UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 7 May 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 7 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.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 7 May (2025)
• India’s Legal and Ethical Battle Against Digital Misinformation
India’s Legal and Ethical Battle Against Digital Misinformation
GS Paper 2 & 3:
• India–U.K. Free Trade Agreement
India–U.K. Free Trade Agreement
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• ABC Rules
ABC Rules
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor
• India Inland Waterway Transport (IWT)
India Inland Waterway Transport (IWT)
• Satellite Communication Regulation in India
Satellite Communication Regulation in India
• Human Development Index (HDI)
Human Development Index (HDI)
• Piprahwa Relics
Piprahwa Relics
• Civil Defence in India
Civil Defence in India
Mapping:
• Anak Krakatau volcano
Anak Krakatau volcano
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 7 May 2025
#### GS Paper 2 :
India’s Legal and Ethical Battle Against Digital Misinformation
Syllabus: Governance
Source: TH
Context: India, identified as one of the most misinformation-vulnerable nations by the WEF Global Risks Report 2024, faces increasing challenges with the unchecked rise of influencer-driven content.
• This has triggered calls for tightened regulation and ethical accountability of social media influencers.
About Digital Misinformation and De-Influencing:
• What is Digital misinformation and De-influencing? Digital misinformation refers to false or misleading information shared online, often without intent to deceive, but with harmful consequences. De-influencing is a growing social media trend where influencers discourage the purchase of certain products. While it may promote mindful consumption, it frequently relies on clickbait, half-truths, and exaggerated narratives to gain traction. In a rapidly digitising society, these phenomena blur the line between opinion, advertising, and deception, making regulatory clarity vital. Background: The proliferation of Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok has created a new class of digital opinion-makers — influencers. Their content — often promotional — impacts health behaviour, consumption patterns, and public discourse. India’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs, SEBI, and ASCI have issued guidelines like “Endorsement Know-hows” to regulate paid promotions. Despite this, viral health content, such as “liver detox hacks” or “anti-cancer diets”, regularly escapes scrutiny, undermining evidence-based practices. India – A Legally Regulated, Ethically Conscious Model: India has adopted a layered regulatory framework combining constitutional safeguards, statutory mandates, and industry self-regulation to manage the influence economy: Legal Framework: Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution ensures freedom of speech, but with reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) to curb defamation and protect public order. Consumer Protection Act, 2019 explicitly bans misleading advertisements, holding influencers legally accountable for deceptive content. IT Act Sections 66 & 67 and the Intermediary Guidelines, 2021, penalize the spread of harmful or obscene content. Ethical Oversight: Guidelines by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) and SEBI set benchmarks for fair disclosures and truthful influencer endorsements. Non-compliance may lead to public reprimands and blacklisting from platforms or campaigns. Evolving Jurisprudence and Regulatory Trends Indian Medical Association v. Union of India: Held influencers accountable for false health endorsements. Delhi HC (2024): Restricted an influencer from disparaging a brand, stating that freedom of speech is not absolute, especially in health-related content. Public Trust Principle: Courts are emphasizing authenticity, credentials, and fact-verification in digital discourse.
• Digital misinformation refers to false or misleading information shared online, often without intent to deceive, but with harmful consequences.
• De-influencing is a growing social media trend where influencers discourage the purchase of certain products. While it may promote mindful consumption, it frequently relies on clickbait, half-truths, and exaggerated narratives to gain traction. In a rapidly digitising society, these phenomena blur the line between opinion, advertising, and deception, making regulatory clarity vital.
• In a rapidly digitising society, these phenomena blur the line between opinion, advertising, and deception, making regulatory clarity vital.
• Background: The proliferation of Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok has created a new class of digital opinion-makers — influencers. Their content — often promotional — impacts health behaviour, consumption patterns, and public discourse. India’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs, SEBI, and ASCI have issued guidelines like “Endorsement Know-hows” to regulate paid promotions. Despite this, viral health content, such as “liver detox hacks” or “anti-cancer diets”, regularly escapes scrutiny, undermining evidence-based practices.
• The proliferation of Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok has created a new class of digital opinion-makers — influencers.
• Their content — often promotional — impacts health behaviour, consumption patterns, and public discourse.
• India’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs, SEBI, and ASCI have issued guidelines like “Endorsement Know-hows” to regulate paid promotions.
• Despite this, viral health content, such as “liver detox hacks” or “anti-cancer diets”, regularly escapes scrutiny, undermining evidence-based practices.
• India – A Legally Regulated, Ethically Conscious Model: India has adopted a layered regulatory framework combining constitutional safeguards, statutory mandates, and industry self-regulation to manage the influence economy: Legal Framework: Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution ensures freedom of speech, but with reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) to curb defamation and protect public order. Consumer Protection Act, 2019 explicitly bans misleading advertisements, holding influencers legally accountable for deceptive content. IT Act Sections 66 & 67 and the Intermediary Guidelines, 2021, penalize the spread of harmful or obscene content. Ethical Oversight: Guidelines by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) and SEBI set benchmarks for fair disclosures and truthful influencer endorsements. Non-compliance may lead to public reprimands and blacklisting from platforms or campaigns. Evolving Jurisprudence and Regulatory Trends Indian Medical Association v. Union of India: Held influencers accountable for false health endorsements. Delhi HC (2024): Restricted an influencer from disparaging a brand, stating that freedom of speech is not absolute, especially in health-related content. Public Trust Principle: Courts are emphasizing authenticity, credentials, and fact-verification in digital discourse.
• India has adopted a layered regulatory framework combining constitutional safeguards, statutory mandates, and industry self-regulation to manage the influence economy:
• Legal Framework: Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution ensures freedom of speech, but with reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) to curb defamation and protect public order. Consumer Protection Act, 2019 explicitly bans misleading advertisements, holding influencers legally accountable for deceptive content. IT Act Sections 66 & 67 and the Intermediary Guidelines, 2021, penalize the spread of harmful or obscene content.
• Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution ensures freedom of speech, but with reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) to curb defamation and protect public order.
• Consumer Protection Act, 2019 explicitly bans misleading advertisements, holding influencers legally accountable for deceptive content.
• IT Act Sections 66 & 67 and the Intermediary Guidelines, 2021, penalize the spread of harmful or obscene content.
• Ethical Oversight: Guidelines by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) and SEBI set benchmarks for fair disclosures and truthful influencer endorsements. Non-compliance may lead to public reprimands and blacklisting from platforms or campaigns.
• Guidelines by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) and SEBI set benchmarks for fair disclosures and truthful influencer endorsements.
• Non-compliance may lead to public reprimands and blacklisting from platforms or campaigns.
• Evolving Jurisprudence and Regulatory Trends Indian Medical Association v. Union of India: Held influencers accountable for false health endorsements. Delhi HC (2024): Restricted an influencer from disparaging a brand, stating that freedom of speech is not absolute, especially in health-related content. Public Trust Principle: Courts are emphasizing authenticity, credentials, and fact-verification in digital discourse.
• Indian Medical Association v. Union of India: Held influencers accountable for false health endorsements.
• Delhi HC (2024): Restricted an influencer from disparaging a brand, stating that freedom of speech is not absolute, especially in health-related content.
• Public Trust Principle: Courts are emphasizing authenticity, credentials, and fact-verification in digital discourse.
• Concerns
• Blurring of Fact and Opinion : Influencer content often uses selective data, emotional appeals, and ambiguous language, making it difficult for viewers to discern truth from manipulation.
• Health Sector Risks : Health advice without professional qualification can be life-threatening. Current platform self-regulation lacks the rigour needed for such sensitive content.
• Current platform self-regulation lacks the rigour needed for such sensitive content.
• Trust Erosion and Commercial Exploitation: Monetising public trust through sensational negativity or sponsored misinformation undermines the credibility of digital platforms.
• Lack of Registration and Tracking: No mandatory registration database exists for influencers, especially those giving health or financial advice.
Way Ahead: Strengthening Digital Accountability
• Create a Public Registry for High-Risk Influencers: Set up a mandatory registration system for influencers offering health or financial advice, including: Professional credentials Nature of content (paid/unpaid) Regulatory compliance record
• Professional credentials
• Nature of content (paid/unpaid)
• Regulatory compliance record
• Strengthen Platform Responsibility: Mandate fact-checking overlays, flag sponsored health content, and use AI tools to detect misinformation.
• Build Digital Literacy Among Consumers: Launch government-led campaigns to, promote source verification, encourage critical thinking and teach how to report misleading content.
• Co-regulation with Civil Society: Involve medical associations, consumer forums, and legal bodies in creating sector-specific content standards.
• Enforce Ethical Review Mechanisms: Require platforms to implement periodic audits of top influencers in high-risk categories like health, finance, and
Conclusion:
India’s growing digital influence landscape demands urgent regulatory recalibration. With AI-driven misinformation and unchecked influence over public choices, the stakes for public health, financial safety, and social cohesion have never been higher. A blend of constitutional restraint, legal enforcement, and ethical vigilance can ensure that digital empowerment does not come at the cost of truth and trust.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 7 May 2025 GS Paper 2 & 3 :
India–U.K. Free Trade Agreement
Syllabus: Indian Economy
Source: TOI
Context: On May 6, 2025, India and the United Kingdom concluded a historic multi-billion-pound Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a Double Contribution Convention, aiming to double bilateral trade and deepen economic integration.
About India- UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA):
What is a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?
• A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is a bilateral or multilateral pact between countries to reduce or eliminate customs duties and non-tariff barriers on the majority of traded goods and services.
• FTAs facilitate: Duty-free access to partner markets Regulatory simplification Cross-border investments Mobility of professionals Preferential treatment over non-FTA competitors,
• Duty-free access to partner markets
• Regulatory simplification
• Cross-border investments
• Mobility of professionals
• Preferential treatment over non-FTA competitors,
• Globally, over 350 FTAs are operational, with most countries party to at least one.
Background of the India–U.K. FTA:
• Negotiations began in January 2022 after Brexit, symbolising U.K.’s independent trade ambitions.
• Talks were delayed due to frequent political transitions in the U.K. and elections in both countries.
• After 14 rounds of negotiations, the agreement was finalised in May 2025, followed by a conversation between PM Narendra Modi and PM Keir Starmer.
• The agreement now awaits legal vetting and ratification by the British Parliament.
Key Provisions of the India–U.K. FTA:
Provision Area | Details
- 1.Tariff Reductions | – India to reduce tariffs on 90% of U.K. goods. – Specific reductions: • Whisky/Gin: from 150% to 75%, then to 40% over 10 years • Automobiles: from 100%+ to 10% under quota • Other Goods: Cosmetics, medical devices, salmon, chocolates, biscuits – U.K. to offer 99% duty-free access to Indian exports, covering nearly 100% of trade value
- 2.Services & Mobility | – Annual quota of 1,800 skilled professionals (e.g., chefs, yoga instructors, musicians) – Covers sectors such as IT/ITeS, architecture, education, telecom, finance – Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) for professional qualifications to be completed within 36 months
- 3.Double Contribution Convention | – Waiver of dual social security contributions for Indian professionals and employers on short-term assignments (up to 3 years) in the U.K. – Reduces operational costs for Indian service exporters
- 4.Market Access Safeguards | – No Economic Needs Test (ENT) or numerical quotas by the U.K. for Indian service suppliers – U.K. commits access across 137 service sub-sectors, including private healthcare and education
- 5.Mutual Sensitivities Addressed | – India dropped its demand for post-study work visas – U.K. withdrew its demand for access to legal services sector in India (regulated under Advocates Act)
Potential Benefits for India
Sector | Expected Gains
Textiles & Apparel | Knitwear exports to U.K. may rise from 9% to 20%; major boost to Tiruppur cluster
Leather & Footwear | Tariff-free access for SMEs and labour-intensive units
Gems & Jewellery | Enhanced access to high-value British markets
Automobiles & Components | Export growth via reduced tariffs under quotas
Pharma & Chemicals | Improved regulatory cooperation and entry of generic medicines
IT, Finance, Education | Preferential access in 137 service sectors; includes startups and ed-techs
Skilled Professionals | Work access in niche fields (wellness, arts, engineering, etc.)
Concerns:
• Farmer and MSME Protests: Fears of being undercut by cheaper U.K. imports such as lamb, salmon, processed foods. Past FTAs (e.g., ASEAN) seen as unfavourable to agriculture
• Past FTAs (e.g., ASEAN) seen as unfavourable to agriculture
• Implementation and Awareness: Complex compliance for small exporters (rules of origin, certification, standards. Low awareness among rural exporters and artisans
• Low awareness among rural exporters and artisans
• Trade Deficits and Monitoring: Need to prevent a rising trade imbalance if Indian exports do not scale up proportionately
• Legal and Regulatory Delays: MRAs may get stuck in bureaucratic negotiation, delaying service benefits
Way Forward:
• Sectoral Handholding and Capacity Building
• Launch FTA facilitation centres across key sectors (textiles, pharma, auto)
• Offer technical support and export readiness training for MSMEs
• Strengthen Safeguards
• Operationalise safeguard clauses for sensitive agri-products
• Create adjustment funds for affected farmers and micro-units
• Fast-track MRAs
• Engage regulatory bodies (Bar Council, Medical Council, AICTE) to negotiate MRAs swiftly
• Real-Time Monitoring and Review
• Establish a bilateral FTA review mechanism with performance dashboards and stakeholder grievance redressal
• Public Communication
• Run campaigns to educate exporters, startups, and professionals on FTA benefits and eligibility
Conclusion:
The India–U.K. FTA is a strategic and economic milestone, offering broad-based trade and service gains while addressing regulatory and political sensitivities. Its success, however, hinges on inclusive implementation, sector-specific support, and timely enforcement of commitments. If navigated wisely, it can become a model for India’s future FTAs with the EU and Canada, while boosting India’s position in the global trade architecture.
• What does a free trade agreement (FTA) entail, and why are they crucial for India? What complexities arise during the negotiation of FTAs, and how can these challenges be navigated effectively?
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 7 May 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
ABC Rules
Context: Kerala has demanded changes to the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules as increasing stray dog attacks and rabies cases spark public health concerns.
About ABC Rules:
• What are ABC Rules?
• The Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, notified under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, regulate stray dog population control through sterilisation and immunisation, not culling. ABC Rules mandate local bodies to establish dog sterilisation centres, maintain proper facilities, and carry out humane capture, neutering, vaccination, and release of dogs.
• The Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, notified under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, regulate stray dog population control through sterilisation and immunisation, not culling.
• ABC Rules mandate local bodies to establish dog sterilisation centres, maintain proper facilities, and carry out humane capture, neutering, vaccination, and release of dogs.
• How It Works?
• Capture: Stray dogs are humanely captured by trained personnel. Sterilisation & Vaccination: Dogs undergo spaying/neutering and anti-rabies vaccination. Release: After recovery, dogs are released in the same locality as per Supreme Court guidelines.
• Capture: Stray dogs are humanely captured by trained personnel.
• Sterilisation & Vaccination: Dogs undergo spaying/neutering and anti-rabies vaccination.
• Release: After recovery, dogs are released in the same locality as per Supreme Court guidelines.
• Significance:
• Prevents overpopulation of strays without violating animal rights. Ensures public health protection by reducing rabies incidence. Encourages scientific and ethical animal management instead of culling.
• Prevents overpopulation of strays without violating animal rights.
• Ensures public health protection by reducing rabies incidence.
• Encourages scientific and ethical animal management instead of culling.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus
• GS Paper 2 – Governance & Policy
• Health Governance: Rabies control, intergovernmental coordination on zoonotic diseases. Policy & Implementation: Local bodies’ role under 73rd/74th Amendment, Centre-State dynamics on public health and animal welfare.
• Health Governance: Rabies control, intergovernmental coordination on zoonotic diseases.
• Policy & Implementation: Local bodies’ role under 73rd/74th Amendment, Centre-State dynamics on public health and animal welfare.
• GS Paper 3 – Environment & Ethics
• Biodiversity and Animal Welfare: Humane management of urban wildlife. Ethics (GS Paper 4): Balance between human safety and animal rights.
• Biodiversity and Animal Welfare: Humane management of urban wildlife.
• Ethics (GS Paper 4): Balance between human safety and animal rights.
• Essay/Case Studies
• Use as a case study for governance failure, ethical dilemma (animal rights vs. human safety), and decentralized health interventions.
• Use as a case study for governance failure, ethical dilemma (animal rights vs. human safety), and decentralized health interventions.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 7 May Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Operation Sindoor
Source: HT
Context: In response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen on April 22, 2025, India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, a precise military offensive targeting nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
About Operation Sindoor:
• Background: Trigger: A terror attack in Pahalgam (J&K) attributed to The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba. Attack resulted in 26 civilian deaths, including one foreign national. Marked the most serious civilian-targeted attack since 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
• Trigger: A terror attack in Pahalgam (J&K) attributed to The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba.
• Attack resulted in 26 civilian deaths, including one foreign national.
• Marked the most serious civilian-targeted attack since 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
• Objectives of Operation Sindoor: Neutralise cross-border terror infrastructure. Deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam attack. Prevent imminent future attacks, as indicated by actionable intelligence. Reassert India’s right to self-defence under international law.
• Neutralise cross-border terror infrastructure.
• Deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam attack.
• Prevent imminent future attacks, as indicated by actionable intelligence.
• Reassert India’s right to self-defence under international law.
• Operation Details Targets: 9 terror camps — 4 in mainland Pakistan, 5 in PoK.
• Targets: 9 terror camps — 4 in mainland Pakistan, 5 in PoK.
• Terror groups targeted: Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizbul Mujahideen. Carried out by Indian Air Force and Special Forces, avoiding civilian zones and Pakistani military installations.
• Terror groups targeted: Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizbul Mujahideen.
• Carried out by Indian Air Force and Special Forces, avoiding civilian zones and Pakistani military installations.
• Strategic and Diplomatic Implications: Sends a strong deterrent message to terror sponsors and their safe havens. Draws global attention to Pakistan’s continuing support to UN-designated terrorists like Sajid Mir. Reinforces India’s shift towards pre-emptive counter-terrorism doctrine post-Uri and Balakot strikes. Likely to increase international diplomatic support for India’s right to protect its civilians.
• Sends a strong deterrent message to terror sponsors and their safe havens.
• Draws global attention to Pakistan’s continuing support to UN-designated terrorists like Sajid Mir.
• Reinforces India’s shift towards pre-emptive counter-terrorism doctrine post-Uri and Balakot strikes.
• Likely to increase international diplomatic support for India’s right to protect its civilians.
Inland Waterway Transport
Source: PIB
Context: The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has signed a strategic MoU with Rhenus Logistics India, a global logistics firm, to operate 100 cargo barges and pusher tugs across multiple national waterways, starting in late 2025.
• This aims to boost multimodal cargo movement and private participation in India’s inland water transport sector.
About Inland Waterway Transport (IWT):
• What is Inland Waterway Transport (IWT)?
• IWT refers to the movement of goods and passengers through navigable rivers, canals, backwaters, and creeks using boats, barges, or ferries. It is a fuel-efficient, environment-friendly, and cost-effective mode of transportation.
• IWT refers to the movement of goods and passengers through navigable rivers, canals, backwaters, and creeks using boats, barges, or ferries.
• It is a fuel-efficient, environment-friendly, and cost-effective mode of transportation.
Key Initiatives to Promote IWT in India:
• Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): World Bank-funded initiative to augment capacity of NW-1 (Ganga) Includes dredging, terminal development, and navigational aids
• Includes dredging, terminal development, and navigational aids
• Sagarmala Programme: Integrated with IWT to boost port-led development and hinterland connectivity
• National Waterways Act, 2016: Declared 111 waterways as National Waterways (NWs) for development
• Jal Vikas Marg Society (JVMS): Institutional mechanism under IWAI for managing World Bank-assisted projects
• ‘Jalvahak’ Cargo Promotion Scheme (2024): Provides up to 35% operating cost reimbursement to cargo movers using IWT
• Ganga Vilas Cruise and River Tourism Initiatives: Boosts passenger traffic and tourism potential on NW-1 and NW-2
About Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI):
• Established: 1986 under IWAI Act, 1985
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW)
• Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh
• Objectives: Develop and regulate national waterways Enhance infrastructure for navigation Ensure eco-friendly and cost-effective logistics and transport solutions Promote PPP models and private sector investment in IWT.
• Develop and regulate national waterways
• Enhance infrastructure for navigation
• Ensure eco-friendly and cost-effective logistics and transport solutions
• Promote PPP models and private sector investment in IWT.
Satellite Communication Regulation in India
Source: TH
Context: India has framed new regulatory guidelines for satellite communication companies mandating local manufacturing, data localisation, NavIC compliance, and enhanced national security cooperation.
About Satellite Communication Regulation in India:
• What is Satellite Communication? Satellite communication (satcom) enables wireless transmission of signals using satellites orbiting the Earth. It supports broadband, TV broadcasting, GPS navigation, and remote area connectivity.
• Satellite communication (satcom) enables wireless transmission of signals using satellites orbiting the Earth. It supports broadband, TV broadcasting, GPS navigation, and remote area connectivity.
• Regulating Agencies:
• Department of Telecommunications (DoT) – Issues operational guidelines and approvals. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) – Finalises policy framework including spectrum allocation and pricing.
• Department of Telecommunications (DoT) – Issues operational guidelines and approvals.
• Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) – Finalises policy framework including spectrum allocation and pricing.
• Key Provisions under New Satcom Guidelines (2025):
• Local Manufacturing & Indigenisation Satcom firms must submit a 5-year phased manufacturing plan. At least 20% of the ground segment should be indigenously produced by Year 5. Data Localisation & Monitoring: No user traffic should be routed through foreign gateways or PoPs. All user data, DNS services, and control systems must be located in India. Mandatory lawful interception, user monitoring, and data security protocols. NavIC Compliance User terminals should support NavIC (India’s regional navigation system) on a best-effort basis. Full implementation deadline set for 2029. National Security Provisions Must enable service restrictions during hostilities or emergencies. Establish Special Monitoring Zones (within 50 km of borders and coastal EEZ). Report unregistered/foreign user terminals in real-time to law enforcement agencies. Service-Specific Security Clearance Separate security clearance needed for voice and data services.
• Local Manufacturing & Indigenisation Satcom firms must submit a 5-year phased manufacturing plan. At least 20% of the ground segment should be indigenously produced by Year 5.
• Satcom firms must submit a 5-year phased manufacturing plan.
• At least 20% of the ground segment should be indigenously produced by Year 5.
• Data Localisation & Monitoring: No user traffic should be routed through foreign gateways or PoPs. All user data, DNS services, and control systems must be located in India. Mandatory lawful interception, user monitoring, and data security protocols.
• No user traffic should be routed through foreign gateways or PoPs.
• All user data, DNS services, and control systems must be located in India.
• Mandatory lawful interception, user monitoring, and data security protocols.
• NavIC Compliance User terminals should support NavIC (India’s regional navigation system) on a best-effort basis. Full implementation deadline set for 2029.
• User terminals should support NavIC (India’s regional navigation system) on a best-effort basis.
• Full implementation deadline set for 2029.
• National Security Provisions Must enable service restrictions during hostilities or emergencies. Establish Special Monitoring Zones (within 50 km of borders and coastal EEZ). Report unregistered/foreign user terminals in real-time to law enforcement agencies.
• Must enable service restrictions during hostilities or emergencies.
• Establish Special Monitoring Zones (within 50 km of borders and coastal EEZ).
• Report unregistered/foreign user terminals in real-time to law enforcement agencies.
• Service-Specific Security Clearance Separate security clearance needed for voice and data services.
• Separate security clearance needed for voice and data services.
Human Development Index (HDI)
Source: HT
Context: India has climbed three positions to rank 130 out of 193 countries in the 2023 Human Development Index (HDI), according to the 2025 Human Development Report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
About Human Development Index (HDI):
• What is Human Development Index (HDI)?
• The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite statistical measure that assesses a country’s average achievements in three key dimensions:
• The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite statistical measure that assesses a country’s average achievements in three key dimensions:
• Health – Measured by life expectancy at birth
• Education – Measured by mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling
• Standard of Living – Measured by Gross National Income (GNI) per capita (PPP adjusted)
• Published by: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
• First introduced: In 1990, in the first Human Development Report authored by Mahbub ul Haq and Amartya Sen.
Key Highlights of Human Development Report 2025:
• India-Specific Insights: India’s 2023 HDI Rank: 130 out of 193 (up from 133 in 2022) HDI Value (2023): 0.685 (up from 0.676 in 2022) Category: Still under Medium Human Development; nearing the High Development threshold (0.700) Comparison: Same HDI value as Bangladesh, but with differing indicators; India ahead of Pakistan (168th, 0.544) and Nepal (145th, 0.622). Progress Made: Life Expectancy: Increased to 72 years in 2023, (from 67.7 years in 2022). Expected Years of Schooling: Rose to 13 years (from 12.6 years). Mean Years of Schooling: Improved to 9 years (from 6.57 years). GNI per capita: Rose to $9,046.76 in 2023 (from $6,951 in 2022) Multidimensional Poverty: 135 million Indians exited poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21 Persisting Inequality: Inequality-adjusted HDI: India faces a 30.7% loss due to inequality, one of the highest in Asia Gender Inequality: Female labour force participation and political representation remain low (India ranks 102nd with a score of 403.) GNI per Capita Rank: 7 ranks below HDI rank → income remains a weak spot. Global Trends: Top performer: Iceland (0.972), Norway (0.970), Switzerland (0.970). Bottom: South Sudan, Somalia, Central African Republic. BRICS Comparison: Brazil (89), Russia (59), China (75), South Africa (110) all ahead of India. The pace of HDI growth globally is the slowest since 1990. Inequality between low and very high HDI countries has worsened for the fourth consecutive year.
• India’s 2023 HDI Rank: 130 out of 193 (up from 133 in 2022)
• HDI Value (2023): 0.685 (up from 0.676 in 2022)
• Category: Still under Medium Human Development; nearing the High Development threshold (0.700)
• Comparison: Same HDI value as Bangladesh, but with differing indicators; India ahead of Pakistan (168th, 0.544) and Nepal (145th, 0.622).
• Progress Made: Life Expectancy: Increased to 72 years in 2023, (from 67.7 years in 2022). Expected Years of Schooling: Rose to 13 years (from 12.6 years). Mean Years of Schooling: Improved to 9 years (from 6.57 years). GNI per capita: Rose to $9,046.76 in 2023 (from $6,951 in 2022) Multidimensional Poverty: 135 million Indians exited poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21
• Life Expectancy: Increased to 72 years in 2023, (from 67.7 years in 2022).
• Expected Years of Schooling: Rose to 13 years (from 12.6 years).
• Mean Years of Schooling: Improved to 9 years (from 6.57 years).
• GNI per capita: Rose to $9,046.76 in 2023 (from $6,951 in 2022)
• Multidimensional Poverty: 135 million Indians exited poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21
• Persisting Inequality: Inequality-adjusted HDI: India faces a 30.7% loss due to inequality, one of the highest in Asia Gender Inequality: Female labour force participation and political representation remain low (India ranks 102nd with a score of 403.) GNI per Capita Rank: 7 ranks below HDI rank → income remains a weak spot.
• Inequality-adjusted HDI: India faces a 30.7% loss due to inequality, one of the highest in Asia
• Gender Inequality: Female labour force participation and political representation remain low (India ranks 102nd with a score of 403.)
• GNI per Capita Rank: 7 ranks below HDI rank → income remains a weak spot.
• Global Trends: Top performer: Iceland (0.972), Norway (0.970), Switzerland (0.970). Bottom: South Sudan, Somalia, Central African Republic. BRICS Comparison: Brazil (89), Russia (59), China (75), South Africa (110) all ahead of India. The pace of HDI growth globally is the slowest since 1990. Inequality between low and very high HDI countries has worsened for the fourth consecutive year.
• Top performer: Iceland (0.972), Norway (0.970), Switzerland (0.970).
• Bottom: South Sudan, Somalia, Central African Republic.
• BRICS Comparison: Brazil (89), Russia (59), China (75), South Africa (110) all ahead of India.
• The pace of HDI growth globally is the slowest since 1990.
• Inequality between low and very high HDI countries has worsened for the fourth consecutive year.
Piprahwa Relics
Source: NIE
Context: India has issued a legal notice to Sotheby’s auction house and the Peppé family, demanding the immediate halt of an auction of ancient relics from Piprahwa Stupa, believed to be linked to Lord Buddha’s cremated remains.
About Piprahwa Relics:
• What are Piprahwa Relics?
• The Piprahwa relics comprise: Bone fragments believed to be those of Lord Buddha Crystal and soapstone caskets, a sandstone coffer Adornments like gold ornaments, pearls, rubies, topaz, and sapphires Excavated in 1898 by William Claxton Peppé in Piprahwa, Siddharthnagar district, Uttar Pradesh, near the Nepal border. The Site was identified as part of ancient Kapilavastu, capital of the Shakya republic, the clan of Prince Siddhartha (Buddha).
• The Piprahwa relics comprise: Bone fragments believed to be those of Lord Buddha Crystal and soapstone caskets, a sandstone coffer Adornments like gold ornaments, pearls, rubies, topaz, and sapphires
• Bone fragments believed to be those of Lord Buddha
• Crystal and soapstone caskets, a sandstone coffer
• Adornments like gold ornaments, pearls, rubies, topaz, and sapphires
• Excavated in 1898 by William Claxton Peppé in Piprahwa, Siddharthnagar district, Uttar Pradesh, near the Nepal border.
• The Site was identified as part of ancient Kapilavastu, capital of the Shakya republic, the clan of Prince Siddhartha (Buddha).
• Historical Significance:
• Peppé unearthed what is believed to be one of the original eight stupas containing Buddha’s remains after his cremation (~480 BCE). The Sakya clan, Buddha’s kin, are believed to have constructed the stupa to enshrine his relics. The relics are spiritually revered by Buddhists globally and considered intangible religious heritage.
• Peppé unearthed what is believed to be one of the original eight stupas containing Buddha’s remains after his cremation (~480 BCE).
• The Sakya clan, Buddha’s kin, are believed to have constructed the stupa to enshrine his relics.
• The relics are spiritually revered by Buddhists globally and considered intangible religious heritage.
• Legal and Ethical Dispute:
• Under the Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878, most relics went to the Indian Museum, Kolkata.. However, 1/5th of the find, considered duplicates, was retained by Peppé’s family—these are now being auctioned.
• Under the Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878, most relics went to the Indian Museum, Kolkata..
• However, 1/5th of the find, considered duplicates, was retained by Peppé’s family—these are now being auctioned.
• Reasons behind India’ objection:
• India argues the relics are sacred and inalienable cultural property. The sale violates international norms, including: UNESCO Conventions on Cultural Property UNIDROIT Convention on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects. Buddhist scholars and institutions worldwide object, saying commodifying sacred objects is unethical.
• India argues the relics are sacred and inalienable cultural property.
• The sale violates international norms, including: UNESCO Conventions on Cultural Property UNIDROIT Convention on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects.
• UNESCO Conventions on Cultural Property
• UNIDROIT Convention on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects.
• Buddhist scholars and institutions worldwide object, saying commodifying sacred objects is unethical.
Civil Defence in India
Source: DH
Context: Ahead of rising geopolitical tensions, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has ordered a nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill across 244 districts on May 7, 2025, to assess emergency preparedness against military and disaster threats.
About Civil Defence in India:
• What is Civil Defence?
• Civil defence refers to organized efforts to protect civilians, infrastructure, and essential services during emergencies, especially in wartime or during natural or man-made disasters. Globally, it functions across six pillars: prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, evacuation, and recovery.
• Civil defence refers to organized efforts to protect civilians, infrastructure, and essential services during emergencies, especially in wartime or during natural or man-made disasters.
• Globally, it functions across six pillars: prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, evacuation, and recovery.
• Legal Framework in India::
• Civil Defence Act, 1968: Enacted post-Indo-China and Indo-Pak conflicts to institutionalize civil protection. Amendment in 2009 (Act No. 3 of 2010): Expanded the role to include disaster management along with war-related functions.
• Civil Defence Act, 1968: Enacted post-Indo-China and Indo-Pak conflicts to institutionalize civil protection.
• Amendment in 2009 (Act No. 3 of 2010): Expanded the role to include disaster management along with war-related functions.
• Structure and Functioning::
• Manned primarily by volunteers from various professions, trained to assist in emergency response. Activated during terror attacks, fires, floods, explosions, earthquakes, or other calamities before official responders arrive. Special focus on critical initial minutes of emergencies.
• Manned primarily by volunteers from various professions, trained to assist in emergency response.
• Activated during terror attacks, fires, floods, explosions, earthquakes, or other calamities before official responders arrive.
• Special focus on critical initial minutes of emergencies.
• Application:
• Though the Act is pan-India, active civil defence units are raised only in tactically vulnerable areas. These include nuclear power plants, ports, military bases, dams, oil refineries, and metropolitan cities.
• Though the Act is pan-India, active civil defence units are raised only in tactically vulnerable areas.
• These include nuclear power plants, ports, military bases, dams, oil refineries, and metropolitan cities.
• About Civil Defence Districts: Civil Defence Districts are specially designated areas where civil defence programmes are actively implemented by the Government of India under the Civil Defence Act, 1968. The Ministry of Home Affairs selects Civil Defence Districts based on strategic vulnerability: Proximity to International Borders: E.g., Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir Critical Infrastructure Presence: Nuclear plants, military bases, ports, telecom hubs Urban Density & Civilian Risk: Metro cities requiring evacuation planning Coastal Sensitivity: Maritime security in states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal
• Civil Defence Districts are specially designated areas where civil defence programmes are actively implemented by the Government of India under the Civil Defence Act, 1968.
• The Ministry of Home Affairs selects Civil Defence Districts based on strategic vulnerability: Proximity to International Borders: E.g., Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir Critical Infrastructure Presence: Nuclear plants, military bases, ports, telecom hubs Urban Density & Civilian Risk: Metro cities requiring evacuation planning Coastal Sensitivity: Maritime security in states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal
• Proximity to International Borders: E.g., Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir
• Critical Infrastructure Presence: Nuclear plants, military bases, ports, telecom hubs
• Urban Density & Civilian Risk: Metro cities requiring evacuation planning
• Coastal Sensitivity: Maritime security in states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 7 May 2025 Mapping:
Anak Krakatau volcano
Source: Scitechdaily
Context:. A new study reveals that Indonesia’s Anak Krakatau volcano, which collapsed catastrophically in 2018 causing a deadly tsunami, showed warning signs years in advance.
About Anak Krakatau Volcano:
• Location: Anak Krakatau (“Child of Krakatoa”) is located in the Sunda Strait, between Java and Sumatra in Indonesia.
• Volcano Type: Stratovolcano
• Tectonic Context: Situated at the convergent boundary between the Indo-Australian and Eurasian plates. It is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active zone encircling the Pacific Ocean.
• It is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active zone encircling the Pacific Ocean.
• 2018 Disaster: In December 2018, its southwest flank collapsed into the sea during an eruption, generating a tsunami that killed over 400 people and injured thousands more.
• New Research & Discovery:
• Technology used: InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar): Satellite-based remote sensing that detects surface deformation within centimetre to millimetre accuracy. Data was sourced from ALOS-1, COSMO-SkyMED, and Sentinel-1 satellites over a 10+ year period. Findings The volcano’s flank slipped ~15 meters between 2006 and 2018. Acceleration of slip observed months before the 2018 collapse — a key precursor to disaster.
• Technology used: InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar): Satellite-based remote sensing that detects surface deformation within centimetre to millimetre accuracy. Data was sourced from ALOS-1, COSMO-SkyMED, and Sentinel-1 satellites over a 10+ year period.
• InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar): Satellite-based remote sensing that detects surface deformation within centimetre to millimetre accuracy.
• Data was sourced from ALOS-1, COSMO-SkyMED, and Sentinel-1 satellites over a 10+ year period.
• Findings The volcano’s flank slipped ~15 meters between 2006 and 2018. Acceleration of slip observed months before the 2018 collapse — a key precursor to disaster.
• The volcano’s flank slipped ~15 meters between 2006 and 2018.
• Acceleration of slip observed months before the 2018 collapse — a key precursor to disaster.
• Broader Implications:
• Highlights the risk of collapse in ocean volcanoes and potential for tsunami generation. Ground-based GPS is often impractical in such regions due to cost, terrain, and safety issues. Real-time InSAR processing offers a promising solution for early detection in remote areas.
• Highlights the risk of collapse in ocean volcanoes and potential for tsunami generation.
• Ground-based GPS is often impractical in such regions due to cost, terrain, and safety issues.
• Real-time InSAR processing offers a promising solution for early detection in remote areas.
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