UPSC Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS : 25 June 2025

NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same

General Studies – 1

Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

Q1. Examine the role of Vedic and post-Vedic texts in shaping early Indian scientific thought. How can they be made accessible to today’s learners? (10 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: NIE

Why the question A dedicated team of seven core members undertook an in-depth study of more than 87 ancient Indian scriptures, exploring the vast spectrum of Vedic, post-Vedic, and classical Indian scientific thought. Key Demand of the question To examine how Vedic and post-Vedic texts contributed to early Indian scientific traditions, and suggest ways to make them accessible to contemporary learners. Structure of the Answer Introduction Brief relevance of Vedic texts in shaping scientific traditions and modern educational relevance. Body Role of Vedic and post-Vedic texts in developing scientific disciplines like astronomy, medicine, metallurgy, mind sciences. Ways to make these texts accessible through curricular integration, digital platforms, academic research, global collaborations, and media. Conclusion Forward-looking conclusion on how revival of these texts can enrich India’s innovation ecosystem and global knowledge leadership.

Why the question A dedicated team of seven core members undertook an in-depth study of more than 87 ancient Indian scriptures, exploring the vast spectrum of Vedic, post-Vedic, and classical Indian scientific thought.

Key Demand of the question To examine how Vedic and post-Vedic texts contributed to early Indian scientific traditions, and suggest ways to make them accessible to contemporary learners.

Structure of the Answer

Introduction Brief relevance of Vedic texts in shaping scientific traditions and modern educational relevance.

• Role of Vedic and post-Vedic texts in developing scientific disciplines like astronomy, medicine, metallurgy, mind sciences.

• Ways to make these texts accessible through curricular integration, digital platforms, academic research, global collaborations, and media.

Conclusion Forward-looking conclusion on how revival of these texts can enrich India’s innovation ecosystem and global knowledge leadership.

Introduction Vedic and post-Vedic texts laid the foundation for multiple branches of Indian scientific inquiry, blending empirical observation with metaphysical insights. Their relevance for modern knowledge systems is immense if effectively integrated into contemporary education.

Role of Vedic and post-Vedic texts in shaping early Indian scientific thought

• Foundation of astronomy and mathematics: Rigveda hymns encode astronomical phenomena and early number theory Eg: Rigveda describes nakshatras and solar-lunar cycles influencing Jyotisha Vedanga.

• Eg: Rigveda describes nakshatras and solar-lunar cycles influencing Jyotisha Vedanga.

• Development of medicine and surgery: Atharvaveda contains medicinal hymns; Sushruta Samhita builds on this Eg: Atharvaveda’s herbal remedies informed Ayurveda, later codified in Sushruta Samhita (~600 BCE).

• Eg: Atharvaveda’s herbal remedies informed Ayurveda, later codified in Sushruta Samhita (~600 BCE).

• Advancement of metallurgy and materials: Textual references to smelting, alloys and rust-resistant iron Eg: Mention of ayas (iron) in Yajurveda aligns with Iron Pillar of Delhi’s corrosion resistance.

• Eg: Mention of ayas (iron) in Yajurveda aligns with Iron Pillar of Delhi’s corrosion resistance.

• Insights into fluid dynamics and civil engineering: Descriptions of water management systems and town planning Eg: Manusmriti details urban drainage; reflected in Dholavira’s water structures.

• Eg: Manusmriti details urban drainage; reflected in Dholavira’s water structures.

• Philosophical foundations of mind sciences: Upanishads explore consciousness and cognition Eg: Chandogya Upanishad’s teachings on manas (mind) and prana (life force) influenced modern yoga psychology.

• Eg: Chandogya Upanishad’s teachings on manas (mind) and prana (life force) influenced modern yoga psychology.

Ways to make them accessible to today’s learners

• Curricular integration at school level: Embed scientific concepts from Vedic texts in NCERT syllabi Eg: NEP 2020 advocates inclusion of Indian Knowledge Systems at all stages.

• Eg: NEP 2020 advocates inclusion of Indian Knowledge Systems at all stages.

• Digital translation and open-source access: Provide accurate translations via government platforms Eg: Bharatiya Virtual University for Indian Knowledge Systems (BVUIKS) launched in 2024.

• Eg: Bharatiya Virtual University for Indian Knowledge Systems (BVUIKS) launched in 2024.

• Research centres for interdisciplinary studies: Establish chairs in universities for rigorous academic study Eg: IIT Kharagpur’s Centre of Excellence for Indian Knowledge Systems operational since 2022.

• Eg: IIT Kharagpur’s Centre of Excellence for Indian Knowledge Systems operational since 2022.

• Collaboration with global academic platforms: Promote comparative research with global ancient sciences Eg: Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) MoUs with SOAS London.

• Eg: Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) MoUs with SOAS London.

• Mass media and cinematic representations: Leverage documentaries and visual media to popularise content Eg: Documentary Science in Ancient India released in 2025.

• Eg: Documentary Science in Ancient India released in 2025.

Conclusion Reviving and integrating Vedic scientific heritage into modern learning will enrich India’s innovation ecosystem. A balanced approach blending authentic scholarship with accessible platforms is key to realising this potential.

Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography.

Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography.

Q2. Explain the concept of evaporative demand. Analyse the factors driving its recent rise across Indian agro-ecosystems. Evaluate its implications for sustainable water resource management. (15 M)

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Reference: TH

Why the question Recent rise in extreme thirst waves and evaporative demand trends, highlighted in Earth’s Future (2025) and Indian basin-level studies, has sharpened concerns over water stress in Indian agriculture. Key Demand of the question To explain the concept of evaporative demand, analyse key factors behind its rising trends in India’s agro-ecosystems, and evaluate its impact on the future of sustainable water resource management. Structure of the Answer Introduction Briefly define evaporative demand and its growing importance under climate change. Body Concept and measurement of evaporative demand — explain its meaning, metrics, and relevance for crop water use Factors driving rise — rising temperatures, humidity changes, wind patterns, radiation, and land use change Implications — increased irrigation demand, groundwater stress, altered crop calendars, need for efficient irrigation and regional adaptation Conclusion Highlight the importance of integrating evaporative demand into water governance and climate-resilient agriculture planning.

Why the question Recent rise in extreme thirst waves and evaporative demand trends, highlighted in Earth’s Future (2025) and Indian basin-level studies, has sharpened concerns over water stress in Indian agriculture.

Key Demand of the question To explain the concept of evaporative demand, analyse key factors behind its rising trends in India’s agro-ecosystems, and evaluate its impact on the future of sustainable water resource management.

Structure of the Answer Introduction Briefly define evaporative demand and its growing importance under climate change.

• Concept and measurement of evaporative demand — explain its meaning, metrics, and relevance for crop water use

• Factors driving rise — rising temperatures, humidity changes, wind patterns, radiation, and land use change

• Implications — increased irrigation demand, groundwater stress, altered crop calendars, need for efficient irrigation and regional adaptation

Conclusion Highlight the importance of integrating evaporative demand into water governance and climate-resilient agriculture planning.

Introduction With intensifying climate change, evaporative demand has emerged as a crucial indicator of how much water the atmosphere seeks to pull from land and vegetation, directly influencing irrigation needs and crop resilience.

Concept of evaporative demand

• Definition of evaporative demand: It represents the atmosphere’s potential to evaporate water from land and transpire it through plants if water is sufficiently available. Eg: Concept highlighted in Earth’s Future (2025) by Kukal and Hobbins as a driver of “thirstwaves”

• Eg: Concept highlighted in Earth’s Future (2025) by Kukal and Hobbins as a driver of “thirstwaves”

• Measurement method: Calculated through standardised short-crop evapotranspiration (ET0), integrating temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and wind. Eg: Used in FAO’s Penman-Monteith Equation, widely adopted in irrigation planning manuals (FAO 56 Guidelines)

• Eg: Used in FAO’s Penman-Monteith Equation, widely adopted in irrigation planning manuals (FAO 56 Guidelines)

Factors driving recent rise in Indian agro-ecosystems

• Rising ambient temperatures: Higher surface temperatures increase atmospheric capacity to hold and demand moisture. Eg: IMD 2024 Report recorded all-India mean land temperature rise by 0.65°C since 1990

• Eg: IMD 2024 Report recorded all-India mean land temperature rise by 0.65°C since 1990

• Declining relative humidity: Drying atmosphere boosts evaporative gradients between land and air. Eg: IIT-Roorkee and NIH study (2022) reported significant humidity decline in northwest and central India

• Eg: IIT-Roorkee and NIH study (2022) reported significant humidity decline in northwest and central India

• Increased solar radiation: Reduction in atmospheric aerosols and clearer skies enhance solar radiation intensity. Eg: Journal of Cleaner Production (2022) noted enhanced radiation in Indo-Gangetic plains post COVID-19 lockdown

• Eg: Journal of Cleaner Production (2022) noted enhanced radiation in Indo-Gangetic plains post COVID-19 lockdown

• Changing wind patterns: Higher wind speeds facilitate faster evaporation rates from exposed soil and crop surfaces. Eg: IITM Pune (2023) identified rising pre-monsoon wind anomalies in western Rajasthan

• Eg: IITM Pune (2023) identified rising pre-monsoon wind anomalies in western Rajasthan

• Land use change and crop intensification: Expansion of water-intensive crops in semi-arid zones raises cumulative evaporative demand. Eg: NITI Aayog 2023 Report highlighted paddy-wheat cycle expansion in Punjab and Haryana

• Eg: NITI Aayog 2023 Report highlighted paddy-wheat cycle expansion in Punjab and Haryana

Implications for sustainable water resource management

• Increased irrigation demand: Farmers require more frequent irrigation to compensate for higher evaporative losses. Eg: Punjab Water Resources Management Authority (2024) reported 15% rise in groundwater extraction

• Eg: Punjab Water Resources Management Authority (2024) reported 15% rise in groundwater extraction

• Stress on groundwater resources: Unsustainable withdrawal depletes aquifers faster than recharge rates. Eg: CGWB 2024 assessment found 78% of monitored wells in north India showing declining trends

• Eg: CGWB 2024 assessment found 78% of monitored wells in north India showing declining trends

• Altered cropping calendars: Shifting evaporative patterns necessitate changes in sowing dates and varietal selection. Eg: ICAR advisory (2024) recommended preponing kharif paddy sowing by 10–15 days in eastern UP

• Eg: ICAR advisory (2024) recommended preponing kharif paddy sowing by 10–15 days in eastern UP

• Need for efficient irrigation: Promotes adoption of micro-irrigation and precision farming to minimise water wastage. Eg: PMKSY (2023) achieved 7 million hectares under micro-irrigation, led by Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh

• Eg: PMKSY (2023) achieved 7 million hectares under micro-irrigation, led by Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh

• Regional water stress differentials: Rising evaporative demand is uneven, requiring region-specific adaptation strategies. Eg: IIT-Roorkee study (2022) identified Western Himalayas and northwest plains as high-risk zones

• Eg: IIT-Roorkee study (2022) identified Western Himalayas and northwest plains as high-risk zones

Conclusion Mainstreaming evaporative demand monitoring into India’s farm advisories can revolutionise water management. Proactive strategies combining climate-smart agriculture and demand-side efficiency are vital for ensuring long-term water sustainability.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Role of civil services in a democracy

Topic: Role of civil services in a democracy

Q3. Examine the existing gender imbalance in India’s urban bureaucratic architecture. Analyse how this affects service delivery and inclusivity. Suggest systemic reforms for enhancing women’s representation in administrative and technical roles. (15 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: TH

Why the question Recent discussions on India’s urbanisation and gender equity highlight the persistent gender gap in urban bureaucratic structures and its policy impact. Key demand of the question The question requires examining the current gender imbalance in India’s urban bureaucracy, analysing its effects on service delivery and inclusivity, and suggesting systemic reforms to enhance women’s representation in administrative and technical domains. Structure of the Answer Introduction Brief mention of how lack of gender-diverse bureaucracies affects inclusive urban development. Body Existing gender imbalance in urban bureaucratic architecture: Low representation of women in IAS, technical cadres, policing, and leadership roles in city governance. Impact on service delivery and inclusivity: Gender-insensitive urban planning, poor public safety, neglect of community services, and reduced civic trust among women. Systemic reforms for enhancing representation: Introducing quotas, gender-responsive HR policies, targeted capacity building, scholarships, and mandatory gender audits. Conclusion A forward-looking conclusion stressing that gender-diverse urban bureaucracies are critical for building inclusive, citizen-friendly cities.

Why the question Recent discussions on India’s urbanisation and gender equity highlight the persistent gender gap in urban bureaucratic structures and its policy impact.

Key demand of the question The question requires examining the current gender imbalance in India’s urban bureaucracy, analysing its effects on service delivery and inclusivity, and suggesting systemic reforms to enhance women’s representation in administrative and technical domains.

Structure of the Answer

Introduction Brief mention of how lack of gender-diverse bureaucracies affects inclusive urban development.

• Existing gender imbalance in urban bureaucratic architecture: Low representation of women in IAS, technical cadres, policing, and leadership roles in city governance.

• Impact on service delivery and inclusivity: Gender-insensitive urban planning, poor public safety, neglect of community services, and reduced civic trust among women.

• Systemic reforms for enhancing representation: Introducing quotas, gender-responsive HR policies, targeted capacity building, scholarships, and mandatory gender audits.

Conclusion A forward-looking conclusion stressing that gender-diverse urban bureaucracies are critical for building inclusive, citizen-friendly cities.

Introduction A gender-imbalanced urban bureaucracy risks perpetuating policies and infrastructure that ignore the needs of half the population, undermining the inclusiveness of India’s urban growth trajectory.

Existing gender imbalance in urban bureaucratic architecture

• Low share in IAS and allied services: Despite overall progress, only 20% of IAS officers today are women, limiting gender perspectives at decision-making levels (IndiaSpend 2022). Eg: In Maharashtra, only 18% of municipal IAS officers are women, with most concentrated in welfare departments (MoHUA 2024).

• Eg: In Maharashtra, only 18% of municipal IAS officers are women, with most concentrated in welfare departments (MoHUA 2024).

• Severe under-representation in technical cadres: Women’s representation remains below 10% in critical fields like planning, engineering, and transport, resulting in male-dominated design of city services. Eg: Delhi Development Authority reports just 7.5% women among sanctioned urban planners, constraining inclusive spatial design (DDA Annual Report 2024).

• Eg: Delhi Development Authority reports just 7.5% women among sanctioned urban planners, constraining inclusive spatial design (DDA Annual Report 2024).

• Gender gap in urban policing: Women constitute only 7% of police personnel (BPRD 2023), with very low presence in field duties, limiting gender-sensitive community policing. Eg: In Mumbai Police, only 2 out of 93 police stations are headed by women officers, impacting effective outreach on gender-based crimes.

• Eg: In Mumbai Police, only 2 out of 93 police stations are headed by women officers, impacting effective outreach on gender-based crimes.

• Limited women in municipal leadership: Across 100 Smart Cities, fewer than 5% municipal commissioners are women, reinforcing a masculine leadership culture in urban governance. Eg: Bengaluru and Pune have not had a woman municipal commissioner in the last decade, despite high urbanisation (Janaagraha 2025).

• Eg: Bengaluru and Pune have not had a woman municipal commissioner in the last decade, despite high urbanisation (Janaagraha 2025).

• Concentration in low-impact roles: Women are over-represented in health and welfare roles, but are missing from finance, infrastructure, and core city management. Eg: In Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, 90% of women employees are confined to social welfare, with no representation in engineering or transport wings (AMC HR Data 2024).

• Eg: In Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, 90% of women employees are confined to social welfare, with no representation in engineering or transport wings (AMC HR Data 2024).

Impact on service delivery and inclusivity

• Poor responsiveness to gendered mobility needs: Urban transport planning lacks sensitivity to women’s multi-stop, caregiving-linked travel patterns, undermining mobility equity. Eg: ITDP-Safetipin study (2023) found that 84% of women depend on public or shared transport, yet first/last-mile safety remains a persistent gap in Delhi and Mumbai.

• Eg: ITDP-Safetipin study (2023) found that 84% of women depend on public or shared transport, yet first/last-mile safety remains a persistent gap in Delhi and Mumbai.

• Neglect of community-level infrastructure: Sanitation, safe public spaces, and childcare remain underfunded due to absence of gender perspectives in decision-making. Eg: UN Women (2023) study found that ULBs led by women elected representatives invested 27% more in public sanitation compared to male-dominated councils.

• Eg: UN Women (2023) study found that ULBs led by women elected representatives invested 27% more in public sanitation compared to male-dominated councils.

• Low gender-sensitivity in urban policing: A male-dominated police force reduces the comfort level and trust of women in accessing law enforcement. Eg: NCRB (2024) reports that states with higher female police representation saw a 38% increase in reporting of gender-based violence cases.

• Eg: NCRB (2024) reports that states with higher female police representation saw a 38% increase in reporting of gender-based violence cases.

• Public spaces remain unsafe: Poor lighting and unsafe design of public spaces disproportionately affect women’s participation in economic and social life. Eg: Safetipin audit (2019) across 50 cities found 60% of public spaces poorly lit, directly limiting evening-time access for women.

• Eg: Safetipin audit (2019) across 50 cities found 60% of public spaces poorly lit, directly limiting evening-time access for women.

• Reduced public trust and civic engagement: Lack of gender diversity in governance structures undermines public trust, especially among women citizens. Eg: ICRIER (2023) found that gender-balanced ULBs reported 40% higher civic trust scores among female constituents.

• Eg: ICRIER (2023) found that gender-balanced ULBs reported 40% higher civic trust scores among female constituents.

Systemic reforms for enhancing representation

• Reservation in municipal technical roles: Mandating 33% reservation in planning, engineering, and core municipal cadres will institutionalise diversity. Eg: Tamil Nadu Urban Policy (2024) has introduced a 33% reservation for women in technical roles, aiming to bridge structural gaps.

• Eg: Tamil Nadu Urban Policy (2024) has introduced a 33% reservation for women in technical roles, aiming to bridge structural gaps.

• Targeted scholarships and recruitment: Creating gender-focused pipelines through scholarships and active recruitment in urban governance education and hiring. Eg: Kudumbashree-NIT Calicut (2023) collaboration launched fellowships for women in urban planning and design disciplines.

• Eg: Kudumbashree-NIT Calicut (2023) collaboration launched fellowships for women in urban planning and design disciplines.

• Gender-responsive HR policies: Promotion pathways that account for career breaks and support professional advancement of women in technical and leadership roles. Eg: South Korea’s Gender Equity Act (2022) has led to 50% parity in promotions within public service by adopting flexible promotion policies.

• Eg: South Korea’s Gender Equity Act (2022) has led to 50% parity in promotions within public service by adopting flexible promotion policies.

• Mandatory gender audits: Regular gender audits of staff composition linked to performance appraisal and funding, creating accountability for diversity. Eg: Philippines’ Local Government Code (2023 Amendment) mandates annual gender audits for all municipal bodies.

• Eg: Philippines’ Local Government Code (2023 Amendment) mandates annual gender audits for all municipal bodies.

• Gender-focused capacity building: Institutionalising mandatory gender-sensitisation and equity training for urban bureaucrats at all levels. Eg: Kerala’s Institute of Local Administration (KILA) runs annual gender-sensitisation programs for municipal staff (2024).

• Eg: Kerala’s Institute of Local Administration (KILA) runs annual gender-sensitisation programs for municipal staff (2024).

Conclusion To realise inclusive urbanisation, Indian cities must mainstream gender equity in their bureaucratic structures. Empowered, gender-diverse administrative cadres will ensure cities are truly designed for all.

Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

Q4. What are the key institutional roles of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the global nuclear governance architecture? How do recent conflicts involving nuclear sites challenge these roles? (10 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: IE

Why the question: Iran’s nuclear sites and the IAEA’s emergency response, raising debates on the resilience of global nuclear governance. Key Demand of the question: To outline the core functions of the IAEA in nuclear governance and analyse how recent armed conflicts have affected its operational capacity and credibility. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Mention IAEA’s foundational role in global nuclear governance and current relevance post-Iran crisis. Body: Key institutional roles of IAEA — verification, peaceful tech promotion, safety norms, technical assistance, emergency response. Challenges from recent conflicts — restricted access, material traceability, inspector safety, erosion of verification credibility, politicisation risks. Conclusion: Need for stronger legal and operational mandates to ensure IAEA’s effectiveness during conflicts.

Why the question: Iran’s nuclear sites and the IAEA’s emergency response, raising debates on the resilience of global nuclear governance.

Key Demand of the question: To outline the core functions of the IAEA in nuclear governance and analyse how recent armed conflicts have affected its operational capacity and credibility.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction: Mention IAEA’s foundational role in global nuclear governance and current relevance post-Iran crisis.

• Key institutional roles of IAEA — verification, peaceful tech promotion, safety norms, technical assistance, emergency response.

• Challenges from recent conflicts — restricted access, material traceability, inspector safety, erosion of verification credibility, politicisation risks.

Conclusion: Need for stronger legal and operational mandates to ensure IAEA’s effectiveness during conflicts.

Introduction Founded in 1957, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) anchors the global nuclear governance framework by promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy while ensuring non-proliferation. Recent attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites (2025) highlight emerging challenges to its role.

Key institutional roles of the IAEA

• Verification of non-proliferation commitments: IAEA conducts safeguards to verify civilian nuclear material is not diverted to military use. Eg: IAEA verified Iran’s nuclear programme under JCPOA until US withdrawal in 2018 (IAEA Annual Report 2023)

• Eg: IAEA verified Iran’s nuclear programme under JCPOA until US withdrawal in 2018 (IAEA Annual Report 2023)

• Promotion of peaceful nuclear technology: Facilitates the use of nuclear science in energy, agriculture, medicine. Eg: Rays of Hope initiative (2022) for cancer therapy expansion in Africa

• Eg: Rays of Hope initiative (2022) for cancer therapy expansion in Africa

• Nuclear safety and security standards: Sets global benchmarks on nuclear safety, waste management, and physical security. Eg: IAEA’s 2024 guidelines for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

• Eg: IAEA’s 2024 guidelines for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

• Technical assistance and capacity building: Provides training and equipment to member states for peaceful nuclear applications. Eg: IAEA assistance to Ukraine (2022) to maintain nuclear safety amid war (IAEA Board Brief, 2022)

• Eg: IAEA assistance to Ukraine (2022) to maintain nuclear safety amid war (IAEA Board Brief, 2022)

• Early warning and emergency response: Coordinates international monitoring and response to nuclear emergencies. Eg: IAEA’s rapid radiation monitoring after Iran site attacks (2025).

• Eg: IAEA’s rapid radiation monitoring after Iran site attacks (2025).

How recent conflicts challenge these roles

• Restricted site access: Active conflicts obstruct IAEA teams from conducting inspections. Eg: IAEA inspectors blocked from Fordow and Natanz after Iran strikes (2025)

• Eg: IAEA inspectors blocked from Fordow and Natanz after Iran strikes (2025)

• Unaccounted nuclear material risk: Potential diversion of nuclear materials during evacuations or attacks. Eg: Iran’s relocation of 400 kg enriched uranium to undisclosed sites (2025)

• Eg: Iran’s relocation of 400 kg enriched uranium to undisclosed sites (2025)

• Threat to inspector safety: Deployment of IAEA staff in warzones exposes them to physical harm. Eg: IAEA withdrawal of staff from Zaporizhzhia NPP in Ukraine (2023)

• Eg: IAEA withdrawal of staff from Zaporizhzhia NPP in Ukraine (2023)

• Weakening verification credibility: Delayed or incomplete reporting erodes trust in IAEA findings. Eg: IAEA delayed assessments after Iran nuclear site attacks (2025) leading to UN debates

• Eg: IAEA delayed assessments after Iran nuclear site attacks (2025) leading to UN debates

• Politicisation of IAEA role: Geopolitical rivalries may compromise IAEA neutrality and credibility. Eg: US-Iran tensions stalling IAEA Board consensus on Iran inspections (2025).

• Eg: US-Iran tensions stalling IAEA Board consensus on Iran inspections (2025).

Conclusion To safeguard its global nuclear governance role, the IAEA must be empowered with enhanced legal backing, secured access rights, and stronger multilateral support for impartial operations even amidst conflicts.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.

Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.

Q5. What are the current trends in States’ non-tax revenue mobilisation. Analyse the reasons for its decline. Suggest measures to improve the composition and growth of non-tax revenues. (15 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: TH

Why the question: Recent RBI and NIPFP data show a persistent decline in States’ non-tax revenues, raising fiscal dependency concerns ahead of 16th Finance Commission debates on fiscal federalism. Key demand of the question: Discuss trends in States’ non-tax revenue mobilisation. Analyse the structural causes of its decline. Suggest actionable measures to enhance composition and growth of non-tax revenues. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Briefly state how non-tax revenue is vital for States’ fiscal health and autonomy, and how recent trends indicate growing dependence on Central transfers. Body: Trends in non-tax revenue mobilisation: Share in total revenue is declining, with growing reliance on Central grants and stagnant returns from services and PSUs. Reasons for decline: Inefficient PSU performance, populist tariff policies, weak asset monetisation, royalty disputes, and erosion of fiscal space under GST. Measures to improve: Strengthen PSU governance, rationalise user charges, accelerate asset monetisation, reform royalty mechanisms, and institutionalise revenue strategy. Conclusion: Highlight the need for States to build sustainable, diversified non-tax revenue streams to reinforce fiscal autonomy and cooperative federalism.

Why the question: Recent RBI and NIPFP data show a persistent decline in States’ non-tax revenues, raising fiscal dependency concerns ahead of 16th Finance Commission debates on fiscal federalism.

Key demand of the question: Discuss trends in States’ non-tax revenue mobilisation. Analyse the structural causes of its decline. Suggest actionable measures to enhance composition and growth of non-tax revenues.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction: Briefly state how non-tax revenue is vital for States’ fiscal health and autonomy, and how recent trends indicate growing dependence on Central transfers.

• Trends in non-tax revenue mobilisation: Share in total revenue is declining, with growing reliance on Central grants and stagnant returns from services and PSUs.

• Reasons for decline: Inefficient PSU performance, populist tariff policies, weak asset monetisation, royalty disputes, and erosion of fiscal space under GST.

• Measures to improve: Strengthen PSU governance, rationalise user charges, accelerate asset monetisation, reform royalty mechanisms, and institutionalise revenue strategy.

Conclusion: Highlight the need for States to build sustainable, diversified non-tax revenue streams to reinforce fiscal autonomy and cooperative federalism.

Introduction: In recent years, States’ non-tax revenue — critical for fiscal autonomy — has steadily declined due to inefficiencies, centralisation, and weak policy focus, deepening dependence on Central transfers.

Current trends in States’ non-tax revenue mobilisation

• Declining share in total revenue: The share of non-tax revenue is projected to fall below 24% of States’ revenue in FY25, lowest in over two decades, showing systemic weakening. Eg: Tamil Nadu’s non-tax revenue fell from 27% in FY17 to 21% in FY24, despite steady growth in State expenditure (TN Budget 2024-25).

• Eg: Tamil Nadu’s non-tax revenue fell from 27% in FY17 to 21% in FY24, despite steady growth in State expenditure (TN Budget 2024-25).

• Rising dependence on Central grants: 65-70% of non-tax revenue is now composed of Central grants, up from 55-60% in 2000s, reducing States’ financial flexibility. Eg: In West Bengal’s FY25 Budget, more than 68% of non-tax revenue was sourced from grants linked to flagship Central schemes (State Finance Dept 2025).

• Eg: In West Bengal’s FY25 Budget, more than 68% of non-tax revenue was sourced from grants linked to flagship Central schemes (State Finance Dept 2025).

• Low PSU profitability: Dividends and profits from State PSUs continue below 1% of total non-tax revenue, signalling deep inefficiencies and poor asset utilisation. Eg: Karnataka ESCOMs and Kerala Financial Corporation contributed less than ₹100 crore dividends in FY24 despite combined operational budgets exceeding ₹50,000 crore.

• Eg: Karnataka ESCOMs and Kerala Financial Corporation contributed less than ₹100 crore dividends in FY24 despite combined operational budgets exceeding ₹50,000 crore.

• Stagnant earnings from economic services: Revenues from transport, energy, irrigation, and other services remain under 30% of non-tax income in most States. Eg: Delhi Transport Corporation’s operating loss of ₹1,650 crore in FY24 wiped out service revenues despite fare increases (Delhi Budget 2025).

• Eg: Delhi Transport Corporation’s operating loss of ₹1,650 crore in FY24 wiped out service revenues despite fare increases (Delhi Budget 2025).

• Falling interest income: Interest receipts on loans and advances now form under 5% of non-tax revenue, reflecting reduced lending to State PSUs and agencies. Eg: Madhya Pradesh’s interest receipts declined to ₹1,024 crore in FY25 BE, down from ₹1,870 crore in FY15, showing lower recoveries.

• Eg: Madhya Pradesh’s interest receipts declined to ₹1,024 crore in FY25 BE, down from ₹1,870 crore in FY15, showing lower recoveries.

Reasons for decline in non-tax revenue

• Inefficient PSU governance: Many State PSUs suffer from outdated technology, poor management, and politicised boards, eroding profitability. Eg: Bihar State Road Transport Corporation continues to incur over ₹500 crore annual losses despite two major restructuring plans since 2018 (Bihar Transport Dept).

• Eg: Bihar State Road Transport Corporation continues to incur over ₹500 crore annual losses despite two major restructuring plans since 2018 (Bihar Transport Dept).

• Politically distorted user charges: Tariffs for public services are kept artificially low for populist reasons, undermining cost recovery. Eg: Punjab’s free electricity subsidy for farmers causes an annual revenue shortfall of nearly ₹10,000 crore in the power sector (Punjab Power Dept 2025).

• Eg: Punjab’s free electricity subsidy for farmers causes an annual revenue shortfall of nearly ₹10,000 crore in the power sector (Punjab Power Dept 2025).

• Delayed and weak asset monetisation: Poorly structured PPPs, land disputes, and lack of inventory lead to underutilisation of government assets. Eg: Maharashtra’s FY24 asset monetisation yield was only ₹3,100 crore, less than 40% of its ₹8,000 crore target (Maharashtra Finance Dept 2025).

• Eg: Maharashtra’s FY24 asset monetisation yield was only ₹3,100 crore, less than 40% of its ₹8,000 crore target (Maharashtra Finance Dept 2025).

• Litigation on royalties and outdated rates: Legal delays and political hesitation prevent timely revision of royalty rates on minerals, water, and forest produce. Eg: Odisha’s iron ore royalty revision, pending since 2019 due to ongoing court cases, led to foregone revenue of ₹1,500 crore per annum (Odisha Mines Dept).

• Eg: Odisha’s iron ore royalty revision, pending since 2019 due to ongoing court cases, led to foregone revenue of ₹1,500 crore per annum (Odisha Mines Dept).

• Fiscal erosion post-GST: Centralisation of indirect taxation under GST limits States’ ability to levy compensatory sectoral fees and cesses. Eg: Kerala’s 2023 attempt to introduce an eco-environment fee was blocked by GST Council, impacting local environmental funding (Kerala Budget 2024).

• Eg: Kerala’s 2023 attempt to introduce an eco-environment fee was blocked by GST Council, impacting local environmental funding (Kerala Budget 2024).

Measures to improve composition and growth of non-tax revenues

• Reforming PSU governance: Strategic disinvestment, professional management, and transparent reporting to improve returns and accountability. Eg: Tamil Nadu’s 2024 TANGEDCO restructuring, supported by ADB, targets ₹9,000 crore loss reduction over five years (TN Power Sector Reform Plan 2024).

• Eg: Tamil Nadu’s 2024 TANGEDCO restructuring, supported by ADB, targets ₹9,000 crore loss reduction over five years (TN Power Sector Reform Plan 2024).

• Rationalising user charges: Regular indexation of fees for services like water supply, transport, and health to inflation and service quality. Eg: Karnataka’s 2023 Urban Water Pricing Framework mandates biennial revision of tariffs based on CPI and service cost (Karnataka Water Supply Act 2023).

• Eg: Karnataka’s 2023 Urban Water Pricing Framework mandates biennial revision of tariffs based on CPI and service cost (Karnataka Water Supply Act 2023).

• Accelerating asset monetisation: Creation of GIS-based asset inventories and state-level PPP cells to fast-track monetisation pipelines. Eg: Maharashtra’s 2025 Urban Asset Monetisation Policy targets ₹10,000 crore over five years from metro land parcels and surplus urban land (Maha Budget 2025).

• Eg: Maharashtra’s 2025 Urban Asset Monetisation Policy targets ₹10,000 crore over five years from metro land parcels and surplus urban land (Maha Budget 2025).

• Establishing independent royalty boards: De-politicised boards to review and update royalties regularly and resolve disputes faster. Eg: Chhattisgarh’s 2024 Mineral Royalty Board updated rates within six months, adding ₹1,200 crore to FY25 revenues (Chhattisgarh Mines Dept).

• Eg: Chhattisgarh’s 2024 Mineral Royalty Board updated rates within six months, adding ₹1,200 crore to FY25 revenues (Chhattisgarh Mines Dept).

• Institutionalising revenue policy: Creation of Revenue Enhancement Commissions or Revenue Policy Cells for continuous policy innovation. Eg: Kerala Finance Commission 2023 proposed a permanent Revenue Policy Cell under Finance Dept to design dynamic non-tax revenue strategies (Kerala FC Report 2023).

• Eg: Kerala Finance Commission 2023 proposed a permanent Revenue Policy Cell under Finance Dept to design dynamic non-tax revenue strategies (Kerala FC Report 2023).

Conclusion: For a resilient and fiscally autonomous federal structure, States must aggressively reform and innovate in non-tax revenue policy — enabling a sustainable, diversified revenue base in line with their developmental aspirations.

Topic: Basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.

Topic: Basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.

Q6. How do cryptocurrencies and digital anonymity tools enable proliferation financing of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs)? What reforms are needed in international financial regulations? (10 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: IE

Why the question The FATF’s 2025 report shows how cryptocurrencies and anonymity tools are enabling covert financing for WMD programs, raising urgent global regulatory concerns. Key demand of the question The question requires explaining how cryptocurrencies and digital anonymity tools facilitate proliferation financing of WMDs, and suggesting reforms needed in international financial regulations. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Highlight the emergence of crypto-based financial risks for global WMD non-proliferation efforts. Body How cryptocurrencies and anonymity tools enable proliferation financing of WMDs through anonymous, decentralised, and unregulated digital transactions. Reforms needed in international financial regulations, including global harmonisation of crypto standards, regulation of DeFi platforms, enhanced intelligence sharing, and blockchain analytics. Conclusion Emphasise the need for agile, technology-driven and globally coordinated responses to counter evolving PF threats.

Why the question The FATF’s 2025 report shows how cryptocurrencies and anonymity tools are enabling covert financing for WMD programs, raising urgent global regulatory concerns.

Key demand of the question The question requires explaining how cryptocurrencies and digital anonymity tools facilitate proliferation financing of WMDs, and suggesting reforms needed in international financial regulations.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction Highlight the emergence of crypto-based financial risks for global WMD non-proliferation efforts.

• How cryptocurrencies and anonymity tools enable proliferation financing of WMDs through anonymous, decentralised, and unregulated digital transactions.

• Reforms needed in international financial regulations, including global harmonisation of crypto standards, regulation of DeFi platforms, enhanced intelligence sharing, and blockchain analytics.

Conclusion Emphasise the need for agile, technology-driven and globally coordinated responses to counter evolving PF threats.

Introduction The emergence of cryptocurrencies and anonymity tools has created new digital avenues for undetected financial flows, severely complicating global efforts to combat proliferation financing (PF) of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs). Robust global reforms are urgently needed to counter this growing threat.

How cryptocurrencies and anonymity tools enable proliferation financing of WMDs

• Anonymity in transactions: Cryptocurrencies facilitate anonymous, borderless financial flows, bypassing conventional oversight Eg: DPRK’s Lazarus Group used privacy coins and crypto mixers to conduct major crypto-heists in 2025, concealing both source and destination of funds (FATF Report, June 2025)

• Eg: DPRK’s Lazarus Group used privacy coins and crypto mixers to conduct major crypto-heists in 2025, concealing both source and destination of funds (FATF Report, June 2025)

• Bypassing traditional banking controls: Decentralised crypto markets allow PF actors to avoid regulated financial institutions and AML checks Eg: FATF highlighted that $1.5 billion stolen from ByBit in February 2025 was routed through DeFi platforms, completely bypassing KYC/AML frameworks

• Eg: FATF highlighted that $1.5 billion stolen from ByBit in February 2025 was routed through DeFi platforms, completely bypassing KYC/AML frameworks

• Use of decentralised finance (DeFi): DeFi systems operate without centralised intermediaries, making it difficult to monitor or intercept PF activities Eg: DPRK cybercriminals laundered stolen digital assets through cross-chain bridges and DeFi lending protocols, effectively erasing transaction trails (FATF, 2025)

• Eg: DPRK cybercriminals laundered stolen digital assets through cross-chain bridges and DeFi lending protocols, effectively erasing transaction trails (FATF, 2025)

• Exploitation of lax KYC in exchanges: Crypto exchanges with weak compliance are exploited to convert crypto proceeds into fiat currencies Eg: Investigations revealed that crypto exchanges in unregulated jurisdictions were used to launder large sums for PF-linked networks in 2025 (FATF 2025 report)

• Eg: Investigations revealed that crypto exchanges in unregulated jurisdictions were used to launder large sums for PF-linked networks in 2025 (FATF 2025 report)

• Integration with cybercrime networks: Cyberattacks generate crypto assets that are funnelled into WMD programs without touching the formal banking sector Eg: The UN Panel of Experts (2025) reported that DPRK state-sponsored cyberattacks on multiple crypto exchanges directly financed WMD development and missile programs

• Eg: The UN Panel of Experts (2025) reported that DPRK state-sponsored cyberattacks on multiple crypto exchanges directly financed WMD development and missile programs

Reforms needed in international financial regulations

• Global harmonisation of crypto regulations: Widespread adoption of FATF standards to ensure no regulatory safe havens for PF actors Eg: The FATF’s 2025 recommendations call for universal implementation of KYC/AML obligations for all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) to close jurisdictional gaps

• Eg: The FATF’s 2025 recommendations call for universal implementation of KYC/AML obligations for all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) to close jurisdictional gaps

• Mandatory regulation of DeFi platforms: Bringing decentralised platforms and services under effective regulatory oversight Eg: EU MiCA Regulation 2025 proposes mandatory regulation of DeFi protocols and crypto mixers to enhance accountability and transparency in digital finance

• Eg: EU MiCA Regulation 2025 proposes mandatory regulation of DeFi protocols and crypto mixers to enhance accountability and transparency in digital finance

• Enhanced information sharing: Improved intelligence exchange between nations to track PF networks operating across borders Eg: The Egmont Group of Financial Intelligence Units, in coordination with Interpol, is working to strengthen data sharing on crypto-enabled PF risks (2025 FATF Report)

• Eg: The Egmont Group of Financial Intelligence Units, in coordination with Interpol, is working to strengthen data sharing on crypto-enabled PF risks (2025 FATF Report)

• Real-time blockchain analytics: Deployment of advanced tools to monitor and analyse blockchain transactions for early PF detection Eg: US FinCEN (2025) has adopted AI-based blockchain analytics tools to trace and disrupt illicit crypto flows linked to WMD proliferation financing networks

• Eg: US FinCEN (2025) has adopted AI-based blockchain analytics tools to trace and disrupt illicit crypto flows linked to WMD proliferation financing networks

• Strengthening public-private partnerships: Encouraging crypto industry collaboration with law enforcement and intelligence agencies Eg: The UK’s Joint Money Laundering Intelligence Taskforce (JMLIT) actively involves crypto firms to identify and report PF red flags, contributing to national CPF efforts (UK NCA 2025)

• Eg: The UK’s Joint Money Laundering Intelligence Taskforce (JMLIT) actively involves crypto firms to identify and report PF red flags, contributing to national CPF efforts (UK NCA 2025)

Conclusion Tackling PF through crypto demands globally coordinated regulations, real-time digital surveillance, and innovative multi-stakeholder partnerships to counter the ever-evolving threat to global peace and security.

General Studies – 4

Q7. How does the erosion of familial responsibility towards vulnerable members reflect deeper ethical concerns in contemporary society? Analyse with examples. (10 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: TH

Why the question: Events such as the Aarey cancer patient abandonment (2025), the question highlights growing ethical gaps in family and social care, calling for solutions to restore moral responsibility. Key Demand of the question: To examine the ethical decline behind family neglect of vulnerable persons and suggest actionable steps to rebuild empathy, accountability and institutional support. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Brief comment on the changing moral landscape impacting family obligations toward the vulnerable. Body: Ethical concerns reflected in family neglect — rise of individualism, loss of empathy, commodification of relationships, intergenerational disconnect. What needs to be done — strengthen ethical education, enforce legal safeguards, build community responsibility, promote institutional care, encourage ethical media reporting. Conclusion: Call for multi-stakeholder action to restore a compassionate social fabric rooted in respect for human dignity.

Why the question: Events such as the Aarey cancer patient abandonment (2025), the question highlights growing ethical gaps in family and social care, calling for solutions to restore moral responsibility.

Key Demand of the question: To examine the ethical decline behind family neglect of vulnerable persons and suggest actionable steps to rebuild empathy, accountability and institutional support.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction: Brief comment on the changing moral landscape impacting family obligations toward the vulnerable.

• Ethical concerns reflected in family neglect — rise of individualism, loss of empathy, commodification of relationships, intergenerational disconnect.

• What needs to be done — strengthen ethical education, enforce legal safeguards, build community responsibility, promote institutional care, encourage ethical media reporting.

Conclusion: Call for multi-stakeholder action to restore a compassionate social fabric rooted in respect for human dignity.

Introduction The increasing neglect of vulnerable family members, especially elderly and terminally ill, reflects not just personal moral failings but broader ethical decay in urbanising and individualistic societies.

How erosion of familial responsibility reflects deeper ethical concerns

• Breakdown of empathy and compassion: Weakening of intrinsic human values erodes emotional bonds in families. Eg: Abandonment of elderly cancer patient in Mumbai’s Aarey forest (2025), highlighting absence of familial empathy.

• Eg: Abandonment of elderly cancer patient in Mumbai’s Aarey forest (2025), highlighting absence of familial empathy.

• Rise of individualism over collectivist values: Shift towards self-interest undermines collective familial duties. Eg: Urban family trends in metros show declining care for dependent elderly, as per HelpAge India Report 2024

• Eg: Urban family trends in metros show declining care for dependent elderly, as per HelpAge India Report 2024

• Instrumental view of relationships: Familial bonds seen through utility, not unconditional care. Eg: Growing cases of property-related abandonment in Delhi and Bengaluru elderly homes.

• Eg: Growing cases of property-related abandonment in Delhi and Bengaluru elderly homes.

• Weakening intergenerational ethics: Lack of value transmission erodes moral obligations across generations. Eg: NCERT’s 2023 National Curriculum Framework flagged declining emphasis on respect for elderly in socialisation practices

• Eg: NCERT’s 2023 National Curriculum Framework flagged declining emphasis on respect for elderly in socialisation practices

• Societal normalisation of neglect: Public indifference enables neglect to go unchallenged. Eg: Mumbai Railway Station survey (2023) recorded rising cases of destitute elderly without public intervention.

• Eg: Mumbai Railway Station survey (2023) recorded rising cases of destitute elderly without public intervention.

What needs to be done

• Strengthen ethical education and civic values: Foster empathy and social responsibility through formal and informal learning. Eg: NEP 2020 promotes value-based education from early schooling (NEP 2020 Document)

• Eg: NEP 2020 promotes value-based education from early schooling (NEP 2020 Document)

• Reinforce legal accountability: Implement stricter enforcement of Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. Eg: Kerala High Court directive (2024) mandating quicker redress of elderly abandonment cases

• Eg: Kerala High Court directive (2024) mandating quicker redress of elderly abandonment cases

• Promote community and civic interventions: Encourage community vigilance and volunteer networks to assist vulnerable persons. Eg: National Cancer Institute, Nagpur’s voluntary treatment of Aarey patient (2025)

• Eg: National Cancer Institute, Nagpur’s voluntary treatment of Aarey patient (2025)

• Create robust institutional support systems: Develop accessible state-supported old-age homes and palliative care services. Eg: Delhi’s 2024 elderly care policy launched subsidised state-run elder care homes.

• Eg: Delhi’s 2024 elderly care policy launched subsidised state-run elder care homes.

• Media sensitisation for ethical reporting: Media must foster public discourse on familial ethics and not sensationalise neglect. Eg: Press Council of India advisory (2023) on reporting elderly abuse cases with dignity

• Eg: Press Council of India advisory (2023) on reporting elderly abuse cases with dignity

Conclusion Addressing this ethical concern requires collective societal will, stronger legal frameworks, and cultivation of compassion as a public virtue — ensuring no vulnerable member is left neglected in future India.

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