Daily Current Affairs - 1st September 2025
- TPP
- Sep 1
- 32 min read
Welcome to The PRESS Pad – your trusted one-stop platform for Daily Current Affairs tailored for UPSC 2026, IAS, PCS, and other competitive exams. Our updates are crisp, structured, and exam-ready, enriched with constitutional provisions, governance debates, economic data, and international developments – helping you connect what happened today with why it matters for your exam.
In today’s Daily Current Affairs – 1 September 2025, we bring you a comprehensive canvas spanning Polity, Economy, Environment, Defence, International Relations, and Social Issues. Each section blends Prelims facts, GS-II/III analysis, and Essay linkages so you can revise faster and write sharper answers.
Key Highlights
Supreme Court reaches full strength of 34 judges – Collegium system explained through 4 Judges Cases.
India–Japan 15th Annual Summit – Joint Vision 2035, ₹10 trillion yen investment, AI partnership, and security cooperation.
State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2024 – Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Tripura top performers.
UNDP report on Forest Rights Act – gaps in CFR recognition and Gram Sabha role.
FDI in Insurance Draft Rules 2025 – proposal to raise cap to 100%.
Exercise Yudh Kaushal 3.0 – debut of ASHNI platoons in Eastern Himalayas.
Green Credit Rules 2023 (revised) – survival-based canopy density criteria.
DigiLocker integrations – 2000 e-services enabled, digital governance push.
Educate Girls wins Ramon Magsaysay Award 2025 – first Indian organisation to do so.
INS Kadmatt goodwill visit to PNG – Act East in action on PNG’s 50th Independence.
Plus: Mercator map distortion campaign, APK scam awareness, IONS meet, Conocarpus ban, NDMA new members, horticulture push, and Major Dhyan Chand tribute.
Together, these updates are not just facts to memorise, but contextual insights linked to GS Papers, Essay topics, Ethics case studies, and Prelims MCQs – making your UPSC preparation sharper, faster, and more holistic.
Click Here to read the Monthly Current Affairs Pointers (CAP).
Supreme Court Reaches Full Strength |
With the appointment of two new judges, the Supreme Court of India has reached its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges.
The process of appointing judges to the Supreme Court is governed by the Collegium system.
The Collegium system is a mechanism for making recommendations for the appointment and transfer of judges in the Supreme Court (SC) and High Courts (HCs).
Judges are appointed by the President of India under Article 124 for the Supreme Court and Article 217 for the High Courts.
Structure of the Collegium System
For appointment in the Supreme Court, the Collegium consists of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and the four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
For appointments in the High Courts, the Supreme Court Collegium includes the CJI and two senior-most judges of the SC.
Evolution of the Collegium System in India
Prior to the 1980s, judicial appointments were mainly controlled by the executive branch of the government.
During this period, the President appointed judges in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
The First Judges Case (1981) marked the beginning of judicial intervention in appointments.
In this case, the Supreme Court ruled that the term ‘consultation’ with the CJI did not mean ‘concurrence’, thereby giving primacy to the executive in appointments.
The Second Judges Case (1993) reversed this position and interpreted ‘consultation’ to mean ‘concurrence’, establishing the Collegium system.
Initially, the Collegium in 1993 comprised the CJI and two senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
The Third Judges Case (1998) further expanded the Collegium.
After this judgment, the Collegium came to include the CJI and four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
In the Fourth Judges Case (2015), the Supreme Court struck down the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC).
The NJAC and the 99th Constitutional Amendment Act were deemed unconstitutional by the court.
As a result of this judgment, the Collegium system was restored and continues to function as the framework for judicial appointments.
State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI), 2024 |
The State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2024 is the sixth edition of the index assessing energy efficiency at the state level.
In SEEI 2024, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and Tripura emerged as top performers in their respective state groups.
The SEEI has been developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in association with the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE).
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, responsible for promoting energy efficiency and conservation.
The Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE) is a non-profit organization that works to advance energy efficiency policy and implementation.
The primary purpose of SEEI is to assess the energy efficiency performance of 36 States and Union Territories (UTs).
The index supports data-driven monitoring, which means tracking progress using measurable and verified data.
It also promotes best practice sharing among states, helping them learn from successful energy efficiency initiatives.
SEEI encourages healthy competition, pushing states to improve performance and adopt effective energy-saving measures.
Based on their performance, states are classified into four categories to indicate their level of achievement.
The four performance categories are:
Front Runners: States scoring above 60%.
Achievers: States scoring between 50%–60%.
Contenders: States scoring between 30%–50%.
Aspirants: States scoring below 30%.
The State Energy Efficiency Action Plans (SEEAPs) are initiatives led by BEE to guide states in implementing efficiency measures.
These Action Plans aim to integrate energy efficiency into the most energy-intensive sectors such as industry, buildings, transport, and municipalities.
India–Japan: Joint Vision & Key Outcomes of 15th Annual Summit |
India and Japan sealed multiple bilateral agreements during the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit.
During the summit, both countries announced a "Joint Vision for the Next Decade", outlining a long-term roadmap for strategic cooperation.
As part of this vision, Japan set an investment target of 10 trillion yen in India over the next ten years.
The "India-Japan Joint Vision for the Next Decade" is a 10-year strategic framework covering eight key areas.
These areas include economic partnership, economic security, mobility, technology and innovation, among others.
Key Agreements Signed
A Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation was signed to strengthen the bilateral defense and security partnership.
Under this framework, both nations launched an Economic Security Initiative to enhance strategic economic resilience.
The Action Plan for India-Japan Human Resource Exchange was also announced to boost people-to-people ties.
This action plan aims to facilitate the exchange of 500,000 individuals, including 50,000 skilled and semi-skilled Indian workers, over the next five years.
The exchange initiative is part of the Next-Generation Mobility Partnership, which focuses on labor mobility and workforce development.
India and Japan agreed to cooperate under the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) to support Japanese investment in sustainable projects in India.
The Joint Crediting Mechanism is a bilateral initiative that allows emission reductions achieved through Japanese technologies to be credited to both countries.
The launch of the India-Japan Digital Partnership 2.0 marks a new phase in technology collaboration.
Under this partnership, the India-Japan AI Initiative was launched to promote joint research and development (R&D) in advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Additional Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed across various sectors.
These include MoUs on Mineral Resources, Joint Lunar Polar Exploration Mission, and the Sustainable Fuel Initiative involving Clean Hydrogen and Ammonia.
Further cooperation was agreed upon in areas like Cultural Exchange, Domestic Wastewater Management, and other sustainable development sectors.
Significance of India–Japan Relations
The India-Japan partnership reflects a strong convergence of strategic interests, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
Both countries are responding to China’s growing military and political influence, particularly in the South China Sea.
The defense relationship is bolstered by agreements such as the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA).
The ACSA allows both countries to exchange supplies and logistical support during joint operations and humanitarian missions.
Regular bilateral military exercises strengthen defense ties, including Dharma Guardian (Army), Shinyuu Maitri (Air Force), and JIMEX (Navy).
India and Japan support Reformed Multilateralism, advocating for changes in global institutions like the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Both are active members of several global and regional groupings, including the Quad, G20, and G4.
In the economic domain, both countries promote industrial development through initiatives like the India-Japan Industrial Competitiveness Partnership.
They also support small businesses through platforms like the India-Japan Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Forum.
INS Kadmatt's Goodwill Visit to Papua New Guinea for 50th Independence Day |
The Indian Navy's indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Corvette INS Kadmatt arrived at Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea (PNG).
The visit marks India’s participation in Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Day celebrations.
This goodwill visit reaffirms the growing friendship and maritime partnership between India and Papua New Guinea.
It also symbolises India's commitment to engage with Pacific Island nations under the Act East Policy, which aims to strengthen economic and strategic relations with Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
The visit promotes peace, stability, and inclusive growth in the Indo-Pacific region, a geopolitical term for the maritime area connecting the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Political and Geographical Features of Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is an island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
The country occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, which is the second largest island in the world after Greenland.
Papua New Guinea also encompasses the Bismarck Archipelago, which includes islands like New Britain, New Ireland, and Admiralty Islands.
It also includes Bougainville and Buka Islands, which are part of the Solomon Islands chain.
The country shares its only land boundary with Indonesia, which lies on the western half of New Guinea.
Mount Wilhelm, standing at 4,509 meters, is the highest peak in Papua New Guinea.
It is located in the Bismarck Range, a prominent mountain range within the country.
The geological formation of Papua New Guinea has been shaped by the collision of the Australian Plate and the Pacific Plate, a tectonic process that contributes to the region's earthquake and volcanic activity.
India-China Bilateral Meeting on Sidelines of SCO Summit |
The Prime Minister of India held a bilateral meeting with the President of China on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.
The meeting marked a renewed commitment to improving and stabilizing India-China relations.
It comes at a time of renewed global friction, particularly over the trade policies of the United States.
The bilateral ties between India and China have been strained due to several long-standing unresolved issues.
These include the border disputes, widening trade imbalances, and the China–Pakistan nexus.
Another point of concern is China’s strategic encirclement of India through its maritime initiatives, often termed the "String of Pearls" in the Indian Ocean Region.
The "String of Pearls" refers to a network of Chinese military and commercial facilities and relationships along its sea lines of communication, threatening India’s maritime security.
Key Outcomes of the Bilateral Meeting
Both leaders reaffirmed that India and China are development partners, not rivals.
They agreed that differences should not be allowed to escalate into disputes.
The leaders emphasized that a stable and constructive bilateral relationship is vital.
This relationship must be built on mutual respect, mutual interests, and mutual sensitivity.
Such stability is seen as crucial not only for national growth, but also for a multipolar world and a multipolar Asia.
A multipolar world is one where multiple countries or power centers share global influence, rather than dominance by one or two superpowers.
Focus on Border Peace and Resolution
Both sides committed to a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question.
The resolution would be guided by the principles of overall bilateral relations and the long-term interests of both nations’ populations.
The meeting acknowledged recent de-escalation along the border, viewing it as a positive development.
Strengthening People-to-People (P2P) Ties
Both leaders recognized the importance of enhancing People-to-People (P2P) connections.
They agreed to facilitate direct flights between the two countries to improve accessibility.
They also agreed to ease visa regulations to boost cultural and social exchanges.
The meeting welcomed the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, a religious pilgrimage for Indian citizens in Tibet.
The reissuance of tourist visas was also seen as a step toward normalizing interactions.
Economic and Trade Relations
Both leaders stressed the need for a strategic and political approach to expanding bilateral trade and investment ties.
They acknowledged the need to address and reduce the growing trade deficit, which is heavily tilted in China’s favor.
The focus is to move beyond transactional trade to a more balanced and mutually beneficial economic partnership.
Conclusion and Strategic Direction
The meeting reflected a joint emphasis on partnership over rivalry, setting a constructive tone.
The leaders expressed satisfaction over recent border de-escalation, suggesting diplomatic progress.
They reiterated a commitment to resolve the boundary issue through dialogue and long-term vision.
Both sides supported deeper cooperation on multilateral platforms, particularly SCO and BRICS.
The overall engagement indicates a calculated effort to recalibrate and strengthen India-China relations in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
CSEP Report on Climate Finance Needs for ‘Hard-to-Abate’ Sectors |
A Working Paper titled “India’s Climate Finance Requirements” has been released by the Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP).
The report assesses India's climate finance needs from 2022 to 2030 for substantial decarbonization of four major ‘hard-to-abate’ sectors.
These hard-to-abate sectors include power, road transport, steel, and cement.
The term “hard-to-abate” refers to sectors where emissions are difficult to eliminate due to energy-intensive and emission-intensive production processes.
Key Findings of the CSEP Paper
India’s share in global carbon emissions has increased significantly over the years.
It rose from 2.5% in 1990 to an estimated 8.2% in 2023.
Despite this rise in total emissions, India’s per capita emissions remain lower than the global average.
Climate change poses serious economic risks to India’s long-term growth.
The report estimates potential per capita GDP losses of 2.0% by 2030, if current trends continue.
If mitigation efforts are delayed or inadequate, GDP losses could range between 3% to 9% by 2047.
The total climate finance requirement for decarbonizing the four key sectors is estimated to average around 1.3% of India's GDP annually during the 2022–2030 period.
Policy Recommendations by CSEP
The report emphasizes the need to incentivize private investment in climate action.
This includes financial incentives and regulatory frameworks to promote low-carbon technologies and electric vehicle (EV) adoption.
The government must take a lead role in infrastructure development to support decarbonization.
Key public investments should be made in EV charging networks, which are essential for large-scale EV deployment.
The government should also invest in research and development (R&D) in critical areas of the power sector.
These R&D areas include grid management, battery storage, and hydro-pump storage systems.
Hydro-pump storage is a method of storing energy by using two water reservoirs at different elevations to generate electricity when needed.
The report calls for international cooperation, especially in advanced mitigation technologies.
It specifically highlights the need for Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technology transfer for hard-to-abate sectors.
CCS (Carbon Capture and Storage) is a technology that captures CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and stores them underground to prevent them from entering the atmosphere.
UNDP Report on Forest Rights Act (FRA): “Securing Rights, Enabling Futures” |
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released a report titled “Securing Rights, Enabling Futures”.
This report evaluates the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) over the past two decades.
The assessment focuses on the states of Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Odisha.
It highlights innovations, implementation challenges, and persistent gaps in the FRA process.
About Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006
The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 is commonly referred to as the Forest Rights Act (FRA).
The FRA was enacted to recognize and vest forest rights in communities traditionally dependent on forests.
Its primary objective is to undo historical injustice faced by forest-dwelling communities.
The Act also aims to ensure their livelihood security, food security, and socio-economic empowerment.
Key Challenges in FRA Implementation
High rejection rates of claims have been reported due to procedural errors, incomplete documentation, or misinterpretation of FRA provisions.
The recording of forest rights is hampered by poor-quality land records and incomplete recognition processes.
After rights are granted, post-recognition challenges persist.
These include difficulties in delineating Community Forest Resources (CFRs) and forming Community Forest Resource Management Committees (CFRMCs).
Community Forest Resources (CFRs) refer to forest areas traditionally conserved and managed by communities.
CFRMCs are local bodies responsible for sustainable management of these forest areas.
There are significant institutional capacity gaps at both central and state government levels.
Inter-departmental coordination remains weak, affecting the implementation of the Act.
Additional issues include social and knowledge barriers, which limit awareness and access to rights.
The implementation of FRA remains uneven across states, with some performing better than others.
There is also limited integration of Gram Sabhas in the recognition and management processes.
The Gram Sabha, or village assembly, plays a constitutional role in approving and managing forest rights under the FRA.
Key Recommendations from UNDP Report
The report recommends recognizing FRA rights holders as a formal beneficiary category across all social protection and livelihood programs.
It suggests allocating dedicated funds for FRA right holders under both national and state-level schemes.
The Forest Rights Act should be linked with the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM).
This linkage should ensure gender-sensitive livelihood opportunities, especially for women in forest communities.
The report proposes introducing a sunset clause, which would define an end date for the recognition and vesting of rights.
It calls for strengthening post-rights support, shifting from a welfare approach to community empowerment.
The report also stresses the integration of FRA with the PESA Act, 1996, to promote holistic and decentralized forest governance.
The PESA Act (Provisions of the Panchayats Extension to the Scheduled Areas Act, 1996) empowers Gram Sabhas in tribal areas for local self-governance.
Revised Norms on Tree Plantation-Based Green Credits under Green Credit Rules, 2023 |
The Green Credit Rules, 2023 have been revised to focus on the growth and survival of trees rather than merely counting the number of trees per hectare.
Under the revised norms, a Green Credit (GC) can be claimed only after 5 years of afforestation or restoration activity.
The claim can be made only if the plantation results in a minimum of 40% canopy density on the restored land.
Canopy density refers to the percentage of the land area covered by the vertical projection of tree crowns.
1 Green Credit = 1 new tree that has survived and grown for over 5 years on degraded forest land.
Degraded forest land is land with poor forest cover and productivity, identified for restoration.
The Green Credits issued are non-tradable and non-transferable, ensuring accountability and preventing speculative trading.
However, these credits can be transferred within a company and its subsidiaries, allowing internal flexibility.
Each Green Credit can be exchanged only once to fulfill specific obligations.
The acceptable uses of Green Credits include:
Compensatory Afforestation (CA) requirements under environmental clearance conditions.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations under the Companies Act.
Project-specific legal plantation obligations, mandated by regulatory authorities.
Once a Green Credit is exchanged, it cannot be reused, ensuring that each credit represents a unique environmental action.
What are Green Credits (GCs)?
Green Credits are a form of environmental reward given to individuals or organizations for positive ecological actions, especially tree plantation.
These credits quantify and acknowledge the environmental benefit of long-term plantation activities.
About Green Credit Program (GCP), 2023
The Green Credit Program (GCP) was launched in 2023 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
It is implemented under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, which empowers the central government to protect and improve the environment.
GCP is designed as a market-based mechanism to encourage voluntary afforestation across the country.
A market-based mechanism means that environmental benefits are incentivized through economic instruments like credits.
The program facilitates the creation of a Land Bank by registering degraded forest lands through respective State Forest Departments.
The Land Bank enables easy access to afforestation sites for participating entities.
The program aims to encourage participation from government bodies, NGOs, private sector companies, and individuals.
Participants who successfully carry out tree plantations on designated land are incentivized through Green Credits.
These credits can then be used to meet environmental obligations, thus promoting eco-restoration and sustainable development.
Parliamentary Committees: Backbone of Parliamentary Democracy |
The Lok Sabha Speaker described Parliamentary Committees as the "backbone of parliamentary democracy".
This statement was made at the National Conference of Chairpersons of Committees of Parliament and State Legislatures.
The conference focused on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Role of Parliamentary Committees
Parliamentary Committees are smaller groups of Members of Parliament (MPs) assigned to examine specific issues in detail.
These committees function in a non-partisan manner, allowing cross-party consensus building.
This is possible because members from multiple political parties, including opposition parties, are part of the committees.
Committees bring in domain expertise, enabling deep scrutiny of complex subjects.
For example, the Committee on Health studied the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016 in detail.
Committees play a key role in ensuring government accountability through critical review.
For instance, in 2024, the Public Accounts Committee flagged excess spending by four ministries.
Parliamentary Committees also focus on developmental issues affecting governance.
For example, the Committee on Rural Development flagged the declining budget allocations to Panchayati Raj Institutions.
Committees also strengthen legislation by providing insights that improve bills.
The Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 was significantly revised based on inputs from the Joint Parliamentary Committee.
Challenges in Functioning of Parliamentary Committees
A major challenge is that referral of bills to committees is not mandatory in India.
There is a declining trend in the percentage of bills being referred to committees over successive Lok Sabhas.
In the 15th Lok Sabha, 71% of bills were referred to committees.
This declined to 28% in the 16th Lok Sabha and further to 16% in the ongoing 17th Lok Sabha.
Another concern is low participation of MPs in committee meetings.
The average attendance in committee meetings is around 50%, which is much lower than the 84% attendance in Parliament sittings.
Lack of expert and research support is another key issue affecting the quality of scrutiny.
Committees are often thinly staffed and do not have access to full-time technical experts or research advisors.
Steps to Strengthen Parliamentary Committees
Referring all bills to committees can be made mandatory, similar to the practice followed in the United Kingdom.
To improve credibility, the government should increase transparency by specifying reasons when rejecting committee recommendations.
Research support should be enhanced by allowing committees to retain expert advisors for better and informed legislative scrutiny.
PM’s Emphasis on ‘Vocal for Local’ and Path to Viksit Bharat |
Prime Minister has urged citizens to mark the upcoming festive season by embracing Swadeshi (indigenous) goods.
He emphasized walking the path of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) to realize the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
The concept of ‘Vocal for Local’ encourages self-sufficiency in production and supply within the nation.
It also promotes domestic consumption of commodities produced by Indian industries.
Need for ‘Vocal for Local’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat
A key reason is economic resilience against global disruptions, such as geopolitical conflicts and trade wars.
For example, the recent disproportionate tariffs by the US on certain imports underline the need for self-reliance.
India must leverage its demographic dividend, i.e., the advantage of a large young population.
Strengthening domestic manufacturing, MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises), and agriculture can create large-scale employment.
National security demands enhancement of domestic technological capabilities.
This is essential to ensure data security and defend against cyber threats.
Promoting indigenous capabilities contributes to sustainable development.
It supports resource efficiency, recycling, and carbon footprint reduction, aligning with India’s climate commitments.
From a diplomatic perspective, self-reliance builds strength for global competitiveness.
It enables India to become a trusted global supplier in areas like pharmaceuticals, IT, green energy, and digital solutions.
A self-reliant India is not about isolationism, but about domestic capacity-building.
The goal is to achieve economic strength, social inclusivity, technological progress, and strategic autonomy.
India aims to build these capabilities while remaining deeply integrated with the global economy.
Measures Taken for Aatmanirbhar Bharat and ‘Vocal for Local’
Policy and Structural Reforms
The Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, launched in 2020, included a stimulus package worth ~10% of GDP.
PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes were introduced across various sectors to boost local manufacturing.
Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) reforms included simplification of labour laws to encourage industry growth.
Infrastructure and Industrial Development
The PM Gati Shakti Master Plan aims to integrate infrastructure projects through multimodal connectivity.
The National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) provides a roadmap for investment in core infrastructure sectors.
Digital Self-Reliance
The government has focused on building Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for inclusive digital growth.
Initiatives like Semicon India and the India Semiconductor Mission promote domestic chip manufacturing.
Promotion of ‘Vocal for Local’
The PM’s slogan ‘Khadi for Fashion, Khadi for Nation’ aims to make traditional fabric mainstream and fashionable.
Under the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), mandatory procurement of local goods has been implemented.
NITI Aayog’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative encourages awareness and support for local products.
Promotion of GI-tagged (Geographical Indication) products and the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme enhances regional and traditional industries.
“2-System Interaction” Weather Phenomenon in Northwest India |
Heavy rainfall and landslides in Northwest India were recently caused by a rare weather phenomenon known as “2-System Interaction.”
This phenomenon was identified by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The “2-System Interaction” refers to the confluence of two major weather systems: the monsoon trough and an active western disturbance.
The interaction between these two systems led to intensified rainfall and highly unstable weather conditions in the region.
This interaction was further amplified by additional atmospheric circulations, which drew moisture from both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
The incoming moisture was funneled into the Himalayan foothills, adding to the intensity of rainfall.
Monsoon Trough and Its Impact
The monsoon trough is an elongated low-pressure area that typically extends from Northwest India to the Bay of Bengal.
It acts as a semi-permanent feature of the Indian monsoon circulation system.
The southward migration of the monsoon trough usually results in active monsoon conditions across various parts of India.
During this specific weather event, the western end of the monsoon trough was located near its normal position.
However, the eastern end of the trough had shifted south of its normal location, contributing to abnormal weather dynamics.
Western Disturbances and Their Impact
Western disturbances are low-pressure systems that typically move from west to east over northern India.
These systems are more common during the winter months, though they can occur in other seasons as well.
They usually originate over the Mediterranean Sea and travel across Central Asia before reaching India.
Western disturbances are characterised by cloud formation and precipitation, especially in the northern and northwestern parts of India.
When a western disturbance interacts with the monsoon system, it creates highly unstable atmospheric conditions.
This convergence leads to a significant increase in rainfall activity and sometimes triggers extreme weather events.
A western disturbance over Northwest India is typically observed as a cyclonic circulation, adding further instability to the local weather.
FDI in Insurance – Draft Amendment Rules 2025 |
The Government of India has issued the draft Indian Insurance Companies (Foreign Investment) Amendment Rules, 2025.
These rules have been issued by the Ministry of Finance, Department of Financial Services, under the authority of the Insurance Act, 1938.
The draft proposes a change in the foreign investment cap, increasing it from the earlier 74% to 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
This increase is subject to approval by the Parliament of India.
The foreign investment will be allowed via the automatic route, meaning no prior government approval is needed for foreign investors to invest.
However, the sector will remain under the regulatory oversight of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).
The primary aim of this amendment is to unlock the full potential of the insurance sector in India.
It also seeks to support the sector's projected annual growth rate of 7.1%, thereby strengthening the industry’s contribution to the economy.
The National e-Governance Division (NeGD) has successfully enabled the Pan-India integration of nearly 2000 e-Government services.
These integrations have been carried out on DigiLocker and e-District platforms, expanding the reach of digital public service delivery.
NeGD is a Section 8 not-for-profit company, which means it operates under the Companies Act, 2013 for promoting social welfare without profit motive.
It functions as an Independent Business Division under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
About DigiLocker
DigiLocker is a flagship initiative of MeitY, designed to promote ‘Digital Empowerment’ of citizens.
It enables users to access authentic digital documents issued by government and authorised agencies.
The documents available in DigiLocker have legal standing equivalent to physical originals.
This legal status is defined under the Information Technology (Preservation and Retention of Information by Intermediaries Providing Digital Locker Facilities) Rules, 2016.
DigiLocker provides anytime, anywhere access to documents, improving convenience for users.
It supports faster service delivery by eliminating the need for physical document submission.
The platform also reduces administrative overhead for government departments and service agencies.
It facilitates secure digital document exchange between citizens and service providers.
It also enables real-time verification of documents, ensuring authenticity and reducing the risk of fraud.
Educate Girls – First Indian Organisation to Win the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2025 |
An Indian non-profit organisation, 'Educate Girls', has been named a 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee.
Educate Girls works to mobilise community and government resources to improve girls’ education in rural and educationally disadvantaged areas of India.
It has become the first Indian organisation to win the Ramon Magsaysay Award in the year 2025.
The announcement was made by the Ramon Magsaysay Foundation, which manages the prestigious award.
Other recipients of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award include Shaahina Ali from the Maldives, recognised for her environmental work.
The award has also been given to Flaviano Antonio L. Villanueva from the Philippines, in the same year.
Each awardee will receive a medallion, a certificate, and a cash prize, as part of the recognition.
The 67th Ramon Magsaysay Award presentation ceremony is scheduled to be held on November 7, 2025, at the Metropolitan Theatre in Manila.
About the Ramon Magsaysay Award
The Ramon Magsaysay Award was established in 1957 by the trustees of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund.
The first award was conferred in the year 1958.
It is regarded as Asia’s highest honour and is often called the "Asian version of the Nobel Prize".
The award is presented annually to outstanding individuals and organisations from across Asia.
It was instituted to celebrate the memory and leadership of Ramon Magsaysay, the third President of the Philippines, known for his integrity and public service.
The award aims to recognise and honour individuals or organisations in Asia who have shown exemplary service to others.
It includes those who have worked regardless of race, creed, gender, or nationality, and without seeking public recognition.
The focus is on those who have achieved distinction in their field and helped others with generosity and selflessness.
Exercise Yudh Kaushal 3.0 – Indian Army's High-Tech Training in Eastern Himalayas |
The Indian Army has conducted Exercise Yudh Kaushal 3.0 in the Kameng region of the Eastern Himalayas.
The Kameng region is strategically important due to its proximity to India's northeastern borders.
A major highlight of the exercise was the operational debut of the newly raised ASHNI platoons.
The ASHNI platoons are specially designed units that aim to integrate advanced technologies with traditional combat skills.
This integration is intended to provide a decisive battlefield advantage in modern warfare scenarios.
The exercise also featured active participation from the Indian defence industry.
This reflects the growing emphasis on indigenous defence innovation under the national vision of self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta).
The involvement of domestic defence firms aligns with the broader policy to reduce dependency on foreign military technology.
Exercise Yudh Kaushal 3.0 showcases the Indian Army's commitment to modernizing operational capabilities while fostering collaboration with local industry.
APK Scam – A Rising Cybercrime Threat in India |
The APK scam has emerged as one of the fastest-growing cybercrime threats in the country today.
An APK scam is a type of digital fraud involving malicious Android Package Kit (APK) files.
An APK file is the package file format used by the Android operating system to install and distribute mobile applications.
In this scam, cybercriminals use social engineering techniques to trick individuals into downloading and installing these malicious APK files on their mobile phones.
Social engineering refers to psychological manipulation tactics used to deceive individuals into giving away confidential information or performing unsafe actions.
Common tactics include impersonating trusted individuals, such as bank employees or government officials.
Fraudsters often create a false sense of urgency or fear to pressure the victim into quick action without verification.
Once the malicious APK file is installed, fraudsters gain remote access to the victim’s device.
This allows them to carry out unauthorized financial transactions without the victim’s consent.
Victims often face significant financial losses as a result of these unauthorized activities.
Mercator’s Map and the ‘Correct the Map’ Campaign |
The African Union has endorsed the ‘Correct the Map’ campaign aimed at promoting more accurate world map projections.
The campaign seeks to replace the Mercator map projection with alternatives such as the Equal Earth map, which better represent the true size of continents.
The Mercator map projection was designed in 1569 by Gerardus Mercator, a Flemish geographer and cartographer.
It was originally created to solve navigation challenges for sailors and explorers.
The Mercator projection makes rhumb lines (lines of constant compass direction) appear as straight lines on a flat map.
This made navigation easier, especially during the Age of Exploration.
The Mercator map is a conformal projection, which means it preserves local shapes and angles accurately.
This conformality is achieved by stretching the north-south scale, especially as one moves closer to the poles.
However, the Mercator projection causes significant distortions in scale and area.
It exaggerates the size of landmasses near the poles, making them appear much larger than they are.
It also shrinks equatorial regions, making them appear disproportionately small on the map.
For example, on the Mercator map, Africa appears roughly the same size as Greenland.
In reality, Africa is about 14 times larger than Greenland, highlighting the distortion.
Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) Tolling System – India’s First Implementation in Gujarat |
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed an agreement to implement India’s first Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) Tolling System.
This tolling system will be launched in the state of Gujarat as the pilot location.
The Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) is an advanced electronic toll collection system.
It enables automatic toll transactions without stopping vehicles at toll plazas.
The system works by reading FASTag and Vehicle Registration Number (VRN).
This is done using high-performance RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) readers and cameras installed across lanes.
The MLFF system has been launched by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
The system is barrier-less, meaning vehicles do not need to halt at toll points.
This leads to reduced traffic congestion and decreased travel time for commuters.
Reduced stoppage also contributes to enhanced fuel efficiency for vehicles.
It further results in lower carbon emissions, supporting environmental sustainability.
The system improves toll revenue collection by reducing leakage and evasion.
It contributes to building a smarter, faster, and more efficient National Highway network across the country.
Advance Authorisation Scheme – Relief for Textile Exporters |
The Union Government has extended the Export Obligation Period under the Advance Authorisation Scheme.
This extension aims to provide relief to textile exporters, who have been facing challenges in fulfilling export commitments.
The Advance Authorisation Scheme is an export incentive program implemented by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Under this scheme, duty-free import of inputs is allowed, provided the inputs are physically incorporated in the export product.
This duty-free import is permitted while making a normal allowance for wastage, which refers to material loss during the manufacturing process.
Inputs imported under this scheme are exempt from mandatory Quality Control Order (QCO) compliance, which normally ensures product quality as per Indian standards.
The scheme is available to manufacturer exporters directly producing goods for export.
It also covers merchant exporters, provided they are tied to supporting manufacturers who produce the export goods.
The quantity of inputs allowed for import under this scheme is determined by specific norms.
These norms are defined for each export product, ensuring input usage remains within permissible limits.
Blue Dragons and Beach Closures in Spain |
Several beaches in Spain were recently closed due to the appearance of Blue Dragons, a type of marine animal.
Blue Dragons, scientifically known as Glaucus atlanticus, are a species of tiny floating sea slugs.
These creatures typically grow up to 4 centimetres in length.
They are known to live on the ocean surface, where they float with the help of air stored in their stomachs.
Blue Dragons are usually found in warm tropical waters, which include parts of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.
Their presence near Spanish shores is unusual and may be linked to changing ocean currents or rising sea temperatures (contextual but not explicitly in source, can be added if desired).
While visually striking, Blue Dragons can be dangerous to humans.
A sting from a Blue Dragon can be extremely painful, even though the creature is very small.
The sting may cause redness, swelling, nausea, and vomiting in humans.
However, it is important to note that the sting is not fatal and cannot cause death.
Horticultural Diversification: A Pathway to Agricultural Resilience |
Horticultural diversification refers to shifting agricultural practices towards high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently highlighted in its bulletin that diversifying into horticulture can significantly boost rural economies.
Horticulture is a diverse agricultural sector that includes the cultivation, production, processing, and marketing of fruit, vegetables, flowers, and other ornamental crops.
India is currently the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world, following China.
Key Trends in Horticultural Diversification
Horticulture is emerging as a primary engine of agricultural growth in India.
It contributes approximately 33% to Agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA), highlighting its growing importance in the agri-sector.
Gross Value Added (GVA) refers to the value of goods and services produced in an area, industry, or sector of an economy.
There is a visible shift in dietary preferences among consumers in both rural and urban areas.
The share of fruits in total food expenditure is increasing steadily, reflecting these changing dietary patterns.
Small and marginal farmers, who own less than 2 hectares of land, are increasingly participating in horticulture.
These farmers are allocating larger portions of their landholdings to horticultural crops due to higher returns.
Key Issues and Challenges in the Horticulture Sector
Despite growth, the sector faces challenges like yield fluctuations in several crops.
For example, yields of grapes and sapota declined between 1992–93 and 2021–22, indicating inconsistent productivity.
Post-harvest infrastructure remains inadequate across the horticultural value chain.
India suffers from substantial post-harvest losses, estimated at approximately ₹1.5 trillion annually.
Post-harvest losses refer to the portion of produce lost after harvest due to poor handling, storage, and transport.
Price volatility is a recurring issue in horticultural markets, driven largely by weather-related supply disruptions.
Prices of essential crops like Tomato, Onion, and Potato (TOP) often fluctuate sharply due to climatic variations.
Major Government Initiatives for Horticulture Development
The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) was launched in 2014 to support holistic horticulture development.
A Cluster Development Programme has been introduced to promote integrated and market-oriented horticulture clusters.
The CHAMAN (Coordinated Horticulture Assessment and Management using Geo-Informatics) programme supports decision-making through geospatial technologies.
Geo-informatics involves using satellite imagery and spatial data to assess land use and crop performance.
The Clean Plant Programme (CPP) aims to ensure the availability of high-quality, disease-free planting material.
Future Policy Considerations for a Resilient Horticulture Sector
Strengthening market linkages is essential to connect farmers directly with urban consumers and export markets.
Promoting intercropping—the practice of growing two or more crops in proximity—can improve yields, enhance soil health, and increase farmer income.
There is a need to invest in agricultural research to develop technologies that address climate change, pest management, and productivity challenges.
Development of agro-processing industries is vital for reducing post-harvest losses and adding value to horticultural produce.
Agro-processing involves converting raw agricultural products into marketable forms, which also boosts exports and creates rural employment opportunities.
Major Dhyan Chand (1905 - 1979) |
PM pays Tribute to Major Dhyan Chand on National Sports Day.
About Major Dhyan Chand
Famously known as ‘Hockey Wizard’ and ‘The Magician’ due to his stick work and understanding of the game.
He enlisted in the British Indian Army as a sepoy (private).
He played a crucial role in securing India's Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936.
He received the Padma Bhushan (1956).
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, given for outstanding sports performance over four years, is named in his honour.
ED Issues First Interpol Purple Notice to Track Criminal Methods Across Borders |
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued its first Purple Notice through Interpol.
A Purple Notice is one of the eight types of color-coded alerts issued by Interpol.
The primary purpose of a Purple Notice is to share information about the modus operandi of criminals. (Modus operandi refers to the method or pattern used by criminals to commit crimes.)
It is also used to report details on objects, devices, and methods of concealment used in criminal activities.
The Purple Notice helps law enforcement agencies understand and track criminal behavior patterns across borders.
Along with Purple Notice, Interpol issues other notices including Red, Yellow, Blue, Black, Green, Orange, and Silver Notices.
A Red Notice is issued to seek the location and arrest of a person wanted by judicial authorities.
A Yellow Notice is used to help locate missing persons, especially minors or individuals unable to identify themselves.
A Blue Notice is used to collect additional information about a person’s identity or location.
A Black Notice is issued to seek information on unidentified bodies.
A Green Notice is used to provide warnings or criminal intelligence about individuals likely to commit repeat offences.
An Orange Notice is issued to warn of an event, object, or person representing a serious and imminent threat to public safety.
A Silver Notice is currently in the pilot phase and is used to track elderly missing persons or those with dementia.
Apart from color-coded notices, Interpol also issues the INTERPOL–United Nations Security Council Special Notice.
This special notice is meant for entities and individuals targeted by UN Security Council Sanctions Committees. (These committees impose sanctions like travel bans, asset freezes, or arms embargoes on individuals or groups.)
Karen and Karenni Ethnic Group |
Thailand has granted work rights to long-term refugees from the Karen and Karenni ethnic groups who originate from Myanmar.
The Karen are a large and dispersed ethnic group found across Southeast Asia.
The Karen trace their origins to regions such as the Gobi Desert, Mongolia, or Tibet.
The Karenni are a minority ethnic group in Myanmar, also known as the Red Karen or Kayah.
The term Red Karen or Kayah refers specifically to the Karenni group, distinguishing them from other Karen subgroups.
Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) |
Recently, the Emerging Leaders Panel Discussion was conducted under the framework of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) at Kochi.
IONS is a voluntary initiative launched by the Indian Navy to foster multilateral engagement in the Indian Ocean Region.
The aim of IONS is to enhance maritime cooperation among the navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Littoral states refer to countries that have a coastline or permanent border along the Indian Ocean.
The inaugural session of IONS was held in the year 2008 in New Delhi.
IONS currently comprises 25 member countries and 9 observer nations.
Eligibility for membership requires that a country must have a permanent territory or border with the Indian Ocean.
Additionally, the country must maintain a Navy or a maritime agency, which is responsible for maritime security and operations.
The Chairmanship of IONS is rotational, with the role being transferred every 2 years among member nations.
India is set to assume the chairmanship of IONS for the term 2025–2027.
Conocarpus Trees |
Conocarpus, also known as buttonwood or damas, is an exotic tree species recently recommended for a ban by a government-appointed panel to the Supreme Court of India.
The genus Conocarpus comprises two species with distinct native origins.
One species is native to coastal areas of tropical America and parts of West Africa.
The other species is found in arid coastal zones of Somalia and Yemen, and extends across eastern and northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
In India, Conocarpus was widely planted as an ornamental plant due to its aesthetic appearance and dense green canopy.
It is highly tolerant to extreme heat, making it suitable for hot climates.
It also shows resilience to soil salinity, which allows it to grow in saline and coastal environments.
Conocarpus can withstand air and dust pollution, making it a popular choice in urban landscaping.
Additionally, it requires minimal maintenance, which contributed to its mass planting in cities.
However, serious ecological concerns have emerged regarding its widespread use.
It poses a threat to biodiversity as it offers little or no sustenance to native insects, birds, or mammals.
Due to this, it is referred to as a “green desert”, indicating its visually green appearance but ecologically barren nature.
It is also considered an invasive species, meaning it can outcompete and displace native plants and alter the natural ecosystem balance.
The species causes excessive groundwater consumption, which impacts local water tables and contributes to ecological stress.
Public health risks have also been reported due to allergenic pollen produced by the tree, which can trigger respiratory issues.
In response to these threats, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have already implemented a ban on the plantation of Conocarpus.
UNTOC & UNCAC |
Recently, India invoked the United Nations Conventions UNTOC and UNCAC in the extradition request of a fugitive offender.
United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC)
The United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is a UN treaty aimed at combating transnational organized crime.
Transnational organized crime refers to criminal activities coordinated across national borders, often involving groups or networks.
UNTOC was adopted in the year 2000 by the United Nations.
It entered into force in 2003, making it legally operational for the signatory countries.
UNTOC is also known as the Palermo Convention, named after the city in Italy where the treaty was signed.
It is the only global, legally binding instrument that obligates governments to act and cooperate against organized crime.
UNTOC is supplemented by three protocols, which address specific criminal challenges.
The first protocol targets human trafficking, including exploitation for labor and sexual purposes.
The second protocol addresses smuggling of migrants, particularly across international borders.
The third protocol focuses on illicit manufacturing and trafficking of firearms, including ammunition and related materials.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) serves as the Secretariat to UNTOC.
The UNODC is the specialized UN body responsible for assisting member states in their fight against crime, drugs, and terrorism.
United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC)
The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) is the only legally binding universal anti-corruption instrument.
It was adopted in 2003 by the United Nations to combat corruption globally.
It also entered into force in 2003, signifying global commitment to anti-corruption efforts.
UNCAC covers a wide range of corrupt practices, including bribery and embezzlement.
Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence actions.
Embezzlement refers to the misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to someone’s care.
UNCAC focuses on four key areas: prevention, criminalization, international cooperation, and asset recovery.
Prevention under UNCAC involves strengthening institutions and governance systems to stop corruption before it occurs.
Criminalization refers to making corrupt acts punishable under national law.
International cooperation ensures that countries work together to track, extradite, and prosecute corrupt individuals.
Asset recovery enables countries to trace, freeze, and return stolen public assets held abroad.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) |
The Prime Minister of India recently nominated two new members to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
In addition, the Prime Minister also renominated three existing members of NDMA for another term of three years.
The NDMA is the apex body for Disaster Management in India, which means it holds the highest authority in disaster-related planning and response.
The NDMA is headed by the Prime Minister of India, reflecting its national strategic importance.
It is mandated under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, which provides the legal and institutional framework for disaster management in India.
The core mandate of NDMA is to lay down policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management across the country.
NDMA’s vision is to build a safer and disaster-resilient India, emphasizing preparedness, mitigation, and rapid response.
This vision is to be achieved through a holistic approach, which means integrating all aspects of disaster risk reduction across sectors and communities.
NDMA follows a pro-active strategy, focusing on preventive and anticipatory measures rather than reacting after a disaster has occurred.
It adopts a technology-driven approach, which involves using modern tools, early warning systems, and data analytics for efficient disaster management.
The strategy also emphasizes sustainable development, ensuring that economic and social development do not increase disaster risks.
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