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Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   TUNGABHADRA  Syllabus Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: A flood alert has been sounded downstream of the Tungabhadra dam in Karnataka’s Koppal district after one of the crest gates of the massive stone masonry dam across the Tungabhadra river was washed away. Background:- Repairs to restore gate can be carried out only after two-thirds of the dam is emptied. About Tungabhadra river and dam The Tungabhadra River originates in Karnataka and flows primarily through the state before entering Andhra Pradesh, where it eventually merges with the Krishna River. The river Tungabhadra derives its name from two streams viz., the Tunga, and the Bhadra which rise in the Western Ghats. The river after the confluence of the two streams near Shimoga, runs for about 531 km till it joins the river Krishna at Sangamaleshwaram in Andhra Pradesh. It runs for 382 km in Karnataka, forms the boundary between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh for 58 km and further runs for the next 91 km in Andhra Pradesh. The confluence of Tungabhadra and Krishna River is a holy pilgrimage site – The Sangameswaram Temple. Hampi one of the important heritage locations being listed by UNESCO is on the banks of the Tunga Bhadra River. Nava Brindavan, an island where the final resting location of nine holy Madhva saints is in the midst of the Tunga Bhadra River. It is influenced chiefly by the South-West monsoon. It is a perennial river but the summer flows dwindle to as low as 2.83 to 1.42 cumec. Tungabhadra Dam The Tungabhadra reservoir sprawls over an area of 378 sq km primarily in Karnataka’s Vijayanagar district. It is one of the major reservoirs in South India that supplies water for irrigation and industrial use, as well as drinking water to Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The dam was first conceived of in 1860 to mitigate the impact of recurrent famine in Rayalaseema. Construction was begun by the erstwhile governments of Hyderabad and Madras in 1945, and the project was completed in 1953. The Tungabhadra Board was established by a presidential order in 1953. The Board currently has a chairman appointed by the Union government, and four members, representing the Union government and the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. The Tungabhadra reservoir and the Mullaperiyar dam in Kerala hold the unique distinction of being the only two reservoirs in the country that were built using a combination of mud and limestone. Source: Indian Express GOVERNANCE IN DELHI  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: The Supreme Court has ruled that the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi can independently nominate 10 aldermen to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi without consulting the council of ministers. This decision has heightened tensions between the Union government, the Delhi government, and the local administration. Background: People of Delhi should get responsible and responsive governance from all three layers of government irrespective of party  in power. Evolution of the Delhi Government 1950: At the commencement of the Constitution, Delhi was a Part C State. 1956: During the States Reorganisation, Delhi was made a Union Territory, governed by an administrator. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) was established in 1958 and a limited local government was established since 1966. 1991: Following the Balakrishnan Committee’s (1989) recommendations, the 69th Constitutional Amendment provided Delhi with a Legislative Assembly and a council of ministers. However, public order, police, and land remained under Union government control. Government of NCT of Delhi Act, 1991 provided detailed provisions regarding Delhi’s legislature, executive, and administration. Present Issues Political Conflict (2015-Present): Ongoing clashes between the Union government (BJP) and the Delhi government (AAP) over various issues. The judgments of the Supreme Court have resulted in amendments to the Government of NCT of Delhi Act that have curtailed the powers of the elected government in Delhi MCD and Local Governance: Apart from the issues between the Union and the Delhi government, the MCD with its elected representatives add another dimension to the problem as was witnessed in the recent unfortunate loss of lives due to electrocution and flooding in Delhi. Public accountability has been undermined by the blame-shifting among elected officials. Proposed Way Forward As part of its judgment in 2023, the Supreme Court mentioned that there is a triple chain of accountability in a democracy. The officials are accountable to the ministers; the council of ministers are collectively responsible to the legislative assembly; and the legislative assembly members are accountable to the people. The constant tussle between various layers of government ruptures such a chain of accountability. Potential Structural Changes: The NCT of Delhi covers 1,450 sq km, while New Delhi, which houses central government offices and foreign embassies, spans about 50 sq km. For comparison, Washington DC, the U.S. capital district, is 177 sq km. A similar approach could be adopted in India, where 50-100 sq km of New Delhi is placed under complete Central government control, with the remaining areas governed by the Delhi Assembly. Implementing this would require a constitutional amendment. In the meantime, the spirit of the Supreme Court’s 2023 judgment should be upheld. Source: Hindu HOW WILL SHEIKH HASINA’S EXIT IMPACT INDIA  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 Context: After protests in Bangladesh forced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee to India, her future remains unclear. While the Modi government has provided her shelter, it is also engaging with the new regime, assessing the impact of Bangladesh’s political changes on India’s relations with the country. Background: India and Bangladesh were creating new milestones in bilateral relationship under former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Impact of Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster on India Setback for India: Sheikh Hasina’s removal is a significant setback for India, jeopardizing the progress made in economic ties, border security, defense, trade, and connectivity. Transformation Under Hasina Strong Ties with India: Since her 2009 return to office, Hasina prioritized strong relations with India, cracking down on terror camps, campaign against religious radicalisation, addressing border tensions, and extradited over 20 “most wanted” men accused of terrorism and crime to India. In sharp

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   JOINT PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE (JPC)  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: The Opposition has demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate the Hindenburg Research allegations against Sebi chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch. Background:- Citing documents from whistleblowers, Hindenburg claimed that Sebi chief and her husband had made investments, dating back to 2015, in offshore funds in Bermuda and Mauritius linked to entities allegedly used by the Adani Group to manipulate financial markets. About Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) Formation and Composition: A JPC is an ad hoc body comprising members from both Houses of Parliament, roughly in proportion to party strengths in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Lok Sabha’s representation is usually double that of Rajya Sabha. Acts as a mini Parliament, tasked with scrutinizing specific matters within a specific timeframe. Setup Process: Joint committees are established by a motion passed in one House and agreed to by the other. Parliament decides on the details of membership and subjects for a JPC. Powers and Functions: Can access documents and examine officials from any concerned ministry or institution. Members can submit dissenting notes if they disagree with the majority. The government decides whether to act on JPC recommendations. The government may launch investigations on the basis of a JPC report. Government, in any case, must report on the follow-up action taken based on the committee’s recommendations. Based on the government’s action, the JPC submits an ‘Action Taken Report’ to Parliament, which can be discussed, allowing the Opposition to question the government. Significance for Opposition: Provides access to all details of an alleged scams. Ensures the issue remains in the public eye, creating political pressure on the government. Notable Financial Investigations by JPC 2G Spectrum Scam (2013): The JPC report absolved PM Manmohan Singh, stating he was misled by the Department of Telecommunications. Criticized by the opposition, which rejected the report as a cover-up. Disagreed with the CAG’s calculation of revenue loss, citing policy consistency. Share Market Scam (2001): Involved Ketan Parekh and the Madhavpura Mercantile Cooperative Bank (MMCB). Parekh accused of using MMCB funds to manipulate share prices. The JPC recommended sweeping changes in stock market regulations; however, they were not fully implemented. Securities & Banking Transactions (1992): Focused on Harshad Mehta’s diversion of funds, causing a major financial scandal. Led to significant legal action, including the CBI filing 72 charges and Mehta’s conviction. JPC recommendations were not fully implemented. Other Investigations: The Bofors scam JPC and the VVIP AgustaWestland chopper scam JPC (2013) were significant, though the latter didn’t proceed due to the BJP’s non-participation. Source: Indian Express ISSUE OF STRUCTURAL UNEMPLOYMENT  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey, the unemployment rate declined from 6 per cent in 2017-18 to 3.2 percent in 2022-23. Background: Unemployment, especially youth unemployment, has emerged as a major concern for the Indian economy. Measuring employment and unemployment Economists divide the population into labour force and not in labour force. Labour Force: Includes working-age individuals (e.g., 15-60 years). Non-Labour Force: Includes children and retired/old-age population. Within the labour force, the population is divided into employed and unemployed. Labour Force Categories: Employed: Individuals with work. Unemployed: Individuals willing to work but unable to find jobs. Key Economic Indicators: Labour Force Participation Rate: Ratio of the labour force to the adult population. Unemployment Rate: Percentage of the labour force that is unemployed. Surveys in India: The National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) conducted quinquennial (once in five years) surveys on employment & unemployment since 1972. These surveys had a large time lag and there was a need for a higher frequency survey and timely response by the government to address unemployment. Since 2017-18, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) releases quarterly and annual surveys through the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). PLFS Findings: 2017-18: Overall unemployment rate at 6%, youth unemployment (ages 15-29) at 18%. 2022-23: Overall unemployment rate at 3.2%, youth unemployment at 10%. Rural-Urban Divide: Rural youth unemployment at 8%, urban youth unemployment at 15.7%. Male youth unemployment: 9.7%, female youth unemployment: 10%. Male labour force participation increased slightly from 55.5% to 56.2% over the same period. Female labour force participation increased from 17% (2017-18) to 27.8% (2022-23). The lower representation of females in the labour force is also a major problem for the Indian economy. Types of Unemployment Frictional Unemployment: Temporary and occurs as workers search for jobs that match their skills.Frictional unemployment is inevitable and less concerning. Structural Unemployment: Occurs when the supply of jobs is less than the demand. Addressing Structural Unemployment Economic Shifts: Agriculture’s share in GDP has decreased from 60% (1951) to 15% today, but employment in agriculture remains high. Agriculture suffers from disguised unemployment where more people are employed than required as opportunities are not available in other sectors. Growth sectors like industry and services have not created proportional employment opportunities,  showing the structural unemployment problem in India. Structural unemployment needs to be addressed on both demand and supply fronts. While there is a need to create a supply of more jobs in growth sectors, there is also a need to work on demand factors by improving education and skill-sets of labour enabling them to work in the higher growth sectors. Government Initiatives: Union Budget 2024 prioritizes ‘Employment & Skilling’ with three key schemes targeting formal sector employment and manufacturing. Focus on upgrading Industrial Training Institutes, providing skill loans, and facilitating internships with top companies. Female Labour Force Participation: Government to develop hostels and creches for working women and organize women-specific skilling programs. India has struggled with structural unemployment for years. New policies have been introduced, but their success depends on effective implementation. Source: Indian Express LEAD-UP TO INDIA’S INDEPENDENCE AND PARTITION  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – HISTORY Context: As the country celebrates its independence, lets have a look at histories significant moments including partition. Background: The partition led to massive population exchanges, communal violence, and a humanitarian crisis, as millions of Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs found themselves

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   TRAFFIC AND AIR POLLUTION  Syllabus Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: The recent World Air Quality Report stated that India is home to 83 of the 100 most polluted cities in the world. Another report from the British Medical Journal estimated that air pollution led to the deaths of 2.1 million people in India, the second largest numbers after China. Background:- Air pollution, considered the most significant environmental peril to human well-being, is the reason behind one out of every nine global fatalities, approximately. Severity of Air Pollution CO2 Emissions from Road Transport: 12% of India’s CO2 emissions come from road transport. 5 Emissions: Heavy vehicles are the primary contributors to PM2.5 emissions, which can penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, and cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Emissions: Heavy vehicles significantly contribute to NOx emissions, leading to ground-level ozone formation and worsening air quality. Measures Taken to Combat Air Pollution from vehicles: Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Norms: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is developing CAFE III and IV norms to reduce CO2 emissions from cars by lowering fuel consumption (or improving fuel efficiency) of vehicles. The timelines proposed to implement CAFE III from 2027-2032 and CAFE IV from 2032-2037 are practical. The proposed emissions target for CAFE III based on the WLTP at 91.7g CO2/km and for CAFE IV at 70g CO2/km is achievable. The commitment to shift from the Modified India Driving Cycle (MIDC) to the World Light Duty Vehicle Testing Procedure (WLTP) from March 31, 2027, is excellent because the WLTP offers a more accurate and globally harmonised measure of a vehicle’s actual fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The CAFE norms however exclude emissions by heavy vehicles such as trucks, lorries, and other freight vehicles. Vehicle Scrappage Policy (2022): The government introduced a vehicle scrappage policy to phase out old and polluting vehicles, including heavy vehicles in 2022. It mandates that passenger vehicles older than 20 years and commercial vehicles older than 15 years must pass a fitness and emissions test. If vehicles fail the mandatory tests, they are categorised as end-of-life vehicles, and will lose their registration certificate, and are recommended to be scrapped. Additional Recommendations Expand Vehicle Scrappage Policy: Address implementation challenges, such as the limited number of scrapyards and the voluntary nature of the policy. Stringent Implementation of Existing Policies: Ensure strict enforcement of vehicle emissions testing, bans on open garbage burning, and regulation of industrial emissions. Promote Mass Transit: Mass transit should be prioritized as a sustainable solution to reduce air pollution in India. Source: Hindu HIMALAYAN TOWNS AND NEED FOR A DIFFERENT KIND OF DEVELOPMENT  Syllabus Mains – GS 1 & GS 2 Context: The Indian Himalayan Range (IHR), comprising 11 States and two Union Territories, had a decadal urban growth rate of more than 40% from 2011 to 2021. Towns have expanded, and more urban settlements are developing. Disasters are following. Background: Himalaya’s towns urgently need carrying capacity-based development plans. Challenges in IHR Towns Civic Issues: Most Himalayan towns, including state capitals like Srinagar, Guwahati, Shillong, and Shimla, struggle with managing sanitation, solid and liquid waste, and water. Inadequate Planning: Planning institutions often use models copied from the plains, which are ineffective in the Himalayan context. Additionally, city governments face a 75% shortage of human resources. Urban Expansion: Cities like Srinagar and Guwahati are expanding into peripheries, leading to encroachment on open spaces, forests, and watersheds. For example, in Srinagar, land use changes between 2000 and 2020 showed a 75.58% increase, with a significant loss of water bodies. Environmental Impact: Nearly 90% of liquid waste enters water bodies untreated, exacerbating pollution and environmental degradation. Causes of the Challenges Urbanization and Tourism Pressure: The IHR faces growing pressure from urbanization, high-intensity tourism, unsustainable infrastructure development, and resource overuse, compounded by climate change. Environmental Degradation: These pressures lead to water scarcity, deforestation, land degradation, biodiversity loss, and increased pollution. Tourism Growth: Tourism in the IHR has expanded with an anticipated average annual growth rate of 7.9% from 2013 to 2023, often replacing eco-friendly infrastructure with inappropriate and unsustainable developments. Recommendations for Improvement Localized Planning: Towns need to be mapped for geological and hydrological vulnerabilities, with urban planning guided by climate resilience and local input. Bottom-up Approach: Planning should involve locals and move away from consultant-driven processes to ensure relevance and sustainability. Financial Support: None of the cities in the IHR can generate capital for their infrastructure needs. The Finance Commission must include a separate chapter on urban financing for the IHR. Current intergovernmental transfers from the centre to urban local bodies constitute a mere 0.5% of GDP; this should be increased to at least 1%. Focus on Sustainability: Engage in broader discussions on sustainability, emphasizing eco-centric planning and public participation for urban development in the IHR. Source: Hindu KURDS AND CONFLICTS IN WEST ASIA  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 Context: Turkiye and Iraq agreed on a military cooperation pact recently that will see joint training and command centres against Kurdish separatists. Background: Kurds are one of the Middle East’s largest ethnic groups of between 25 and 35 million people but without a state. Although Kurdish nationalism is a century-old phenomenon, compared to world attention on Palestine, the conflict-prone zone in the Middle East disallowed it to become a global concern. Brief History of the Kurdish Question Term “Kurdistan”: First used in the 12th century by the Saljuqs as a geographical term. Kurds are mainly followers of Sunni Islam but they have a strong ethnic identity and therefore certain cultural identity supersedes the political project of religious nationalism. Population Distribution: Turkey has the largest Kurdish population (43%), followed by Iran (31%), Iraq (18%), Syria (6%), and former Soviet states which includes Armenia and Azerbaijan (2%). The particularity of Kurdish nationalism or Kurdish nationalist movement, which was a direct consequence of the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century, is that it is not the product of an independence war against the occupation, nor

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   EVOLUTION OF THE WOMAN’S QUESTION IN INDIA  Syllabus Mains – GS 1 & GS 2 Context: A number of recent incidents, including the rape and murder of a young woman at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital last week, brought renewed attention to women’s rights issues in India. Background:- The question of women’s rights, including their right to equality, liberty and security, has been a longstanding issue. British Interest in the ‘Woman’s Question’ in India The British were driven by a mix of Western morality, political strategy, and reformist zeal in addressing the ‘woman’s question’ in India. The 1881 Indian census, under Lord Ripon, highlighted a skewed sex ratio due to female foeticide and infanticide. The exploitation and sexualisation of Indian women by the ruling classes of the British through a series of Cantonment Acts for regulating prostitution in the British military bases, exploitation of domestic servants through long hours of work with no/low wages and with no kind of legal protection needs to be taken into account. They perpetrated forced imprisonment and stigmatisation of women in prostitution through the Contagious Diseases Acts (1864-1869), to fight venereal disease in soldiers stationed in territories under British occupation. These laws developed a legacy that had a psychosocial impact on women’s rights, social justice, and the objectification of women’s bodies even today. Social Reforms in India The Bengal Renaissance (late 18th to early 20th century) emerged with the decline of Mughal rule and the East India Company’s rise. Raja Ram Mohan Roy, known as the father of the ‘Indian Renaissance,’ was pivotal in abolishing the practice of Sati in 1829. Swami Dayananda Saraswati founded the Arya Samaj in 1875, advocating for a revival of Vedic values. Activists like Begum Roquiah Sakhawat Hossain and Rukhmabai Raut campaigned against sati and child marriage. Women reformers depended upon their male allies; a fact that has to be closely examined.One can consider in this context the Hindu Widows’ Remarriage Act of 1856, which was carried through by Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar, with the help of many women reformers who had no chance of influencing the formative process of legislation. Child Marriage Restraint Act (1929) also known as the Sarda Act, the legislation raised the marriage age to 18 for boys and 14 for girls. Political Representation While several global movements were raising demand for universal adult franchise in the Western countries, Nehru proposed to engage women in the political process, including in franchisee, at the Indian National Congress (INC) meeting in Lucknow in 1937. Of the 299 members of the Constituent Assembly, there were only 15 women, including Sarojini Naidu, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, Hansa Jivraj Mehta, Durgabai Deshmukh, Renuka Ray, Leela Roy. Dakshayani Velayudhan was the first and only Dalit woman and Begum Aizaz Rasul was the only Muslim representative. Later, in the first Lok Sabha, during 1952-1957, only 4.4 percent of the members were women. As of today, only 14% of Lok Sabha seats and about 11% of Rajya Sabha seats are held by women. 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments (1993): Provided for 33% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions, increasing grassroots representation. Women’s Reservation Bill: This bill proposes reserving 33% of seats for women in state legislatures and Parliament but faces criticism as mere ‘tokenism.’ Economic Challenges Labour Participation: Women’s Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) is about 25% (2022), with a significant gap compared to men. Income Disparity: Women earn about 25-30% less than men, with underrepresentation in high-paid jobs and overrepresentation in low-paid work. Farmer Identity: The definition of a ‘farmer’ often excludes women, and male land ownership dominates. Mental Health: 30% of suicides in India are of women, highlighting the need for better mental health support and data representation. Trends in Education and Skill Gaps Higher Education: Women constitute about 50% of higher education students, but regional disparities exist. Tribal Women Literacy: Literacy among tribal women (59.6% as of 2011) lags behind the general female population (75.6%). Challenges in Schooling: High dropout rates among girls at primary and secondary levels persist, despite schemes like the Mid-Day Meal and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao. Socio-Cultural Issues Caste and Class Discrimination: Even with Untouchability Offences Act, 1955, and the provisions of Articles 15 and 17, besides the SC & ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, the subtle power of caste and class discrimination that works against women has not ended. An example is that of the Devadasi system, where women were institutionalised as a religious and social entity to worship deities in temples. In this regard, the marginalisation and sexual exploitation of devadasis by priests, patrons, and others led to the passing of Devadasi Abolition Act in 1988. Nevertheless, according to data from the National Commission for Women, there were 48,358 devadasis in India in the year 2011. Disability and Marginalisation: About 11.8 million women with disabilities face severe discrimination and marginalization. Sexual Violence: Rape remains a significant issue, with a case reported every 16 minutes (NCRB). Legal frameworks like the Nirbhaya Act (2013) and POCSO Act (2012) exist but stigma and underreporting persist. Workplace Harassment: The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act (2013) mandates Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs), but issues around implementation and ethics persist. Source: Indian Express FOREVER CHEMICALS  Syllabus Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: In a major breakthrough aimed at managing the long-term environmental impact of anthropogenic activity, American researchers have found a method to be able to trace the origin and the destination of forever chemicals. Background: The researchers opted for a technology known as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. About Forever Chemicals Forever chemicals, also known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are a group of over 9,000 synthetic (man made) chemicals that have been used in various industries since the 1940s. They are called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment or in the human body, leading to their persistence over time. They include a wide range of chemicals, but the most well-known and studied are: Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   PM MODI PROPOSES GLOBAL COMPACT  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 Context: PM Narendra Modi proposed a human-centric “Global Development Compact,”  during the Voice of the Global South Summit. Background:- Global Development Compact will be inspired by the development priorities set by the countries of the Global South. Key takeaways PM Narendra Modi, in his opening remarks at the virtually held India-hosted third summit, emphasized that global governance and financial institutions established in the last century have failed to address the challenges of the current century. Global Development Compact: Debt-Free Development: PM Modi stated that under this new Compact, needy countries will not be burdened with debt in the name of development finance. Instead, the Compact will draw on India’s own development journey and its experiences in development partnerships. Focus Areas: The Compact will prioritize trade for development, capacity building for sustainable growth, technology sharing, project-specific concessional finance, and grants. To support trade promotion activities, India will initiate a special fund of USD 2.5 million, with an additional USD 1 million allocated to this cause. The prime minister said the compact will help in a balanced and sustainable development of the partner countries. Closing the Global North-South Gap: Call for Unity: PM Modi urged the Global South to unite, speak with one voice, and strengthen one another by learning from each other’s experiences. He suggested that the upcoming Summit of the Future at the UN next month could be a significant milestone in this effort. Understanding Global North and Global South: Global South: Refers to the countries of Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceania, where 88% of the world’s population lives. These countries often have a history of colonialism and have historically lagged in industrialization and development. Global North: Comprises the developed countries of North America and Europe, which have historically pursued imperial policies and are characterized by higher levels of development. Distinctions: The Global South typically exhibits lower development levels, higher income inequality, rapid population growth, agrarian economies, lower quality of life, shorter life expectancy, and significant external dependence. However, the term is more about political, geopolitical, and economic similarities than strict geographical location. For example, despite being in Asia, countries like Israel, South Korea, and Japan are considered part of the Global North due to their higher levels of development. In the last few years, India has been positioning itself as a leading voice, flagging concerns, challenges and aspirations of the Global South Source: Indian Express UPSC ADVERTISES 45 LATERAL ENTRY POSTS  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 Context: The Union Service Public Commission recently sought applications for lateral entry for 45 posts of Joint Secretary, Director and Deputy Secretary across 24 Central ministries. Background: Appointment to the posts will be on a contract basis for a period of three years, extendable to five years depending upon performance, and central government employees are not eligible for the posts as per advertisement. Key takeaways Lateral entry into bureaucracy is a practice that involves recruiting individuals from outside the traditional government service cadres to fill mid and senior-level positions. Lateral entry into bureaucracy was formally introduced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure, with the first set of vacancies announced in 2018. The aim is to address complex governance and policy implementation challenges by tapping into external expertise. The concept of lateral entry has historical precedence. It was initially recommended by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) established in 2005 during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. The ARC, chaired by Veerappa Moily, advocated for lateral entry to fill roles requiring specialised knowledge unavailable within traditional civil services. These recommendations emphasised recruiting professionals from the private sector, academia and PSUs to improve policy implementation and governance. Criticism Lack of Reservation: One of the primary criticisms is the absence of reservation for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) in these positions. Ambiguity in Recruitment Process: There are concerns about the transparency and clarity of the recruitment process. Critics point out that there is no clear policy on determining vacancies, shortlisting candidates, and evaluating their suitability. Political Allegations: Critics have accused the government of using lateral entry to appoint individuals loyal to specific political ideologies, thereby undermining the neutrality of the civil service. Impact on Career Civil Servants: Large-scale lateral induction may demotivate existing civil servants who have progressed through the traditional career path. It could potentially discourage talented officers from continuing in the service. Potential for Bias: There are fears that the selection process might be biased towards candidates from certain backgrounds or sectors, which could affect the diversity and inclusiveness of the bureaucracy Source: Indian Express IMD RAIN FORECASTS FOR MUMBAI WRONG BY 42% IN JULY  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: In July, the IMD’s forecasts for Mumbai were off nearly by 42 per cent. Also on at least four days in July, the IMD had changed its forecast and warnings twice within a 24-hour window. Background: The IMD issues its daily forecast at 1 pm, for a 24-hour period starting 8.30 am that day to 8.30 am the following day. There are five-, two- and three-day advance forecasts as well, but the 24-hour forecasts are considered the most accurate. Key takeaways On July 8, Mumbai woke up to severe flooding after 200 mm of rain overnight, far exceeding the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) prediction. The IMD had issued a yellow alert, forecasting up to 115 mm of rain in 24 hours, but the city received 267 mm instead. Mumbai’s advanced Weather Radar Systems: Mumbai houses two sophisticated Doppler weather radars: an S-band radar at IMD’s Colaba observatory and a C-band radar in Veravali. Apart from tracking cyclones, radars are also useful for tracking other weather developments like thunderstorm activities. For thunderstorms, the radars undertake scanning every 10 minutes. Through the regular scans, the radars help in providing localised forecasts depending on the cloud developments and other factors. The metropolitan region also benefits from over 140 automatic weather stations operated

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   AKSHAY URJA DAY 2024  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Every year on August 20, Akshay Urja Day is celebrated to underscore the significance of renewable energy sources and to highlight the strides India has made in advancing the same. Background:- Launched in 2004 by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, this observance highlights India’s commitment to renewable energy, aiming for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel electricity capacity by 2030. It also commemorates the birth anniversary of former PM Rajiv Gandhi. Key takeaways “Akshay” means “eternal” or “indestructible” in Sanskrit. Hence Akshay Urja stands for “eternal energy”,symbolizing the endless and sustainable nature of renewable energy. Rapid industrialization and population growth have increased energy demand, leading to heavy reliance on finite fossil fuels, which harm the environment. Solar, hydro, and wind power are vital for sustainable development, reducing fossil fuel dependence, and combating climate change. Transitioning to renewable energy will create sustainable jobs and reduce long-term energy costs. Akshay Urja Day Objectives: Highlight the importance of renewable energy in India’s energy planning. Raise awareness of renewable energy’s benefits in reducing fossil fuel dependency. Promote renewable energy as a solution to combat climate change. Types of Renewable Energy: Solar Energy: Harnessed from the sun’s radiation. China, the US, India and Japan are among the world’s leading producers. Wind Energy: Generated by converting the kinetic energy of wind into electricity using wind turbines, significant in countries like China and the US. Hydropower: Derived from flowing water, extensively used worldwide.China, Brazil, and Canada are the largest consumers of hydropower across the globe. Biomass Energy: Produced from organic materials such as plant residues, animal waste, and wood. It can be heated or converted to liquid or gaseous fuels for consumption. It is considered renewable because the materials used can be regrown or replenished. Geothermal Energy: Sourced from Earth’s internal heat, with leading producers being the US, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Tidal and Wave Energy: Harnesses ocean movement, prominent in South Korea, France, and the UK. Progress of India in Akshay Urja On October 2, 2015, India submitted its first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the UNFCCC as part of the Paris Agreement. The initial goals were to reduce GDP emissions intensity by 33-35% from 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve 40% of total installed electric power from non-fossil fuels by 2030. In August 2022, India updated these targets, aiming to reduce emissions intensity by 45% and increase non-fossil fuel energy capacity to 50% by 2030. In addition, India targets 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and 1 TW by 2035 and aims for net-zero emissions by 2070. As of May 2024, India has installed 191 GW of renewable energy. This capacity includes solar power (around 85 GW), wind power (around 46 GW), large hydropower (around 45 GW), Biomass (around 10 GW), small hydropower (around 4.5 GW), and Waste-to-Energy (0.5 GW). Key Schemes to Achieve Renewable Energy Targets: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan scheme (PM-KUSUM) : Promotes the installation of small grid-connected solar power plants, standalone solar pumps, and solarisation of existing grid-connected pumps. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Solar PV Modules: Aims to boost domestic production of high-efficiency solar panels. Grid Connected Rooftop Solar Program (Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana) : Facilitates rooftop solar installations, allowing surplus power to be exported to the grid. Solar Parks and Ultra Mega Solar Power Projects: Provides infrastructure for rapid solar project development. Green Energy Corridor Scheme: Series of infrastructure projects under the scheme is aimed at synchronising the power generated from renewable energy sources with the national grid of India. National Green Hydrogen Mission: Targets 5 million tonnes of Green Hydrogen production by 2030. This in turn will support an addition of about 125 GW of renewable energy capacity in our country. National Bioenergy Programme: Use of bioenergy is promoted. It aims to enhance the energy security through the Waste to Energy Programme, Biomass Programme, and Biogas Programme. FDI in Renewable Energy: Allows up to 100% Foreign Direct Investment under the automatic route, encouraging foreign investments. Source: Indian Express CHANGE IN INDIA’S POWER EXPORT RULES  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 Context: Reuters reported that India amended its power export rules recently, allowing exporters to reroute electricity to Indian grids if partner countries delay payments. The change is intended to mitigate risks especially in the context of Bangladesh. Background: Adani Power’s plant in Godda (Jharkhand) supplies its entire generated power to Bangladesh. The Godda Project Overview: The Godda project, operated by Adani Power’s Jharkhand subsidiary, supplies 1,496 MW of power to Bangladesh from an ultra super-critical thermal power plant. This is under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed with the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) in November 2017. This project is India’s first transnational power project, where all generated power is exported to another country. The electricity from Godda is expected to positively impact Bangladesh by replacing expensive liquid fuel power, thereby lowering the average cost of electricity. The total installed generation capacity of Babladesh was 24,911 MW in June 2023. Of this, 2,656 MW was imported from India (more than 10% of overall) with the Godda plant contributing 1,496 MW (about 6% of overall). Criticisms: The project has faced criticism due to the use of imported coal from Australia’s Carmichael mine, which raises costs. The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) argued that the PPA allows Adani Power to pass on  high cost of importing and transporting coal into India, plus the cost of transmitting the electricity across the border onto Bangladesh. Critics expressed concerns over the quoted coal price of $400/MT, which they considers excessive compared to other thermal plants, where coal costs less than $250/MT. Additional concerns include high capacity and maintenance charges, which apply even when no electricity is generated. Bangladesh’s Need for Power Imports: Bangladesh has expanded electricity access, especially in rural areas, but still faces fuel and gas supply constraints, leading to underutilization of its

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   GOOGLE MONOPOLY JUDGEMENT AND LESSONS FOR INDIA  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 & GS 3 Context: Recently, a US judge ruled that Google violated antitrust law, spending billions of dollars to create an illegal monopoly and become the world’s default search engine. Background:- Judgement noted that Google had paid $26.3 billion in 2021 alone to ensure that its search engine is the default on smartphones and browsers, and to keep its dominant market share. The Evolution and Current Challenges of Big Tech Apple vs. IBM in the 1980s: 1984: Apple, a rising company, positioned itself against IBM, the industry giant, with an iconic advertisement highlighting the struggle between the upstart and the established player. Microsoft and Google in the Late 1990s: 1999: A landmark antitrust ruling against Microsoft curtailed its dominance, paving the way for emerging companies like Google to grow, particularly in web search. Apple and Google Today: Apple and Google have transitioned from upstarts to dominant forces in the tech industry, often referred to as “Big Tech.” These companies now face scrutiny over their market dominance, similar to the challenges IBM and Microsoft faced in the past. S. Antitrust Ruling Against Google: Recent Development: A U.S. federal judge ruled that Google acted illegally to maintain its monopoly in online search, a significant ruling that could reshape the digital business landscape. Implications: This ruling may lead to proposals to break up Google’s business units, impacting the broader tech industry. Antitrust Concerns and Reforms in India: Challenges in India: Google faces criticism in India over its app store billing policies and its dominance in online advertising, which are seen as stifling competition. Digital Competition Bill, 2024: Proposed Law: India’s draft Digital Competition Bill aims to prevent anti-competitive practices by big tech companies, similar to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The law will stop tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Amazon from self-preferencing their own services, or using data gathered from one company to benefit another group company. It also has provisions to set presumptive norms to curb anti-competitive practices before they actually take place, and promises to impose heavy penalties — which could amount to billions of dollars — for violations. Innovation and Market Barriers: Government believe that Big Tech’s dominance has confined much of the recent innovation within a few large companies, creating high entry barriers for new competitors. There is a growing push for a global consensus on regulations to protect consumers while encouraging innovation, preventing the concentration of power within a few dominant players. India’s Regulatory Push: India’s Competition Commission (CCI) fined Google for anti-competitive practices in the Android ecosystem. The Digital Competition Bill, if passed, could require major tech companies to make significant changes to their platforms, ensuring a more competitive digital landscape. Source: Indian Express SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 & GS 3 Context: During the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists held recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented India’s sustainable farming as a model for others. Background: The transition from conventional farming to sustainable farming happens against the backdrop of growing concerns over changing climate patterns, environmental sustainability and a steadily expanding population. Sustainable Agriculture: Sustainable agriculture aims to meet current production demands without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their needs, focusing on ecological stability, economic viability, and socio-cultural continuity. The global agricultural sector is transitioning from an intensification-based approach to sustainable and environment-friendly methods. Principles and Objectives of Sustainable Agriculture: Increasing Productivity: Enhance agricultural productivity while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Also emphasize water- and energy-efficient production systems alongside higher yields. Protecting Natural Resources: Sustainable agriculture prioritizes soil fertility, water management, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Agricultural production depends directly on natural resources and therefore the sustainability of production depends on the sustainability of the resources themselves. Improving livelihoods and fostering inclusive economic growth: Increasing agricultural incomes is key to reducing poverty and food insecurity in rural areas. Agricultural sustainability can only be achieved if it provides decent employment conditions. Enhancing the resilience of people, communities and ecosystems: Build resilience against extreme weather events and market volatility to ensure stable productivity and better market economics. Increased focus on making the various agri-stakeholders resilient to threats, both natural and man-made, would contribute to sustainability. Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Sustainable agriculture supports multiple SDGs, including SDG1 (No Poverty), SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG13 (Climate Action), and SDG15 (Life on Land). Methods of Sustainable Agriculture: Organic Farming: Focuses on ecological balance using natural inputs, promoting soil health, and reducing pollution. While yields may be lower, long-term benefits include improved soil fertility and reduced environmental impact. Crop Rotation: Alternating crops on the same land enhances soil fertility, breaks pest cycles, and reduces chemical input reliance. Agroforestry: Integrating trees with crops or livestock promotes biodiversity, supplements farmer income, and creates a resilient farming system. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Minimizes pesticide use through biological control, habitat modification, and cultural practices, maintaining ecosystem balance. Zero Tillage: Preserves soil structure and enhances fertility by avoiding traditional tillage, reducing erosion, and improving water retention. Hydroponics and Aquaponics: Hydroponics uses nutrient-enriched water to grow plants without soil, conserving water and reducing land degradation. Aquaponics combines hydroponics with fish farming, creating a symbiotic system where plants and fish support each other. Challenges to Sustainable Agriculture: Climate Change: Rainfed agriculture in India is vulnerable to climate variability, affecting crop yields and food security. Population Pressure: Growing populations increase stress on agricultural systems, making the shift to sustainable methods more challenging. Lack of Knowledge: Awareness and adoption of new sustainable practices are limited, requiring enhanced education and outreach. High Capital Costs: The initial investment in sustainable agriculture is often high, especially for small and marginal farmers lacking credit access. Market Access and Post-Harvest Losses: Inadequate infrastructure and market access lead to post-harvest losses, reducing profitability and hindering sustainable practice adoption. Source: Indian Express AS ARCTIC THAWS, NEW EVIDENCE OF LOOMING ‘MERCURY BOMB’  Syllabus Prelims & Mains –

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   VACCINE-DERIVED POLIO  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context: A two-year-old child in Meghalaya has been infected with vaccine-derived polio. Background:- Polioviruses are enteroviruses that are transmitted primarily by the faecal-oral route. Vaccine-Derived Polio (VDPV): Vaccine-derived polio is a rare condition that occurs when the weakened (also called attenuated) strain of poliovirus used in the oral polio vaccine (OPV) mutates and regains the ability to cause paralysis. Mechanism: OPV contains a live, attenuated virus that is used for immunisation against the disease. This weakened virus triggers an immune response when administered, thus protecting people from the disease. The attenuated virus replicates in the intestines for a limited period and is excreted in the stool. In rare cases, the virus can mutate enough to cause the disease again, and circulate in areas where either immunisation is low, or where immunocompromised persons reside, or regions with poor sanitation and hygiene. Poliovirus Types: Three types – wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1), wild poliovirus type 2 (WPV2) and wild poliovirus type 3 (WPV3). About polio vaccines The first successful polio vaccine for poliovirus was made by Jonas Salk, in the early 1950s. Salk inactivated the virus using formaldehyde and injected it into the muscles of test subjects. This inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) induced systemic immunity in the subjects. After Salk, Albert Sabin developed another vaccine that contained live polio strains, weakened by growing them serially in macaque cells, making them unfit for human infection. Since this vaccine contained the live virus, it had to be administered through its natural mode of infection – in this case, oral. This is what we today know as the OPV. OPV is usually preferred over IPV because of its ease of administration & is inexpensive. However, the weakened virus in OPV can occasionally revert, causing the disease it is meant to prevent. IPV, on the other hand, is a less potent vaccine, but contains inactivated virus particles and hence no risk of causing vaccine-associated paralytic polio (VAPP) – a rare, adverse reaction to OPV. IPV is comparatively tougher to manufacture too. Vaccine-associated paralytic polio (VAPP) or vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) are similar but different phenomena. On World Polio Day, October 24, 2019, the WHO declared that WPV3 has been eradicated worldwide. WPV2 was officially declared eradicated in 2015. However, more than 90% of vaccine-derived poliovirus outbreaks are due to the type 2 virus present in oral polio vaccines. VAPP constitutes 40% of cases caused by the type 2 oral polio vaccine. Many cases of VAPP from type 3 virus too occur in countries using OPV. The Indian government does not count VAPP as polio since these cases are sporadic and pose little or no threat to others. Even after the global switch from trivalent (containing all three variants) to bivalent (type 1 and type 3) oral polio vaccines in 2016 to prevent any more type 2 vaccine-derived poliovirus, the number of vaccine-derived type 2 poliovirus outbreaks have only increased sharply. Source: Hindu INDIA AND JAPAN  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 Context: India and Japan recently stated that they reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining and strengthening rules-based international order founded on the principles of the UN Charter, respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and peaceful settlement of disputes. Background: This was stated in a joint statement released by both countries following the third Japan-India 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting in New Delhi. Takeaways from the third Japan-India 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting The India-Japan partnership is set against a larger context of a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific amid China’s increasing military muscle-flexing in the region. Both countries agreed to explore discussions for coordination and cooperation in the field of defence and security assistance to third countries for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The ministers welcomed the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Indian Naval Force exploring future cooperation in the area of ship maintenance in India. They reiterated support for ASEAN’s unity and centrality and their full support for the ‘ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP)’ which upholds the principles such as openness, transparency, inclusivity, a rules-based framework and respect for international law. They agreed to continue working together on Security Council reform with a view to strengthening the UN. Ministers took note of the first air visit by Japanese fighters and their participation at Tarang Shakti—which is the first multilateral exercise hosted by the Indian Air Force. They also welcomed the conduct of the inaugural edition of the bilateral fighter exercise ‘Veer Guardian 2023’ between the Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) and Indian Air Force (IAF) and conduct of the bilateral exercises of all the three services in one calendar year for the first time in 2023. Countries agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in fields of space and cyber and reaffirmed the importance of multilateral defence cooperation and exchanges in the Indo-Pacific region, while expressing their commitment to continuing bilateral and multilateral exercises including Dharma Guardian, JIMEX and Malabar. The “2+2” dialogue with Japan was initiated to further deepen bilateral security and defence cooperation and bring greater depth to the special strategic and global partnership between the two countries. India has the “2+2” Ministerial format of dialogue with very few countries, including the United States, Australia, and Russia. Source: Indian Express WHEN THE LAW FAILS WOMEN  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 AND GS 4 Context: Ever since the infamous gang rape that rocked the country in December 2012 (Nirbhaya), much has been done to strengthen the laws on rape. But brutal incidents of rape continuing unabated should prompt us to ask several questions regarding existing laws. Background: It is no surprise that the first accused apprehended in the Kolkata rape and murder case had a history of violent assault of his wife. Yet, there was no appropriate legal response at the time despite two complaints. Where lies the malaise & Why is the law failing to act as a sufficient deterrent? One answer is

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   CHANDRAYAAN-3 MISSION  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Context:  Today, India is celebrating its first National Space Day. This day commemorates the groundbreaking success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission, which achieved the safe landing of the Vikram Lander on the lunar surface on August 23, 2023. Background:- With Chandrayaan-3 mission achievement, India became the fourth country to successfully land on the moon, making history as the first to land near the southern polar region. Chandrayaan-3 Mission Mission Type: India’s third lunar mission and second attempt at a soft lunar landing. Launch Vehicle: Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3). Primary Objectives: Demonstrate a safe and soft landing on the lunar surface. Demonstrate a rover roving on the Moon. Conduct in-situ scientific experiments. Chandrayaan-3 Components: Lander Module (LM) Rover Propulsion Module (PM) Lander Payloads and Objectives Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE): Measures the thermal properties of the lunar surface near the polar region. Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA): Measures seismic activity around the landing site and analyzes the lunar crust and mantle structure. Radio Anatomy of Moon Bound Hypersensitive Ionosphere and Atmosphere (RAMBHA): Estimates plasma density and its variations. Laser Retroreflector Array (LRA): A passive experiment to understand the dynamics of the Moon’s system. Rover Payloads and Objectives Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS): Determines the elemental composition of lunar soil and rocks. Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS): Analyzes elemental composition in the vicinity of the landing site. Propulsion Module Payload Propulsion Module Payload: Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE) for studying Earth’s spectral and polarimetric measurements from lunar orbit. SHAPE will aid in the study of exoplanets to assess their potential habitability. Significance of Chandrayaan-3 International Standing: Positions India as a serious player in planetary exploration and space technology. Cost Efficiency: Demonstrates ISRO’s ability to achieve space missions cost-effectively (Mission cost: Rs 615 crore). Strategic Importance: Enhances India’s role in international space policy and resource extraction discussions. Technological Leadership: Establishes India among the few nations with the capability for planetary exploration, contributing to space-related decision-making. Source: Indian Express CONFLICTS IN WEST ASIA: ISRAEL-IRAN  Syllabus Mains – GS 2 Context: Israeli security forces suspect Iran and Hezbollah’s role in the suicide bombing in Tel Aviv on Sunday. Background: Israel believe that the terror attack could be Iran and its proxy’s bid to avenge the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh (leader of Hamas) in Tehran last month. Iran’s opposition to Israel is rooted in religious, ideological, and geopolitical factors, including its support for Palestine and its anti-American stance. Israel-Iran Conflict Overview The formation of Israel in 1948 was a watershed moment in the history of the Middle East. It triggered an Arab-Israeli war and the long Israeli-Arab and Israeli-Palestinian conflicts. Iran, although opposed to the formation of Israel and voted against the Partition Plan (1947) and Israel’s admission into the United Nations (1949), was the second Muslim-majority country after Türkiye to recognize Israel in 1950. The friendly relations between the two states were not always reflected among the wider population in Iran who were sympathetic to the plight of the Palestinians and their struggle for a state. The 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran Israel and Iran have been in conflict since the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran, which led to a break in diplomatic relations. Post-revolution, Iran labeled Israel as the “Little Satan” and ceased all diplomatic and economic ties. Religious and Ideological Differences: Iran opposes Israel’s control over Jerusalem, which is considered holy in Islam. The ideological basis of Iranian opposition to Israel emanates from anti-imperialist and anti-Americanism rooted in the 1979 revolution. Besides Islam, these form the most important component of the revolutionary zeal of Khomeini (Irans supreme leader), who considered Israel as an American and imperial outpost in the Middle East. Geopolitical Tensions: Since the revolution, Iran has called for the expulsion of all external forces from the region and to form a regional security architecture through collaboration among the regional states. Iran, therefore, is considered a revisionist power that wants to replace the US-led regional order with an Iran-led order. Iran’s regional activities of creating, arming and supporting non-state actors, especially in the vicinity of Israel and its pursuit of nuclear energy, are viewed as a part of the Iranian plan to encircle Israel militarily and a preparation for a future war against Israel. Recent Escalations: Before the current state of affairs, Iran and Israel had been engaged in a proxy war but had avoided attacking each other directly. The Israel-Hamas war has, however, started a new phase in the Israel-Iran war, with the two gradually moving to a direct confrontation. The Israeli attack on the Iranian diplomatic complex in Syria and killing of IRGC commanders and officers, its constant targeting of Hezbollah commanders in Lebanon and the killing of Haniyeh in Tehran are part of the pattern. Iran, too, is no longer satisfied with showing restraint and issuing verbal threats, as was visible during the 13 April rocket, missile and drone attacks. For Iran, the killing of Haniyeh was a serious provocation as it was a direct challenge to Iranian sovereignty and also to its military capacity and deterrence. Tehran nonetheless faces the dilemma because any reckless action can lead to an all-out war and might force the US to join Israel, which Iran would like to avoid at this point. Implications for India India, with significant investments in the Middle East, is concerned about potential disruptions in hydrocarbon supplies and the impact on its diplomatic relations in the region. A peaceful Middle East is crucial for India’s strategic interests, but ongoing conflicts pose challenges to its diplomatic balancing act. Source: Indian Express ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA  Syllabus Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday halted the announcement of results for the ongoing recruitments in Haryana till assembly poll process is over. Background: Election Commission of India (ECI) plays a crucial role in ensuring transparent, free and fair elections. Election Commission of India (ECI) Overview Purpose: A permanent,