1. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025: Inclusive Reform or Contested Territory? – Polity and Governance
Why in News?
Parliament has passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with the Rajya Sabha granting final approval, aiming to modernize Waqf governance and broaden the definition of Waqf. Notably, the Bill permits non-Muslims to donate property to Waqf, a move that has sparked both praise and political controversy.
What is Waqf?
Waqf refers to permanent dedication of movable or immovable property by a Muslim for religious, pious or charitable purposes under Islamic law. These properties are governed by State Waqf Boards under the Waqf Act, 1995.
Key Features of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025
1. Non-Muslim Donations Allowed
- All individuals, regardless of religion, can now donate property to Waqf institutions.
- Example: A Hindu businessman can donate land to a mosque or Waqf-run orphanage, and it will be governed under Waqf law.
2. Property Classification
- All such donations will be legally classified as Waqf property.
- The State Waqf Boards will have jurisdiction over donated property, just like any traditional Waqf property.
3. Expanded Definition of Waqf
- Waqf now includes any property donated for Islamic religious or charitable purposes, regardless of the donor’s faith.
4. Repeal of Colonial Laws
- The Mussalman Wakf Validating Act, 1913 and other obsolete British-era laws have been formally repealed.
- Aims to streamline governance and remove colonial judicial oversight requirements.
Who Can Donate Under the New Law?
| Category | Permitted? | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Muslims (Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, etc.) | Yes | Donation must be specifically for Islamic religious or charitable purposes |
| Institutions, NGOs, Trusts | Yes | As long as the intent aligns with Islamic charitable objectives |
Waqf in India: Key Stats (As of 2025)
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Total registered Waqf properties | 8.72 lakh |
| Total Waqf land area | 3.8 million acres |
| State-wise Distribution | Uttar Pradesh (2.1 lakh), West Bengal (78,000), Kerala (55,000) |
| Issues | Encroachment, underutilization, legal disputes, lack of digitization |
Criticism from Opposition & Civil Society
| Concern | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Undermining Minority Autonomy | Fear that non-Muslim donations may lead to influence over Waqf institutions |
| Lack of Consultation | Muslim scholars and Waqf Boards were reportedly not consulted adequately |
| Backdoor Entry Allegations | Worry that the law enables commercial or political interference in Waqf |
| Secularism Debate | Some MPs argue it blurs religious boundaries, violating constitutional secularism |
| Distrust in Motives | Opposition accuses the government of targeting minority institutions under the guise of reform |
Comparative Perspective
- In countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, non-Muslims are allowed to contribute to Islamic charitable trusts, but with clear legal and institutional boundaries.
- In India, this move is unprecedented, raising concerns about transparency and institutional integrity.
Way Forward
| Reform Area | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Safeguarded Inclusivity | Broaden donations, but protect community autonomy with safeguards against misuse |
| Transparent Governance | Implement digitization of land records, GPS mapping, and real-time audits |
| Stakeholder Engagement | Consult religious scholars, civil society, and legal experts in future reforms |
| Legal Clarity | Frame rules for donation eligibility, purpose specification, and dispute redressal |
| Grievance Mechanism | Create a dedicated Waqf Dispute Tribunal with fast-track resolution |
Conclusion
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 attempts to modernize and open up Waqf donations in line with inclusive governance. However, without institutional safeguards, legal clarity, and community engagement, the reform risks being seen as intrusive rather than progressive. The success of this amendment will depend on its implementation with transparency, trust, and cultural sensitivity.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. Under the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, who among the following is now permitted to donate property to Waqf?
A) Only Muslims
B) Only minority communities
C) Any individual, regardless of religion, if donation is for Islamic charitable use
D) Only religious institutions
Correct Answer: C) Any individual, regardless of religion, if donation is for Islamic charitable use
Q2. Which colonial-era law was repealed by the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025?
A) Indian Trusts Act, 1882
B) Mussalman Wakf Validating Act, 1913
C) Charitable Endowments Act, 1890
D) Muslim Personal Law Act, 1937
Correct Answer: B) Mussalman Wakf Validating Act, 1913
Mains:
1. “The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 reflects a tension between inclusive governance and community autonomy.” Critically examine.
2. Discuss the importance of Waqf properties in India’s socio-religious and economic landscape. What reforms are needed to ensure transparency and efficiency in their management?
2. India’s Subsea Cable Infrastructure: Connecting the Nation to the Digital World – Economics
Why in News?
India is expanding its undersea cable capacity to meet the growing demand for international internet bandwidth, with major projects like Airtel’s 2Africa Pearls and SEA-ME-WE-6 (Southeast Asia–Middle East–Western Europe 6) underway.
What Are Undersea Cables?
- Undersea cables (or submarine cables) are fiber optic cables laid along the ocean floor to enable high-speed internet and telecommunications between countries and continents.
- They carry 90% of global data, facilitate $10 trillion in financial transactions, and support 80% of world trade.
Structure:
- Bundles of fiber optic strands encased in protective layers
- Surface at cable landing stations
- Connect to terrestrial networks, powering internet access
India’s Current Subsea Cable Landscape
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Global Cables | ~600 cables worldwide |
| Cables Landing in India | 17 international cables |
| Main Landing Hubs | Mumbai & Chennai |
| Domestic Cables | Chennai–Andaman–Nicobar Islands (CANI), Kochi–Lakshadweep |
| India’s Share | 1% of global landing stations, 3% of global cable systems |
| Concentration | 95% of India’s cables land in a 6-km stretch in Versova, Mumbai |
Why Is This Important?
- Data explosion: Growing demand for streaming, e-commerce, cloud, and financial services
- Digital India and 5G rollout will require massive bandwidth and low latency
- Subsea cables are faster, more reliable, and cheaper than satellites for high-volume traffic
Challenges in India’s Subsea Cable Infrastructure
1. High Risk of Cuts and Outages
- Strategic chokepoints like the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait are vulnerable
- Cables are often laid along traditional shipping routes, with little redundancy
Example: Recent disruptions in the Red Sea impacted multiple cables and caused internet slowdowns
2. Regulatory Bottlenecks
- Around 51 clearances needed from:
- Department of Telecom
- Ministry of Environment
- Ministry of Defence
- Ministry of Home Affairs
- Meta reports: 80% of cable project time is spent on clearance processes in Indian waters
3. Repair and Maintenance Delays
- No Indian cable repair vessels
- Dependence on foreign repair ships increases downtime in case of outages
- Slow turnaround time affects service reliability
4. Underrepresentation Globally
- India’s global share:
- Only 1% of all cable landing stations
- Only 3% of cable systems
- Poses challenges for digital sovereignty and strategic control
Major New Projects
2Africa Pearls (Airtel, Meta, etc.)
- Will connect India to the Middle East and Africa
- Aims to boost East-West bandwidth flow
SEA-ME-WE-6
- Connects Southeast Asia to Western Europe via India
- India is a key transit hub
Strategic and Security Implications
| Area | Concern |
|---|---|
| National Security | Cable cuts = economic paralysis, communication blackout |
| Strategic Leverage | Control over cable routes can influence global data flows |
| Geopolitics | China, USA, and private players are expanding control over cable infrastructure |
| Data Sovereignty | India’s lack of control over key infrastructure is a vulnerability |
Way Forward: Strengthening India’s Subsea Cable Ecosystem
| Reform Area | Action Point |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Reforms | Create single-window clearance for cable laying |
| Domestic Repair Capabilities | Invest in Indian cable repair vessels |
| Strategic Redundancy | Promote alternate cable routes to reduce dependency on chokepoints |
| Public-Private Partnerships | Involve telecom giants (Jio, Airtel, Tata Comm.) and global tech firms |
| New Landing Stations | Diversify landing points beyond Mumbai and Chennai to ports like Vizag, Kochi, Digha, and Kandla |
| Data Diplomacy | Leverage international agreements to secure global cable interests |
Conclusion
India’s undersea cable infrastructure is the invisible backbone of its digital economy. As demand for data surges, strategic investment, regulatory reform, and global alignment are critical to ensure that India’s digital ambitions are not constrained by infrastructure gaps. Building a secure, scalable, and sovereign subsea network will be vital for realizing Digital India @2047.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. Undersea cables are primarily used for:
A) Submarine navigation
B) Transmission of electricity between countries
C) High-speed data and internet transmission
D) Monitoring ocean temperature
Correct Answer: C) High-speed data and internet transmission
Q2. Which of the following Indian cities is a major landing point for undersea cables?
A) Bengaluru
B) Kochi
C) Pune
D) Ahmedabad
Correct Answer: B) Kochi
(Also Mumbai and Chennai are major hubs)
Mains:
1. India’s subsea cable network is critical to its digital future but faces several structural and regulatory bottlenecks. Discuss.
2. Evaluate the strategic importance of undersea cable infrastructure in ensuring digital sovereignty and economic resilience.
3. Exercise INDRA 2025: Strengthening India-Russia Defence Ties – Defence and Security
Why in News?
The 14th edition of the INDRA exercise—a bilateral military exercise between India and Russia—was conducted from 28 March to 2 April 2025, involving the Indian Navy and Russian Navy. It included both harbour and sea phases in and around Chennai and the Bay of Bengal.
What is Exercise INDRA?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | INDRA (India–Russia) |
| Launched | 2003 |
| Type | Initially single-service; now a tri-service exercise (Army, Navy, Air Force) |
| Frequency | Biennial (every two years) |
| Objective | Strengthen interoperability, enhance counter-terrorism and maritime cooperation, and exchange operational best practices |
Evolution of INDRA
| Year | Edition | Venue | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 1st | Vladivostok, Russia | Naval exercise only |
| 2021 | 12th | Volgograd, Russia | Land forces, anti-terror ops |
| 2023 | 13th | Bay of Bengal, India | Naval focus – anti-submarine warfare, air defence |
| 2025 | 14th | Chennai & Bay of Bengal | Combined harbour & sea phase, naval interoperability |
INDRA 2025: Key Highlights
Two-Phase Format:
- Harbour Phase (Chennai): Planning, professional exchanges, sports, and cultural interactions
- Sea Phase (Bay of Bengal): Practical operations like:
- Surface warfare drills
- Anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare
- Search and rescue
- Boarding and inspection procedures
Vessels Participated:
- Indian Navy: INS Chennai (Destroyer), INS Shakti (Fleet tanker)
- Russian Navy: Admiral Tributs (Destroyer), support ships
Strategic Importance of Exercise INDRA
1. Enhances Maritime Security
- Promotes cooperation in areas like anti-piracy, sea lane protection, and freedom of navigation
2. Deepens India–Russia Defence Ties
- Amidst shifting global alignments, such exercises keep bilateral ties robust, especially in defence
3. Operational Readiness & Interoperability
- Familiarizes forces with each other’s operational doctrines, communication protocols, and tactical manoeuvres
4. Geopolitical Significance
- Sends a message of continued engagement, even as India diversifies its defence partnerships (QUAD, IAF exercises with US/France)
Broader Context: India’s Military Exercises
| Exercise | Partner | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| INDRA | Russia | Tri-service cooperation |
| Malabar | US, Japan, Australia | Naval – Indo-Pacific security |
| Yudh Abhyas | USA | Army – counterinsurgency |
| Garuda | France | Air Force |
| Hand-in-Hand | China | Army – joint tactical ops |
Conclusion
Exercise INDRA 2025 reflects the long-standing defence partnership between India and Russia, particularly in maritime security. In an era of multipolar diplomacy and growing maritime challenges, bilateral drills like INDRA contribute to regional stability, operational synergy, and strategic depth in defence diplomacy.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. Exercise INDRA is a bilateral military exercise conducted between:
A) India and USA
B) India and Japan
C) India and Russia
D) India and Australia
Correct Answer: C) India and Russia
Q2. In Exercise INDRA 2025, the Harbour and Sea phases were conducted at:
A) Mumbai and Arabian Sea
B) Chennai and Bay of Bengal
C) Kochi and Laccadive Sea
D) Visakhapatnam and Andaman Sea
Correct Answer: B) Chennai and Bay of Bengal
Mains:
1. “India’s defence diplomacy is increasingly shaped by bilateral and multilateral military exercises.” Examine the role of Exercise INDRA in this context.
2. Discuss the strategic importance of maritime exercises like INDRA in securing India’s interests in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
4. Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH – Indian Society
Why in News?
The Ministry of AYUSH has stepped up efforts to globalize traditional Indian health systems—such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy—through the Central Sector Scheme for International Cooperation (IC). The scheme aims to promote international collaborations, support market development, and encourage global education and research in AYUSH systems.
About the Scheme
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Launched by | Ministry of AYUSH |
| Type | Central Sector Scheme (100% funded by the Central Government) |
| Aim | Promote Indian traditional medicine and wellness systems globally |
| Mode of Implementation | Open advertisement → Proposal submission → Committee evaluation → Financial assistance granted |
Key Components of the Scheme
1. International Exchange of Experts & Officers
- Supports deputation of AYUSH experts to attend global seminars, training programs, and technical discussions.
2. Incentives for Drug Manufacturers
- Offers financial incentives to AYUSH manufacturers for:
- International product registration
- Compliance with foreign regulatory frameworks
3. Market Development Assistance
- Funds participation in international exhibitions, trade fairs, and market surveys
- Objective: Position Indian AYUSH products and services in global markets
4. Young Postgraduates Abroad
- AYUSH postgraduates are deployed through NGOs to promote awareness and usage abroad
5. Translation and Publication
- Translation of AYUSH literature, classical texts, and pharmacopoeias into major foreign languages
6. AYUSH Cells / Health Centers Abroad
- Establishment of AYUSH Information Cells and health centers in collaboration with Indian Missions in other countries
7. International Fellowship Programme
- Scholarships to foreign nationals to pursue AYUSH studies in India (e.g., BAMS, MD-Ayurveda, Diploma in Yoga)
AYUSH as a Pillar of India’s Soft Power
1. International Day of Yoga (IDY)
- Proposed by India and adopted by the UN in 2014
- Celebrated annually on June 21st in over 150 countries
- Key pillar of India’s public diplomacy and wellness leadership
2. Yoga in National Curriculum
- Yoga integrated into the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) from Class I to X
- Aims to build awareness from a young age and link education with wellness
3. Yoga Certification Board (YCB)
- Under the Ministry of AYUSH, it:
- Certifies Yoga professionals
- Accredits institutions
- Ensures standardization of training across India and abroad
International Engagements
- MoUs signed with more than 30 countries for the promotion of AYUSH
- Collaborations with WHO, Universities, Health Ministries, and AYUSH Chairs in foreign universities
- India has contributed to the WHO’s Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM), launched in Jamnagar, Gujarat
Significance
| Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Healthcare Diplomacy | Enhances India’s soft power through wellness and traditional medicine |
| Economic Potential | Boosts exports of AYUSH products and services |
| Education & Research | Promotes India as a global hub for AYUSH education |
| Health & Wellbeing | Offers affordable, holistic health alternatives globally |
Challenges & Way Forward
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Barriers Abroad | Assist manufacturers with scientific validation & documentation |
| Skepticism about efficacy | Invest in clinical research and evidence-based medicine |
| Standardization issues | Strengthen Quality Control, ISO certifications, and GMP compliance |
| Awareness gap | Continue global campaigns, fellowships, and translations |
Conclusion
The Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH is a vital step in positioning India as a global wellness leader. It not only supports economic and educational diplomacy, but also reflects India’s civilizational strength in holistic healthcare. As demand for natural and preventive health systems grows globally, AYUSH can become India’s signature export in the 21st century—if backed by research, regulation, and responsive outreach.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. The Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation under the Ministry of AYUSH includes which of the following components?
- AYUSH fellowships for foreign nationals
- Establishing AYUSH cells in foreign countries
- Yoga integration in Indian school curriculum
- Incentives for AYUSH product registration abroad
Options:
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1, 2 and 4 only
C) 1, 3 and 4 only
D) All of the above
Correct Answer: B) 1, 2 and 4 only
(Yoga in school curriculum is under Education Ministry, not directly a component of the scheme)
Q2. The Yoga Certification Board (YCB) is responsible for:
A) Conducting yoga therapy at government hospitals
B) Certifying yoga professionals and accrediting yoga institutions
C) Issuing health guidelines for AYUSH-based treatment
D) Administering traditional medicine courses across India
Correct Answer: B) Certifying yoga professionals and accrediting yoga institutions
Mains:
1. “India’s traditional health systems are emerging as a tool of global diplomacy and wellness economy.” Discuss the role of AYUSH and related schemes in this context.
2. Evaluate the significance of the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH in enhancing India’s soft power.
5. Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary: A Biodiversity Haven in Karnataka – Environment and Ecology
Why in News?
The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, spread across Karnataka’s Chamarajanagar and Ramanagara districts, remains a critical protected area in southern India due to its rich biodiversity, presence of the Cauvery River, and unique aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. It is also a hotspot for tourism and cultural heritage.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chamarajanagar & Ramanagara districts, Karnataka |
| Year Established | 1987 |
| Total Area | 1,027.535 sq. km |
| Type of Forest | South Indian dry deciduous forest |
| River | Traversed by the Cauvery River |
Ecological Significance
1. Forest Types
- Dry deciduous forests dominate the central and eastern parts
- Characterized by teak, terminalia, sandalwood, and other native flora
2. Riverine Ecosystem
- The Cauvery River acts as a lifeline, supporting both terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity
- One of the few habitats where endangered fish species like Mahseer are found
Wildlife Diversity
Mammals
- Elephants
- Leopards, dholes (wild dogs)
- Spotted deer, barking deer, four-horned antelope
- Chevrotains (mouse deer)
- Bonnet macaques, common langurs
- Malabar giant squirrel
- Smooth-coated otters, honey badgers
- Grizzled giant squirrel – a threatened species
Reptiles
- Mugger crocodile
- Indian mud turtle
- Several non-venomous and venomous snake species
Aquatic Life
- Notable for the Mahseer fish, a prized species in conservation and sport fishing
- The river’s clean flow and natural pools offer ideal spawning grounds
Cultural and Tourist Attractions
| Site | Significance |
|---|---|
| Hogenakkal Falls | “Smoking Rock” – Famous scenic waterfall on the Cauvery |
| Mekedatu | “Goat’s Leap” – Narrow gorge where Cauvery flows turbulently |
| Sangam | Confluence of Cauvery and Arkavathi rivers |
| Muthathi | Village with Anjaneya (Hanuman) temple, sacred for locals |
These spots make the sanctuary a blend of ecology and culture, drawing both pilgrims and eco-tourists.
Protection & Management
- Managed under the Karnataka Forest Department
- Efforts underway to curb:
- Poaching of elephants and leopards
- Illegal fishing, especially targeting Mahseer
- Human-wildlife conflict in fringe villages
Conservation Significance
| Importance | Details |
|---|---|
| Species Conservation | Home to threatened mammals and aquatic life |
| River Ecosystem | Sustains biodiversity and supports livelihoods |
| Habitat Connectivity | Forms part of the Western Ghats–Eastern Ghats corridor, aiding wildlife migration |
| Eco-Tourism Potential | Encourages sustainable tourism, boosting local income and conservation awareness |
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which of the following Indian states?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) Kerala
C) Karnataka
D) Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: C) Karnataka
Q2. Which of the following species is not commonly found in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary?
A) Grizzled Giant Squirrel
B) Mahseer Fish
C) Snow Leopard
D) Mugger Crocodile
Correct Answer: C) Snow Leopard
(Snow leopards are found in high-altitude Himalayan regions, not in southern India.)
Q3. Which river flows through the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary?
A) Tungabhadra
B) Narmada
C) Cauvery
D) Krishna
Correct Answer: C) Cauvery
Mains:
Q. Discuss the ecological and socio-cultural importance of the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary. How can ecotourism be balanced with conservation in such protected areas?
6. Hansa-3 Trainer Aircraft: India’s Indigenous Aviation Milestone – Defence and Security
Why in News?
The Hansa-3—India’s first indigenously developed trainer aircraft—has recently received regulatory approval for training aircrew for pilot licensing, and will now be manufactured in India by private sector players, boosting Make in India in civil aviation.
What is Hansa-3?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | CSIR–National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), Bengaluru |
| Under | Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) |
| Purpose | Designed for pilot training, especially for Commercial Pilot Licensing (CPL) |
| First Flight | 2000; now upgraded with new features and digital controls |
| Manufacturing | To be outsourced to the private sector for scalability and modernization |
Key Features of Hansa-3
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating | 2-seater, side-by-side configuration |
| Aircraft Type | Low-wing monoplane – ideal for visibility and training |
| Engine | Rotax 912 iSc – Digital Control Engine with Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Airframe | Lightweight composite material made with JIPREG (Just-In-Time Prepreg) technology |
| Cockpit | Glass cockpit with digital instrumentation |
| Canopy | Bubble canopy for panoramic visibility, crucial for trainee pilots |
| Flaps | Electrically operated flaps for smoother take-off/landing |
| Fuel System | Optimized for high fuel efficiency, reduces operational cost |
Significance
| Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| 🇮🇳 Atmanirbhar Bharat | Boosts indigenous capability in civil aviation and aerospace design |
| Pilot Training | Makes pilot training more affordable for flying schools across India |
| Export Potential | Opens opportunities for exports to developing countries |
| R&D Capability | Showcases CSIR-NAL’s innovation in composite materials and avionics |
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
Q1. The Hansa-3 trainer aircraft was developed by which Indian organization?
A) DRDO
B) HAL
C) CSIR–National Aerospace Laboratories
D) ISRO
Correct Answer: C) CSIR–National Aerospace Laboratories
Q2. Which of the following are features of the Hansa-3 trainer aircraft?
- Bubble canopy
- Electrically operated flaps
- Turbojet engine
- Glass cockpit
Options:
A) 1, 2 and 4 only
B) 1, 3 and 4 only
C) 2, 3 and 4 only
D) All of the above
Correct Answer: A) 1, 2 and 4 only
(It uses a Rotax piston engine, not a turbojet.)
Mains:
Q. Discuss the significance of indigenously developed aircraft like the Hansa-3 in strengthening India’s aviation ecosystem and reducing reliance on foreign technology.