Daily Current Affairs – 28 July 2025
- TPP
- Jul 28
- 13 min read
Welcome to your one-stop destination for crisp, reliable, and exam-relevant Daily Current Affairs. The PRESS Pad delivers daily updates and smart summaries that go beyond the headlines and align perfectly with the evolving pattern of UPSC and other state-level examinations.
Today's edition features key updates including Tourist Carrying Capacity, India and Nepal Finalize MLA Agreement, Zoonotic Disease Hotspots, Brihadisvara Temple, Bold Kurukshetra, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), Organic certification, Flame Retardant, Accelerometer Technology, Heavy Water Test Facility and more...
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In a first, Uttarakhand to assess ‘Tourist Carrying Capacity’ in Nainital District |
For the first time, Uttarakhand will assess the Tourist Carrying Capacity in the Nainital district to manage tourism sustainably.
This survey aims to develop a long-term strategy to protect popular hill towns from pressures like unregulated tourism, mounting vehicular traffic, and population growth.
Earlier, in September 2024, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) directed the Uttarakhand government to classify Nainital district based on its carrying capacity and environmental sensitivity.
Carrying Capacity refers to the maximum population or visitor load an area can sustain without degrading its resources.
Carrying capacity depends on both biotic factors such as vegetation and hydrology, and abiotic factors like terrain and climate.
There are two major approaches to assess carrying capacity: the Planetary Boundaries Approach and the Biocapacity Overshoot Approach.
The Planetary Boundaries Approach is used to evaluate environmental crises including global warming, land degradation, pollution, and water stress.
The Biocapacity Overshoot Approach measures human demand on earth’s natural productivity, highlighting when consumption exceeds what nature can renew annually (e.g., Earth Overshoot Day).
Assessing carrying capacity is significant for planning sustainable development, balancing the tension between developmental governance and sustainability of development.
This assessment follows the Precautionary Principle, which advocates preventive actions amid uncertainty and shifts the burden of proof to proponents of potentially harmful activities.
The principle also encourages exploring alternatives to harmful actions and increasing public participation in decision-making processes.
India and Nepal Finalize Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement to Boost Criminal Cooperation |
India and Nepal have finalized an Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) in Criminal Matters to strengthen cooperation.
Both countries have also decided to expedite the revision of their 1953 Extradition Treaty, which is currently considered outdated.
The absence of an updated Extradition Treaty has caused legal and administrative challenges, hindering the smooth transfer of criminals between India and Nepal.
Extradition is defined as the formal surrender by one state to another of a person accused or convicted of crimes, which are prosecutable in the requesting state’s courts.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) serves as the central authority managing extradition matters in India.
The Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) Agreement facilitates requests for evidence, intelligence sharing, and supports criminal investigations between countries.
India has previously signed MLA treaties with 42 countries, including the U.S. (2005) and Israel (2015).
In India-Nepal MLA, the Ministry of Home Affairs is the designated central authority responsible for implementation.
The new MLA Agreement will formalize and standardize cooperation procedures in criminal matters, providing a clear legal mandate for officials to share evidence and information.
This legal clarity is expected to result in faster investigations and prosecutions of criminals across borders.
Before this agreement, challenges arose due to the open 1,751 km border shared by India and Nepal.
Groups like the Indian Mujahideen exploited this open border, using Nepal as a transit or hideout route to flee India towards third countries.
Nepal had been the only neighboring country (apart from Bhutan) without an MLA treaty with India, inadvertently making it a safe haven for criminals.
For example, Nepal has arrested Pakistani nationals involved in fake Indian currency rackets, highlighting cross-border crime concerns.
Without a binding treaty, cooperation relied on informal assurances of reciprocity, leading to uncertainty and inefficiencies.
New Study Identifies Zoonotic Disease Hotspots and Risks Beyond COVID-19 |
A landmark study presents the first comprehensive global assessment of zoonotic diseases, excluding COVID-19, prioritized by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Zoonotic diseases, or zoonoses, are infections caused by germs such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi that spread between animals and humans.
The study finds that globally, 9.3% of the land surface is at high (6.3%) or very high (3%) risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks.
The most vulnerable regions, termed Global Zoonotic Disease Hotspots, include Latin America and Oceania (18.6%), followed by Asia (6.9%) and Africa (5.2%).
Approximately 3% of the world’s population lives in these high or very high-risk zones, while about 20% reside in medium-risk areas.
Several anthropogenic drivers (human-influenced factors) affect the risk of these priority diseases.
Climate factors influence disease risk, which increases in warmer climates and with rising rainfall, up to a certain threshold.
During water deficits, animals tend to gather near limited water sources, increasing human-animal contact and the potential for disease transmission.
Environmental and land-use factors such as high livestock density raise the risk of disease spillover by concentrating infectious agents near human settlements.
Frequent land-use changes and proximity to forests enhance interactions between humans and wildlife, contributing further to outbreak risks.
Among these, population density is the strongest individual factor influencing outbreak risk, especially in rapidly urbanizing, unplanned areas with poor health infrastructure.
Based on these findings, the study recommends climate adaptation, sustainable land-use practices, and urban planning reforms as essential policy measures.
Strengthening health systems, particularly for zoonosis surveillance in high-risk zones, is critical to early detection and response.
The use of machine learning models can help effectively identify and prioritize vulnerable regions for surveillance.
Lastly, the study emphasizes the need for cross-sectoral collaboration across climate, agriculture, environment, and health sectors to implement the One Health approach for global preparedness.
Indian Army Enhances Combat Capabilities to Advance the Integrated Battle Group Doctrine |
Amid rising collusive threats from China and Pakistan, which intensified during Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army is enhancing its combat capabilities.
To strengthen swift offensive operations along borders, the Army is raising new ‘Rudra’ brigades and ‘Bhairav’ commando battalions.
As part of structural reforms, the Army is establishing ‘Shaktibaan’ artillery regiments equipped with special ‘Divyadrishti’ surveillance and loitering munitions batteries.
Additionally, all infantry battalions will be equipped with drone platoons to counter the growing threat of drone warfare.
The Bhairav Light Commando Battalions are formed from regular infantry units and trained for high-speed, high-mobility operations using modern drones, gadgets, and lightweight weaponry.
Existing units are being transformed into Rudra All-Arms Brigades, which are integrated formations combining infantry, mechanised infantry, tanks, artillery, UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), and special forces.
This transformation aligns with the long-standing plan to restructure some Army units into self-contained Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs).
The concept of Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) envisions agile, brigade-sized combat formations optimized for modern warfare through advanced technology.
Each IBG will be tailor-made based on three key factors: Threat, Terrain, and Task.
The IBG Doctrine emerged after Operation Parakram as part of the Cold Start Doctrine, which is India’s strategy for rapid mobilization and swift limited strikes against Pakistan.
The Cold Start Doctrine aims for quick deployment of forces to conduct focused offensive operations without allowing the enemy time to mobilize fully.
The operational philosophy of IBGs focuses on Pre-emption (gaining the initiative), Dislocation (striking enemy vulnerabilities), and Disintegration (disrupting the enemy’s command and control systems).
IBGs emphasize Time-Space-Force-Information Dominance, meaning they aim to control key areas rapidly using the right force at the right time.
Technology empowerment and force modernization are critical to IBGs, enabling tactical victories and operational success through enhanced leadership and complementary technologies.
TCS’s revised Policy raises concerns of Layoff among Employees |
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has introduced a revised policy that limits bench time to just 36 business days per year, raising concerns about employee deployment and job continuity.
Bench time refers to the period when employees are not assigned to any client projects but remain on the company payroll.
Over the past year, other major IT companies like Wipro, Infosys, and Accenture have also reduced their bench sizes to protect profit margins and improve utilization rates.
The primary reason for IT firms reassessing their benching policies is effective cost management, as non-billable employees increase financial strain during periods of low project demand.
Additionally, the gap between demand and supply has widened due to factors like technological automation and project cancellations, reducing the need for a large buffer staff.
Companies aim to improve their utilization rates, which is the ratio of billable project work to total employee time, to enhance profitability.
However, these policies raise important ethical and societal concerns, especially relating to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
CSR implies that IT firms have a responsibility to manage their workforce fairly and humanely, considering their significant investment in employee training and development.
Another concern is worker rights, which require balancing business efficiency with employee well-being to avoid fostering a detrimental "hire and fire" culture.
The policy changes can also have a psychological impact on employees, increasing anxiety, stress, and mental health issues.
In conclusion, the evolving policies reflect an IT industry adapting to changing economic realities and technological advancements.
For sustainable growth in India’s IT sector, a collaborative and empathetic approach is essential.
Such an approach should balance business imperatives with the need for a skilled, engaged, and secure workforce.
Tamil Nadu’s Historic Brihadisvara Temple |
Recently, the Prime Minister offered prayers at the Brihadisvara Temple in Tamil Nadu.
The temple is also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil and is located in the historic city of Thanjavur.
It stands as a remarkable example of Dravidian architecture, characteristic of the Chola Period.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is represented here as a massive ‘Lingam’, a symbolic representation of Shiva in Hinduism.
The Brihadisvara Temple was constructed around 1010 AD by the famous Chola king Rajaraja Chola I.
The temple’s inscriptions and frescoes narrate the historical tale of the rise and decline of Thanjavur’s fortunes.
It is recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, underscoring its global cultural importance.
The temple is considered one of the three ‘Great Living Chola Temples’, along with the Gangaikondacholeeswaram Temple and the Airavatesvara Temple.
These temples collectively represent the architectural brilliance and cultural heritage of the Chola dynasty.
Majuli: India’s First River Island District Battling Erosion with Kanchan Trees |
Residents of Majuli Island actively combat riverbank erosion by planting Kanchan trees along the Brahmaputra River.
Majuli is recognized as the world’s largest river island, situated within the Brahmaputra River.
In 2016, Majuli became India’s first river island district, highlighting its administrative importance.
The island was formed by the Brahmaputra River on the south side, and by the Kherkutia Xuti and Subansiri rivers on the north side.
Majuli is surrounded by wetlands called beels and small islets known locally as “Chaporis”.
The island is included in India’s Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, emphasizing its cultural and ecological value.
Majuli is home to Sattras, which are Vaishnavite monasteries serving as cultural and spiritual centers.
The Institution of Satra is a unique feature of Vaishnavism in Assam, founded by the saint Sankardeva, who is regarded as the father of Assamese culture.
14th Edition of Exercise Bold Kurukshetra |
The 14th edition of Exercise Bold Kurukshetra, a joint military exercise between India and Singapore, commenced on July 27, 2025.
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 is being conducted as a Table Top Exercise and Computer-Based Wargame.
The objective of the exercise is to validate operational procedures for mechanised warfare, which involves the use of armoured and motorized military units.
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra is a key part of the broader India–Singapore defence cooperation framework.
One major collaboration is SIMBEX (Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise), which was formerly known as Exercise Lion King.
SIMBEX is an annual naval exercise that aims to enhance maritime cooperation and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).
Another important bilateral engagement is AGNI WARRIOR, a joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Singapore Armed Forces.
AGNI WARRIOR focuses on tactical planning, joint execution, and adaptive warfare strategies in land-based operations.
Deep Brain Stimulation: Advanced Treatment for Neurological Disorders |
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a medical technique involving the implantation of electrodes deep inside specific brain areas to treat certain neurological disorders.
These electrodes are connected to a pacemaker-like device, which is implanted under the skin in the chest.
The device sends controlled electrical impulses to the brain to help adjust abnormal brain activity.
DBS works by modifying the communication between groups of neurons, the brain cells responsible for transmitting signals.
Many neurological disorders treated by DBS are caused by faulty or erratic electrical signals within the brain.
By delivering precise electrical pulses, DBS can interrupt these abnormal signals, which helps reduce symptoms.
DBS is most commonly used for managing disorders like Parkinson’s disease and dystonia.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors and stiffness.
Dystonia involves involuntary muscle contractions causing repetitive movements or abnormal postures.
DBS provides an alternative treatment option for patients whose symptoms do not respond well to medication.
India’s Organic Cotton Certification Systems |
APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) has refuted recent allegations concerning the validity of Organic Cotton Certifications in India.
Organic certification ensures that agricultural products are grown and processed without synthetic inputs, such as chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
In India, the primary framework for organic certification is the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP).
NPOP is implemented by APEDA under the Union Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
This programme involves the accreditation of Certification Bodies, which are authorized organizations that certify producers as organic.
It also sets standards for organic production, covering inputs, farming methods, and post-harvest practices.
Additionally, NPOP supports the promotion of organic farming and marketing of organic products.
The production and accreditation standards under NPOP have been recognized by the European Commission and Switzerland.
This recognition applies to unprocessed plant products, which are accepted as equivalent to their own national standards.
Apart from NPOP, India also follows the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS - India) Certification.
The PGS system is a locally focused certification process based on mutual trust and shared responsibility among farmers.
Under PGS-India, producers assess, inspect, and verify each other’s production practices within a group.
Once verified, the group collectively declares the entire farm holdings as organic.
PGS certification is designed to be cost-effective and inclusive, especially for small and marginal farmers.
Together, NPOP and PGS form the backbone of India’s organic certification ecosystem, ensuring integrity, transparency, and market access for organic products.
Paithani Sarees of Maharashtra |
In his monthly radio programme, the Prime Minister praised the traditional craftsmanship of Paithani sarees.
The Paithani sari is often referred to as the ‘mahavastra of Maharashtra’, meaning the great garment of Maharashtra.
It is renowned for its rich and vibrant colors, which are woven using pure silk and gold zari.
Zari refers to fine gold or silver threads traditionally used in Indian textiles for ornamental embroidery.
The birthplace of Paithani sarees is the medieval town of Paithan, which is located on the banks of the River Godavari in Maharashtra.
The Paithani weaving tradition has ancient origins, dating back to the 6th century B.C.
The saree is celebrated for its distinctive weaving style, marked by bold patterns and traditional motifs.
A key artistic feature of the Paithani saree lies in the pallu (decorative end-piece) and borders.
These areas often include intricate designs of peacocks, lotuses, and mangoes, which are iconic in Paithani weaving.
Many of these motifs are inspired by the murals and sculptures found in the rock-cut caves of Ajanta and Ellora, known for their ancient Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu art.
To preserve its heritage and authenticity, Paithani sarees were awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2010.
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a certification that identifies a product as originating from a specific location, where its quality, reputation, or characteristics are linked to its geographic origin.
The GI tag helps protect the Paithani saree’s cultural identity, and supports the livelihoods of traditional weavers and artisans.
ICMR to Study Carcinogenic Risks of Flame Retardant Chemicals |
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recently submitted a proposal to the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
ICMR stated it will initiate a study to assess the carcinogenic potential of certain chemical compounds used in flame retardant materials.
Flame retardants are a group of chemical substances applied to materials to prevent them from catching fire or to slow the spread of flames.
These chemicals are commonly added to furniture, electronics, textiles, and building materials.
A key concern with flame retardants is that they are highly resistant to environmental degradation, meaning they persist in soil, water, and air for a long time.
The prolonged presence of these chemicals raises health and ecological safety concerns.
Some commonly used flame-retardant chemicals include Tris (1-chloro-isopropyl) phosphate (TCIPP).
Another widely used compound is Tris (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP).
Tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) is also frequently applied as a flame retardant.
These compounds belong to a class of chemicals known as organophosphates, which are phosphate-based organic molecules.
Several of these chemicals have been suspected or identified as potential endocrine disruptors or carcinogens.
The ICMR’s upcoming study aims to scientifically evaluate these health risks, particularly the risk of cancer (carcinogenicity).
This move reflects growing concern over chemical safety standards in commonly used consumer and industrial products.
Smartphone-Based Earthquake Detection Using Accelerometer Technology |
Google’s Android Earthquake Alert System has successfully detected over 18,000 earthquakes using signals from phone accelerometers.
An accelerometer is a sensing device that measures acceleration, which is the rate of change of velocity.
It also helps in detecting the frequency and intensity of human movement, such as steps or shakes.
The working principle of an accelerometer is based on Newton’s Second Law of Motion.
According to this law, force on an object equals its mass multiplied by its acceleration (F = m × a).
Accelerometers are capable of measuring two types of acceleration.
They can detect static acceleration, which is caused by gravity when the device is at rest.
They can also detect dynamic acceleration, which is caused by sudden movements, such as a car crash.
Accelerometers are widely used in digital devices such as smartphones, laptops, and digital cameras.
In these devices, they help in rotating the display automatically based on the device’s orientation.
In vehicles, accelerometers are used to trigger airbags in the event of a collision.
In drones, accelerometers play a crucial role in stabilizing their orientation during flight.
By detecting motion and orientation, accelerometers ensure drones remain balanced in the air.
The integration of accelerometer technology in smartphones has enabled real-time earthquake detection at scale, as demonstrated by Google’s alert system.
India’s First Private Depleted Heavy Water Test Facility |
India has taken a major step towards nuclear self-reliance with the commissioning of the country’s first private test facility for depleted Heavy Water upgradation.
This milestone project has been developed by TEMA India Ltd., a private sector company.
Heavy Water, chemically known as Deuterium Oxide (D₂O), is a special form of water.
In Heavy Water, the Hydrogen atom is replaced by Deuterium, which is a heavier isotope of Hydrogen.
Deuterium is a stable isotope of Hydrogen that contains one proton and one neutron, unlike normal Hydrogen which has only one proton.
Heavy Water plays a critical role in nuclear reactors.
It acts as a moderator, which means it slows down fast-moving neutrons to sustain the nuclear chain reaction.
It is also used as a coolant in the reactor core, helping to remove heat generated during the reaction.
Apart from nuclear energy, Heavy Water is also used in various scientific and research applications.
It serves as a solvent in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy, a technique used for determining the structure of molecules.
Heavy Water is also used in experiments to detect certain neutrinos, which are subatomic particles with very low mass and no electric charge.
The commissioning of this facility by TEMA India Ltd. marks a significant contribution from the private sector in India’s strategic nuclear infrastructure.
This initiative supports India’s broader goal of achieving technological independence in the nuclear field.
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