UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 9 September 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 9 September 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 3 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 9 September (2025)
• GST 2.0: A Strategic Reform for India’s Economic Future
GST 2.0: A Strategic Reform for India’s Economic Future
GS Paper 4:
• Political Interference in Governance
Political Interference in Governance
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Indian Healthcare League
Indian Healthcare League
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• India and Israel sign Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA)
India and Israel sign Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA)
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
• Vice President Election – System of Proportional Representation
Vice President Election – System of Proportional Representation
• Hockey Asia Cup 2025
Hockey Asia Cup 2025
• Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika
Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika
• Bhil tribe
Bhil tribe
• Pallas’s Cat
Pallas’s Cat
Mapping:
• Caribbean Region
Caribbean Region
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 9 September 2025
#### GS Paper 3:
GST 2.0: A Strategic Reform for India’s Economic Future
Syllabus: Economy
Source: IE
Context: India is rolling out GST 2.0, a major tax reform aiming to simplify slabs, reduce compliance costs, and prioritise long-term growth over short-term revenue maximisation.
About GST 2.0: A Strategic Reform for India’s Economic Future
Current Status of India & GST:
• Launched in 2017: GST unified multiple indirect taxes into one nationwide system, simplifying India’s fragmented tax regime.
• Current Structure: Four slabs (5%, 12%, 18%, 28%) plus cess still create complexity and frequent classification disputes.
• Revenue Collections: Monthly inflows of ₹1.6–1.7 lakh crore show stability but remain below India’s full potential.
• Structural Problems: Inverted duty structures and compliance paperwork increase costs for MSMEs and small traders.
• Tax-to-GDP Ratio: At ~11–12%, India’s tax effort is much lower than global peers, indicating under-utilised capacity.
Need for Strategic Shift:
• Simplification: Collapsing multiple slabs into fewer rates will reduce confusion and boost compliance confidence.
• Widen Compliance: Easing entry norms encourages small businesses to enter the formal tax net voluntarily.
• Boost Competitiveness: Faster refunds and simpler logistics improve India’s position in global trade.
• Equity: Taxing luxury and sin goods higher protects common citizens from disproportionate burdens.
• Trust-based Taxation: A non-adversarial regime builds taxpayer trust and reduces disputes with authorities.
Challenges Associated:
• Short-Term Revenue Dip: Initial loss of ~₹48,000 crore may worsen fiscal deficit pressures temporarily.
• Implementation Risks: IT glitches, limited training, and weak adaptation can derail smooth rollout.
• State Resistance: States fear losing compensation after 2026, straining Centre–State fiscal relations.
• Classification Issues: Even with fewer slabs, borderline products may spark legal and administrative disputes.
• Global Precedent: Malaysia’s failed GST reform shows poor execution can undermine tax system credibility.
Significance of GST 2.0:
• Economic Growth: Lower rates can stimulate consumption and raise long-term revenues via the Laffer Curve.
• Progressive Taxation: Rich consumers of luxury goods bear higher taxes, ensuring fairness and justice.
• Formalisation: Small businesses join the formal sector under simplified registration schemes.
• Export Competitiveness: MSMEs benefit from faster refunds and fewer barriers in international markets.
• Fiscal Consolidation: Wider compliance expands the tax base, strengthening India’s fiscal health.
Conclusion:
GST 2.0 is a strategic investment in India’s economic future. Its success depends on smooth execution, federal cooperation, and taxpayer trust. Done right, it can drive India toward a $10 trillion, equitable, and efficient economy.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 9 September 2025 GS Paper 4:
Political Interference in Governance
Syllabus: Probity
Source: DH
Context: A case has been registered against an NCP leader and others in Solapur for obstructing officials during an anti-illegal excavation drive.
• The controversy escalated after a viral video showed Deputy CM of Maharashtra rebuking IPS officer Anjana Krishna on phone, raising concerns over political interference in governance.
About Political Interference in Governance:
What it is?
Political interference refers to undue influence by elected representatives or party workers in the functioning of civil servants, often undermining impartiality, legality, and merit-based decision-making.
Features of Political Interference
• Undue Pressure: Politicians exert pressure to influence decisions—like halting raids or diluting law enforcement—compromising objectivity.
• Patronage Networks: Favouritism in postings, contracts, and welfare schemes ties administration to party loyalty instead of merit.
• Erosion of Neutrality: Civil servants become tools of ruling parties, undermining the constitutional principle of political neutrality.
• Short-Termism: Populist orders (like loan waivers or illegal permissions) prioritise electoral gains over sustainable governance.
• Weak Accountability: Blame gets diffused between ministers and officials, making it hard to fix responsibility for wrongdoing.
Ethical Issues Surrounding Political Interference:
• Violation of Constitutional Morality: Disregards equality before law (Art.14) and undermines rule-based governance.
• Conflict of Interest: Leaders face a clash between public duty and protecting party workers or private interests.
• Erosion of Public Trust: Citizens perceive governance as biased, weakening faith in democratic institutions.
• Demoralisation of Civil Servants: Honest officers face humiliation, threats, or transfers, discouraging integrity.
• Gender & Respect Concerns: Rebukes or disrespect, especially towards women officers, violate dignity and workplace ethics.
• 2nd ARC’s Ethics in Governance notes: “The greatest threat to probity comes from the politicisation of the civil service and erosion of neutrality.”
Philosophical theories:
• Plato – Philosopher King & Justice Plato in The Republic argued that rulers must be philosopher-kings, guided by wisdom and justice, not personal or partisan interests. Political interference that undermines neutrality reflects the opposite—rule by passion and self-interest, which leads to injustice in governance.
• Plato in The Republic argued that rulers must be philosopher-kings, guided by wisdom and justice, not personal or partisan interests.
• Political interference that undermines neutrality reflects the opposite—rule by passion and self-interest, which leads to injustice in governance.
• Aristotle – Rule of Law Rule of Man Aristotle emphasised “the law should govern, not men.” Governance must be rule-based, not dependent on the whims of individuals. Political interference erodes this principle, replacing laws with arbitrary dictates, weakening institutions and fairness.
• Aristotle emphasised “the law should govern, not men.” Governance must be rule-based, not dependent on the whims of individuals.
• Political interference erodes this principle, replacing laws with arbitrary dictates, weakening institutions and fairness.
• Immanuel Kant – Duty & Moral Law Kant’s Deontological Ethics emphasises duty and adherence to universal moral law (categorical imperative). When politicians pressure civil servants for partisan gains, they violate duty to the public good, reducing governance to means for selfish ends.
• Kant’s Deontological Ethics emphasises duty and adherence to universal moral law (categorical imperative).
• When politicians pressure civil servants for partisan gains, they violate duty to the public good, reducing governance to means for selfish ends.
• Max Weber – Bureaucratic Neutrality Weber’s theory of bureaucracy stresses neutrality, hierarchy, and rational-legal authority as essential for modern governance. Political interference undermines Weberian neutrality, converting a professional bureaucracy into a partisan tool.
• Weber’s theory of bureaucracy stresses neutrality, hierarchy, and rational-legal authority as essential for modern governance.
• Political interference undermines Weberian neutrality, converting a professional bureaucracy into a partisan tool.
Challenges to Counter Political Interference
• Lack of Legal Safeguards: Absence of statutory backing leaves civil servants vulnerable to arbitrary oral orders.
• Transfer Culture: Frequent transfers (avg. <16 months per ARC) erode continuity and reward pliability over merit.
• Weak Institutional Mechanisms: Civil Services Boards lack independence, failing to shield officers from pressure.
• Low Accountability of Politicians: Legislators lack an enforceable code of ethics, allowing unchecked misuse of influence.
• Culture of Silence: Officers rarely report interference due to fear of reprisals, stalling systemic reform.
Way Ahead:
• Fixed Tenure & Civil Services Boards: Implement ARC recommendation for security of tenure and transparent postings.
• Legal Backing: Strengthen Civil Services Conduct Rules with statutory protection against illegal orders.
• Code of Ethics for Politicians: As suggested by ARC, a binding code promoting respect for constitutional values.
• Empowered Grievance Redressal: Independent authority to record instances of interference.
• Training & Ethical Leadership: Build officers’ capacity in conflict resolution, ethics, and courage of conviction.
• Strengthen Public Awareness: Media & citizen vigilance ensure accountability and transparency.
Conclusion:
Political interference corrodes neutrality, fairness, and constitutional morality in governance. Safeguards rooted in rule of law, ARC-backed reforms, and ethical leadership are vital to protect the dignity of public service. Only when politics respects administration can democracy truly deliver justice, equity, and probity.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 9 September 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Indian Healthcare League
Context: The Indian Healthcare League (IHL), launched by cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara, brings together doctors from leading hospitals to play cricket and raise cancer awareness.
About Indian Healthcare League:
• What it is?
• A wellness and awareness initiative modeled on the IPL format, featuring doctors from AIIMS, Fortis, Max, and other leading hospitals. Six regional franchises (Delhi, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Haryana, UP) participate in cricket matches.
• A wellness and awareness initiative modeled on the IPL format, featuring doctors from AIIMS, Fortis, Max, and other leading hospitals.
• Six regional franchises (Delhi, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Haryana, UP) participate in cricket matches.
• Primary Mission: Spread cancer awareness across India. Secondary Mission: Promote mental well-being and fitness among healthcare professionals. Build camaraderie, teamwork, and balance between healthcare duties and personal wellness.
• Primary Mission: Spread cancer awareness across India.
• Secondary Mission: Promote mental well-being and fitness among healthcare professionals.
• Build camaraderie, teamwork, and balance between healthcare duties and personal wellness.
• Significance:
• Highlights preventive healthcare through sport and advocacy. Encourages doctors to focus on self-care, reducing burnout in the medical profession. Uses cricket — India’s most followed sport — to deliver a mass social health message. Positions healthcare as part of a community-driven movement for change.
• Highlights preventive healthcare through sport and advocacy.
• Encourages doctors to focus on self-care, reducing burnout in the medical profession.
• Uses cricket — India’s most followed sport — to deliver a mass social health message.
• Positions healthcare as part of a community-driven movement for change.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
• GS-II (Governance & Social Justice): Public health initiatives, mental health promotion, role of civil society.
• GS-III (Science & Technology & Health): Cancer awareness, preventive healthcare, innovation in health campaigns.
• Essay/Ethics: Themes of wellness, duty vs. self-care, “Doctors as community leaders.”
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 9 September 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):
India and Israel sign Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA)
Source: PIB
Context: India and Israel signed a Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) in New Delhi, witnessed by Finance Ministers of India and Bezalel Smotrich.
About India and Israel sign Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA):
• What it is?
• A landmark investment protection and promotion treaty between India and Israel. Provides a minimum standard of treatment and a framework for transparent, secure, and fair investment flows. Establishes a neutral dispute resolution mechanism through arbitration to protect investors.
• A landmark investment protection and promotion treaty between India and Israel.
• Provides a minimum standard of treatment and a framework for transparent, secure, and fair investment flows.
• Establishes a neutral dispute resolution mechanism through arbitration to protect investors.
• Facilitate greater certainty, transparency, and security for investors in both countries. Safeguard investments against risks like expropriation, arbitrary restrictions, or policy shocks. Encourage mutual trade and capital flows, making investment environments more resilient. Balance investor protection with sovereign regulatory rights of the two governments.
• Facilitate greater certainty, transparency, and security for investors in both countries.
• Safeguard investments against risks like expropriation, arbitrary restrictions, or policy shocks.
• Encourage mutual trade and capital flows, making investment environments more resilient.
• Balance investor protection with sovereign regulatory rights of the two governments.
• Key Agreements:
• Protection from Expropriation: Ensures fair compensation if assets are seized or nationalised. Transparency Measures: Clear rules and open procedures to promote investor confidence. Independent Arbitration: Neutral dispute settlement mechanism outside domestic courts. Free Transfer & Compensation: Smooth repatriation of capital, profits, and compensation for losses. Sectoral Cooperation: Enhanced collaboration in fintech, infrastructure, digital payments, cybersecurity, defence, and high-tech innovation.
• Protection from Expropriation: Ensures fair compensation if assets are seized or nationalised.
• Transparency Measures: Clear rules and open procedures to promote investor confidence.
• Independent Arbitration: Neutral dispute settlement mechanism outside domestic courts.
• Free Transfer & Compensation: Smooth repatriation of capital, profits, and compensation for losses.
• Sectoral Cooperation: Enhanced collaboration in fintech, infrastructure, digital payments, cybersecurity, defence, and high-tech innovation.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Source: TH
Context: The rising vulnerability of passwords has led to the adoption of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) worldwide. Popular apps like Google Authenticator now use TOTP-based codes that refresh every 30 seconds to enhance digital security.
About Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
• What it is? A security mechanism that requires users to verify identity using two different factors — something they know (password) and something they have (phone/authenticator app).
• A security mechanism that requires users to verify identity using two different factors — something they know (password) and something they have (phone/authenticator app).
• Developed by: Concept of multi-factor authentication emerged in the 1980s in computer science security research. TOTP standard (Time-based One-Time Password) was developed by IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) in 2011 for global interoperability.
• Concept of multi-factor authentication emerged in the 1980s in computer science security research.
• TOTP standard (Time-based One-Time Password) was developed by IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) in 2011 for global interoperability.
• Objective: To strengthen authentication, prevent account breaches, and ensure data security by adding a second verification layer beyond traditional passwords.
• How it works:
• Step 1: User enters password (first factor). Step 2: An authenticator app or hardware token generates a time-based OTP (second factor). The server and app share a secret key, using cryptographic HMAC functions with time counters to generate identical codes. If both match, access is granted.
• Step 1: User enters password (first factor).
• Step 2: An authenticator app or hardware token generates a time-based OTP (second factor).
• The server and app share a secret key, using cryptographic HMAC functions with time counters to generate identical codes.
• If both match, access is granted.
• Features:
• Uses TOTP (Time-based One-Time Passwords) valid for ~30 seconds. Employs hash functions & HMAC-SHA256 for strong encryption. Works offline via authenticator apps (Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator). Can also be implemented via hardware tokens (YubiKey), SMS, or push notifications. Layered approach makes brute force or code interception nearly impossible.
• Uses TOTP (Time-based One-Time Passwords) valid for ~30 seconds.
• Employs hash functions & HMAC-SHA256 for strong encryption.
• Works offline via authenticator apps (Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator).
• Can also be implemented via hardware tokens (YubiKey), SMS, or push notifications.
• Layered approach makes brute force or code interception nearly impossible.
• Significance:
• Shields accounts from password theft, phishing, and brute-force attacks. Widely used in banking, government portals, healthcare, and corporate IT systems. Promotes digital trust, crucial for Digital India, Aadhaar-based services, and cyber governance.
• Shields accounts from password theft, phishing, and brute-force attacks.
• Widely used in banking, government portals, healthcare, and corporate IT systems.
• Promotes digital trust, crucial for Digital India, Aadhaar-based services, and cyber governance.
Vice President Election – System of Proportional Representation
Source: NDTV
Context: Polling for the Vice-Presidential election began on September 9, 2025, following the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar.
• Prime Minister of India cast the first vote, with CP Radhakrishnan and Justice B. Sudershan Reddy contesting for the post.
About Vice President Election – System of Proportional Representation:
What it is?
The Vice President of India is elected by an Electoral College of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha + Rajya Sabha, elected & nominated members) using the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote (STV), conducted through a secret ballot.
How the Vice President Election Works?
• Electoral College: Composed of all elected and nominated members of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Unlike the President’s election, State Legislatures are not part of this process.
• Composed of all elected and nominated members of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
• Unlike the President’s election, State Legislatures are not part of this process.
• Equal Value of Votes: Each MP’s vote has the same value = 1. This makes the process straightforward compared to the President’s election, where vote value differs.
• Each MP’s vote has the same value = 1.
• This makes the process straightforward compared to the President’s election, where vote value differs.
• Ballot Paper & Preferences: Ballot papers are pink, bilingual (Hindi & English). Candidates’ names are listed in the first column; the second column is for preferences. MPs mark their choice by writing 1, 2, 3… against candidates’ names (in international numerals, Indian scripts, or Roman numerals). Writing “one”, “two” in words or leaving it blank invalidates the preference.
• Ballot papers are pink, bilingual (Hindi & English).
• Candidates’ names are listed in the first column; the second column is for preferences.
• MPs mark their choice by writing 1, 2, 3… against candidates’ names (in international numerals, Indian scripts, or Roman numerals).
• Writing “one”, “two” in words or leaving it blank invalidates the preference.
• Quota Calculation (Winning Threshold): The winning candidate must secure a quota of votes = (Total Valid Votes Cast ÷ 2) + 1 Example: If 780 MPs vote, the quota is (780 ÷ 2) + 1 = 391 votes.
• The winning candidate must secure a quota of votes = (Total Valid Votes Cast ÷ 2) + 1
• Example: If 780 MPs vote, the quota is (780 ÷ 2) + 1 = 391 votes.
• Counting & Transfer of Votes: First Preference Count: All “1” marked votes are tallied. If a candidate reaches the quota in this round → declared elected. If no candidate reaches the quota: The candidate with the least votes is eliminated. Their votes are transferred to the next preference (“2”) marked by those MPs. This process continues until one candidate crosses the required quota.
• First Preference Count: All “1” marked votes are tallied.
• If a candidate reaches the quota in this round → declared elected.
• If no candidate reaches the quota: The candidate with the least votes is eliminated. Their votes are transferred to the next preference (“2”) marked by those MPs.
• The candidate with the least votes is eliminated.
• Their votes are transferred to the next preference (“2”) marked by those MPs.
• This process continues until one candidate crosses the required quota.
• Secret Ballot: Voting is confidential. MPs are not bound by any party whip because anti-defection law does not apply. This allows for cross-voting, making outcomes less predictable.
• Voting is confidential. MPs are not bound by any party whip because anti-defection law does not apply.
• This allows for cross-voting, making outcomes less predictable.
Significance:
• Democratic legitimacy: Ensures the Vice President is elected with majority support of MPs across parties.
• Checks dominance: Preference voting system reduces chances of unfair victory by a simple plurality.
• Institutional balance: Strengthens the role of Vice President, who is also the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
Hockey Asia Cup 2025
Source: IT
Context: India defeated Korea 4-1 in the final of the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir, Bihar, clinching their fourth title.
• With this victory, India also sealed direct qualification for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
About Hockey Asia Cup 2025:
• What it is?
• A quadrennial international men’s hockey tournament organised by the Asian Hockey Federation. Considered the most prestigious continental hockey championship in Asia, offering a World Cup berth to the winner.
• A quadrennial international men’s hockey tournament organised by the Asian Hockey Federation.
• Considered the most prestigious continental hockey championship in Asia, offering a World Cup berth to the winner.
• Held in Rajgir, Bihar, from 29th August to 7th September 2025. India hosted the tournament for the first time in Bihar, showcasing the state’s growing role in global sports.
• Held in Rajgir, Bihar, from 29th August to 7th September 2025.
• India hosted the tournament for the first time in Bihar, showcasing the state’s growing role in global sports.
• Mascot:
• Chaand, a fierce tiger draped in a red cape and crowned with a magician’s hat. Symbolises skill, courage, agility, and pride, inspired by Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
• Chaand, a fierce tiger draped in a red cape and crowned with a magician’s hat.
• Symbolises skill, courage, agility, and pride, inspired by Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
• Winner (2025 Edition):
• India lifted the trophy by defeating defending champions Korea 4-1 in the final. This marked India’s 4th Asia Cup title, joining Pakistan (3 titles) and Korea (5 titles) among the top winners.
• India lifted the trophy by defeating defending champions Korea 4-1 in the final.
• This marked India’s 4th Asia Cup title, joining Pakistan (3 titles) and Korea (5 titles) among the top winners.
• Features:
• 12th edition of the Men’s Asia Cup. Acts as a qualifier for the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup. Highlights India’s unbeaten run in the tournament, with strong wins over China (7-0) and Malaysia.
• 12th edition of the Men’s Asia Cup.
• Acts as a qualifier for the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup.
• Highlights India’s unbeaten run in the tournament, with strong wins over China (7-0) and Malaysia.
Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika
Source: TH
Context: Assam has launched year-long celebrations marking the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, with tributes from national leaders and cultural events across the state.
About Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika:
• What it is? Bhupen Hazarika (1926–2011), known as Sudhakantha (nectar-voiced) and the Bard of Brahmaputra, was an iconic Indian singer, composer, lyricist, poet, filmmaker, and public intellectual.
• Bhupen Hazarika (1926–2011), known as Sudhakantha (nectar-voiced) and the Bard of Brahmaputra, was an iconic Indian singer, composer, lyricist, poet, filmmaker, and public intellectual.
• Birth & Background: Born on 8 September 1926 in Sadiya, Assam. Grew up in Assam’s folk traditions, recording his first song at age 10 on All India Radio, Kolkata. Completed MA in Political Science (BHU) and PhD in Mass Communication (Columbia University, 1952), where he was inspired by Paul Robeson and global civil rights movements.
• Born on 8 September 1926 in Sadiya, Assam.
• Grew up in Assam’s folk traditions, recording his first song at age 10 on All India Radio, Kolkata.
• Completed MA in Political Science (BHU) and PhD in Mass Communication (Columbia University, 1952), where he was inspired by Paul Robeson and global civil rights movements.
• Contributions: Music & Lyrics: Created evergreen songs like Manuhe Manuhar Babe, Moi Eti Jajabor, Bistirno Parore, blending Assamese folk with universal messages of humanity, justice, and harmony. Cinema: Directed/produced Assamese films (Era Bator Sur, Chameli Memsaab), and composed music for Hindi and Bengali films (Rudaali, Daman, Saaz). Social Voice: His art addressed poverty, inequality, caste, and marginalisation, making him a cultural unifier of Northeast India with the rest of the country. Public Service: Served as Chairman, Sangeet Natak Akademi and was elected as an MLA in Assam (1967).
• Music & Lyrics: Created evergreen songs like Manuhe Manuhar Babe, Moi Eti Jajabor, Bistirno Parore, blending Assamese folk with universal messages of humanity, justice, and harmony.
• Cinema: Directed/produced Assamese films (Era Bator Sur, Chameli Memsaab), and composed music for Hindi and Bengali films (Rudaali, Daman, Saaz).
• Social Voice: His art addressed poverty, inequality, caste, and marginalisation, making him a cultural unifier of Northeast India with the rest of the country.
• Public Service: Served as Chairman, Sangeet Natak Akademi and was elected as an MLA in Assam (1967).
• Significance: Cultural Icon: Redefined Assamese identity and integrated Northeast’s voice into India’s mainstream. Global Influence: His works carried universal themes of brotherhood and equality, resonating beyond India. Awards & Recognition: Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and posthumously, Bharat Ratna (2019).
• Cultural Icon: Redefined Assamese identity and integrated Northeast’s voice into India’s mainstream.
• Global Influence: His works carried universal themes of brotherhood and equality, resonating beyond India.
• Awards & Recognition: Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and posthumously, Bharat Ratna (2019).
Bhil tribe
Source: TH
Context: A translated collection of Bhil folk tales in Hindi will soon be released as an e-booklet on the Tribal Affairs Ministry’s Adi Vaani website and app, showcasing oral traditions on caste, love, theatre, and social justice.
About Bhil Tribe:
Who They Are?
• The Bhils are among the oldest tribal communities in India, belonging to the Austroloid group and often identified with the Dravidian racial stock of Western India.
• Known as skilled archers, their name derives from the Dravidian word billu/villu (bow).
Habitat:
• Traditionally spread across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and parts of Bihar.
• Present population pockets also exist in Tripura, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand.
History:
• Ancient references: Associated with Shabari in Ramayana, linked to Eklavya in Mahabharata, and believed by some traditions to be descendants of Harappan settlers.
• Medieval period: Fought guerrilla wars against Rajputs, Mughals, and Marathas to defend ancestral lands.
• Colonial era: Declared a “criminal tribe” under the Criminal Tribes Act, 1871, subjected to bonded labour, taxation, and displacement.
• Resistance movements: Bhagat Movement (1883) led by Govind Guru, culminating in the Mangarh massacre (1913); later the Eki Andolan (1920) led by Motilal Tejawat.
Features:
• Social:
• Organised around village deities (Gramdev, Kuldev, Kuldevi). Traditionally patriarchal but community-centric decision-making through elders. Strong kinship bonds, with joint family traditions.
• Organised around village deities (Gramdev, Kuldev, Kuldevi).
• Traditionally patriarchal but community-centric decision-making through elders.
• Strong kinship bonds, with joint family traditions.
• Cultural:
• Rich oral traditions of folk tales, theatre, and dance. Festivals marked by music (flutes, drums), drinking, and all-night dancing. Worship of local and natural deities: Baba dev, Bhilat dev, Bag dev, serpent gods, along with Shiva and Durga. Mythology connects them to Valmiki and to Shabari’s offering to Lord Rama.
• Rich oral traditions of folk tales, theatre, and dance.
• Festivals marked by music (flutes, drums), drinking, and all-night dancing.
• Worship of local and natural deities: Baba dev, Bhilat dev, Bag dev, serpent gods, along with Shiva and Durga.
• Mythology connects them to Valmiki and to Shabari’s offering to Lord Rama.
About Adi Vaani:
• What it is? A language translation application and website launched by the Government of India. It is designed to translate between various Adivasi (tribal) languages and Hindi/English.
• A language translation application and website launched by the Government of India. It is designed to translate between various Adivasi (tribal) languages and Hindi/English.
• Developed by: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India. The project utilized linguistic data collected by State Tribal Research Institutes to ensure authenticity.
• Key Features: Bi-directional Translation: Translates to and from Adivasi languages, Hindi, and English. Initial Language Support: Currently supports Gondi, Bhili, Mundari, and Santali. Support for Kui and Garo is planned for a soon. Multi-Platform Access: The app will be available for download on both Android and Apple app stores. Feedback Mechanism: Includes a feature for users to provide feedback to help improve translation accuracy over time. Cost-Effective: Developed as a “frugal innovation” at a fraction of the cost of commercial platforms.
• Bi-directional Translation: Translates to and from Adivasi languages, Hindi, and English.
• Initial Language Support: Currently supports Gondi, Bhili, Mundari, and Santali. Support for Kui and Garo is planned for a soon.
• Multi-Platform Access: The app will be available for download on both Android and Apple app stores.
• Feedback Mechanism: Includes a feature for users to provide feedback to help improve translation accuracy over time.
• Cost-Effective: Developed as a “frugal innovation” at a fraction of the cost of commercial platforms.
Pallas’s Cat
Source: TOI
Context: A WWF-India survey in Arunachal Pradesh has captured the first photographic evidence of Pallas’s cat in the state, reaffirming the eastern Himalayas as a global biodiversity hotspot.
About Pallas’s Cat:
• What it is? Pallas’s cat (Otocolobus manul), also called manul, is a small wild cat species believed to be one of the oldest surviving felines, diverging ~5.2 million years ago. It resembles a domestic cat in size but looks stockier due to its dense coat.
• Pallas’s cat (Otocolobus manul), also called manul, is a small wild cat species believed to be one of the oldest surviving felines, diverging ~5.2 million years ago.
• It resembles a domestic cat in size but looks stockier due to its dense coat.
• Found in: Native to Central Asia – particularly Mongolia, China, and parts of Russia. Recently photographed in Arunachal Pradesh, extending its known eastern Himalayan range beyond Bhutan & Sikkim.
• Native to Central Asia – particularly Mongolia, China, and parts of Russia.
• Recently photographed in Arunachal Pradesh, extending its known eastern Himalayan range beyond Bhutan & Sikkim.
• Habitat: High-altitude grasslands, rocky steppes, and cold deserts. Recorded at elevations close to 5,000 metres in the eastern Himalayas.
• High-altitude grasslands, rocky steppes, and cold deserts.
• Recorded at elevations close to 5,000 metres in the eastern Himalayas.
• Features: Short legs, rounded low-set ears, and a dense fur coat that changes with seasons for camouflage. Ambush predator, hunting rodents, pikas, lizards, and small birds. Distinctive yelping call, unlike most cats, and rounded pupils instead of vertical slits. Lifespan: ~8–9 years in the wild; solitary and secretive, mostly nocturnal/crepuscular.
• Short legs, rounded low-set ears, and a dense fur coat that changes with seasons for camouflage.
• Ambush predator, hunting rodents, pikas, lizards, and small birds.
• Distinctive yelping call, unlike most cats, and rounded pupils instead of vertical slits.
• Lifespan: ~8–9 years in the wild; solitary and secretive, mostly nocturnal/crepuscular.
• Significance: A rare and elusive species, considered a milestone discovery in Indian wildlife research. Strengthens ecological understanding of the eastern Himalayas as a biodiversity hotspot.
• A rare and elusive species, considered a milestone discovery in Indian wildlife research.
• Strengthens ecological understanding of the eastern Himalayas as a biodiversity hotspot.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 9 September 2025 Mapping:
Caribbean Region
Source: IC
Context: The US deployed F-35 fighter jets, naval warships, and thousands of Marines to the southern Caribbean amid rising tensions with Venezuela.
About Caribbean Region:
• What it is? A geographic and cultural region comprising the Caribbean Sea, its islands, and surrounding coasts. Often called the West Indies, it includes more than 7,000 islands, islets, cays, and reefs.
• A geographic and cultural region comprising the Caribbean Sea, its islands, and surrounding coasts.
• Often called the West Indies, it includes more than 7,000 islands, islets, cays, and reefs.
• Location: Lies southeast of the Gulf of Mexico, east of Central America & Mexico, and north of South America. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and east, and the Caribbean Sea to the south.
• Lies southeast of the Gulf of Mexico, east of Central America & Mexico, and north of South America.
• Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and east, and the Caribbean Sea to the south.
• Nations Found: 13 independent island nations (e.g., Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Grenada, Saint Lucia). Several territories and dependencies of the USA, UK, France, and the Netherlands (e.g., Puerto Rico, Martinique, Aruba).
• 13 independent island nations (e.g., Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Grenada, Saint Lucia).
• Several territories and dependencies of the USA, UK, France, and the Netherlands (e.g., Puerto Rico, Martinique, Aruba).
• History: Indigenous people (Taino, Carib, Arawak) lived here until 1492, when Christopher Columbus The region was colonised by European powers; African slaves were brought in for sugar and tobacco plantations. Known historically for piracy, colonial wars, and slave trade, later evolving into a hub of Afro-European cultural fusion.
• Indigenous people (Taino, Carib, Arawak) lived here until 1492, when Christopher Columbus
• The region was colonised by European powers; African slaves were brought in for sugar and tobacco plantations.
• Known historically for piracy, colonial wars, and slave trade, later evolving into a hub of Afro-European cultural fusion.
• Features: Strategic Location: Lies at the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and Panama Canal, making it vital for global maritime trade and naval presence. Geopolitical Significance: A hotspot of US influence, Cold War rivalries, and ongoing tensions (e.g., Cuba crisis, current US–Venezuela standoff). Cultural Diversity: Fusion of African, European, indigenous, and Asian cultures, with multiple languages (English, Spanish, French, Dutch, Creole). Security Concerns: A hub for drug trafficking routes, organised crime, and maritime piracy, necessitating global naval patrols. Regional Cooperation: Institutions like CARICOM promote economic integration, disaster management, and diplomatic voice of small island nations.
• Strategic Location: Lies at the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and Panama Canal, making it vital for global maritime trade and naval presence.
• Geopolitical Significance: A hotspot of US influence, Cold War rivalries, and ongoing tensions (e.g., Cuba crisis, current US–Venezuela standoff).
• Cultural Diversity: Fusion of African, European, indigenous, and Asian cultures, with multiple languages (English, Spanish, French, Dutch, Creole).
• Security Concerns: A hub for drug trafficking routes, organised crime, and maritime piracy, necessitating global naval patrols.
• Regional Cooperation: Institutions like CARICOM promote economic integration, disaster management, and diplomatic voice of small island nations.
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