UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 13 September 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 13 September 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 13 September (2025)
• The RTI’s Shift to A ‘Right to Deny Information’
The RTI’s Shift to A ‘Right to Deny Information’
GS Paper 2:
• Nepal’s Political Turmoil: A Test Case for India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
Nepal’s Political Turmoil: A Test Case for India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Purple Fest 2025
Purple Fest 2025
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Red Ivy Plant
Red Ivy Plant
• Amritsari Kulcha
Amritsari Kulcha
• AI Weather Forecasting for Farmers
AI Weather Forecasting for Farmers
• Erra Matti Dibbalu (Red Sand Dunes)
Erra Matti Dibbalu (Red Sand Dunes)
• Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, 2027
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, 2027
• Bairabi–Sairang Railway Line
Bairabi–Sairang Railway Line
• Bhadohi’s handmade carpet industry
Bhadohi’s handmade carpet industry
Mapping:
• Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary
Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 13 September 2025
#### GS Paper 2:
The RTI’s Shift to A ‘Right to Deny Information’
Syllabus: Environment
Source: TH
Context: The DPDP Act, 2023 amended Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, shrinking it to a few words, allowing broad denial of information as “personal”.
• Experts fear this could weaken transparency, turning RTI into a “Right to Deny Information” and shielding corruption.
About The RTI’s Shift to A ‘Right to Deny Information’:
Right to Information (RTI) Act – Overview
• Enacted in 2005, RTI empowers citizens to demand information from public authorities, enforcing Article 19(1)(a).
• It enables social audits, accountability, and participatory governance, strengthening democracy.
• Section 8(1)(j):
• Earlier allowed denial only if data had no public interest relevance or caused unwarranted privacy violation. Proviso: If info cannot be denied to Parliament/Legislature, it cannot be denied to any citizen — ensuring parity.
• Earlier allowed denial only if data had no public interest relevance or caused unwarranted privacy violation.
• Proviso: If info cannot be denied to Parliament/Legislature, it cannot be denied to any citizen — ensuring parity.
DPDP Act and RTI:
• The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 seeks to regulate data privacy but overrides RTI safeguards.
• The amendment reduces Section 8(1)(j) to a vague clause, widening the scope to deny even harmless information.
• The DPDP’s definition of “person” includes individuals, firms, companies, HUFs, associations, and the State, making nearly all information fall under “personal data”.
• With ₹250 crore penalties for data breach, PIOs may prefer blanket denial to avoid risk — eroding the right to know.
Concerns:
• Transparency Undermined: Most requests — like pension lists, recruitment data — may be rejected citing privacy.
• Public Interest Test Ignored: Constitutional mandate of maximum disclosure is sidelined, making citizens prove “larger public interest”.
• Chilling Effect on PIOs: Fear of penalties pushes officers to reject requests rather than face legal consequences.
• Corruption Shield: Ghost employees, fake beneficiaries, and procurement scams may go undetected, enabling misuse of funds.
• Democratic Regression: Weakens the citizen’s role as watchdog, diluting accountability mechanisms essential for democracy.
Challenges Associated:
• Legal Ambiguity: Conflict between privacy (Puttaswamy judgment) and transparency lacks clear balancing framework.
• Institutional Weakness: CIC and State Commissions suffer 30–40% vacancies, causing long pendency of appeals.
• Digital Divide: Rural poor may find it harder to pursue online RTI appeals, reducing inclusiveness.
• Citizen Apathy: Limited civil society mobilisation compared to 2005 RTI movement; weaker public pressure.
• Political Reluctance: Governments benefit from opacity and are unlikely to proactively restore strong RTI provisions.
Way Forward:
• Reinstate Proviso: Ensure citizens get same access to information as Parliamentarians to protect parity and accountability.
• Narrow Definition: Limit “personal information” to sensitive data only (health, family details) using proportionality principle.
• Strengthen Institutions: Fill vacancies in CIC/State Commissions, improve funding, set time-bound disposal norms.
• Proactive Disclosure: Government must publish key datasets online (beneficiary lists, tenders) reducing need for RTIs.
• Balance Privacy & Transparency: Apply Supreme Court’s proportionality test (Puttaswamy Case) to harmonise both rights.
Conclusion:
RTI is India’s most powerful anti-corruption law, empowering citizens to hold the state accountable. Weakening it through vague privacy clauses risks reversing transparency gains of two decades. Legislators, courts, and civil society must work to restore RTI’s spirit as a tool of participatory democracy.
Nepal’s Political Turmoil: A Test Case for India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
Syllabus: International Relation
Source: DH
Context: Nepal is witnessing a political churn after the resignation of PM K.P. Sharma Oli, violent protests, and the swearing-in of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as interim PM.
• India faces a strategic challenge to protect its security and economic interests while avoiding perceptions of interference, even as China deepens its influence.
About Nepal’s Political Turmoil: A Test Case for India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
India–Nepal Relations:
• Geostrategic Neighbour: India shares a 1,770–2,000 km open border with Nepal, allowing free movement of goods and people, making political instability a direct security concern.
• Cultural & Civilisational Ties: Shared Hindu-Buddhist heritage, deep people-to-people contact (Madhesi population), and Gorkha regiments in the Indian Army make the relationship unique.
• Economic Interdependence: India is Nepal’s largest trade partner and investor (accounts for over 60% of Nepal’s trade), major source of FDI, fuel, medicines, and electricity.
• Hydropower Diplomacy: India imports power from Nepal under cross-border power trade agreements and invests in projects like Upper Karnali & Arun-III hydropower plants.
• Security Stakes: Any political vacuum could allow cross-border smuggling, fake currency networks, and Chinese strategic presence under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
China’s Growing Footprint in Nepal:
• BRI Investments: China funds infrastructure projects — highways, airports, and rail links (Tibet–Kathmandu Railway).
• Political Leverage: Beijing has cultivated ties across Nepal’s parties, mediating even intra-party disputes in CPN.
• Soft Power Expansion: Chinese language, Confucius Institutes, scholarships, and media engagement boost influence.
• Security Risks: Chinese presence near Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck) is a concern for India’s strategic calculus.
Concerns for India:
• Political Instability: 14 governments in 17 years; frequent coalition collapses disrupt bilateral agreements.
• Anti-India Sentiment: Legacy of blockades (2015), perception of interference fuels mistrust among Nepali youth.
• China Factor: Strategic depth gained by Beijing could challenge India’s primacy in Himalayan geopolitics.
• Border Management: Open border facilitates illegal migration, arms smuggling, and potential terror routes.
• Economic Fallout: Political crisis may derail India-funded connectivity projects (rail, ICPs, energy corridors).
Challenges for India:
• Balancing Non-Interference & Engagement: Over-engagement risks accusations of “big brother” behaviour; under-engagement leaves space for China.
• Youth Disconnect: Gen Z Nepalese grew up post-monarchy, often shaped by anti-India narratives, making trust-building tougher.
• Federal Politics: Need to engage not just Kathmandu but provinces, Madhes leaders, and new political actors.
• Economic Vulnerabilities: Political turmoil may affect remittance inflows, border trade, and cross-border power projects.
• Security & Refugee Risks: Prolonged instability could increase refugee influx and boost Chinese intelligence activity.
Way Forward:
• Diplomatic Engagement: Deepen ties with emerging leaders across provinces; strengthen Track 1.5 & Track 2 dialogues.
• Economic Diplomacy: Fast-track border infrastructure, ICPs, and rail connectivity (Jaynagar–Bardibas, Raxaul–Kathmandu).
• Energy Cooperation: Scale up hydropower projects and facilitate trilateral power trade (India–Nepal–Bangladesh).
• People-to-People Initiatives: Expand scholarships, tourism circuits (Ramayana Circuit), and cultural exchanges to counter anti-India narratives.
• Strategic Patience: Avoid overt political alignment; focus on institution-building and long-term partnership rather than personalities.
Conclusion:
India must adopt a calibrated, multi-dimensional approach that secures its strategic interests without fuelling anti-India sentiment. Economic interdependence, energy partnerships, and youth-centric diplomacy will be key to building trust. A stable, democratic, and prosperous Nepal is the best guarantor of India’s security and regional balance vis-à-vis China.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 13 September 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Purple Fest 2025
Context: Purple Fest 2025 was organized by the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) in collaboration with Amity University, Noida.
• It celebrated inclusion, dignity, and empowerment of persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) through cultural, entrepreneurial, and educational activities.
About Purple Fest 2025:
• What It Is?
• A national-level festival celebrating the creativity, rights, and empowerment of Divyangjan. Aims to promote awareness, inclusivity, and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
• A national-level festival celebrating the creativity, rights, and empowerment of Divyangjan.
• Aims to promote awareness, inclusivity, and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
• Aim: Promote inclusion, raise awareness on assistive rights, empower Divyangjan through entrepreneurship & skill-building, celebrate talent via cultural & sports events, and strengthen capacity through ISL-focused training.
• Key Features:
• Art & Craft Exhibition: Display of products made by Divyangjan artisans. Entrepreneurship Stalls (22 stalls): Showcasing businesses led by Divyangjan. Cultural & Sports Events: Promoting participation and representation. Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE): Focus on Indian Sign Language (ISL) and professional knowledge sharing. Recognition of Achievements: Certificate of Appreciation awarded to Ms. Gurdeep Kaur Vasu, the first deafblind Indian to secure a govt. job under multiple disability category.
• Art & Craft Exhibition: Display of products made by Divyangjan artisans.
• Entrepreneurship Stalls (22 stalls): Showcasing businesses led by Divyangjan.
• Cultural & Sports Events: Promoting participation and representation.
• Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE): Focus on Indian Sign Language (ISL) and professional knowledge sharing.
• Recognition of Achievements: Certificate of Appreciation awarded to Ms. Gurdeep Kaur Vasu, the first deafblind Indian to secure a govt. job under multiple disability category.
Relevance in UPSC Syllabus:
• GS Paper II – Social Justice: Covers welfare of vulnerable sections and government policies for empowerment of Divyangjan. Linked to schemes like Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India), Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
• Covers welfare of vulnerable sections and government policies for empowerment of Divyangjan.
• Linked to schemes like Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India), Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
• GS Paper IV – Ethics: Promotes empathy, inclusivity, dignity, and equality in public service. Case study material on rights-based approach to disability.
• Promotes empathy, inclusivity, dignity, and equality in public service.
• Case study material on rights-based approach to disability.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 13 September 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):
Red Ivy Plant
Source: TH
Context: Scientists at JNTBGRI, Kerala have developed a multifunctional wound-healing pad using the red ivy plant (Strobilanthes alternata), combining traditional knowledge with nanotechnology.
About Red Ivy Plant (Murikooti Pacha):
• What It Is?
• A tropical medicinal plant widely known for its wound-healing properties and used in indigenous medicine. Scientific Name: Strobilanthes alternata (Family: Acanthaceae).
• A tropical medicinal plant widely known for its wound-healing properties and used in indigenous medicine.
• Scientific Name: Strobilanthes alternata (Family: Acanthaceae).
• Region Found In:
• Grows abundantly in tropical regions including India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. Found in moist forests and shaded rural areas; thrives in Kerala’s Western Ghats ecosystem.
• Grows abundantly in tropical regions including India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
• Found in moist forests and shaded rural areas; thrives in Kerala’s Western Ghats ecosystem.
• Key Features:
• Appearance: Spreading vine-like plant with red-green leaves. Bioactive Compound: Acteoside – proven antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agent. Sustainability: Easily cultivable, ensuring large-scale availability for medicinal use.
• Appearance: Spreading vine-like plant with red-green leaves.
• Bioactive Compound: Acteoside – proven antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agent.
• Sustainability: Easily cultivable, ensuring large-scale availability for medicinal use.
• Significance:
• Traditional Medicine: Used by local healers for treating cuts, bruises, and skin infections. Scientific Breakthrough: First-time isolation of acteoside from this plant → basis for wound-healing innovation. Healthcare Impact: Cost-effective, biodegradable wound pad with enhanced healing at low concentration (0.2%).
• Traditional Medicine: Used by local healers for treating cuts, bruises, and skin infections.
• Scientific Breakthrough: First-time isolation of acteoside from this plant → basis for wound-healing innovation.
• Healthcare Impact: Cost-effective, biodegradable wound pad with enhanced healing at low concentration (0.2%).
Amritsari Kulcha
Source: IE
Context: Punjab’s Food Processing Department is seeking a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the iconic Amritsari Kulcha.
About Amritsari Kulcha:
• What It Is?
• A stuffed, flaky tandoori flatbread made with refined flour (maida), fermented with yogurt and leavening agents, baked in a clay oven. Served with chhole, tamarind chutney, pickled onions, and topped with butter or ghee, forming a signature Punjabi breakfast dish.
• A stuffed, flaky tandoori flatbread made with refined flour (maida), fermented with yogurt and leavening agents, baked in a clay oven.
• Served with chhole, tamarind chutney, pickled onions, and topped with butter or ghee, forming a signature Punjabi breakfast dish.
• Origin:
• Traces back 200 years in Amritsar; considered an adaptation of naan with fillings. Influences from khameeri roti fermentation and possibly colonial-era layering techniques gave it its distinct flakiness.
• Traces back 200 years in Amritsar; considered an adaptation of naan with fillings.
• Influences from khameeri roti fermentation and possibly colonial-era layering techniques gave it its distinct flakiness.
• Features:
• Low-temperature tandoor baking allows slow ghee melting for signature crispiness. Local ingredients, water quality, and multi-layered rolling technique add to its unique texture and taste.
• Low-temperature tandoor baking allows slow ghee melting for signature crispiness.
• Local ingredients, water quality, and multi-layered rolling technique add to its unique texture and taste.
• State Involved:
• Punjab is spearheading the GI tag proposal through its Food Processing Department. Amritsar, called the “Kulcha Capital of India”, is the main centre, with popular outlets like Kesar Da Dhaba and Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale.
• Punjab is spearheading the GI tag proposal through its Food Processing Department.
• Amritsar, called the “Kulcha Capital of India”, is the main centre, with popular outlets like Kesar Da Dhaba and Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale.
• Issues & Significance:
• Issue: Absence of GI tag allows imitation in other states, diluting authenticity. Significance: GI tag would safeguard culinary heritage, promote culinary tourism, and benefit local businesses and farmers supplying ingredients.
• Issue: Absence of GI tag allows imitation in other states, diluting authenticity.
• Significance: GI tag would safeguard culinary heritage, promote culinary tourism, and benefit local businesses and farmers supplying ingredients.
AI Weather Forecasting for Farmers
Source: PIB
Context: MoAFW launched a first-of-its-kind AI-powered monsoon forecasting initiative, sending SMS-based alerts to 3.8 crore farmers across 13 states for Kharif planning.
About AI Weather Forecasting for Farmers:
• What It Is?
• A first-of-its-kind government initiative using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to deliver monsoon forecasts via SMS (m-Kisan) directly to farmers. Covers 3.8 crore farmers across 13 states, focusing on Kharif crop planning and risk reduction.
• A first-of-its-kind government initiative using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to deliver monsoon forecasts via SMS (m-Kisan) directly to farmers.
• Covers 3.8 crore farmers across 13 states, focusing on Kharif crop planning and risk reduction.
• Developed By:
• Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare (MoAFW) in collaboration with: Development Innovation Lab – India Precision Development
• Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare (MoAFW) in collaboration with: Development Innovation Lab – India Precision Development
• Development Innovation Lab – India
• Precision Development
• Technology Used:
• AI Forecasting Models: Google Neural GCM (Global Climate Model) ECMWF’s Artificial Intelligence Forecasting System (AIFS) Blended Models: Provide 4-week advance forecasts with higher accuracy than conventional methods. m-Kisan SMS Platform: Disseminates localized advisories in farmer-friendly language.
• AI Forecasting Models: Google Neural GCM (Global Climate Model) ECMWF’s Artificial Intelligence Forecasting System (AIFS)
• Google Neural GCM (Global Climate Model)
• ECMWF’s Artificial Intelligence Forecasting System (AIFS)
• Blended Models: Provide 4-week advance forecasts with higher accuracy than conventional methods.
• m-Kisan SMS Platform: Disseminates localized advisories in farmer-friendly language.
• Objectives:
• Early Warning: Enable farmers to plan sowing and irrigation ahead of monsoon onset. Risk Mitigation: Minimize losses from mid-season dry spells and extreme weather. Decision Support: Help farmers choose crops and inputs efficiently. Climate Resilience: Strengthen adaptive capacity to climate change-induced variability.
• Early Warning: Enable farmers to plan sowing and irrigation ahead of monsoon onset.
• Risk Mitigation: Minimize losses from mid-season dry spells and extreme weather.
• Decision Support: Help farmers choose crops and inputs efficiently.
• Climate Resilience: Strengthen adaptive capacity to climate change-induced variability.
• Key Features:
• Personalized & Localized Forecasts: Region-specific, actionable information. Weekly Updates: Continuous advisories during monsoon pauses or delays. Farmer-Friendly Communication: Simple language, easy-to-act recommendations. Real-Time Accuracy: Identified 20-day monsoon stall in 2025 successfully. Scalable Model: Can be extended to Rabi season and other states.
• Personalized & Localized Forecasts: Region-specific, actionable information.
• Weekly Updates: Continuous advisories during monsoon pauses or delays.
• Farmer-Friendly Communication: Simple language, easy-to-act recommendations.
• Real-Time Accuracy: Identified 20-day monsoon stall in 2025 successfully.
• Scalable Model: Can be extended to Rabi season and other states.
• Significance:
• Food Security: Timely sowing improves yield and reduces crop losses. Economic Impact: Reduces input wastage, boosts rural income and productivity. Technological Leadership: Positions India as global pioneer in AI-enabled agri-advisories.
• Food Security: Timely sowing improves yield and reduces crop losses.
• Economic Impact: Reduces input wastage, boosts rural income and productivity.
• Technological Leadership: Positions India as global pioneer in AI-enabled agri-advisories.
Erra Matti Dibbalu (Red Sand Dunes)
Source: NIE
Context: The Erra Matti Dibbalu (Red Sand Dunes) near Visakhapatnam and the Tirumala Hills in Andhra Pradesh have been included in the UNESCO Tentative List of World Natural Heritage Sites.
About Erra Matti Dibbalu (Red Sand Dunes):
• What it is?
• Notified National Geo-heritage Monument located along the Bay of Bengal coast near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Covers ~1,500 acres, showcasing rare coastal geomorphological formations.
• Notified National Geo-heritage Monument located along the Bay of Bengal coast near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
• Covers ~1,500 acres, showcasing rare coastal geomorphological formations.
• Origin & History:
• Formed during the late Quaternary Age (~2.6 million years ago), recording climate oscillations and sea-level changes. First documented in 1886 by British geologist William King. Declared a National Geo-heritage Monument in 2016 by Geological Survey of India (GSI).
• Formed during the late Quaternary Age (~2.6 million years ago), recording climate oscillations and sea-level changes.
• First documented in 1886 by British geologist William King.
• Declared a National Geo-heritage Monument in 2016 by Geological Survey of India (GSI).
• Key Features:
• Composed of sand, silt, and clay, with distinctive reddish hue caused by natural oxidation. Contains dendritic drainage patterns and sedimentary layers acting as natural climate archives. Only two other such sites exist globally — one in Sri Lanka and one in Tamil Nadu.
• Composed of sand, silt, and clay, with distinctive reddish hue caused by natural oxidation.
• Contains dendritic drainage patterns and sedimentary layers acting as natural climate archives.
• Only two other such sites exist globally — one in Sri Lanka and one in Tamil Nadu.
• Significance:
• Geological Importance: Acts as a natural laboratory to study sea-level changes, monsoon evolution, and Quaternary geology. Educational & Research Value: Crucial for paleoclimatology and coastal geomorphology research. Tourism Potential: Can boost geotourism if managed sustainably.
• Geological Importance: Acts as a natural laboratory to study sea-level changes, monsoon evolution, and Quaternary geology.
• Educational & Research Value: Crucial for paleoclimatology and coastal geomorphology research.
• Tourism Potential: Can boost geotourism if managed sustainably.
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, 2027
- •Source: IT*
Context: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Pakistan will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in 2027 and has directed authorities to begin preparations in Islamabad.
• The next SCO summit is scheduled to take place in 2026 in Bishkek.
About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, 2027:
• What it is?
• A permanent intergovernmental regional organisation focusing on political, economic, and security cooperation in Eurasia. Known for promoting the “Shanghai Spirit“ — mutual trust, benefit, equality, and peaceful coexistence.
• A permanent intergovernmental regional organisation focusing on political, economic, and security cooperation in Eurasia.
• Known for promoting the “Shanghai Spirit“ — mutual trust, benefit, equality, and peaceful coexistence.
• Establishment & Headquarters:
• Established: June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, China. Charter Signed: 2002 (St. Petersburg), entered into force on 19 September 2003. Headquarters: Beijing, China. RATS (Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure): Located in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
• Established: June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, China.
• Charter Signed: 2002 (St. Petersburg), entered into force on 19 September 2003.
• Headquarters: Beijing, China.
• RATS (Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure): Located in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
• Origin & Evolution:
• Evolved from the Shanghai Five Mechanism (China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan – 1996) aimed at resolving border issues and building regional trust. Expanded into a multi-sectoral organisation with strong focus on security, counter-terrorism, and connectivity.
• Evolved from the Shanghai Five Mechanism (China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan – 1996) aimed at resolving border issues and building regional trust.
• Expanded into a multi-sectoral organisation with strong focus on security, counter-terrorism, and connectivity.
• Membership:
• 10 Full Members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Belarus (latest). 2 Observer States: Afghanistan, Mongolia.
• 10 Full Members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Belarus (latest).
• 2 Observer States: Afghanistan, Mongolia.
• Annual Rotation:
• The Chairmanship of the SCO rotates annually among member states, following the Russian alphabetical order of country names. The member holding the Chairmanship hosts the Council of Heads of State (CHS) Summit that year.
• The Chairmanship of the SCO rotates annually among member states, following the Russian alphabetical order of country names.
• The member holding the Chairmanship hosts the Council of Heads of State (CHS) Summit that year.
• Key Functions & Activities:
• Regional Security: Counter-terrorism operations, intelligence sharing, and RATS coordination. Economic Cooperation: Promotes trade, investment, energy security, and connectivity (e.g., SCO Business Council, SCO Development Bank proposals). Cultural & Educational Ties: Youth exchange programs, sports, culture festivals, scholarships. Multilateral Diplomacy: Acts as a platform for member states to coordinate on Afghanistan, climate action, and Eurasian stability. Annual Summits: Council of Heads of State (CHS) is the supreme decision-making body; CHG (PM-level) meets annually to approve budgets and priorities.
• Regional Security: Counter-terrorism operations, intelligence sharing, and RATS coordination.
• Economic Cooperation: Promotes trade, investment, energy security, and connectivity (e.g., SCO Business Council, SCO Development Bank proposals).
• Cultural & Educational Ties: Youth exchange programs, sports, culture festivals, scholarships.
• Multilateral Diplomacy: Acts as a platform for member states to coordinate on Afghanistan, climate action, and Eurasian stability.
• Annual Summits: Council of Heads of State (CHS) is the supreme decision-making body; CHG (PM-level) meets annually to approve budgets and priorities.
Bairabi–Sairang Railway Line
Source: NIE
Context: Prime Minister of India inaugurated the Bairabi–Sairang Railway Line, giving Mizoram’s capital Aizawl direct rail connectivity for the first time.
About Bairabi–Sairang Railway Line:
• What it is? A 38 km broad-gauge railway line connecting Bairabi (railhead on Assam border) to Sairang (near Aizawl). This is part of Indian Railways’ North East connectivity mission under the “Act East” policy.
• A 38 km broad-gauge railway line connecting Bairabi (railhead on Assam border) to Sairang (near Aizawl).
• This is part of Indian Railways’ North East connectivity mission under the “Act East” policy.
• Origin:
• Project sanctioned under the Indian Railways Vision 2020. Construction started in phases, with the last section Hortoki–Sairang commissioned in June 2025 after CRS safety clearance.
• Project sanctioned under the Indian Railways Vision 2020.
• Construction started in phases, with the last section Hortoki–Sairang commissioned in June 2025 after CRS safety clearance.
• Objective:
• Provide direct rail access to Aizawl, reducing travel time and logistics cost. Improve freight connectivity for essential goods, boosting trade and regional integration. Fulfil long-standing socio-economic demand of Mizoram under “Transformation of North East (TONE)” programme.
• Provide direct rail access to Aizawl, reducing travel time and logistics cost.
• Improve freight connectivity for essential goods, boosting trade and regional integration.
• Fulfil long-standing socio-economic demand of Mizoram under “Transformation of North East (TONE)” programme.
• Key Features:
• Cost: ₹8,000 crore project. Engineering Marvel: 48 tunnels (12.85 km total), 55 major and 87 minor bridges. Bridge No. 196: 104 m tall — taller than Qutub Minar by 42 m. Four Sections: Bairabi–Hortoki, Hortoki–Kawnpui, Kawnpui–Mualkhang, Mualkhang–Sairang. 5 road overbridges, 6 road underbridges for smooth traffic movement. Passenger trains designed for 100 kmph speed.
• Cost: ₹8,000 crore project.
• Engineering Marvel: 48 tunnels (12.85 km total), 55 major and 87 minor bridges.
• Bridge No. 196: 104 m tall — taller than Qutub Minar by 42 m.
• Four Sections: Bairabi–Hortoki, Hortoki–Kawnpui, Kawnpui–Mualkhang, Mualkhang–Sairang.
• 5 road overbridges, 6 road underbridges for smooth traffic movement.
• Passenger trains designed for 100 kmph speed.
• Significance:
• Regional Integration: First direct rail link to Mizoram’s capital — enhances Centre’s Act East Policy. Economic Growth: Boosts trade, tourism, agri-produce movement, and industrial access. Social Impact: Improves healthcare, education access and emergency mobility.
• Regional Integration: First direct rail link to Mizoram’s capital — enhances Centre’s Act East Policy.
• Economic Growth: Boosts trade, tourism, agri-produce movement, and industrial access.
• Social Impact: Improves healthcare, education access and emergency mobility.
Bhadohi’s handmade carpet industry
Source: TH
Context: Bhadohi’s handmade carpet industry — contributing over 60% of India’s carpet exports — is facing a severe crisis due to the U.S. imposing a 50% tariff on Indian goods, leading to order cancellations, production cuts, and job losses.
About Bhadohi’s Handmade Carpet Industry:
What It Is?
• Carpet weaving is a traditional handcraft where wool, silk, or cotton threads are knotted or tufted on looms to create decorative and durable floor coverings.
• Bhadohi–Mirzapur belt in Uttar Pradesh is globally known as “Carpet City” and is India’s largest hand-knotted carpet cluster.
History:
• Origin traced to the Mughal era – Ain-i-Akbari (16th century) mentions carpet production under Akbar’s patronage.
• Persian weavers were invited to India, leading to Indo-Persian designs.
• Carpet weaving grew during colonial trade; post-independence, Bhadohi became a major export hub with global buyers.
Characteristics:
• Hand-knotted Carpets: These carpets are highly durable and known for intricate, detailed patterns, often taking 3–6 months to weave depending on size and complexity.
• Materials: Made using premium wool (imported from New Zealand), silk from Karnataka, and eco-friendly natural dyes, ensuring quality and sustainability.
• Cluster-based Production: Over 1,200 exporters and 22 lakh artisans in Bhadohi–Mirzapur form the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet cluster, ensuring economies of scale.
• Design Diversity: Styles range from Persian and Mughal floral motifs to modern geometric patterns, catering to global aesthetic preferences.
• Labour Intensive: Involves multiple skilled stages — carding, spinning, dyeing, knotting, washing, shearing — creating large-scale rural employment opportunities.
Significance:
• Economic Contribution: Exports worth ₹17,000+ crore annually (2024–25), 58.6% to the U.S. market.
• Employment: Direct and indirect livelihood to over 20 lakh artisans in Uttar Pradesh and nearby states.
• Cultural Heritage: Preserves centuries-old weaving techniques and Mughal-era art forms.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 13 September 2025 Mapping:
Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary
Source: TH
Context: Madhya Pradesh has initiated a cheetah mating programme in Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary to create a second viable home for cheetahs after Kuno National Park.
About Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary:
• What It Is? A protected sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and mixed deciduous forests.
• A protected sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and mixed deciduous forests.
• Location: Situated on the northern boundary of Mandsaur and Neemuch districts, Madhya Pradesh, adjoining Rajasthan.
• Established: Notified in 1974 and expanded in 1983.
• Geography: Spread over 368.62 sq. km, bisected by the Chambal River, with grasslands and dry forests — ideal cheetah habitat.
• Flora & Fauna: Dominated by Khair, Salai, Kardhai, Tendu, Palash trees. Fauna includes chinkara, sambar, nilgai, leopard, wild dog, otter, peacock and mugger crocodile.
• Dominated by Khair, Salai, Kardhai, Tendu, Palash trees.
• Fauna includes chinkara, sambar, nilgai, leopard, wild dog, otter, peacock and mugger crocodile.
• Cultural Significance: Houses Chaturbhujnath temple, Hinglajgarh Fort, Bhadkaji rock paintings, Dharmrajeshwar caves, showcasing heritage importance.
• Houses Chaturbhujnath temple, Hinglajgarh Fort, Bhadkaji rock paintings, Dharmrajeshwar caves, showcasing heritage importance.
About Cheetah Mating Programme at Gandhi Sagar:
• What It Is? A scientific breeding initiative to mate relocated female cheetahs with existing male coalition in Gandhi Sagar.
• A scientific breeding initiative to mate relocated female cheetahs with existing male coalition in Gandhi Sagar.
• Aim: Build a self-sustaining cheetah population, reduce overdependence on Kuno, and restore India’s grassland ecology.
• Features: Pre-Mating Monitoring: Male and female kept in separate enclosures; behaviour observed to avoid aggression (learning from Kuno’s 2023 incident). Safe Denning Sites: Relocation of 17 leopards done to reduce predation risk. Nutritional Management: Prey supplementation and 15–20 kg feed provided every 3–4 days during gestation. Veterinary Surveillance: Biweekly pregnancy checks, remote den monitoring, and cub health assessments post-birth.
• Pre-Mating Monitoring: Male and female kept in separate enclosures; behaviour observed to avoid aggression (learning from Kuno’s 2023 incident).
• Safe Denning Sites: Relocation of 17 leopards done to reduce predation risk.
• Nutritional Management: Prey supplementation and 15–20 kg feed provided every 3–4 days during gestation.
• Veterinary Surveillance: Biweekly pregnancy checks, remote den monitoring, and cub health assessments post-birth.
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