Dhruva Space, an Indian space tech startup, is gearing up for the launch of its first commercial satellite mission, LEAP-1.
LEAP-1 is Dhruva Space’s first commercial satellite mission, designed to carry payloads for artificial intelligence (AI) and Earth observation.
The mission is powered by Dhruva Space's P-30 satellite platform, which was successfully space-qualified during the LEAP-TD mission on ISRO's PSLV-C58 in January 2024.
The mission is a collaboration between Dhruva Space, Australia-based Akula Tech, and Esper Satellites.
Nexus-01:
AI Module: The Nexus-01 payload features an advanced AI module capable of on-orbit data processing and AI/ML model retraining.
This AI module enables near-real-time insights by continuously improving via live sensor data retraining.
Applications: It supports critical applications such as fire detection and spectral analysis, which can be adapted and optimized through continuous AI learning.
Esper Satellites’ OTR-2 Mission:
The OTR-2 payload is equipped with a hyperspectral imager.
This imager provides spectrally rich Earth observation data, offering a new benchmark in remote sensing technology.
The data collected through the EarthTones API will be invaluable for various sectors, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, and disaster response.
The LEAP-1 mission combines the power of artificial intelligence with advanced Earth observation technology, enhancing capabilities in several critical fields:
Defense: AI-driven insights for enhanced security monitoring.
Disaster Response: Rapid analysis of disaster zones, enabling timely interventions.
Agriculture: Spectral analysis for soil and crop health monitoring.
Mining: Remote sensing for resource mapping and exploration.
Environmental Monitoring: Advanced tools for assessing and tracking environmental changes.
Recently, Russia officially declared that it no longer considers itself bound by the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.
The INF Treaty was a pivotal arms control agreement signed between the United States and the Soviet Union (now Russia) in 1987. The agreement aimed to address the growing concerns of nuclear proliferation in Europe and the escalating arms race during the Cold War.
The treaty was designed to de-escalate the nuclear arms race by targeting and eliminating two categories of nuclear missiles:
Ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometers.
Elimination of entire classes of weapons in the European theatre, where both the U.S. and the USSR had significant missile deployments.
Both parties agreed to destroy these missile systems, helping to reduce the threat of nuclear conflict in Europe.
Missile Destruction: The treaty led to the elimination of 2,619 missiles over a period of three years.
Verification: Both the U.S. and the Soviet Union (later Russia) allowed mutual inspections and verification by observers to ensure compliance.
Security: It was a measure to prevent the escalation of a dangerous nuclear arms race, particularly in Europe, where both powers had substantial missile arsenals.
The treaty came about through years of diplomatic negotiations during the leadership of U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, and was seen as a breakthrough in the global effort to curb nuclear proliferation.
In recent years, the treaty has been under strain:
U.S. Withdrawal: The United States formally withdrew from the INF Treaty in 2019, citing violations by Russia, specifically the development and deployment of new missile systems that allegedly violated the treaty’s terms.
Russia’s Stance: Following the U.S. withdrawal, Russia has declared that it will no longer adhere to the treaty’s terms, thereby ending its commitments under the agreement.
This means that both powers are now free to develop and deploy intermediate-range nuclear missiles, further heightening tensions in global security.
Increased Nuclear Proliferation Risks: The dissolution of the INF Treaty may spark a new arms race, especially in Europe and Asia, as both the U.S. and Russia are now likely to develop and deploy new nuclear-capable missiles in these regions.
Global Security Concerns: The treaty's collapse also raises concerns about the future of arms control agreements, as other nuclear powers might reconsider or withdraw from similar treaties, undermining global non-proliferation efforts.
Geopolitical Tensions: With both countries now free to pursue new missile systems, countries like China and North Korea may also seek to advance their own missile programs, further complicating global security dynamics.
Recently, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) sanctioned a series of procurement proposals worth approximately ₹67,000 crore to enhance India's military preparedness.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is the highest decision-making body within the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the procurement of defense equipment and services. The council plays a key role in ensuring that the Indian armed forces are equipped with the necessary capabilities in a timely manner, within budgetary constraints.
The DAC was established in 2001 following the Group of Minister’s recommendations on "Reforming the National Security System," which was a direct response to the Kargil War (1999). The intent was to streamline and improve defense procurement processes and capabilities for the armed forces.
Chairman: Defence Minister
Members:
Minister of State for Defence
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)
Chief of Army Staff (COAS)
Chief of Naval Staff (CNS)
Chief of Air Staff (CAS)
Defence Secretary
Secretary, Department of Defence Production and Supplies
Secretary, Defence Research and Development
Secretary, Defence Finance
Vice Chief of Defence Staff (when appointed) / CISC
Special Secretary (Acquisition)
Member Secretary: Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (PP&FD)
The DAC’s composition ensures that all branches of the military, as well as key departments within the Ministry of Defence, are represented in the decision-making process.
The DAC is tasked with several critical functions to ensure the defense forces are adequately equipped:
Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTIPP):
The DAC gives in-principle approval for a 15-year LTIPP, guiding the overall defense acquisitions and ensuring that long-term needs are met.
Approval for Acquisition Proposals:
The DAC evaluates and approves acquisition proposals, ensuring that the requirements of the armed forces are met in a timely manner.
Categorization of Acquisitions:
Proposals are categorized into three main types:
Buy
Buy & Make
Make
Single Vendor Clearance:
The DAC looks into issues related to single vendor clearances, ensuring fair and transparent procurement.
Offset Provisions:
The DAC takes decisions regarding the offset provisions in procurement proposals exceeding ₹300 crore, which involves a return of business to the Indian defense industry.
Transfer of Technology (ToT):
It oversees decisions related to the Transfer of Technology for the ‘Buy & Make’ category of acquisitions.
Field Trial Evaluation:
The DAC also assesses and monitors the field trial evaluations to ensure that the equipment meets the desired standards and capabilities.
The 64th National Exhibition of Art (NEA), organized by the Lalit Kala Akademi, was recently inaugurated in New Delhi with a grand ceremony. The NEA is one of the most prestigious annual events for visual art in India, showcasing the nation's contemporary, modern, folk, and tribal art.
The Lalit Kala Akademi, India's National Academy of Art, was established by the Government of India on 5th August 1954 as an autonomous body to promote and propagate the understanding of Indian art, both domestically and internationally.
Inauguration: It was inaugurated on 5th August 1954 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, who was the then Minister for Education.
Statutory Authority: The Akademi gained the status of a statutory authority in 1957 under the Societies Registration Act of 1860.
Headquarters: New Delhi.
Key Functions:
The Akademi operates through a General Council, Executive Board, and various committees.
It also maintains regional centers located in cities such as Chennai, Lucknow, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, and Garhi.
Funding: The institution is primarily funded by the Ministry of Culture of India.
Role in Art:
The Akademi has been instrumental in identifying, showcasing, and documenting visual art in India, including contemporary, modern, folk, and tribal art. It has preserved a permanent collection that reflects the vitality, complexity, and evolving patterns of Indian visual culture.
The Akademi promotes Indian visual art on the global stage through various Cultural Agreements and Cultural Exchange Programmes.
Prestige: The National Exhibition of Art (NEA) is considered the most prestigious event organized by the Lalit Kala Akademi. It serves as a platform to showcase the latest trends and advancements in visual art, particularly highlighting the work of contemporary Indian artists.
Beginnings: The NEA started in 1955, and over the years, it has become a hallmark for the Indian art community, providing both visibility and recognition for emerging and established artists across the country.
Focus: The exhibition is a key event for showcasing visual art advancements within the calendar year, encompassing diverse mediums such as paintings, sculptures, photography, and other forms of artistic expression.
The Lalit Kala Akademi and its National Exhibition of Art play a crucial role in promoting Indian art globally and preserving its diverse artistic heritage. The NEA is especially significant for artists to present their work on a national stage, gaining recognition from art critics, curators, and art lovers alike.
The Nilgiri Tahr is a mountain ungulate species that is endemic to the southern part of the Western Ghats in India. Recently, a joint census in Kerala and Tamil Nadu reported a population of 2,668 Nilgiri tahrs, signaling some success in the conservation efforts for this endangered species.
Scientific Name: Nilgiritragus hylocrius
Common Names: Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Ibex, or simply Ibex
Local Name: Varayaadu in local parlance.
The Nilgiri Tahr is a stocky mountain goat with short, coarse fur and a distinctive bristly mane.
Males are typically larger than females and tend to have a darker color as they mature.
Both males and females have curved horns, but the horns of the males are significantly larger.
Mature males have distinct facial markings, which set them apart.
The Nilgiri Tahr is found in a 400 km stretch of the Western Ghats, which spans parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
These animals are typically found in montane grasslands at elevations ranging from 1,200 m to 2,600 m. These areas are often interspersed with pockets of stunted forests, locally called 'sholas'.
One of the largest populations of Nilgiri Tahr is found in the Eravikulam National Park in Kerala, which boasts the highest density of this species.
IUCN Red List: The Nilgiri Tahr is classified as Endangered, which highlights the species' vulnerability due to threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and climatic changes.
Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972: It is listed under Schedule I, offering it the highest level of legal protection in India.
A team of researchers from Mizoram University has recently discovered a new species of rain snake, Smithophis leptofasciatus, in the tropical montane forests of Mizoram. This discovery adds to the growing knowledge of the Smithophis genus, which is primarily found in northeastern India and its surrounding regions.
Common Name: Narrow-banded Rain Snake
Scientific Name: Smithophis leptofasciatus
Genus: Smithophis (a genus of rain snakes)
Etymology:
The species name "leptofasciatus" is derived from Greek and Latin, meaning "narrow-banded." This refers to the distinctive narrow, incomplete transverse bands that adorn the snake's body.
The narrow-banded rain snake is easily recognized by its distinctive dorsal markings: narrow, creamish-white or yellowish-lime transverse bands on a shiny black body.
These markings set the species apart from other similar species within the Smithophis genus.
The new species was discovered in humid, shaded microhabitats near small streams in the tropical montane forests of Mizoram, located at elevations between 900 and 1,200 meters above sea level.
The snake thrives in wet habitats, especially those with abundant water, which is why they are commonly referred to as rain snakes.
Semi-aquatic and nocturnal: The Smithophis leptofasciatus has a semi-aquatic, nocturnal lifestyle. This was confirmed through field observations during the monsoon season.
As a nocturnal species, it likely hunts or forages during the night, possibly feeding on small aquatic organisms or invertebrates found in its wet, forested habitat.
Smithophis leptofasciatus is the fifth known species of the Smithophis genus, bringing the total count of recognized species in this genus to five.
All of these species have been discovered in northeastern India and its surrounding regions, which highlights the rich biodiversity of the area, especially in the tropical montane forests.
According to Crisil Ratings, around 26 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy (RE) projects in India are expected to be impacted with the end of the waiver on Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charges provided for solar and wind projects. This could pose challenges for developers and investors in the renewable energy sector.
The Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) is a high-voltage power transmission network that plays a crucial role in transmitting electricity across state borders in India. It facilitates the efficient distribution of electricity from power-rich regions to energy-deficient areas.
High-Voltage Network: Operates at voltages above 132 kV, ensuring efficient transmission and minimizing losses over long distances.
Managed by CTUIL: The system is managed by the Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL), a subsidiary of Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) under the Ministry of Power.
Grid Stability & Loss Reduction: Helps reduce transmission losses, and contributes to enhanced grid stability, which is essential for ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
Cross-State Electricity Flow: Connects regions with a surplus power supply (like coastal areas with wind and solar potential) to regions with deficient supply, enabling more balanced and efficient electricity distribution.
Unified Energy Market: The ISTS system enables the creation of a unified energy market, where electricity can be transmitted across state boundaries to meet demand. This ensures flexibility, and overcomes geographical constraints on power supply.
Supports Renewable Energy: One of the main advantages of ISTS is that it allows for the transmission of renewable energy like solar and wind power across states, which is crucial for large-scale renewable energy projects.
Power Generation: Electricity is generated from various sources, including solar farms, wind parks, hydro plants, and thermal stations.
Grid Connection: The generated power is transmitted to ISTS substations, which are high-voltage facilities managed by the Central Transmission Utility (CTU). These substations "step up" the voltage to reduce transmission losses.
High-Voltage Transmission: The electricity is transported through 132 kV and above transmission lines across multiple states, ensuring minimal energy loss even over long distances.
Load Management: Regional Load Dispatch Centers (RLDCs) and the National Load Dispatch Center (NLDC) regulate the flow of electricity to balance supply and demand.
Distribution: The power is stepped down at state-level substations and distributed to industries, businesses, and residential areas via local transmission and distribution networks.
The end of the waiver on ISTS charges could raise the cost of transmitting electricity from renewable energy projects, particularly in remote locations. This will impact projects such as solar and wind farms, which are often located in areas far from major consumption centers. Developers may face increased transmission costs, which could:
Raise the overall cost of renewable energy generation.
Affect the financial viability of projects that were initially relying on the waiver.
Reduce the attractiveness of investments in renewable energy projects.
This could also lead to an increase in electricity tariffs, particularly for consumers relying on renewable energy sources.
The Chhattisgarh High Court recently acquitted a man of double murder charges on the grounds of legal insanity, underscoring the importance of mental state during criminal trials. This case brings attention to the defense of legal insanity in criminal law, which can excuse individuals from criminal responsibility if they are proven to be mentally unfit at the time of committing a crime.
Legal insanity is a legal defense that can be used in criminal cases when a defendant claims they were mentally incapacitated at the time of the crime.
Definition: It refers to a severe mental condition that prevents a person from understanding the nature of their actions or distinguishing right from wrong during the commission of a crime. This condition must be serious enough to excuse them from criminal responsibility.
Not a Medical Definition: Legal insanity is a legal, not a clinical concept. This means that simply being diagnosed with a mental disorder is not enough to establish legal insanity. The defendant must show that their mental state at the time of the crime rendered them incapable of forming the intent to commit the crime.
Burden of Proof: In such cases, the accused carries the burden of proving that they were legally insane at the time of the crime. This typically involves psychiatric evaluations and presenting evidence of behavior that supports the claim.
Mental Health Evidence: The defendant must provide evidence—often psychiatric evaluations—that indicates they were suffering from a severe mental illness during the commission of the offense. Evidence may include:
Conduct before, during, or after the crime.
Medical records or expert testimonies to support the claim.
Types of Legal Insanity:
Emotional Insanity: This refers to a state where violent emotions or passions temporarily overwhelm a person’s intellect and lead to deranged behavior.
Temporary Insanity: This is a situation where the accused is only temporarily incapable of understanding the crime, typically during the commission of the act.
Court's Role: The court must determine whether the defendant had the capacity to understand the crime they were committing. If the defendant could not appreciate the nature of the act or was unable to control their actions due to a mental condition, they may be exempt from criminal responsibility.
Supreme Court’s View: In the Surendra Mishra vs. State of Jharkhand (2011) case, the Supreme Court of India emphasized that not everyone suffering from mental illness is automatically excused from criminal liability. The burden of proof lies with the accused to show that they were legally insane at the time of committing the crime.
Onus of Proof: The accused needs to demonstrate that their mental state at the time of the offense prevented them from forming the intent to commit the crime. The court often relies on medical records, psychiatric evaluations, and behavioral evidence to make this determination.
Medical Insanity: This refers to a clinical diagnosis of a mental health disorder. While medical insanity addresses a person's health and their need for treatment, it does not necessarily mean that a person is incapable of making decisions or being held accountable for their actions.
Impact on Decision-Making: A person diagnosed with a mental illness may still have the capacity to make decisions in their daily life. Therefore, medical insanity alone does not automatically absolve someone from criminal responsibility.
Exemption from Criminal Responsibility: If a person successfully proves legal insanity, they may be exempted from criminal charges. In such cases, the individual might be sent to a mental health institution for treatment rather than prison.
Importance in Trials: This defense highlights the importance of mental health in criminal trials and the need to evaluate an individual's mental state at the time of the offense. Courts increasingly recognize that severe mental illness should be taken into account when determining criminal liability.
The recent acquittal of a man in Chhattisgarh under the legal insanity defense underscores the legal system's understanding of mental health issues in criminal law. Legal insanity ensures that individuals who are mentally incapacitated at the time of committing a crime are treated differently, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
The Anti-Defection Law has been a pivotal mechanism in Indian politics to prevent political instability due to party switching by legislators, or defections. It was introduced as the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution through the 52nd Amendment in 1985 to address the problem of political instability caused by frequent defections, especially for personal or political gain.
The Anti-Defection Law was introduced to curb political defections and to ensure stability in elected governments. Defection, in this context, refers to the act of abandoning one’s political party or duty, often for personal or political reasons.
Background:
The law was introduced after the "Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram" phenomenon in the 1960s, where MLAs in Haryana were switching parties repeatedly.
The law applies to both Parliament and State Assemblies.
Key Provisions:
Grounds for Disqualification: A legislator can be disqualified for:
Voluntarily giving up their party membership (this can be inferred from conduct, not just resignation).
Voting or abstaining from voting against the party whip in crucial votes (such as confidence motions).
A legislator joining a political party after being elected as an independent or nominated member.
Exceptions:
Mergers: If two-thirds of the members of a party agree to merge with another party, they are not disqualified.
Speaker's Neutrality: The Speaker or Chairman who resigns from their party to remain neutral is exempted from disqualification.
Amendments:
The 91st Amendment Act (2003) scrapped the one-third split provision, allowing mergers only if two-thirds of the members of a party agree, and disqualifying defectors from holding ministerial posts unless re-elected.
Role of the Presiding Officer: The Speaker of the House (or Chairman) has the authority to decide on disqualification cases.
Despite its well-intended purpose, the Anti-Defection Law has faced significant criticisms:
Curb on Dissent:
The law prevents legislators from voting according to their conscience, as they are compelled to follow the party line. This stifles independent thinking and free expression.
Internal party debates may be suppressed, as members may be discouraged from voicing dissent due to the fear of disqualification.
Bias of the Speaker:
The Speaker, often from the ruling party, is responsible for deciding defection cases, leading to concerns about neutrality. Political bias in these decisions can lead to delays and manipulation.
The Speaker may drag out decisions strategically, especially if the disqualification could affect the composition of the government.
Delays in Decision-Making:
There is no fixed time frame for deciding defection cases, which allows for strategic delays. This undermines the purpose of the law and prolongs political instability.
The Padi Kaushik Reddy v. The State of Telangana (2025) case highlighted the issue of delayed decisions, with the Supreme Court setting a three-month deadline for the Speaker to conclude disqualification proceedings.
Horse Trading:
The provision allowing mergers if two-thirds of a party's members agree has led to opportunistic defections. This facilitates horse trading, where political deals are made to enable parties to defect without consequences.
Lack of Transparency in Party Whips:
The party whip, which ensures party discipline, is often not communicated clearly. This can lead to disputes over whether a legislator was properly informed, especially during crucial votes like no-confidence motions or budget approvals.
The Supreme Court has weighed in on the Anti-Defection Law multiple times, offering guidance on how the law should be applied to ensure fairness and transparency:
Timely Decision:
In the Keisham Meghachandra Singh vs The Hon’ble Speaker Manipur Legislative Assembly & Ors (2020) case, the Court directed the Speaker to decide defection cases within three months, emphasizing that delays undermine the intent of the Tenth Schedule.
The Padi Kaushik Reddy case (2025) also reinforced this stance, urging the Speaker to act promptly to ensure the process does not drag on indefinitely.
Speaker’s Neutral Role:
In Ravi S. Naik v. Union of India (1994), the Court held that the Speaker must act as a neutral adjudicator, without political bias. The Court made it clear that legislators can be disqualified even without formally resigning from their party if they violate the party’s whip.
Judicial Review:
The Kihoto Hollohan vs Zachillhu (1992) case clarified that decisions of the Speaker regarding defection are subject to judicial review. This ensures that courts can intervene if there is a mala fide intent or procedural lapse.
Reforms and Suggestions:
The Court in Padi Kaushik Reddy v. The State of Telangana (2025) called for a review of the Speaker’s role in defection cases, urging reforms to ensure timely and fair decisions.
Limit the Law’s Scope:
The law should apply only to votes that affect government stability, such as no-confidence motions or budget votes. This would allow for greater independence of thought and expression among legislators without undermining the government's stability.
Shift Decision-Making Power:
The authority to decide on disqualification cases could be transferred to an independent body like the Election Commission. This would help reduce political bias and ensure neutrality in such decisions.
Set a Clear Time Limit:
A fixed time frame (such as three months) for disqualification cases should be introduced, as recommended by the Supreme Court. This would prevent delays and ensure timely resolutions.
Promote Intra-Party Democracy:
Parties should encourage internal debates and dialogues, reducing the top-down decision-making culture that stifles independent thinking. This would allow for more internal democracy within political parties.
Transparency and Accountability:
Transparency in issuing party whips should be ensured by requiring public notice through newspapers or electronic communication. This would help avoid disputes over whether members were properly informed about the party's position on crucial votes.
Independent Tribunal for Defection Cases:
As suggested in the Keisham Meghachandra Singh case, the creation of an independent tribunal could ensure faster and more neutral decision-making regarding defection cases.
While the Anti-Defection Law plays a crucial role in maintaining political stability, its current application has several shortcomings. The Supreme Court's rulings have shed light on the importance of timely, transparent, and unbiased decisions in defection cases. Reforms such as limiting the scope of the law, transferring decision-making powers to an independent body, and promoting intra-party democracy would ensure that the law serves its purpose without stifling independent thought and political freedoms
The Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), is a landmark agreement designed to boost trade, investment, and employment while promoting economic integration between India and four EFTA nations: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The agreement is set to come into force on 1st October 2025 and marks the culmination of 21 rounds of negotiations since 2008.
Strategic Investment Commitment:
EFTA countries commit to investing USD 100 billion in India over the next 15 years.
USD 50 billion will be invested in the first 10 years, and an additional USD 50 billion will be invested in the next 5 years.
This investment is expected to create 1 million jobs in India.
Market Access & Tariff Concessions:
EFTA will offer 92.2% tariff lines, covering 99.6% of India's exports (excluding agricultural and some processed agricultural goods).
India will provide 82.7% tariff lines covering 95.3% of EFTA exports, with specific exemptions, such as gold (no change in duty).
Indian rice (both Basmati and Non-Basmati) will have duty-free access to EFTA markets, with no reciprocity required.
Safeguards & Exclusions:
Sensitive sectors such as dairy, soya, coal, and PLI-linked sectors (Production-Linked Incentive) are excluded from tariff concessions.
Sovereign wealth funds are exempted from Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) obligations under TEPA.
Services & Mobility:
The agreement will support Indian services in IT, education, culture, and sports.
Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) will be established for nursing, accountancy, and architecture professions, making it easier for Indian professionals to work in EFTA countries.
Legal Framework & IP Protection:
TEPA covers 14 chapters, including important aspects like Intellectual Property (IP), customs cooperation, and trade dispute resolution.
India retains the right to withdraw tariff concessions if the investment targets are not met.
Generic drug production will be protected, and measures like evergreening of patents (extension of patent life beyond its natural expiry) will be addressed.
EFTA is an intergovernmental organization established in 1960 under the Stockholm Convention, aimed at promoting free trade and economic integration among its member states: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Notably, all four of these nations are not part of the European Union (EU), and the EFTA facilitates trade agreements with the EU and other global partners.
India is the 5th largest trading partner for EFTA, following the EU, US, UK, and China, with a total two-way trade of USD 24.4 billion in 2024–25.
Switzerland remains India’s largest trading partner within EFTA, while trade with Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway is relatively limited.
Imports from EFTA: Major imports include gold (USD 20.7 billion in 2021–22), silver, coal, pharmaceuticals, vegetable oil, medical equipment, and dairy machinery.
Exports to EFTA: India exports chemicals, iron and steel, gold, precious stones, yarns, sports goods, glassware, and bulk drugs.
The India-EFTA Desk was established to foster stronger economic ties and facilitate investments under the TEPA. This platform, managed by Invest India, acts as a single-window for businesses from EFTA countries to invest in India.
Persistent Trade Deficit:
India runs a significant trade deficit with EFTA, primarily due to gold imports from Switzerland. The imbalance in trade with EFTA nations, particularly due to gold, remains a persistent concern for India.
Data Exclusivity & Public Health:
EFTA's push for data exclusivity in the pharmaceutical sector could restrict India’s ability to produce and distribute generic drugs at affordable prices, potentially impacting public health.
IPR Concerns under TEPA:
The IPR provisions under TEPA may weaken India’s patent safeguards, affecting pre-grant opposition procedures and local manufacturing requirements. This could raise concerns regarding access to affordable medicines and the transparency of patent enforcement mechanisms.
Mitigate Trade Deficit:
India should encourage value-added exports to diversify its trade basket and reduce the over-reliance on gold imports, thus addressing the trade imbalance with EFTA nations.
Capacity Building & Sustainability:
Leverage EFTA's expertise in clean technologies, sustainability, and innovation to strengthen India’s green transition and skilling ecosystem, creating new opportunities in the green economy.
Balanced IPR Framework:
India must ensure that the Intellectual Property provisions in TEPA safeguard innovation without undermining public health needs, especially in the context of India’s thriving generic drug industry.
Leverage India–EU FTA Momentum:
India can build on the ongoing India-EU FTA negotiations, which are targeted to conclude by 2025, to align its regulatory frameworks, address Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs), and strengthen resilient supply chains, improving India’s global trade positioning.
The TEPA marks a significant milestone in India-EFTA relations, creating new opportunities for trade, investment, and economic cooperation. By strategically navigating challenges like the trade deficit and intellectual property concerns, India can optimize its engagement with EFTA, enhancing its global economic footprint and promoting sustainable growth.
As global trade, geopolitics, and climate change converge, the Arctic region is emerging as a critical nexus for energy, trade routes, and strategic influence. For India, which has long-standing interests in expanding its global presence, the Arctic offers substantial opportunities with certain challenges.
The Arctic is one of the world's most fragile and important ecosystems, stretching across Canada, Russia, Greenland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and the United States (Alaska). The region is warming at a rate nearly four times the global average, leading to environmental and geopolitical shifts. This rapid warming, alongside shrinking ice (12.2% per decade), is reshaping trade routes, access to natural resources, and international territorial claims.
Arctic Council (1996):
Composed of eight nations (U.S., Canada, Russia, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland), the Arctic Council promotes environmental protection and scientific cooperation among its members.
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS):
It governs maritime boundaries and resource rights in the Arctic Ocean, resolving some disputes but not addressing issues like climate change or indigenous rights.
Svalbard Treaty (1920):
Grants Norway sovereignty over the Svalbard Archipelago, while permitting other signatory countries to access its resources.
Natural Resources:
The Arctic region holds 13% of the world's undiscovered oil and 30% of its natural gas. As ice caps recede, these resources are becoming more accessible, prompting competition among nations to stake claims.
New Trade Routes:
The Northern Sea Route (NSR) and Northwest Passage are becoming viable alternatives to traditional routes like the Suez and Panama Canals. This is evidenced by the 37.9 million tonnes of cargo expected to be shipped through the NSR by 2024, up from just 41,000 tonnes in 2010.
India’s engagement with the Arctic is driven by trade, energy resources, and geopolitical influence. The region aligns with India’s long-term goals of enhancing maritime trade, securing energy, and contributing to global scientific efforts.
Northern Sea Route (NSR):
The NSR, which links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, is the shortest maritime trade route between Europe and Asia. India has significant interest in this route to reduce freight costs and bolster trade relations with Europe and Russia.
Energy and Resources:
The Arctic holds vast reserves of oil, gas, and rare earth minerals. These resources are key for India’s energy security and technological development. As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, these resources could also play a role in energy transition technologies.
Geopolitical Leverage:
India has been an Observer in the Arctic Council since 2013, allowing it to participate in regional dialogues. This enables India to advocate for equitable resource sharing and sustainable development in the region.
Early Involvement:
India’s involvement began with signing the Svalbard Treaty, and it established its Arctic research base (Himadri) in 2008 in Svalbard, Norway. Indian researchers focus on studying the impact of Arctic ice loss on global climate patterns and monsoon systems in India.
Scientific Contributions:
Through the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), India conducts studies on marine biodiversity, glacial dynamics, and climate patterns. These contributions help build an understanding of the interlinked ecosystems between the Arctic and the rest of the world.
India’s Arctic Policy (2022):
India's policy aims at building partnerships for sustainable development in the Arctic. It emphasizes scientific cooperation, environmental conservation, and energy security.
Arctic Circle India Forum, 2025:
This upcoming forum is set to strengthen India’s Arctic policy by aligning its priorities with both regional and global interests. The forum could also lead to the creation of a Polar Ambassador, further bolstering India's representation in Arctic affairs.
Environmental Concerns:
The Arctic is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, and increased activity could exacerbate environmental degradation. Global temperatures have already breached the 1.5°C threshold in 2024, signaling potential long-term deviations from the Paris Agreement. India must balance commercial interests with its commitment to global sustainability.
Infrastructure Development:
Navigating the Arctic requires specialized infrastructure, including ice-breaking fleets and polar-ready ships. The Indian Union Budget for 2025-26 allocated $3 billion for maritime development, which includes investments in Arctic-specific shipbuilding.
Territorial Disputes:
Several Arctic nations, including Russia, Canada, and Denmark, have made claims to extend their seabed sovereignty beyond the 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), based on the natural prolongation of their continental shelves. India’s participation in these disputes is limited but could play a role in multilateral discussions.
India faces a delicate balancing act in its Arctic strategy:
Partnership with Russia:
Russia is a key player in the Arctic, with extensive expertise in Arctic exploration. India’s partnership with Russia, such as the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor, could provide access to Arctic ports like Pevek and Tiksi along the NSR. However, aligning too closely with Russia could inadvertently support China’s Polar Silk Road, a northern extension of its Belt and Road Initiative.
Geopolitical Implications:
China’s increasing presence in the Arctic is a concern for Western nations, particularly the U.S. India must navigate these tensions carefully. By balancing its relationships with Russia, Western countries, and Japan or South Korea, India can avoid alienating key partners and secure its interests in the region.
Streamlining Arctic Policy:
India’s Arctic Policy (2022) should focus on actionable goals such as capacity building, technological innovation, and increasing scientific collaborations with Arctic nations.
Promoting Sustainable Practices:
India must advocate for eco-friendly resource extraction methods, ensuring sustainable development while mitigating environmental impacts.
Strengthening Research and Development:
Expanding Arctic research and focusing on climate change studies will help India stay at the forefront of global efforts to address the environmental challenges posed by Arctic warming.
Multilateral Collaboration:
India should actively engage in multilateral forums to strengthen its relationships with Arctic and observer nations, including Russia, Japan, South Korea, and others. This collaboration can enhance India’s strategic presence in the region.
India’s potential in the Arctic is vast, extending beyond trade routes to include energy security and scientific research. By adopting a balanced approach that emphasizes sustainability, cooperation, and strategic partnerships, India can position itself as a key player in the Arctic’s future, helping shape its evolving geopolitical, economic, and environmental landscape
The World Bank's Poverty and Equity Brief on India provides a nuanced view of the socio-economic situation, highlighting both positive developments in poverty reduction and ongoing challenges related to inequality and data reliability.
Decline in Extreme Poverty:
Extreme poverty (living on less than $2.15/day in 2017 PPP terms) fell from 16.2% in 2011-12 to 2.3% in 2022-23, lifting 171 million people out of poverty.
Rural poverty declined from 18.4% to 2.8%, while urban poverty fell from 10.7% to 1.1%, suggesting a narrowing of the rural-urban divide in extreme poverty.
Lower-Middle-Income Poverty Line:
The World Bank introduces a broader poverty measure at $3.65/day (PPP terms), reflecting challenges in low- and middle-income countries.
Under this threshold, poverty fell from 61.8% to 28.1%, lifting 378 million people out of poverty.
Rural poverty dropped from 69% to 32.5%, and urban poverty fell from 43.5% to 17.2%, further reducing the rural-urban gap.
Regional Contributions:
Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh — five populous states — accounted for 65% of India's extreme poor in 2011-12. These states contributed to two-thirds of the overall decline in poverty by 2022-23.
Inequality Trends:
The consumption-based Gini index improved from 28.8 in 2011-12 to 25.5 in 2022-23, indicating reduced inequality. However, income-based inequality remains high, with the top 10% earning 13 times more than the bottom 10%.
Employment Growth:
Employment growth outpaced the working-age population since 2021-22, with rising employment rates among women.
Urban unemployment fell to 6.6% in Q1 FY24/25, the lowest since 2017-18.
Income & Gender Disparities:
The income gap remains substantial, with the top 10% earning 13 times more than the bottom 10% in 2023-24.
Gender disparities persist, with 234 million more men in paid work than women, highlighting the need for greater gender equality in the labor market.
Youth Unemployment:
Youth unemployment remains high at 13.3%, with an alarming 29% unemployment rate among tertiary education graduates, indicating a mismatch between education and job market demands.
Urban-Rural Divide:
While the rural-urban income gap has narrowed from 84% in 2011-12 to 70% in 2023-24, disparities in access to resources and opportunities remain significant, particularly in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Migration Data Inconsistencies:
Migration trends are inconsistent. While there has been a reported shift of male workers from rural to urban areas since 2018-19, the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data shows an increase in agricultural employment, creating conflicting trends.
A 2024 study by the Economic Advisory Council found a decline in rural-to-urban migration, which requires closer examination for more accurate conclusions.
Revised Methodology (HCESs):
The decline in extreme poverty is captured by the revised methodology of Household Consumer Expenditure Surveys (HCESs) for 2022-23 and 2023-24, providing a clearer and more granular understanding of consumption patterns.
Food Security Schemes:
Programs like the Public Distribution System (PDS), which distributes food grains to 80 crore people, have played a pivotal role in ensuring basic survival needs, thereby helping reduce extreme poverty significantly.
Direct Benefit Transfers (DBTs):
Government initiatives like Jan Dhan Yojana and PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana have provided financial support to vulnerable populations, contributing to the poverty decline.
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA):
Provides 100 days of guaranteed wage employment annually to rural households, boosting the livelihood resource base of marginalized communities.
Mission Antyodaya:
A framework designed to optimize resources allocated by 26 ministries for rural development, focusing on Gram Panchayats as implementation centers.
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM):
Empowers rural women through community institutions and facilitates access to various government schemes like Swachh Bharat Mission and Poshan Abhiyan.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G):
Aims to provide housing for the poorest segments of society, ensuring aid reaches deserving individuals through a three-stage validation process.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY):
Aims to provide connectivity to unconnected habitations, ensuring high technical and management standards for rural road networks.
Multidimensional Poverty Reduction:
Multidimensional poverty in India has dropped from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in 2022-23, lifting 24.82 crore people out of poverty. The National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) assesses deprivation in areas such as health, education, and living standards.
India's remarkable reduction in extreme poverty demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted government programs like food security schemes and direct benefit transfers. However, the continued economic inequality, gender disparities, and inconsistent data call for ongoing efforts to address these persistent challenges. Ensuring inclusive development through effective policy implementation and equitable access to resources will be crucial as India works toward a more equitable and sustainable future.
The Polavaram–Banakacherla Link Project (PBLP) is a proposed inter-state water diversion project aimed at alleviating water scarcity issues in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. The project is expected to significantly impact water distribution and management between the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, leading to ongoing conflicts.
Water Scarcity Solution: The main goal of the PBLP is to address the water scarcity in the drought-prone Rayalaseema region by diverting 200 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of surplus Godavari floodwaters to the Krishna and Penna river basins.
Water Transfer Mechanism: Water would be drawn from the Polavaram Dam, pass through the Prakasam Barrage, be lifted to the Bollapalli reservoir, and then tunneled under the Nallamala Forest to the Banakacherla reservoir in Rayalaseema.
Agricultural Sustainability: The project aims to enhance irrigation, provide drinking water supply, and promote agricultural sustainability, improving overall water security in southern Andhra Pradesh.
Impact on Livelihoods: The diversion of water would help improve the livelihoods of people dependent on agriculture in the region by ensuring more reliable water sources.
Alleged Violation of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014:
Telangana's Objection: Telangana claims that Andhra Pradesh violated the provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act (2014), which mandates that new inter-state river projects must receive prior approval from the Apex Council, Krishna River Management Board (KRMB), and the Central Water Commission (CWC).
Disputed Surplus Water Claims:
Water Allocation Dispute: Telangana disputes Andhra Pradesh’s claim that the 200 TMC of Godavari floodwaters is "surplus," pointing out that no competent authority has adjudicated or approved this allocation.
Environmental Concerns & Pending Clearances:
The Polavaram Project received environmental clearance in 2005, but the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has noted the need for fresh environmental scrutiny and CWC consultation, especially due to the submergence disputes with Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
Unauthorized Inter-Basin Diversion:
Telangana raises concerns over the unauthorized diversion of Godavari waters into the Krishna Basin without mutual consent. This could potentially reduce water availability for its own projects, further exacerbating tensions.
Breach of Cooperative Federalism:
Telangana views Andhra Pradesh’s unilateral actions as a breach of cooperative federalism, bypassing necessary consensus mechanisms that are crucial for managing shared river resources between states.
India has established various legal frameworks and mechanisms to address inter-state water disputes, particularly focusing on river water sharing.
Article 262 empowers the Parliament to enact laws for adjudicating disputes related to the use and distribution of inter-state river waters.
Article 262(1): Grants Parliament the authority to create a legal framework for resolving such disputes.
Article 262(2): Allows Parliament to bar the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and other courts in such matters.
Entry 17 (State List): States control water-related issues like irrigation, canals, drainage, and water supply.
Entry 56 (Union List): The Union Government can regulate and develop inter-state rivers and valleys in the public interest.
River Boards Act, 1956: Allows the Central Government to establish River Boards for coordinated development and management of inter-state rivers. However, no River Board has been constituted as of now.
Inter-State Water Disputes Act, 1956: Provides a legal framework for the resolution of inter-state water disputes. Key steps under this Act:
Initial Negotiation: Involves the Centre negotiating with the concerned states.
Water Disputes Tribunal: If negotiations fail, a Water Disputes Tribunal is set up, and its award is binding.
Timelines: The Act was amended in 2002 to introduce time-bound adjudication:
1-year time frame to set up the tribunal.
3-year time frame to issue a decision.
Although Article 262(2) bars the jurisdiction of courts, the Supreme Court has intervened in related matters (e.g., interpreting or enforcing tribunal awards) under Article 136.
Delayed Tribunal Awards:
Many tribunals take decades to resolve disputes (e.g., Cauvery, Krishna), and lack of time-bound mechanisms hampers early resolution.
Conflicting Data:
Disputes often arise from conflicting data provided by states. For instance, in the Mahanadi dispute (Odisha vs. Chhattisgarh), unverified water flow data led to complications.
Judicial Overlap:
States often approach the Supreme Court under Articles 131/136, despite Article 262 barring such intervention, leading to legal ambiguity and parallel proceedings.
Weak Enforcement:
Even when tribunals issue awards, enforcement is often delayed or politically stalled, especially if the central notification is pending.
Time-Bound Adjudication:
Amend the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 to set clear timelines for tribunal adjudication and establish a permanent tribunal with technical experts.
Reliable Data & River Basin Authority:
Establish an independent river basin organization for transparent, real-time water data to prevent disputes based on conflicting claims.
Promote Cooperative Federalism:
Encourage pre-litigation negotiations and use platforms like the Inter-State Council to build trust and consensus between states.
The Polavaram–Banakacherla Link Project is at the center of a growing conflict between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with implications for water-sharing agreements and cooperative federalism in India. Effective resolution of such disputes requires robust legal mechanisms, data transparency, and cooperative engagement between states. Only through collaborative efforts can inter-state river disputes be resolved in a fair and timely manner.
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We provide offline, online and recorded lectures in the same amount.
Every aspirant is unique and the mentoring is customised according to the strengths and weaknesses of the aspirant.
In every Lecture. Director Sir will provide conceptual understanding with around 800 Mindmaps.
We provide you the best and Comprehensive content which comes directly or indirectly in UPSC Exam.
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