UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April 2025

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April 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 – 3 April (2025)

• The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

GS Paper 3:

• Labour Reforms for Viksit Bharat

Labour Reforms for Viksit Bharat

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

• Antibiotic Usage in Livestock

Antibiotic Usage in Livestock

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

• Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMISP) Policy – 2025

Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMISP) Policy – 2025

• Devaraya I of Sangama Dynasty

Devaraya I of Sangama Dynasty

• Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

• Cape Town Convention

Cape Town Convention

• Green Credit Programme

Green Credit Programme

• Bioluminescent Bloom

Bioluminescent Bloom

Mapping:

• North Sentinel Island

North Sentinel Island

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April 2025

#### GS Paper 2 :

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

Syllabus: Minority Governance

Source: TH

Context: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was tabled in the Lok Sabha amid opposition protests, introducing sweeping changes to the Waqf Act, 1995 based on JPC recommendations.

• It seeks to overhaul the governance, registration, dispute resolution, and transparency of Waqf properties across India.

Key Features of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

• Retention of ‘Waqf by User’: Protects religious properties established through customary usage before the enactment of the new law, unless disputed.

E.g., Mosques established through long-term communal use remain protected.

• Inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Institutions: Non-Muslims can be members of Central and State Waqf Boards and tribunals to promote transparency and administrative expertise.

E.g., 2 out of 22 members in Central Waqf Council may be non-Muslims.

• Digital Registration Portal: Mandates all waqf properties to be registered via a centralised online portal within 6 months, extendable by waqf tribunals.

E.g., Automates property updates and ensures public accessibility.

• New Tribunal Composition: Each waqf tribunal will include a district judge, a Joint Secretary-level officer, and a Muslim law expert, replacing the older two-member body.

E.g. Ensures better legal, administrative, and religious balance.

• Application of Limitation Act: Repeals Section 107 to apply the Limitation Act, 1963, enabling adverse possession claims after 12 years of unlawful occupancy.

E.g., Long-term encroachments can now claim ownership, risking waqf loss.

Major Issues Surrounding the Waqf Bill

• Alleged Religious Targeting: Critics claim the bill targets Muslim-managed properties by applying rules exclusive to one religion.

E.g., PIL in Delhi HC challenges constitutional validity of Waqf Act.

• Exclusion of New Converts: Only Muslims with five years of practice can dedicate property to waqf, excluding recent converts unfairly.

E.g., May contradict Article 25 (freedom of religion).

• Encroachment Legitimisation: Applying the Limitation Act could enable illegal occupants to claim waqf lands legally.

E.g., Properties encroached for over 12 years may now be lost.

• Reduction in Judicial Oversight: Replacing waqf tribunals with state officers as arbiters may compromise fairness and community rights.

E.g., Officers may favour state claims over waqf protection.

• Removal of Section 40: While preventing misuse, this also restricts Waqf Boards from identifying undocumented waqf properties, risking loss of heritage assets.

Need for the Waqf Bill

• Improving Transparency: Digitised records and audit reforms ensure accountability and reduction in property misuse.

E.g., 515 waqf properties declared under misused Section 40.

• Regulating Property Management: Addresses irregularities in property registration, survey, and ownership disputes.

E.g., Survey pending in several states like Gujarat, Uttarakhand.

• Preventing Misuse of Waqf Law: Ensures state-level checks on arbitrary waqf claims that create communal and legal tensions.

E.g., Delhi’s 123 properties transferred under UPA scrutinised.

• Benefit for the Poor: More efficient waqf governance will enhance funding for education, healthcare, and housing for the underprivileged.

E.g., Reduced board fees (from 7% to 5%) will aid welfare.

• Clarifying Legal Disputes: Tribunals with legal and religious experts, plus judicial appeal rights to High Courts, restore checks and balances.

Conclusion:

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 aims to streamline waqf property governance through digitisation, transparency, and legal clarity. While it promises reforms and safeguards, concerns remain about religious autonomy and property rights. Balanced implementation and stakeholder engagement are essential to ensure inclusive and just outcomes.

• How is the Indian concept of secularism different from the western model of secularism? Discuss. (UPSC-2018)

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April 2025 GS Paper 3:

Labour Reforms for Viksit Bharat

Syllabus: Economy

Source: IE

Context: India faces a jobs deficit with only 6 crore formal jobs created for 9 crore new working-age citizens since 2017-18. Rapid automation and capital-heavy growth threaten employment, needing urgent reforms for Viksit Bharat.

Importance of Labour Force for Viksit Bharat:

• Demographic Dividend: With 65% of India’s population under 35, providing productive employment is key to long-term growth.

Ex.: China leveraged youth power via labour-intensive manufacturing from 1990–2010.

• Structural Transformation: Transition from agriculture to high-value sectors like IT and pharma requires a skilled workforce.

Ex.: These sectors contribute 8% to GDP but employ only 5% of the workforce.

• Inclusive Growth: Formal employment helps reduce poverty and income gaps by raising consumption.

Ex.: MGNREGA boosted rural wages but lacks skilling for sustainable upliftment.

• Global Competitiveness: Low-cost labour enhances India’s attractiveness for FDI in export-oriented sectors.

Ex.: Vietnam’s textile boom was driven by wage competitiveness.

• Social Stability: Joblessness can lead to social unrest and migration crises.

Ex.: 2020 lockdown saw mass distress among unemployed migrant workers.

Challenges Faced by India’s Labour Force – Explained

• Skill Deficit: Only 10% of the workforce has formal vocational training, limiting employability.

Ex.: PLI in electronics faces hiring issues due to unskilled labour shortages.

• Capital-Intensive Growth: Automation and AI are reducing demand for low-skilled, repetitive jobs.

Ex.: 30% manual textile jobs lost to robotics (ICRA, 2024).

• Informalization: 90% workforce remains informal, without social protection or legal safeguards.

Ex.: Gig workers lack EPFO, health or insurance coverage.

• Regulatory Hurdles: Rigid labour laws deter mass-scale hiring by small and medium enterprises.

Ex.: Post-reform Rajasthan saw a 25% rise in MSME registration.

• Wage Stagnation: Real wage growth remains sluggish at just 2% annually (ILO 2012–2022).

Ex.: This reduces income-led demand and impacts consumption-driven growth.

Balancing Labour & Capital for Viksit Bharat:

• PLI-ELI Synergy: Link production incentives with employer incentives for hiring trained workers.

Ex.: Drone firms rewarded for hiring ELI-certified youth.

• Graded Skill Subsidies: Offer higher EPFO subsidies for firms employing skilled youth in niche sectors.

Ex.: Germany’s dual system blends industry training with formal education.

• Labour Reforms: Enable flexible hiring and fixed-term contracts to boost employment elasticity.

Ex.: Gujarat’s fixed-term policy encouraged formal job creation.

• ITI Revamp: Align ITI curriculum with market demands and tech advancements.

Ex.: Toyota’s JIM model integrates auto-sector skill training.

• R&D in Labour-Intensive Sectors: Promote AI-complementary employment in sustainable and traditional sectors.

Ex.: India’s solar energy sector added 3 lakh jobs over 5 years.

Conclusion:

To realize Viksit Bharat, India must balance skill development with capital investment to create a tech-ready workforce. Flexible labour reforms should formalize jobs while maintaining worker protections. Data-driven policies like NSDC-NSO partnerships can align training with industry needs for sustainable employment growth.

• Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements. (UPSC-2023)

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

Antibiotic Usage in Livestock

Context: A new FAO study published in Nature Communications projects that global antibiotic use in livestock could rise by 30% by 2040 under a business-as-usual scenario.

About Antibiotic Usage in Livestock:

• What is it? Antibiotic usage in livestock refers to the administration of antimicrobial drugs to farm animals for disease prevention, treatment, and growth promotion.

• Antibiotic usage in livestock refers to the administration of antimicrobial drugs to farm animals for disease prevention, treatment, and growth promotion.

• Why are Antibiotics Used?

• Preventative care: To stop disease outbreaks in intensive farming. Therapeutic treatment: To cure infections. Growth promotion: In some countries, sub-therapeutic doses are used to enhance weight gain and feed efficiency.

• Preventative care: To stop disease outbreaks in intensive farming.

• Therapeutic treatment: To cure infections.

• Growth promotion: In some countries, sub-therapeutic doses are used to enhance weight gain and feed efficiency.

• Concerns and Impacts:

• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Overuse leads to the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens, affecting human and animal health. Environmental impact: Antibiotics excreted by animals pollute soil and water ecosystems. Food safety risk: Residues may enter the human food chain if withdrawal periods aren’t observed.

• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Overuse leads to the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens, affecting human and animal health.

• Environmental impact: Antibiotics excreted by animals pollute soil and water ecosystems.

• Food safety risk: Residues may enter the human food chain if withdrawal periods aren’t observed.

• Global and National Initiatives to Counter Overuse FAO’s RENO FARM Initiative (2024)

• FAO’s RENO FARM Initiative (2024)

• Aims to reduce antibiotic dependence on farms. Provides policy support, technical training, and sustainable livestock strategies.

• Aims to reduce antibiotic dependence on farms.

• Provides policy support, technical training, and sustainable livestock strategies.

• UN AMR Declaration (2024): Global commitment to cut antimicrobial use in agrifood systems by 2030.

• India’s National Action Plan on AMR (2017–2021, extended): Promotes surveillance, regulation, and awareness around antimicrobial use in livestock.

Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:

• GS Paper 2 – Governance & Health

• Government policies on public health and international commitments on AMR.

• GS Paper 3 – Environment, Agriculture & Biodiversity

• Sustainable agricultural practices, food security, and climate-resilient livestock systems.

• Essay & Ethics

• Ethical concerns around animal welfare, public health, and environmental responsibility in food systems.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMISP) Policy – 2025

Source: BL

Context: The Centre has unveiled the Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMISP) Policy – 2025 to curb rising steel imports and promote self-reliance.

• It mandates exclusive use of Indian steel in government procurement, with a reciprocal clause targeting non-reciprocating nations like China.

About Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMISP) Policy – 2025:

• What is the Policy? A revised procurement framework by the Government of India, prioritising Indian-made steel for public sector contracts and infrastructure projects to boost local industry and reduce dependence on imports.

• A revised procurement framework by the Government of India, prioritising Indian-made steel for public sector contracts and infrastructure projects to boost local industry and reduce dependence on imports.

• Ministry Responsible: Ministry of Steel

• Objectives of the Policy

• Promote Atmanirbhar Bharat: Ensure self-reliance in steel by encouraging domestic production and procurement. Curb Surging Imports: Tackle rising imports threatening Indian steel mills. Protect Indian Industry: Shield Indian manufacturers from foreign competition in government contracts. Enhance Domestic Value Addition: Ensure capital goods used in steel manufacturing are locally sourced.

• Promote Atmanirbhar Bharat: Ensure self-reliance in steel by encouraging domestic production and procurement.

• Curb Surging Imports: Tackle rising imports threatening Indian steel mills.

• Protect Indian Industry: Shield Indian manufacturers from foreign competition in government contracts.

• Enhance Domestic Value Addition: Ensure capital goods used in steel manufacturing are locally sourced.

• Key Features of DMISP Policy – 2025: Mandatory Indian Steel Usage:

• Mandatory Indian Steel Usage:

• Applicable to all government ministries, PSUs, trusts, and statutory bodies. Covers flat-rolled steel, rods, bars, rails, etc. Steel must meet the ‘Melt & Pour’ condition – i.e., melted and solidified in India.

• Applicable to all government ministries, PSUs, trusts, and statutory bodies.

• Covers flat-rolled steel, rods, bars, rails, etc.

• Steel must meet the ‘Melt & Pour’ condition – i.e., melted and solidified in India.

• Reciprocal Clause:

• Countries that bar Indian firms from public procurement are denied access to Indian government tenders (e.g., China, targeted specifically). Ministry approval is mandatory for exceptions.

• Countries that bar Indian firms from public procurement are denied access to Indian government tenders (e.g., China, targeted specifically).

• Ministry approval is mandatory for exceptions.

• Ban on Global Tenders:

• No Global Tender Enquiries (GTEs) for iron & steel products. GTEs for capital goods only allowed above ₹200 crore with prior clearance.

• No Global Tender Enquiries (GTEs) for iron & steel products.

• GTEs for capital goods only allowed above ₹200 crore with prior clearance.

• Domestic Value Addition Mandate:

• Capital goods (like furnaces, rolling mills) must have at least 50% local value addition. Certified by statutory or cost auditors for authenticity.

• Capital goods (like furnaces, rolling mills) must have at least 50% local value addition.

• Certified by statutory or cost auditors for authenticity.

• Procurement Thresholds:

• Applies to all contracts above ₹5 lakh, including centrally funded and state-executed schemes.

• Monitoring & Compliance:

• A Standing Committee headed by the Secretary (Steel) to oversee the compliance checks, grievance redressal and granting exemptions (only if local supply is inadequate)

• Penalties for False Declarations:

• False self-certification may lead to Blacklisting and Forfeiture of earnest money deposits.

Devaraya I of Sangama Dynasty

Source: TH

Context: Rare copper plates dated 1406 CE, documenting the coronation of Devaraya I of Sangama Dynasty (Vijayanagara Empire), were unveiled in Bengaluru by Falcon Coins Gallery and ASI.

About Devaraya I of Sangama Dynasty: (1406–1422 CE)

• Devaraya I was one of the most notable rulers of the Sangama Dynasty, known for expanding the Vijayanagara Empire and strengthening its administrative base.

• Key Features of His Reign:

• Ascension and Civil War: Gained the throne after a power struggle post-Harihara II’s death.

• Military Expansion: Led campaigns into Tamil Nadu, Konkan, and Tondaimandalam, securing borders against the Bahmani Sultanate.

• Irrigation and Infrastructure: Built canals and tanks to improve agriculture; supported public works.

• Cultural Encouragement: Patronized literature and trade, strengthening ties with Arab and Chinese merchants.

• Historic Copper Plate: The newly unveiled plate confirms his exact coronation date and a grant to Brahmins at Devarāyapura Agrahāra.

About the Sangama Dynasty:

• The Sangama Dynasty was the founding royal house of the Vijayanagara Empire, reigning from 1336 to 1485 CE.

• Founded by: Harihara I and Bukka Raya I

• Year of Origin: 1336 CE

• Capital: Vijayanagara (present-day Hampi)

• Major Kings:

• Harihara I (1336–1356 CE) – Founder, established fort at Barkuru.

• Bukka Raya I (1356–1377 CE) – Expanded empire, known for religious patronage.

• Harihara II (1377–1406 CE) – Extended territory into Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra.

• Devaraya I (1406–1422 CE) – Known for administrative strength and military success.

• Devaraya II (1425–1446 CE) – Peak of Sangama rule, patron of arts and foreign trade.

• Key Contributions:

• Strong Central Administration: Divided empire into Nadu and Sime

• Military Strength: Constant resistance against Bahmani Sultanate and Gajapati rulers.

• Cultural Flourishing: Promoted Kannada and Telugu literature, art, and temple construction.

• Religious Tolerance: Supported Hindu, Jain, and Islamic scholars and institutions.

• Trade and Economy: Boosted internal agriculture and foreign trade with Arabs and Chinese.

Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

Source: News on Air

Context: Over 1 million manpower resources were hired through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) in FY 2024–25, marking a major milestone in digital public procurement.

About Government e-Marketplace (GeM):

• What is GeM? Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is a paperless, cashless, and contactless online procurement platform used by Government Departments, PSUs, and ministries to acquire goods and services transparently and efficiently.

• Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is a paperless, cashless, and contactless online procurement platform used by Government Departments, PSUs, and ministries to acquire goods and services transparently and efficiently.

• Launched in: 2016

• Under Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

• Developed by: Directorate General of Supplies & Disposals (DGS&D) with support from National e-Governance Division (MeitY)

• Legal Mandate: Authorized under Rule 149 of General Financial Rules (GFR), 2017

• Governing Notification: Included under the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961

• Core Objectives:

• Enhance transparency and efficiency in public procurement. Speed up procurement cycles using digital tools. Achieve value for money through competitive bidding. Promote ease of doing business with simplified, system-driven transactions.

• Enhance transparency and efficiency in public procurement.

• Speed up procurement cycles using digital tools.

• Achieve value for money through competitive bidding.

• Promote ease of doing business with simplified, system-driven transactions.

• Key Features of GeM: Comprehensive Digital Platform:

• Comprehensive Digital Platform:

• Offers over 33,000 services including manpower hiring. Functions as a one-stop procurement portal for government bodies.

• Offers over 33,000 services including manpower hiring.

• Functions as a one-stop procurement portal for government bodies.

• E-Procurement Tools:

• E-bidding, reverse auctions, and demand aggregation to ensure competitive pricing. Reduces human interface, minimizing corruption and delays.

• E-bidding, reverse auctions, and demand aggregation to ensure competitive pricing.

• Reduces human interface, minimizing corruption and delays.

• Inclusive and Diverse Vendor Base: Empowers MSMEs, startups, SHGs, women entrepreneurs, and tribal artisans via dedicated storefronts.

• Innovation and Customization:

• Bamboo Market Window launched in collaboration with National Bamboo Mission. Country of Origin tag mandatory to promote Make in India.

• Bamboo Market Window launched in collaboration with National Bamboo Mission.

• Country of Origin tag mandatory to promote Make in India.

• Labour Compliance & Service Level Agreements: Especially for manpower outsourcing services, ensures strict compliance through SLAs, promoting fair labour practices.

Cape Town Convention

Source: IE

Context: The Rajya Sabha passed the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025, giving legislative force to the Cape Town Convention to promote aircraft leasing in India.

About Cape Town Convention:

• What is it? An international treaty adopted in 2001, the Cape Town Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment and its Aircraft Protocol establish uniform legal rules for asset-based financing and leasing of aircraft, helicopters, and engines.

• An international treaty adopted in 2001, the Cape Town Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment and its Aircraft Protocol establish uniform legal rules for asset-based financing and leasing of aircraft, helicopters, and engines.

• Objective:

• Protect lessors and creditors by ensuring legal remedies in cases of default. Streamline international aviation leasing by reducing cross-border legal complexities.

• Protect lessors and creditors by ensuring legal remedies in cases of default.

• Streamline international aviation leasing by reducing cross-border legal complexities.

• Key Features:

• Standardized Legal Framework: Covers leasing, security interests, and conditional sales of aircraft equipment. Creditor Protection: Grants creditors rights to repossess and deregister aircraft swiftly if lessees’ default. Global Registry System: Establishes a centralized international registry of ownership and interests. Enforceability Across Jurisdictions: Makes cross-border aircraft leasing legally safer and more predictable.

• Standardized Legal Framework: Covers leasing, security interests, and conditional sales of aircraft equipment.

• Creditor Protection: Grants creditors rights to repossess and deregister aircraft swiftly if lessees’ default.

• Global Registry System: Establishes a centralized international registry of ownership and interests.

• Enforceability Across Jurisdictions: Makes cross-border aircraft leasing legally safer and more predictable.

About Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025:

• What is it? A bill passed by the Indian Parliament to implement the Cape Town Convention and Aircraft Protocol into domestic law and strengthen India’s aircraft leasing framework.

• A bill passed by the Indian Parliament to implement the Cape Town Convention and Aircraft Protocol into domestic law and strengthen India’s aircraft leasing framework.

• Objective:

• Provide legal clarity to aircraft leasing transactions. Reduce aircraft leasing costs by aligning with international norms. Position India as a global hub for aviation leasing and financing.

• Provide legal clarity to aircraft leasing transactions.

• Reduce aircraft leasing costs by aligning with international norms.

• Position India as a global hub for aviation leasing and financing.

• Key Provisions of the Bill:

• Legal Enforceability: Grants full legal force to the Cape Town Convention and Protocol in India. Creditor Remedies in Defaults: Enables creditors/lessors to repossess aircraft within 2 months of default or as per agreed terms. DGCA as Domestic Registry: Makes DGCA responsible for maintaining a registry of aircraft interests and dues. Mandatory Reporting: Airlines and lessors must periodically update DGCA on dues and leasing activities to ensure transparency. Boost to Leasing Sector: The Bill may cut leasing costs by 8–10%, attracting global investors and making airfares more affordable.

• Legal Enforceability: Grants full legal force to the Cape Town Convention and Protocol in India.

• Creditor Remedies in Defaults: Enables creditors/lessors to repossess aircraft within 2 months of default or as per agreed terms.

• DGCA as Domestic Registry: Makes DGCA responsible for maintaining a registry of aircraft interests and dues.

• Mandatory Reporting: Airlines and lessors must periodically update DGCA on dues and leasing activities to ensure transparency.

• Boost to Leasing Sector: The Bill may cut leasing costs by 8–10%, attracting global investors and making airfares more affordable.

Green Credit Programme

Source: IE

Context: The Green Credit Programme (GCP), launched in 2023, faces criticism for potentially incentivizing forest diversion and promoting plantations on ecologically sensitive lands.

About Green Credit Programme (GCP):

• Launched in: October 2023 (notified under Green Credit Rules)

• Officially unveiled: At COP28 (2023) by Prime Minister of India and UAE President

• Implementing Agency: Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun

• Aim of GCP:

• Incentivize voluntary environmental actions (afforestation, water conservation, waste management) through tradable green credits. Support Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) by encouraging eco-friendly practices. Allow industries/entities to use credits for compensatory afforestation and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance.

• Incentivize voluntary environmental actions (afforestation, water conservation, waste management) through tradable green credits.

• Support Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) by encouraging eco-friendly practices.

• Allow industries/entities to use credits for compensatory afforestation and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance.

• Key Features: Voluntary Participation: Open to individuals, corporates, and PSUs, allowing diverse stakeholders to contribute to environmental sustainability initiatives. Participation is non-mandatory, encouraging proactive ecological investment aligned with Mission LiFE. Seven Activities Covered: These include tree plantation, water conservation, sustainable farming, waste management, air quality improvement, mangrove protection, and eco-restoration. Tradable Credits: Participants earn green credits for verified eco-actions, which are marketable on a domestic platform. Compliance Use: Credits can be used to fulfill compensatory afforestation obligations under the Forest Conservation Act, 2023 (Van Adhiniyam). They can also help meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments under SEBI norms. How it works: Registration: Interested entities must apply and register with the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). ICFRE acts as the nodal authority for verifying and processing green credit applications. Land Allocation: State forest departments allocate degraded land parcels of at least 5 hectares for green activities. Plantation Drive: After allotment, forest departments execute and maintain plantation efforts using the funds provided. The activity must be completed within two years of approval and payment. Credit Generation: One grown tree equals one green credit, with a minimum density of 1,100 trees per hectare. Credits are validated based on local silvi-climatic suitability and verified by the department. Trading: Generated green credits can be traded on a domestic market to industries and organisations.

• Voluntary Participation: Open to individuals, corporates, and PSUs, allowing diverse stakeholders to contribute to environmental sustainability initiatives. Participation is non-mandatory, encouraging proactive ecological investment aligned with Mission LiFE.

• Participation is non-mandatory, encouraging proactive ecological investment aligned with Mission LiFE.

• Seven Activities Covered: These include tree plantation, water conservation, sustainable farming, waste management, air quality improvement, mangrove protection, and eco-restoration.

• Tradable Credits: Participants earn green credits for verified eco-actions, which are marketable on a domestic platform.

• Compliance Use: Credits can be used to fulfill compensatory afforestation obligations under the Forest Conservation Act, 2023 (Van Adhiniyam). They can also help meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments under SEBI norms.

• They can also help meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments under SEBI norms.

• How it works: Registration: Interested entities must apply and register with the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). ICFRE acts as the nodal authority for verifying and processing green credit applications. Land Allocation: State forest departments allocate degraded land parcels of at least 5 hectares for green activities. Plantation Drive: After allotment, forest departments execute and maintain plantation efforts using the funds provided. The activity must be completed within two years of approval and payment. Credit Generation: One grown tree equals one green credit, with a minimum density of 1,100 trees per hectare. Credits are validated based on local silvi-climatic suitability and verified by the department. Trading: Generated green credits can be traded on a domestic market to industries and organisations.

• Registration: Interested entities must apply and register with the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). ICFRE acts as the nodal authority for verifying and processing green credit applications.

• ICFRE acts as the nodal authority for verifying and processing green credit applications.

• Land Allocation: State forest departments allocate degraded land parcels of at least 5 hectares for green activities.

• Plantation Drive: After allotment, forest departments execute and maintain plantation efforts using the funds provided. The activity must be completed within two years of approval and payment.

• The activity must be completed within two years of approval and payment.

• Credit Generation: One grown tree equals one green credit, with a minimum density of 1,100 trees per hectare. Credits are validated based on local silvi-climatic suitability and verified by the department.

• Credits are validated based on local silvi-climatic suitability and verified by the department.

• Trading: Generated green credits can be traded on a domestic market to industries and organisations.

Bioluminescent Bloom

Source: DTE

Context: The bioluminescent bloom in Kochi’s backwaters, while visually stunning, has raised ecological and economic concerns due to its harmful effects on marine life and local fishing communities.

About Bioluminescent Bloom:

• What is it? A natural light-emitting phenomenon (locally known as kavaru) in marine and brackish waters caused by microscopic organisms that produce a glowing effect when disturbed.

• A natural light-emitting phenomenon (locally known as kavaru) in marine and brackish waters caused by microscopic organisms that produce a glowing effect when disturbed.

• Organisms Responsible:

• The most common bioluminescent organism is Noctiluca scintillans, also known as sea sparkle. Other contributors include dinoflagellates, fungi, and bioluminescent bacteria.

• The most common bioluminescent organism is Noctiluca scintillans, also known as sea sparkle.

• Other contributors include dinoflagellates, fungi, and bioluminescent bacteria.

• Where is it Found?

• Common in coastal and estuarine zones with high nutrient loads. Majorly found in Thiruvanmiyur Beach (Chennai), Juhu Beach (Mumbai), Bangaram Island (Lakshadweep), and Betalbatim Beach (Goa), raising ecological concerns.

• Common in coastal and estuarine zones with high nutrient loads.

• Majorly found in Thiruvanmiyur Beach (Chennai), Juhu Beach (Mumbai), Bangaram Island (Lakshadweep), and Betalbatim Beach (Goa), raising ecological concerns.

• Why Does it Occur?

• Triggered by eutrophication—excessive nutrients (nitrates, phosphates) in water from industrial waste, sewage, and fertilizer runoff. Conditions like high salinity, warm temperatures, and turbidity accelerate blooms.

• Triggered by eutrophication—excessive nutrients (nitrates, phosphates) in water from industrial waste, sewage, and fertilizer runoff.

• Conditions like high salinity, warm temperatures, and turbidity accelerate blooms.

• Ecological & Economic Impact: Marine Ecosystem Disruption: Bioluminescent blooms lead to Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), causing hypoxia, fish mortality, and severe biodiversity loss. Toxin Release: The blooms emit neurotoxins, hepatotoxins, and dermatoxins, endangering marine life and posing health risks to fishers and consumers. Aquaculture Losses: Oxygen depletion and toxic buildup disrupt fish migration and damage fish farms, reducing productivity. Livelihood & Export Impact: Declining fish catches and toxin-contaminated seafood affect local incomes and diminish export market value.

• Marine Ecosystem Disruption: Bioluminescent blooms lead to Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), causing hypoxia, fish mortality, and severe biodiversity loss.

• Toxin Release: The blooms emit neurotoxins, hepatotoxins, and dermatoxins, endangering marine life and posing health risks to fishers and consumers.

• Aquaculture Losses: Oxygen depletion and toxic buildup disrupt fish migration and damage fish farms, reducing productivity.

• Livelihood & Export Impact: Declining fish catches and toxin-contaminated seafood affect local incomes and diminish export market value.

#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April 2025 Mapping:

North Sentinel Island

Source: IT

Context: A 24-year-old U.S. citizen, was arrested for illegally entering the restricted tribal zone of North Sentinel Island, a protected territory in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

About North Sentinel Island:

• Location:

• Located in the Bay of Bengal, part of the South Andaman administrative district Lies about 50 km west of Port Blair, covering an area of ~60 sq. km

• Located in the Bay of Bengal, part of the South Andaman administrative district

• Lies about 50 km west of Port Blair, covering an area of ~60 sq. km

• Key Geographic Features:

• Surrounded by coral reefs and lacks natural harbours. Enclosed by white-sand beaches, mangroves, and dense tropical forests Uplifted by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake, expanding land mass due to exposed reefs

• Surrounded by coral reefs and lacks natural harbours.

• Enclosed by white-sand beaches, mangroves, and dense tropical forests

• Uplifted by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake, expanding land mass due to exposed reefs

• Flora and Fauna:

• Vegetation: Dense forests with species like Malabar silk cotton and bulletwood trees. Wildlife: Includes Indian wild boar, coconut crabs, sea turtles, sharks, and diverse birdlife.

• Vegetation: Dense forests with species like Malabar silk cotton and bulletwood trees.

• Wildlife: Includes Indian wild boar, coconut crabs, sea turtles, sharks, and diverse birdlife.

• Indigenous Inhabitants – The Sentinelese:

• Known for hostility towards outsiders, they reject any contact with the outside world Likely to be descendants of the first human migrations out of Africa Dependent on hunting, fishing, and gathering; use bows, arrows, and spears Culture, language, and population estimates remain unknown and unstudied

• Known for hostility towards outsiders, they reject any contact with the outside world

• Likely to be descendants of the first human migrations out of Africa

• Dependent on hunting, fishing, and gathering; use bows, arrows, and spears

• Culture, language, and population estimates remain unknown and unstudied

• Historical Encounters:

• Maurice Vidal Portman’s expeditions forcibly brought natives to Port Blair, resulting in deaths due to lack of immunity

• Governance of Island: Andaman & Nicobar (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956: Prohibits entrywithin 5 nautical miles (9 km). No prosecutionof Sentinelese for hostile acts (self-defence). Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Removed in 2018, but contact remains banned. Indian Navy patrolsthe island.

• Andaman & Nicobar (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956: Prohibits entrywithin 5 nautical miles (9 km). No prosecutionof Sentinelese for hostile acts (self-defence).

• Prohibits entrywithin 5 nautical miles (9 km).

• No prosecutionof Sentinelese for hostile acts (self-defence).

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Removed in 2018, but contact remains banned. Indian Navy patrolsthe island.

• Indian Navy patrolsthe island.

Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary 3 Apr 2025

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Table of Contents

GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April (2025)

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

GS Paper 3:

Labour Reforms for Viksit Bharat

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

Antibiotic Usage in Livestock

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMISP) Policy – 2025

Devaraya I of Sangama Dynasty

Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

Cape Town Convention

Green Credit Programme

Bioluminescent Bloom

Mapping:

North Sentinel Island

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 3 April 2025

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

Labour Reforms for Viksit Bharat

Antibiotic Usage in Livestock

Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMISP) Policy – 2025

Devaraya I of Sangama Dynasty

Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

Cape Town Convention

Green Credit Programme

Bioluminescent Bloom

North Sentinel Island