UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May 2025

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May 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.

GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May (2025)

• Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021

Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021

• Right to Digital Access

Right to Digital Access

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

• India’s 3-Pillar Doctrine

India’s 3-Pillar Doctrine

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

• Exercise Teesta Prahar

Exercise Teesta Prahar

• Indian Yak

Indian Yak

• Supreme Court’s Advisory Jurisdiction

Supreme Court’s Advisory Jurisdiction

• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

• Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU)

Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU)

• South Australia Algal Bloom

South Australia Algal Bloom

• Nanoporous Multi-Layered Polymeric Membrane

Nanoporous Multi-Layered Polymeric Membrane

Mapping:

• Mahadayi River

Mahadayi River

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May 2025

#### GS Paper 2 :

Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021

Syllabus: Governance

Source: TH

Context: The Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021, released by the Registrar General of India, shows significant demographic shifts, including falling birth rates and improved maternal and child health.

Summary of Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021:

• Crude Birth Rate (CBR) at national level is 19.3, down from 19.5 in 2020. Kerala (12.9) has the lowest, Bihar (25.6) the highest.

• Crude Death Rate (CDR) is 7.5, with Chhattisgarh (10.1) highest and Delhi (5.4) lowest.

• Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) declined to 27 per 1,000 live births (from 34 in 2016). Kerala has the best IMR (6), MP the worst (41).

• Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR) stands at 31; Kerala again leads (8), while national female U5MR shows 2-point drop.

• Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR) is 19, down from 26 in 2014.

• Sex Ratio at Birth improved from 899 (2014) to 913 (2021). Kerala leads with 962; Uttarakhand lowest (852).

• Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is 2.0, down from 2.3 in 2014. States like Delhi and WB have TFR of 1.4, well below replacement level (2.1).

• Medical attention at delivery reached 91.1% in 2021; 39.3% of deceased received medical attention before death.

Analysis of the Report:

• Positives:

• Fertility Decline: TFR of 2.0 indicates India has reached population stabilization.

E.g. Delhi, WB, Kerala at 1.4–1.5 well below replacement level.

• Decline in Infant and Child Mortality: IMR dropped from 34 (2016) to 27 (2021); 7-point fall in 5 years shows strong maternal-child health efforts. Improved Sex Ratio at Birth: An increase from 899 to 913 indicates progress in gender equity at birth. State-Level SDG Achievement: 8 States achieved MMR SDG target, 12 States met U5MR target, and 6 States met NMR target. Global Recognition: UN reports show India outperforms global average in child mortality reduction – U5MR down by 78% since 1990.

• Decline in Infant and Child Mortality: IMR dropped from 34 (2016) to 27 (2021); 7-point fall in 5 years shows strong maternal-child health efforts.

• Improved Sex Ratio at Birth: An increase from 899 to 913 indicates progress in gender equity at birth.

• State-Level SDG Achievement: 8 States achieved MMR SDG target, 12 States met U5MR target, and 6 States met NMR target.

• Global Recognition: UN reports show India outperforms global average in child mortality reduction – U5MR down by 78% since 1990.

• Negatives

• Wide Inter-State Disparities: Bihar (TFR 3.0) and MP (IMR 41) lag behind, highlighting unequal healthcare access. Sluggish Progress in High-Fertility States: States like Rajasthan, Bihar, and UP show slowest decline in birth rates (below 1% annually). Limited Access to Pre-Death Medical Attention: Only 39.3% of deceased received care before death, pointing to gaps in end-of-life services. Urban-Rural Gap: Rural women still have TFR of 2.2 vs. 1.6 in urban areas, indicating differential reproductive behavior. Uttarakhand Anomaly: Only state with a rise in birth rate, contrary to the national trend.

• Wide Inter-State Disparities: Bihar (TFR 3.0) and MP (IMR 41) lag behind, highlighting unequal healthcare access.

• Sluggish Progress in High-Fertility States: States like Rajasthan, Bihar, and UP show slowest decline in birth rates (below 1% annually).

• Limited Access to Pre-Death Medical Attention: Only 39.3% of deceased received care before death, pointing to gaps in end-of-life services.

• Urban-Rural Gap: Rural women still have TFR of 2.2 vs. 1.6 in urban areas, indicating differential reproductive behavior.

• Uttarakhand Anomaly: Only state with a rise in birth rate, contrary to the national trend.

Way Ahead:

• Targeted Interventions: Focus on high TFR states like Bihar and UP through behavioral change, incentives, and family planning.

• Strengthen Rural Healthcare: Bridge gaps in rural IMR and maternal care via infrastructure and skilled health workers.

• Improve End-of-Life Care: Enhance access to palliative and emergency care to increase pre-death medical attention.

• Sustain Gender Equity Measures: Continue Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, financial incentives, and education reforms.

• Leverage Digital Health Tools: Real-time maternal and child health tracking for responsive governance using AI-based platforms.

Conclusion:

The SRS 2021 report reflects India’s strong progress in population stabilization, maternal and child health, and gender balance at birth. However, regional disparities and unequal access to healthcare demand focused policy and sustained investment. India’s progress, if equitably extended, can serve as a global model for demographic transition.

• The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken to meet them? (2022)

Right to Digital Access

Syllabus: Polity

Source: TH

Context: The Supreme Court has held that the right to digital access is part of the right to life and liberty under Article 21, mandating inclusive revisions in digital KYC norms.

About Right to Digital Access:

• What It Is? The right to digital access refers to the guaranteed ability of every citizen, including the disabled and marginalized, to access and benefit from digital public and financial infrastructure.

• The right to digital access refers to the guaranteed ability of every citizen, including the disabled and marginalized, to access and benefit from digital public and financial infrastructure.

• Constitutional Interpretation: The SC reinterpreted Article 21 (right to life and liberty) to include digital accessibility, especially in the context of increasing dependence on online identity verification, governance, and welfare delivery.

Issues Surrounding Right to Digital Access:

• Exclusion in KYC Systems: Visual and motor-based tasks like blinking, selfie capture, and OTP validation exclude persons with visual impairments or facial disfigurement.

• Non-compliance with ICT Accessibility Standards: Most KYC apps lack screen readers, audio prompts, or alternate identity verification modes.

• Denial of Basic Services: Lack of accessible KYC leads to exclusion from banking, telecom, pension, and welfare schemes for persons with disabilities (PwDs).

• Discriminatory Design: The absence of universal design principles breaches Section 42 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

• Widening Digital Divide: Barriers affect not only PwDs but also rural citizens, senior citizens, and linguistic minorities.

About Supreme Court Judgment on Digital Access (*Pragya Prasun & Amar Jain v. Union of India (2025))*

• The SC ruled that digital inclusion is a constitutional imperative, not a discretionary policy matter.

• It invoked Articles 14, 15, 21, and 38, affirming that digital infrastructure must be inclusive, accessible, and nondiscriminatory.

• Directed reform of KYC norms: Introduce alternative modes of live verification, appoint digital accessibility nodal officers, and conduct periodic accessibility audits.

• Emphasized the need for PwD user testing during app/portal development phases to prevent exclusion.

E.g. In Pragya Prasun & Amar Jain v. Union of India (2025), SC held that blinking and visual input-based verification violates the right to life and dignity of blind users and acid attack survivors.

Significance of the Judgment:

• Constitutional Recognition of Digital Inclusion: Establishes that digital access is a fundamental right, laying a foundation for future tech legislation.

• Strengthens Disability Rights: Reinforces India’s obligations under the UNCRPD and the RPwD Act, 2016.

• Inclusive Digital Transformation: Directs state to design tech solutions with equity, ensuring no one is left behind.

• Boost to Accessible Governance: Enables better access to e-governance, health, education, and financial inclusion for the disabled and marginalized.

• Promotes Substantive Equality: Upholds justice beyond formal equality, enabling structural reform in how digital systems are conceptualized and delivered.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s recognition of digital access as intrinsic to Article 21 marks a paradigm shift in constitutional law. It compels both the government and private institutions to rethink accessibility as a legal right, not a technical afterthought. Bridging the digital divide is no longer optional—it is a matter of ensuring dignity and equity for every citizen.

• “Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (UPSC-2023)

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

India’s 3-Pillar Doctrine

Context: Prime Minister recently unveiled a 3-Pillar Doctrine on national security in response to cross-border terrorism, asserting a policy of zero tolerance and decisive retaliation.

About India’s 3-Pillar Doctrine:

• What it is: A comprehensive national security doctrine aimed at eliminating terrorism at its roots, deterring state sponsors of terror, and projecting India’s strategic autonomy through retaliatory and policy measures.

• A comprehensive national security doctrine aimed at eliminating terrorism at its roots, deterring state sponsors of terror, and projecting India’s strategic autonomy through retaliatory and policy measures.

• The Three Pillars:

• Decisive Retaliation on India’s Terms: India reserves the right to respond militarily and diplomatically at a time and place of its choosing.

E.g. Surgical Strikes (2016), Balakot Airstrike (2019), Operation Sindoor (2025).

• Zero Tolerance for Nuclear Blackmail: India rejects the use of nuclear threats as strategic cover for terrorism, asserting that nuclear deterrence will not restrict conventional responses. No Distinction Between Terrorists and Their Sponsors: The doctrine erases the line between non-state actors and their state enablers, holding sponsoring nations accountable through sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and economic disengagement.

• No Distinction Between Terrorists and Their Sponsors: The doctrine erases the line between non-state actors and their state enablers, holding sponsoring nations accountable through sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and economic disengagement.

• Significance:

• Reflects a shift from strategic restraint to strategic assertiveness. Enhances India’s deterrence credibility and redefines rules of engagement in counterterrorism. Signals geopolitical resolve to both domestic and global audiences. Empowers India’s global image as a nation unwilling to compromise on sovereignty or national security.

• Reflects a shift from strategic restraint to strategic assertiveness.

• Enhances India’s deterrence credibility and redefines rules of engagement in counterterrorism.

• Signals geopolitical resolve to both domestic and global audiences.

• Empowers India’s global image as a nation unwilling to compromise on sovereignty or national security.

Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:

• GS Paper 2: International Relations

• India’s foreign policy approach to terrorism. India–Pakistan relations, cross-border terrorism and treaty diplomacy (Indus Waters Treaty suspension).

• India’s foreign policy approach to terrorism.

• India–Pakistan relations, cross-border terrorism and treaty diplomacy (Indus Waters Treaty suspension).

• GS Paper 3: Internal Security

• Counter-terrorism doctrines, hybrid warfare, strategic retaliation. National security policy frameworks and India’s evolving security paradigm. Relevance of military, diplomatic, and economic tools in modern security doctrines.

• Counter-terrorism doctrines, hybrid warfare, strategic retaliation.

• National security policy frameworks and India’s evolving security paradigm.

• Relevance of military, diplomatic, and economic tools in modern security doctrines.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Exercise Teesta Prahar

Source: IT

Context: The Indian Army conducted Exercise Teesta Prahar in the riverine terrain of North Bengal, showcasing joint warfare capability and technological integration.

About Exercise Teesta Prahar:

• What It Is: A large-scale military field exercise conducted at the Teesta Field Firing Range, West Bengal. Aimed to simulate and validate combat operations in challenging riverine and all-terrain environments.

• A large-scale military field exercise conducted at the Teesta Field Firing Range, West Bengal.

• Aimed to simulate and validate combat operations in challenging riverine and all-terrain environments.

• Organisations Involved: Conducted by the Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps under the Eastern Command. Involved integrated participation from: Infantry, Mechanised Infantry, Artillery, Armoured Corps, Para Special Forces, Army Aviation, and Engineers and Signals

• Conducted by the Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps under the Eastern Command.

• Involved integrated participation from: Infantry, Mechanised Infantry, Artillery, Armoured Corps, Para Special Forces, Army Aviation, and Engineers and Signals

• Objectives: Validate Jointness: Promote seamless coordination between combat arms and support services. Enhance Operational Readiness: Test rapid mobilisation and quick-response manoeuvres in real-time scenarios. Integrate Technology in Warfare: Deploy next-gen weapon systems and modern military technologies. Simulate Future Combat Environments: Practice tactical drills and battle rehearsals for hybrid and high-tech warfare.

• Validate Jointness: Promote seamless coordination between combat arms and support services.

• Enhance Operational Readiness: Test rapid mobilisation and quick-response manoeuvres in real-time scenarios.

• Integrate Technology in Warfare: Deploy next-gen weapon systems and modern military technologies.

• Simulate Future Combat Environments: Practice tactical drills and battle rehearsals for hybrid and high-tech warfare.

• Key Features: Focus on jointness: Multi-branch coordination for integrated battlefield synergy. Rapid mobility drills: Quick deployment across complex riverine terrain. Tech-enabled warfare: Incorporation of advanced surveillance, communication, and weapon systems. All-terrain combat: Training in geographically and environmentally diverse zones. Post-Operation Sindoor Context: Reinforces interoperability after India’s successful joint Army-Air Force strike.

• Focus on jointness: Multi-branch coordination for integrated battlefield synergy.

• Rapid mobility drills: Quick deployment across complex riverine terrain.

• Tech-enabled warfare: Incorporation of advanced surveillance, communication, and weapon systems.

• All-terrain combat: Training in geographically and environmentally diverse zones.

• Post-Operation Sindoor Context: Reinforces interoperability after India’s successful joint Army-Air Force strike.

Indian Yak

Source: TOI

Context: Indian scientists have achieved a breakthrough in yak genomic research by assembling the first-ever chromosome-level genome of the Indian yak (Bos grunniens).

• The initiative, led by ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang, will bolster breeding programs and improve conservation of this high-altitude livestock species.

About Indian Yak:

• What It Is:

• The Himalayan yak is a long-haired, high-altitude bovine species belonging to the Bovini tribe (includes cattle, buffalo, and bison). Scientifically known as Bos grunniens, it is revered as the ‘ship of the Himalayas’ for its transport and livelihood utility.

• The Himalayan yak is a long-haired, high-altitude bovine species belonging to the Bovini tribe (includes cattle, buffalo, and bison).

• Scientifically known as Bos grunniens, it is revered as the ‘ship of the Himalayas’ for its transport and livelihood utility.

• Habitat & Distribution:

• Endemic to the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding high-altitude zones. Comfortable at altitudes above 14,000 feet. In India, yaks are reared in: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh.

• Endemic to the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding high-altitude zones.

• Comfortable at altitudes above 14,000 feet.

• In India, yaks are reared in: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh.

• Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh.

• Key Features:

• Extreme Cold Resistance: Tolerates temperatures as low as –40°C. Adapted Physiology: Possesses an enlarged rumen to digest low-quality forage efficiently. Thick Coat: Long, hanging hair forms an insulating layer against cold winds. Transhumance Rearing: Traditionally managed under primitive nomadic systems. Lifeline of Nomads: Critical for milk, meat, wool, hide, dung fuel, and transport in Himalayan economies.

• Extreme Cold Resistance: Tolerates temperatures as low as –40°C.

• Adapted Physiology: Possesses an enlarged rumen to digest low-quality forage efficiently.

• Thick Coat: Long, hanging hair forms an insulating layer against cold winds.

• Transhumance Rearing: Traditionally managed under primitive nomadic systems.

• Lifeline of Nomads: Critical for milk, meat, wool, hide, dung fuel, and transport in Himalayan economies.

• Significance:

• Livelihood Security: Backbone of pastoral communities in eco-fragile zones. Genetic Resource: Offers traits like cold resilience and disease resistance, vital for climate-smart livestock breeding. Economic Importance: Supports eco-tourism, dairy cooperatives, and wool industry in hill economies. Ecological Role: Integral to maintaining grassland balance and pastoral sustainability in alpine meadows.

• Livelihood Security: Backbone of pastoral communities in eco-fragile zones.

• Genetic Resource: Offers traits like cold resilience and disease resistance, vital for climate-smart livestock breeding.

• Economic Importance: Supports eco-tourism, dairy cooperatives, and wool industry in hill economies.

• Ecological Role: Integral to maintaining grassland balance and pastoral sustainability in alpine meadows.

Supreme Court’s Advisory Jurisdiction

Source: HT

Context: President of India has invoked the Supreme Court’s advisory jurisdiction under Article 143(1) to clarify whether time limits can be imposed on the President and Governors to act on state legislature Bills.

About Supreme Court’s Advisory Jurisdiction:

• What Is Advisory Jurisdiction?

• Advisory jurisdiction allows the President of India to seek the SC’s opinion on questions of law or fact of public importance. It enables constitutional interpretation without a direct legal dispute. The opinion given is not binding, unlike judicial rulings.

• Advisory jurisdiction allows the President of India to seek the SC’s opinion on questions of law or fact of public importance.

• It enables constitutional interpretation without a direct legal dispute.

• The opinion given is not binding, unlike judicial rulings.

• Constitutional Basis:

• Article 143(1): The President may refer any question of law or fact of public importance to the SC. Article 143(2): Refers to matters related to pre-constitutional treaties, agreements, or covenants, especially concerning former princely states.

• Article 143(1): The President may refer any question of law or fact of public importance to the SC.

• Article 143(2): Refers to matters related to pre-constitutional treaties, agreements, or covenants, especially concerning former princely states.

• Features:

• Discretionary in Nature: SC may choose to answer or decline the reference. Non-binding: The opinion returned is advisory, not enforceable. Bench Strength: As per Article 145(3), such matters must be heard by a Constitution Bench (minimum five judges). Independent Aid: Offers the President independent legal insight apart from Cabinet advice.

• Discretionary in Nature: SC may choose to answer or decline the reference.

• Non-binding: The opinion returned is advisory, not enforceable.

• Bench Strength: As per Article 145(3), such matters must be heard by a Constitution Bench (minimum five judges).

• Independent Aid: Offers the President independent legal insight apart from Cabinet advice.

• Historical Usage of Article 143:

• Invoked 14 times since 1950. Landmark instances include: Delhi Laws Act Case (1951): On delegation of legislative powers. Berubari Union Case (1960): On transfer of territory to Pakistan. Kesavananda Bharati Follow-up (1973): Reinforced Basic Structure doctrine. Judges Appointment Reference (1998): Collegium system clarified. Cauvery Dispute (1992): Federal tribunal jurisdiction. Ayodhya Site (1993): Reference declined for being politically sensitive.

• Invoked 14 times since 1950.

• Landmark instances include: Delhi Laws Act Case (1951): On delegation of legislative powers. Berubari Union Case (1960): On transfer of territory to Pakistan. Kesavananda Bharati Follow-up (1973): Reinforced Basic Structure doctrine. Judges Appointment Reference (1998): Collegium system clarified. Cauvery Dispute (1992): Federal tribunal jurisdiction. Ayodhya Site (1993): Reference declined for being politically sensitive.

• Delhi Laws Act Case (1951): On delegation of legislative powers.

• Berubari Union Case (1960): On transfer of territory to Pakistan.

• Kesavananda Bharati Follow-up (1973): Reinforced Basic Structure doctrine.

• Judges Appointment Reference (1998): Collegium system clarified.

• Cauvery Dispute (1992): Federal tribunal jurisdiction.

• Ayodhya Site (1993): Reference declined for being politically sensitive.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Source: TN

Context: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed no radiation leak occurred from any nuclear facility in Pakistan, following media reports suggesting a potential incident at Kirana Hills amid India’s Operation Sindoor airstrikes.

About International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):

• What is IAEA?

• The IAEA is the global nuclear watchdog promoting safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology. Also known as the “Atoms for Peace and Development” agency within the UN system.

• The IAEA is the global nuclear watchdog promoting safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology.

• Also known as the “Atoms for Peace and Development” agency within the UN system.

• Headquarters: Located in Vienna, Austria.

• Statute adopted: 23 October 1956.

• Came into force: 29 July 1957.

• Membership: Currently comprises 178 member countries (as of 2025).

• Historical Context:

• Established after WWII to prevent nuclear weapon proliferation and encourage peaceful nuclear cooperation. Functions independently but reports to both the UN General Assembly and Security Council.

• Established after WWII to prevent nuclear weapon proliferation and encourage peaceful nuclear cooperation.

• Functions independently but reports to both the UN General Assembly and Security Council.

• Key Functions of the IAEA:

• Nuclear Safeguards: Verifies that nuclear materials are not diverted to weapons. Emergency Response: Manages nuclear and radiological emergencies through its Incident and Emergency Centre (IEC). Capacity Building: Provides technical support and training for peaceful nuclear use. Safety and Security: Sets global standards for nuclear safety. Research & Development: Facilitates international R&D collaboration. Monitoring and Reporting: Sends regular updates and assessments to the international community.

• Nuclear Safeguards: Verifies that nuclear materials are not diverted to weapons.

• Emergency Response: Manages nuclear and radiological emergencies through its Incident and Emergency Centre (IEC).

• Capacity Building: Provides technical support and training for peaceful nuclear use.

• Safety and Security: Sets global standards for nuclear safety.

• Research & Development: Facilitates international R&D collaboration.

• Monitoring and Reporting: Sends regular updates and assessments to the international community.

Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU)

Source: TOI

Context: The Government of India has approved the establishment of five Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) testbeds to drive net zero industrial pathways in hard-to-abate sectors like cement, under a public-private partnership model.

About Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU):

• What is CCU?

• CCU refers to technologies that capture carbon dioxide (CO₂) from industrial emissions and utilize it either directly or after converting it into value-added products. It is a sub-set of Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS).

• CCU refers to technologies that capture carbon dioxide (CO₂) from industrial emissions and utilize it either directly or after converting it into value-added products.

• It is a sub-set of Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS).

• How It Works? CCU comprises three key stages:

• CCU comprises three key stages:

• Capture – CO₂ is separated from emission sources (e.g., flue gas or air). Transport – The captured CO₂ is compressed and transported via pipeline, road, or ship. Utilisation – CO₂ is converted into products like synthetic fuels, urea, concrete aggregates, chemicals, or food-grade CO₂.

• Capture – CO₂ is separated from emission sources (e.g., flue gas or air).

• Transport – The captured CO₂ is compressed and transported via pipeline, road, or ship.

• Utilisation – CO₂ is converted into products like synthetic fuels, urea, concrete aggregates, chemicals, or food-grade CO₂.

• Types of Carbon Capture:

• Post-combustion: Captures CO₂ after fuel is burned (retrofit-friendly). Pre-combustion: Captures CO₂ before combustion by gasifying fuel (better for new plants). Oxy-fuel combustion: Uses pure oxygen to burn fuel, simplifying CO₂ capture. Direct Air Capture (DAC): Extracts CO₂ from ambient air using sorbents or solvents (high cost, low concentration).

• Post-combustion: Captures CO₂ after fuel is burned (retrofit-friendly).

• Pre-combustion: Captures CO₂ before combustion by gasifying fuel (better for new plants).

• Oxy-fuel combustion: Uses pure oxygen to burn fuel, simplifying CO₂ capture.

• Direct Air Capture (DAC): Extracts CO₂ from ambient air using sorbents or solvents (high cost, low concentration).

• Features of Indian CCU Testbeds:

• Five pilot testbeds to be set up in partnership with top academic and industrial institutions: NCCBM + JK Cement (Haryana) IIT Kanpur + JSW Cement IIT Bombay + Dalmia Cement CSIR-IIP + IIT Tirupati + IISc + JSW Cement IIT Madras + BITS Pilani Goa + Ultratech Cement Focus: Translational R&D, CO₂ catalysis, vacuum-based gas separation, and industrial integration. Funding: Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Strategic intent: Combat EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and future-proof Indian industry.

• NCCBM + JK Cement (Haryana)

• IIT Kanpur + JSW Cement

• IIT Bombay + Dalmia Cement

• CSIR-IIP + IIT Tirupati + IISc + JSW Cement

• IIT Madras + BITS Pilani Goa + Ultratech Cement

• Focus: Translational R&D, CO₂ catalysis, vacuum-based gas separation, and industrial integration.

• Funding: Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

• Strategic intent: Combat EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and future-proof Indian industry.

• Limitations of CCU:

• Limited Market Size: CO₂-based product markets are still small. Energy Intensity: High energy required, especially in DAC. Variable Climate Benefit: Impact depends on source of CO₂, end-product life cycle, and process carbon intensity. Not a Substitute for Mitigation: Best used to complement emissions reduction, not replace it.

• Limited Market Size: CO₂-based product markets are still small.

• Energy Intensity: High energy required, especially in DAC.

• Variable Climate Benefit: Impact depends on source of CO₂, end-product life cycle, and process carbon intensity.

• Not a Substitute for Mitigation: Best used to complement emissions reduction, not replace it.

South Australia Algal Bloom

Source: TH

Context: A massive bloom of toxic algae Karenia mikimotoi has killed over 200 species of marine life off the southern coast of Australia, affecting biodiversity and coastal tourism.

About South Australia Algal Bloom:

• What It Is?

• Karenia mikimotoi is a species of toxic dinoflagellate algae that forms harmful algal blooms (HABs), commonly referred to as red tides.

• Classification:

• Kingdom: Protista Phylum: Dinoflagellata It contains photosynthetic pigments but lacks protective thecal plates.

• Kingdom: Protista

• Phylum: Dinoflagellata

• It contains photosynthetic pigments but lacks protective thecal plates.

• Historical Occurrence:

• First identified in Japan in 1935. Since then, detected in Norway, China, USA (east coast), English Channel, and Australia. March 2025 marks the largest bloom in South Australia to date, spanning 4,400 sq. km.

• First identified in Japan in 1935.

• Since then, detected in Norway, China, USA (east coast), English Channel, and Australia.

• March 2025 marks the largest bloom in South Australia to date, spanning 4,400 sq. km.

• Recent 2025 Bloom:

• Coastline of South Australia, affecting: Kangaroo Island, Fleurieu Peninsula, and Yorke Peninsula

• Key Features:

• Appears as discoloured, foamy water during warmer months. Produces toxins (like gymnocin A & B) with low known toxicity but causes large-scale deaths. Creates oxygen-depleted (anoxic) zones and blocks fish gills. Affects marine life directly through contact and indirectly through water chemistry alteration. Associated with skin irritation, breathing issues, sore eyes in humans near affected beaches.

• Appears as discoloured, foamy water during warmer months.

• Produces toxins (like gymnocin A & B) with low known toxicity but causes large-scale deaths.

• Creates oxygen-depleted (anoxic) zones and blocks fish gills.

• Affects marine life directly through contact and indirectly through water chemistry alteration.

• Associated with skin irritation, breathing issues, sore eyes in humans near affected beaches.

• Impacts:

• Marine Life Deaths: Over 200 species, including sharks, rays, octopuses, and crabs perished. Ecological Damage: Long-term damage to coastal food chains and biodiversity. Economic Disruption: Affects fisheries, tourism, and local livelihoods. Public Health Risk: Causes respiratory and skin problems in beachgoers. Climate Linkage: Triggered by marine heatwaves, intensified by climate change and calm sea conditions.

• Marine Life Deaths: Over 200 species, including sharks, rays, octopuses, and crabs perished.

• Ecological Damage: Long-term damage to coastal food chains and biodiversity.

• Economic Disruption: Affects fisheries, tourism, and local livelihoods.

• Public Health Risk: Causes respiratory and skin problems in beachgoers.

• Climate Linkage: Triggered by marine heatwaves, intensified by climate change and calm sea conditions.

Nanoporous Multi-Layered Polymeric Membrane

Source: DD News

Context: DRDO has successfully developed a high-pressure nanoporous multi-layered polymeric membrane for seawater desalination in just eight months.

About Nanoporous Multi-Layered Polymeric Membrane:

• What it is?

• A high-performance filtration membrane designed to purify seawater by filtering out salts and contaminants using nanoporous polymer layers.

• Developed by: Defence Materials Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE), Kanpur – a premier DRDO lab – in collaboration with the Indian Coast Guard.

• Key Features:

• Nanoporous layers: Enable efficient separation of salts and fine impurities. Multi-layered structure: Increases durability against high salinity and chloride ion degradation. High-pressure resistance: Suitable for harsh marine environments. Quick development: Completed in a record 8 months. Field-tested: Successfully trialed on an Offshore Patrolling Vessel (OPV) with further 500-hour operational tests underway. Scalable: Adaptable for civilian use with minimal modifications

• Nanoporous layers: Enable efficient separation of salts and fine impurities.

• Multi-layered structure: Increases durability against high salinity and chloride ion degradation.

• High-pressure resistance: Suitable for harsh marine environments.

• Quick development: Completed in a record 8 months.

• Field-tested: Successfully trialed on an Offshore Patrolling Vessel (OPV) with further 500-hour operational tests underway.

• Scalable: Adaptable for civilian use with minimal modifications

About Desalination Process:

• What it is?

• Desalination is the process of removing dissolved salts and minerals from saline or seawater to produce freshwater for drinking or agriculture.

• How it Works?

Major techniques include:

• Reverse Osmosis: Most widely used; uses semipermeable membranes to filter out salt; energy-efficient but prone to bacterial contamination.

• Solar Distillation: Mimics the natural water cycle; environmentally friendly but requires large land areas.

• Nanofiltration: Uses nanotube membranes with high permeability; removes salts and trace pollutants with lower energy use.

• Electrodialysis: Moves salts through electrically charged membranes; effective especially for brackish water treatment.

• Gas Hydrate Formation: Forms solid hydrates by combining gas with seawater; as temperature rises, gas is released, leaving purified water behind.

• Limitations of Desalination:

• High Energy Demand: Especially for heating/pressurizing water. Brine Disposal: Produces concentrated brine waste harmful to marine ecosystems. Cost Issues: Expensive infrastructure and operation, unaffordable for many low-income regions. Environmental Impact: Risk of aquifer contamination and marine pollution. Solution Pathways: Use of renewables, biotech (e.g., cyanobacteria), and brine reuse in energy or metal recovery can improve sustainability.

• High Energy Demand: Especially for heating/pressurizing water.

• Brine Disposal: Produces concentrated brine waste harmful to marine ecosystems.

• Cost Issues: Expensive infrastructure and operation, unaffordable for many low-income regions.

• Environmental Impact: Risk of aquifer contamination and marine pollution.

• Solution Pathways: Use of renewables, biotech (e.g., cyanobacteria), and brine reuse in energy or metal recovery can improve sustainability.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May 2025 Mapping:

Mahadayi River

Source: TH

Context: A new scientific paper by CSIR-NIO and INCOIS claims that Karnataka’s diversion of Mahadayi River will have limited ecological impact on Goa, sparking protests by local groups in Goa.

About Mahadayi River:

• What it is? Mahadayi (also called Mandovi or Mhadei) is a rain-fed interstate river known as Goa’s lifeline, vital for drinking water, agriculture, biodiversity, and economy.

• Origin: Originates in the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, Belagavi district, Karnataka.

• States it flows through: Flows through Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Goa. Total length: 111 km — 35 km in Karnataka, 1 km in Maharashtra, 76 km in Goa.

• Flows through Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Goa.

• Total length: 111 km — 35 km in Karnataka, 1 km in Maharashtra, 76 km in Goa.

• Tributaries: Major tributaries: Kalasa, Banduri, Mapusa, Ragada, Nanuz, Valvoti, Nerul, St. Inez Creek, Dudhsagar, Kotrachi Nadi, Rio de Ourém. The Cumbarjua Canal links Mahadayi and Zuari rivers.

• Major tributaries: Kalasa, Banduri, Mapusa, Ragada, Nanuz, Valvoti, Nerul, St. Inez Creek, Dudhsagar, Kotrachi Nadi, Rio de Ourém.

• The Cumbarjua Canal links Mahadayi and Zuari rivers.

• Mouth: Empties into the Arabian Sea at Panaji, Goa, near Mormugao Harbour.

• Features of the River: Known for Dudhsagar Falls, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorão Island. Supports navigation, iron ore mining transport, and tourism (Mandovi cruises). Hosts three parallel bridges including the Atal Setu, Goa’s tallest bridge. Catchment area: 2,032 km² (Goa – 1,580; Karnataka – 375; Maharashtra – 77).

• Known for Dudhsagar Falls, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorão Island.

• Supports navigation, iron ore mining transport, and tourism (Mandovi cruises).

• Hosts three parallel bridges including the Atal Setu, Goa’s tallest bridge.

• Catchment area: 2,032 km² (Goa – 1,580; Karnataka – 375; Maharashtra – 77).

• What is the Dispute? Karnataka seeks to divert Mahadayi water for drinking needs in drought-prone districts (Belagavi, Dharwad, Bagalkot, Gadag). Goa opposes it, citing ecological harm to its wildlife sanctuaries and dependence on the river. The issue led to the formation of Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal (MWDT) under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act.

• Karnataka seeks to divert Mahadayi water for drinking needs in drought-prone districts (Belagavi, Dharwad, Bagalkot, Gadag).

• Goa opposes it, citing ecological harm to its wildlife sanctuaries and dependence on the river.

• The issue led to the formation of Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal (MWDT) under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act.

• About Kalasa-Banduri Project: A Karnataka-proposed project from the 1980s to divert water from Mahadayi (Kalasa & Banduri tributaries) to the Malaprabha basin (Krishna River system). Aims to meet drinking water demands in northern Karnataka.

• A Karnataka-proposed project from the 1980s to divert water from Mahadayi (Kalasa & Banduri tributaries) to the Malaprabha basin (Krishna River system).

• Aims to meet drinking water demands in northern Karnataka.

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Table of Contents

GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May (2025)

Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021

Right to Digital Access

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

India’s 3-Pillar Doctrine

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

Exercise Teesta Prahar

Indian Yak

Supreme Court’s Advisory Jurisdiction

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU)

South Australia Algal Bloom

Nanoporous Multi-Layered Polymeric Membrane

Mapping:

Mahadayi River

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 May 2025

Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021

Right to Digital Access

India’s 3-Pillar Doctrine

Exercise Teesta Prahar

Indian Yak

Supreme Court’s Advisory Jurisdiction

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU)

South Australia Algal Bloom

Nanoporous Multi-Layered Polymeric Membrane

Mahadayi River