately 6,000 kg
• Enables space-based mobile calls and internet access, eliminating the need for terrestrial towers.

Technical Capabilities

• The satellite supports up to 40 MHz bandwidth.
• Peak data speeds can reach 120 Mbps.
• Initial service will be non-continuous, covering the U.S. and select international regions.

INS Satpura: Indian Navy’s Multi-Role Stealth Frigate

Recent Deployment

• INS Satpura has arrived in Singapore to engage in a bilateral maritime exercise.

About the Warship

• A Shivalik-class stealth frigate, designed and constructed indigenously by Mazagaon Docks Ltd., Mumbai.
• Commissioned into the Indian Navy on 20 August 2011.

Technical Specifications

• Length: 142.5 meters
• Beam: 16.9 meters
• Draught: 4.5 meters
• Displacement: 4,900 tonnes (normal) to 6,200 tonnes (full load)
• Propulsion: Dual configuration with Pielstick diesel engines and GE LM-2500 gas turbines
• Top speed: 32 knots
• Crew capacity: 257 personnel, including 35 officers
• Operates under the Eastern Fleet based at Visakhapatnam

Indo-Burma Ramsar Regional Initiative (IBRRI)

Recent Development

• At the Ramsar Convention COP15, a side event marked the progress of the Indo-Burma Ramsar Regional Initiative (IBRRI), focused on wetland conservation and restoration.

Overview

• IBRRI is a regional collaborative platform for wetland protection and transboundary cooperation.
• Developed jointly by the Ramsar National Focal Points (NFPs) of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam, along with the IUCN Asia Regional Office.
• Supported by the BRIDGE Project (Building River Dialogue and Governance) of IUCN.

Objectives

• To promote coordinated implementation of the Ramsar Convention’s Strategic Plan.
• To enhance regional governance, transparency, and stakeholder participation.

Governance Structure

• Steering Committee: Composed of Ramsar Administrative Authorities from the five participating countries.
• Secretariat: Hosted by IUCN’s Asia Regional Office in Bangkok.
• Stakeholder Committee: Provides technical and strategic advice, and ensures inclusive and transparent engagement across sectors.
• Strategic Plan 2025–2030

• Launched at COP15, the Strategic Plan lays out a collaborative and transboundary roadmap to halt and reverse wetland loss across the IBRRI region.

Mithun (Bos frontalis)

Current Issue

• Scientists and tribal farmers from Northeast India have appealed to the central government to include Mithun under national livestock support schemes like the National Livestock Mission (NLM).

About Mithun

• Commonly called Gayal, it is a semi-domesticated, heavily built bovine species believed to have evolved over 8,000 years ago from the Indian bison (gaur).
• Revered as the "Cattle of the Mountain."

Geographic Distribution

• Found primarily in the Northeastern states, especially Arunachal Pradesh (highest population).
• Also seen in parts of Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar.
• Inhabits tropical evergreen rainforests.
• Designated state animal of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.

Cultural Significance

• Celebrated in the ‘Soulung’ festival by the Adi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, marking the arrival of Mithun on Earth.

Distinct Features

• Similar to but smaller than the gaur.
• Weight ranges from 400–650 kg.
• Characteristic broad frontal bone, flat face, and an inverted triangle-shaped head with horns emerging laterally.
• Skin: Blackish-brown; Forehead: Creamy white or yellowish.
• Lives in small herds led by one or two males with several females and calves.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
• CITES: Appendix I

Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary (NWS), Rajasthan

Recent Controversy

• The Rajasthan Forest Department has redrawn boundaries of Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary, reportedly to favor luxury hotels and commercial ventures within the sanctuary and its Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ).

Location and Overview

• Located 20 km from Jaipur, under the Aravalli hills, the sanctuary spans 720 hectares.
• Named after the Nahargarh Fort, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.

Features

• Nahargarh Biological Park, within the sanctuary, is famous for lion safaris.

• Flora and Fauna
• Vegetation: Dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and scrublands.
• Wildlife: Leopards, wild boars, deer, sloth bears, lions, tigers, and various small mammals.
• Avifauna: Peacocks, owls, eagles.
• Reptiles and Amphibians: Indian rock pythons, monitor lizards, frogs, toads.

Red Panda Conservation

Recent Event

• After a 7-year gap, red panda cubs were born at the Himalayan Zoological Park near Gangtok, Sikkim, under a captive conservation programme.

About Red Panda

• Also known as the lesser panda, it is a shy, solitary, arboreal, and herbivorous mammal.
• Uses its bushy tail for balance and insulation during cold seasons.
• Functions as an indicator species for ecological shifts.

Distribution

• Native to Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, and Nepal.
• Prefers mountainous forest habitats, especially in the Eastern Himalayas.

Appearance

• Cat-sized, known for its distinct facial markings and defensive posture.

• Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Endangered
• CITES: Appendix I
• Wildlife Protection Act (India): Schedule I

Key Threats

• Habitat loss, particularly bamboo and nesting trees in its native range.

What Are Indicator Species?

• Definition and Significance

• Indicator species reflect the biological or environmental conditions of an ecosystem.
• Serve as early warning signals for environmental degradation or climate shifts.
• Commonly referred to as bioindicators.

• Functions

• Help assess the health and diversity of an ecosystem.

Provide critical input for conservation and management decisions

Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme (PMNDP)

Context

• As of June 30, 2025, the Government of India has expanded the PMNDP to cover 751 districts across all 36 States and Union Territories, with over 1,700 functional dialysis centres.

About PMNDP

A flagship initiative under the National Health Mission (NHM), designed to provide free dialysis services for economically disadvantaged patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

• Launch and Implementation:
• Started in April 2016 as part of the Union Budget 2016–17.
• Executed through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and hybrid operational models.
• Governing Ministry: Implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

• Objectives

• Deliver equitable and affordable dialysis care nationwide.
• Lessen the financial burden on families below the poverty line (BPL).
• Strengthen renal care infrastructure at district hospitals and other health facilities.

• Coverage and Reach
• Active in 751 districts across 36 States and Union Territories.
• 1,704 dialysis centres operational as of June 2025.
• Dialysis services also extended to Community Health Centres, especially in tribal and remote regions.

Key Features

• Dialysis Types Offered:
• Haemodialysis (HD)
• Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)
• Implementation Models by Region:
• PPP model: 14 States/UTs
• In-house model: 16 States/UTs
• Hybrid model: 6 States/UTs
• PMNDP IT Portal:
• Launched in May 2022.
• Facilitates real-time integration of dialysis centres.
• Supports One Nation–One Dialysis portability with live slot availability.
• ABHA Number Integration:
• Uses the 14-digit Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) for seamless linking of patient data.
• Enables access to Personal Health Records (PHR) and integration with insurance schemes.
• Health Facility Registry (HFR):
• A comprehensive national database of public and private health institutions.
• Provides a transparent, searchable platform to improve healthcare access.
• Target Beneficiaries: Primarily targets BPL patients, but the program’s infrastructure benefits all ESRD patients.

NPCI Revised UPI Operational Rules

Context

• From August 1, 2025, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has implemented revised rules for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to reduce transaction delays and system overload during peak times.

About UPI

• UPI is India’s premier digital payment platform enabling smooth peer-to-peer and peer-to-merchant fund transfers.

• Implementation Date

• Effective across all UPI apps, including PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm starting August 1, 2025.

Objectives

• Accelerate transaction processing.
• Prevent fraudulent activities.
• Optimize system load by managing user activities during peak hours.

Key New Rules

• Balance Check Limit: Users can check their bank balance up to 50 times per day per app, with a recommendation to avoid checks during peak hours.
• Auto-Pay Restriction: Auto-debit payments will be processed only during non-peak hours: before 10 AM, between 1–5 PM, or after 9:30 PM.
• Transaction Status Check: Limited to 3 status checks per transaction, with at least 90 seconds gap between each check.
• Linked Account Enquiries: Capped at 25 account checks per day per app to reduce server load.
• Beneficiary Name Preview: The registered bank name of the recipient will be displayed before transaction confirmation to minimize errors and fraud.

Mouse Deer (Chevrotain)

Context

• The Silver-backed Chevrotain, thought extinct for over 30 years, has been rediscovered in the forests of southern Vietnam, inspiring hope for global conservation.

About Mouse Deer

• Also called chevrotain, it is the smallest hoofed mammal in the world, part of the Tragulidae family.
• Though resembling both a mouse and deer, it is unrelated to either and represents a primitive ruminant lineage.

Scientific Classification

• Lesser Mouse Deer: Tragulus kanchil
• Greater Mouse Deer: Tragulus napu
• Silver-backed Chevrotain: Tragulus versicolor (the rediscovered species)

Habitat and Distribution

• Found in tropical and subtropical forests of South and Southeast Asia including India, Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka.
• African relative (Hyemoschus aquaticus) inhabits rainforests of West and Central Africa.
• Typically dwell in dense undergrowth and lowland forests; are nocturnal and secretive.

Biological and Behavioral Traits

• Lack the advanced thermoregulatory mechanisms of modern artiodactyls.
• Can submerge underwater for minutes to evade predators.

Diet

• Mostly herbivorous, feeding on fruits, leaves, and soft plant material.
• The African chevrotain occasionally consumes insects, crabs, and scavenged meat—a rare behavior for ruminants.

Social and Reproductive Behavior

• Prefer living solitarily or in pairs.
• Maintain small territories of 13 to 24 hectares.
• Males mark territory using chin and preputial glands.
• Typically give birth to one offspring per litter.
• Offspring are weaned by 3 months, reaching maturity between 5 and 10 months.

Unique Adaptations

• Produce rhythmic drumming sounds with hooves to signal distress or warn off threats.
• Can stay submerged underwater for over 5 minutes, an essential survival skill.

Alpine Musk Deer

Context:

A Central Zoo Authority (CZA) report highlighted a misidentification error in conservation breeding, where Alpine musk deer were mistaken for Himalayan musk deer.

About Alpine Musk Deer:

• Habitat: Found at altitudes between 3,000 to 4,500 meters, in temperate alpine meadows, shrublands, and forests of birch, blue pine, and fir.
• Geographic Range: Native to India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China.
• Characteristics:
• Solitary and herbivorous species.
• Shy temperament with a gestation period of 180–200 days.
• Unique among deer: Has fangs, lacks antlers and gall bladder.
• Major Threat: Heavily poached for its musk pod, used in perfume production and traditional medicine.
• Conservation Status:
• IUCN Red List: Endangered
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I

Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA)

Context:

IEPFA is set to launch an Integrated Portal, aiming to streamline and simplify claim processing and accessibility for investors and companies.

About IEPFA:

• Established in: 2016
• Legal Framework: Formed under Section 125(5) of the Companies Act, 2013
• Ministry: Operates under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs

Functions:

• Manages the Investor Education Protection Fund (IEPF).
• Handles refunds of unclaimed shares, dividends, matured deposits/debentures, etc.
• Promotes financial literacy and investor awareness.
• Works to safeguard investor interests.

Key Initiatives:

• Niveshak Didi
• Niveshak Panchayat
• Niveshak Shivir

India Post Payments Bank (IPPB)

Context:

IPPB has introduced a new service enabling Aadhaar-based Face Authentication for banking transactions.

About the Initiative:

• Developed using the framework of UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India).
• Allows users to authenticate transactions using facial recognition, removing the need for OTPs or fingerprints.

About IPPB:

• Launched in: 2018
• Under: Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications
• Objective: To use India’s vast postal network to bring banking services to citizens’ doorsteps, especially in remote and rural areas.
• Ownership: Entirely Government of India-owned (100% equity)

Landraces

Context:

The Odisha government has unveiled a roadmap to incorporate traditional landraces into the formal seed distribution system.

About Landraces:

• Definition: Traditional seed varieties that have evolved over time through natural selection and traditional farming practices.
• Genetic Characteristics: Highly diverse, locally adapted, and resilient to climate, pests, and environmental changes.

Significance:

• Known for climate resilience, stable yields, nutritional value, and pest tolerance.
• Often more reliable in low-input or traditional agriculture systems.

Threats:

• Facing genetic erosion due to:
• Shifts in modern agriculture
• Use of chemical pesticides
• Changing land-use patterns
• Decline in traditional farming practices

UN–India Global Capacity-Building Initiative

Context:

India, in collaboration with the United Nations, has launched developmental projects aimed at supporting countries across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean.

About the Initiative:

• Launched in: September 2023
• Objective: To share India’s development experience and best practices with nations of the Global South.
• Focus: Capacity building, training, and accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Implementation Mechanism:

• UN India SDG Country Fund
• Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC)