1. Ambedkar Jayanti Reflection – Judicial Overreach and the Evolving Indian Constitutional Order – Polity
Why in News?
- On Ambedkar Jayanti, renewed debate has emerged over the Supreme Court’s evolving role in governance, especially after its recent judgment in State of Tamil Nadu vs Governor of Tamil Nadu.
- Concerns are growing that the judiciary is overstepping its constitutional role, thereby reshaping the balance envisaged by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Indian Constitution.
Dr. Ambedkar’s Vision of Constitutional Governance
| Constitutional Ideal | Ambedkar’s Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Limited Government | Clear division of powers and functions among organs of state |
| Checks and Balances | No organ (Judiciary, Executive, Legislature) should override the others |
| Democratic Accountability | Emphasized popular will via Parliament within constitutional boundaries |
| Judicial Role | As guardian of fundamental rights and interpreter of law, not its maker |
“The Constitution is a legal document… but it must be worked in a democratic spirit.” — Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Recent Judicial Developments and Issues Raised
The Supreme Court’s Ruling in Tamil Nadu Governor Case
- Invoked Article 142: Set binding timelines for Governors to assent to state Bills.
- Asserted that the President “ought to” consult the Court under Article 143 if a Bill is reserved on constitutional grounds.
- Critics argue this bypasses Article 74, where the President acts only on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
Major Constitutional Concerns
| Issue | Concern Raised |
|---|---|
| Violation of Separation of Powers | Judiciary stepping into the domain of executive and legislative functions |
| Federalism Compromised | States affected without being heard in proceedings |
| Article 145(3) Overlooked | Significant constitutional matter ruled by two-judge bench, not a Constitution Bench |
| Procedural Overreach | Sets precedent for judicial rewriting of constitutional procedures |
Judicial Activism vs Judicial Overreach
| Judicial Activism | Judicial Overreach |
|---|---|
| Interprets laws in public interest | Creates policies or timelines beyond its constitutional mandate |
| Upholds rights when legislature fails | Supersedes roles of elected executive or Parliament |
| Supported by constitutional silence | Operates despite explicit constitutional instructions |
Relevance & Implications
- GS Paper II – Constitution and Governance:
- Deeply relevant for questions on constitutional morality, judicial review, federalism, and institutional roles.
- Ambedkar’s vision can be cited in essays and Mains answers on governance ethics and state-centre relations.
- For Himachal Pradesh:
- As a federal state, HP must be vigilant about central judicial or executive encroachments on state autonomy.
- Useful in understanding how governor roles and legislative procedures impact policymaking in the state.
Summary
Recent judicial rulings, particularly in the Tamil Nadu Governor case, have reignited concerns about the Supreme Court’s expanding role beyond its constitutional mandate. While the judiciary plays a vital role in protecting rights, critics argue its use of Article 142 and reinterpretation of constitutional procedures may undermine federalism and the separation of powers envisioned by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The debate highlights the need to preserve democratic accountability and institutional balance in India’s evolving constitutional order.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Article 142 of the Constitution empowers the Supreme Court to:
a) Review constitutional amendments
b) Punish for contempt of court
c) Pass orders for doing complete justice
d) Appoint judges to the High Court
Answer: c) Pass orders for doing complete justice
2. Which Article mandates that the President acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers?
a) Article 53
b) Article 143
c) Article 74
d) Article 75
Answer: c) Article 74
Mains :
- “The Indian judiciary must ensure constitutional balance while safeguarding rights.” In light of recent judicial interventions, critically examine the role of the judiciary in maintaining constitutional order.
(GS Paper II – Judiciary and Constitutional Framework) - “Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of the Constitution was rooted in institutional humility and accountability.” Discuss the relevance of this vision in the context of contemporary judicial activism and federal tensions.
(GS Paper II – Indian Constitution / Polity and Ethics)
2. Unnecessary Amendment: RTI Act vs DPDP Act, 2023 – Polity
Why in News?
- The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, particularly Section 44(3), is being criticized for undermining the Right to Information Act, 2005—a cornerstone of democratic accountability.
- Ambiguities around ‘personal information’ and removal of public interest safeguards may weaken citizen access to information concerning public officials and governance processes.
Core of the RTI Act – Section 8(1)(j)
| Provision | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Section 8(1)(j) | Denies access to personal information unless disclosure is in public interest |
| Public Interest Override | Allows disclosure even if it concerns personal info—if larger public interest is served |
| Examples of Permitted Disclosures | Salaries, asset declarations, caste certificates in fraud cases, qualifications of public servants |
The RTI law balances individual privacy with collective need for transparency, as upheld in the K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) judgment.
Concerns with DPDP Act, 2023 (Section 44(3))
| Concern | Impact on Transparency |
|---|---|
| No Public Interest Clause | Removes RTI’s provision that allowed disclosures in public interest |
| Broad ‘Personal Info’ Definition | Allows blanket denials of public-relevant info like property, caste, or degrees |
| Undermines Anti-Corruption Use | Hampers RTI’s use in exposing fraudulent certificates or fake degrees |
| Contradicts Puttaswamy Judgment | Ignores need to balance privacy and transparency |
Constitutional and Legal Dimensions
| Legal Principle | Position |
|---|---|
| Right to Privacy (Article 21) | Recognized in Puttaswamy judgment but not absolute |
| Right to Information | Emanates from freedom of speech under Article 19(1)(a) |
| Proportionality Principle | Any restriction on RTI must be necessary, minimal, and justified |
Examples of Potential RTI Denials Post-Amendment
- Fake educational degrees → May now be denied as “personal information”
- Caste certificates used for reserved jobs → Access could be blocked
- Public officials’ assets and financial disclosures → May be withheld
Way Forward
| Recommendation | Rationale |
|---|---|
| Restore Public Interest Test | Reintroduce the safeguard from Section 8(1)(j) to maintain RTI’s utility |
| Define ‘Personal Information’ Clearly | Prevent vague interpretations that could block accountability-related queries |
| Strengthen Information Commissions | Ensure autonomy and enforcement capacity to uphold citizens’ right to know |
Relevance & Implications
- GS Paper II – Transparency and Accountability:
- Case study in balancing fundamental rights: privacy vs information access.
- Relevant for discussing citizen empowerment, corruption control, and good governance.
- For Himachal Pradesh:
- Citizens in HP use RTI to access information on rural employment (MGNREGA), land rights, forest clearances, and local public works.
- Any dilution affects grassroots transparency and local governance credibility.
Summary
Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act, 2023 is facing criticism for diluting the Right to Information Act by removing the crucial public interest override for disclosing personal data. This change could block access to critical information about public officials, such as educational qualifications or caste certificates used for job claims. It risks undermining transparency, contradicts the proportionality principle from the Puttaswamy judgment, and weakens RTI’s role in promoting accountability and anti-corruption efforts.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act allows personal information to be disclosed when:
a) It is less than 5 years old
b) It serves a larger public interest
c) It is requested by media only
d) It relates to political leaders
Answer: b) It serves a larger public interest
2. The case K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India is primarily associated with:
a) Electoral reforms
b) Right to education
c) Right to privacy
d) Anti-defection law
Answer: c) Right to privacy
Mains :
- “Right to Information and Right to Privacy are both fundamental but often conflicting rights.” Examine the recent amendments under the DPDP Act, 2023 in light of this constitutional tension.
(GS Paper II – Governance and Fundamental Rights) - “The weakening of RTI undermines democratic accountability.” Critically analyze the implications of restricting access to public information under the guise of personal privacy.
(GS Paper II – Transparency in Governance)
3. Telangana Leads in SC Sub-Categorisation After Supreme Court Nod – Polity
Why in News?
- Telangana becomes the first Indian state to implement sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes (SCs) through the Telangana Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Act, 2025.
- The move follows a landmark Supreme Court judgment (August 2024) that upheld states’ authority to sub-classify SC and ST groups for more equitable distribution of reservation benefits.
What is SC Sub-Categorisation?
| Concept | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sub-Categorisation | Division of Scheduled Castes into smaller sub-groups for internal reservation allocation |
| Objective | Ensure equitable access to jobs and education among all SC sub-castes |
| Nickname | Also referred to as “reservation within reservation” |
Legal Basis: Supreme Court Judgment (Aug 2024)
| Ruling Highlights | Constitutional Aspects |
|---|---|
| States can sub-classify SC/STs | Does not violate Article 14 (equality) or Article 341 |
| Recognition of internal inequalities | Supports targeted affirmative action |
| Validates ‘reservation within reservation’ | Allows focused benefit to most marginalized sub-groups |
Telangana SC Rationalisation Act, 2025 – Key Provisions
| Group | Sub-Castes Included | Reservation % | Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group I | 15 sub-castes | 1% | Most socially and educationally backward |
| Group II | 18 sub-castes | 9% | Marginal beneficiaries of past reservation |
| Group III | 26 sub-castes | Remaining | Have fared better in earlier system |
- Total SC reservation cap remains at 15%, ensuring constitutional compliance.
- Applies to recruitments, education, and public employment.
Socio-Political Context
- The policy addresses long-standing demands by the Madiga community, alleging that dominant castes like the Malas monopolized reservation benefits.
- Aims to balance intra-caste disparities, without affecting the overall SC reservation quota.
- Reassessment planned post 2026 Census, using updated socio-economic data.
Relevance & Implications
- GS Paper II – Social Justice and Constitutional Governance:
- Illustrates the evolution of reservation policy, rooted in constitutional morality and social equity.
- Useful for discussing Article 14, Articles 15(4) & 16(4) (affirmative action), and federal autonomy in policymaking.
- For Himachal Pradesh:
- HP also has a diverse SC population (e.g., Koli, Chamar, Balmiki communities).
- The Telangana model may influence discussions on more targeted welfare schemes within SC/ST categories in HP.
Summary
Telangana has become the first Indian state to implement Scheduled Caste sub-categorisation through a 2025 law, following a Supreme Court ruling affirming states’ power to do so. The policy divides SCs into three groups for more equitable reservation benefits, addressing internal disparities where dominant sub-castes previously gained disproportionate advantages. The move, while maintaining the 15% SC quota, reflects a significant evolution in affirmative action and promotes targeted social justice without breaching constitutional equality.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. What was upheld by the Supreme Court in its 2024 judgment regarding SC reservations?
a) Sub-categorisation violates Article 341
b) States can sub-classify SCs for equitable reservation
c) SC reservations must be uniform nationwide
d) Only Parliament can alter SC reservation distribution
Answer: b) States can sub-classify SCs for equitable reservation
2. The Telangana SC Rationalisation Act, 2025, keeps the total SC reservation at:
a) 25%
b) 15%
c) 20%
d) 12%
Answer: b) 15%
Mains :
- “Reservation within reservation can help address inequalities within marginalized groups.” Critically examine this approach with reference to the Telangana SC sub-categorisation policy.
(GS Paper II – Social Justice / Constitutional Governance) - “Sub-categorisation of SCs strengthens rather than weakens the principle of equality.” In light of recent judicial developments, discuss the scope and implications of sub-classification in India’s reservation system.
(GS Paper II – Indian Constitution / Affirmative Action)
4. How Governmentality Exacerbates the Problem of Farmers’ Stubble Burning – Environment
Why in News?
- A study by Sujit Raghunathrao Jagadale and Javed M. Shaikh (IIM Amritsar) explores how governmental structures and market incentives, such as the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system, unintentionally promote stubble burning.
- Despite legal bans, stubble burning continues, driven by economic pressures, monocropping incentives, and lack of viable alternatives.
What is Stubble Burning?
| Concept | Description |
|---|---|
| Stubble Burning | The practice of burning crop residues, especially rice straw, to quickly clear land for the next sowing season (mainly wheat) |
| Timeframe | Predominantly during October–November after paddy harvesting |
| Location Focus | Punjab, Haryana, parts of western Uttar Pradesh |
How Government Policies Worsen the Problem
Minimum Support Price (MSP) System
- Incentivizes Monocropping: MSP favors rice and wheat, discouraging diversification.
- Rice-Wheat Cycle: This cycle leaves little time for manual residue removal, making burning the easiest solution.
- Low Income & Debt: Even with MSP, profit margins are low. Small/marginal farmers resort to burning to save time and cost.
Limited Alternatives
- Lack of access to Happy Seeders, Super Straw Management Systems, bio-decomposers.
- Farmers report high machinery costs, poor repair infrastructure, and insufficient awareness.
Weak Enforcement & Deterrence
- Penalties exist (e.g., ₹2,500 fines in Punjab), but implementation is inconsistent.
- Farmers resist enforcement due to the perception of lack of support or alternatives.
Government Interventions So Far
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization | Equipment distribution: Happy Seeder, Super Straw Management Systems |
| Awareness Campaigns | Conducted by Ministry of Agriculture and state-level campaigns |
| Legal Measures | Penalties for stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, etc. |
Way Forward: From Policy Reform to Practical Support
| Recommendation | Justification |
|---|---|
| Promote Crop Diversification | Provide MSP for millets, pulses, oilseeds to reduce paddy reliance |
| Localized Support Systems | Set up Custom Hiring Centres for machine rental |
| Strengthen Rural Cooperatives | Enable community sharing of bio-decomposers, tractors, seeders |
| Financial Incentives | Direct benefit transfers for eco-friendly stubble management |
| State-wise Planning | Tailor solutions to agro-climatic zones and farmer economic profiles |
Environmental Impact of Stubble Burning
| Domain | Effect |
|---|---|
| Air Quality | Major contributor to Delhi’s winter smog (PM2.5, PM10 levels spike) |
| Climate Change | CO₂, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions contribute to global warming |
| Soil Health | Repeated burning leads to loss of organic matter and soil microbes |
| Human Health | Linked to asthma, bronchitis, and cardiovascular issues, especially in NCR |
Relevance & Implications
- GS Paper III – Environment and Agriculture Interface:
- Relevant for topics on air pollution, sustainable agriculture, and policy implementation gaps.
- Ties into Delhi’s pollution crisis, frequently discussed in Prelims and Essay-type Mains questions.
- For Himachal Pradesh:
- While stubble burning is less widespread, similar issues arise from slash-and-burn (jhum-like) practices in tribal belts and lowland farming areas.
- Highlights need for eco-friendly agri-waste management and off-season crop support in HP’s mid-hills and valleys.
Summary
Stubble burning in North India persists due to institutional incentives like the MSP system, which encourages a rice-wheat monocropping cycle with little time for residue management. Limited access to alternatives like Happy Seeders and weak enforcement mechanisms further entrench this practice. While legal bans exist, the issue is rooted in systemic economic and policy flaws. Solutions lie in crop diversification, localized machinery access, financial support, and tailored state interventions for sustainable agricultural practices.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which of the following policies contributes most directly to monocropping patterns in Punjab and Haryana?
a) PM-KUSUM
b) Sub-Mission on Seeds and Planting Material
c) Minimum Support Price (MSP)
d) Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture
Answer: c) Minimum Support Price (MSP)
2. Which machine is widely promoted as an alternative to stubble burning?
a) Rotavator
b) Happy Seeder
c) Power Reaper
d) Combine Harvester
Answer: b) Happy Seeder
Mains :
- “The problem of stubble burning in North India is not just environmental, but institutional and economic.” Critically analyze how government policies and market structures contribute to this issue.
(GS Paper III – Agriculture & Environment) - “Punitive measures alone cannot solve the crisis of stubble burning.” Discuss holistic strategies involving policy reform, technology, and grassroots support to address this challenge.
(GS Paper III – Pollution Control / Sustainable Farming Practices)
5. RBI Proposes New Gold Loan Rules – Economy
Why in News?
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed a new regulatory framework for gold loans, triggered by a surge in loan disbursements, rising gold prices, and a sharp increase in Non-Performing Assets (NPAs).
- The total gold loan outstanding and NPAs have increased significantly for both commercial banks and NBFCs, prompting the RBI to tighten compliance norms and curb risky lending practices.
Key Data Points (as of December 2024)
| Indicator | Value and Growth |
|---|---|
| Gold Loan NPAs (Banks) | ₹2,040 crore (up from ₹1,404 crore in Dec 2023) – 28.58% increase |
| Gold Loan NPAs (NBFCs) | ₹3,784 crore (up from ₹2,904 crore) – substantial rise |
| Gold Loan Outstanding | ₹11.11 lakh crore – 27.26% growth year-on-year |
Why Are NPAs Rising in Gold Loans?
- Rising Gold Prices: Encouraged higher disbursal of loans due to increased collateral value.
- Overvaluation & Inadequate Appraisal: Lack of rigorous valuation and due diligence led to riskier lending.
- Third-Party Malpractices: Use of unaudited or unregulated agents in sourcing and assessing gold collateral.
- Evergreening of Loans: Borrowers often repledge gold without repaying the full loan amount, masking true asset quality.
RBI’s Proposed Measures
| Category | Regulatory Intervention |
|---|---|
| Loan Repayment | No repledging allowed unless full repayment of principal and interest is made |
| Loan Tenure Cap | Bullet repayment loans (full payment at end) capped at 12 months |
| Collateral Management | Ensure ownership verification, regulated storage and auction processes |
| Monitoring & Valuation | Mandatory review of gold appraisal standards, especially by NBFCs and agents |
| Policy Revisions | All lenders must rectify internal gold loan policies and practices |
Economic and Financial Implications
| Sector Affected | Impact |
|---|---|
| Banking Sector | Improved transparency and reduction in credit risk |
| NBFCs | Stricter scrutiny on aggressive lending models using gold |
| Borrowers | Limits on rollover and shorter tenures may impact repayment cycles |
| Financial Stability | Better regulation supports monetary and asset quality integrity |
Relevance & Implications
- GS Paper III – Economy & Financial Regulation:
- Useful for questions on banking sector health, RBI’s regulatory role, and NPAs.
- Illustrates sector-specific policy response to asset bubbles and financial risk.
- For Himachal Pradesh:
- In rural and semi-urban areas, gold loans are widely used by small borrowers, especially women and farmers.
- Understanding the RBI’s gold loan policy is relevant for financial literacy programs, banking outreach, and debt management in hilly regions.
Summary
In response to rising gold loan NPAs and aggressive lending practices, the RBI has proposed stricter rules including a 12-month cap on bullet repayment loans, prohibition on repledging without full repayment, and tighter collateral appraisal norms. The surge in gold prices has led to increased lending and defaults, especially among NBFCs. The new framework aims to enhance transparency, reduce credit risk, and safeguard financial stability, with implications for rural borrowers relying on gold loans for quick liquidity.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which of the following is a reason for the recent rise in NPAs in the gold loan sector?
a) Decrease in gold prices
b) Strict enforcement of loan tenure rules
c) Overvaluation and inadequate appraisal of gold collateral
d) Complete ban on gold lending
Answer: c) Overvaluation and inadequate appraisal of gold collateral
2. According to RBI’s new proposal, what is the maximum permitted tenure for bullet repayment gold loans?
a) 6 months
b) 18 months
c) 24 months
d) 12 months
Answer: d) 12 months
Mains :
- “Gold loans offer liquidity but pose regulatory and credit risks.” Evaluate the RBI’s new gold loan framework in light of rising NPAs and the need for financial discipline.
(GS Paper III – Indian Economy / Financial Sector Reforms) - “Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) need tighter regulation in the gold loan sector.” Critically analyze the role of NBFCs in gold lending and the RBI’s recent interventions.
(GS Paper III – Banking and Financial Institutions)
6. DRDO Successfully Tests Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) – Defence & Security
Why in News?
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the Mk-I I(A) Laser Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system, codenamed Sahastra Shakti.
- This milestone places India among a select group of nations developing laser-based non-kinetic defence systems, enhancing capabilities against modern aerial threats like drones and missiles.
What is the Mk-I I(A) Laser-DEW System?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Codename | Sahastra Shakti |
| Developer | DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) |
| Collaborators | Other DRDO labs, academic institutions, and Indian defence industries |
| Technology Type | 30-kilowatt laser-based Directed Energy Weapon |
| Operational Range | Up to 5 km |
| Target Capabilities | Neutralizes drones, missiles, and RPAs at the speed of light |
| Target Detection | Integrated Radar + Electro-Optic (EO) tracking systems |
Working Mechanism & Advantages
| Mechanism | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Laser neutralization | Causes structural failure or system disruption of target instantly |
| Non-kinetic attack | No physical projectile → minimal collateral damage |
| Speed & Precision | Engages threats at the speed of light with pinpoint accuracy |
| Cost Efficiency | Firing energy cost as low as a couple of liters of petrol |
| Sustainability | No ammunition logistics → eco-friendly and logistically simple |
Strategic Importance for India
- Addresses Asymmetric Warfare:
- Particularly effective against drone swarms, low-flying missiles, and urban warfare threats.
- Boosts Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence:
- 100% indigenous system = strategic autonomy and export potential.
- Emerging Non-Kinetic Threats:
- Future wars likely to involve cyber, space, and DEWs – India now has a tactical edge.
- Cost-Effective Defence Layer:
- Ideal for perimeter defence of key assets (airbases, naval docks, nuclear installations).
Relevance & Implications
- GS Paper III – Defence Technology and Internal Security:
- Important case study on emerging defence technologies, low-cost innovations, and indigenization in strategic sectors.
- For Himachal Pradesh:
- Though HP is not a frontline defence manufacturing hub, its youth participation in defence services is significant.
- Understanding modern warfare systems is relevant for ex-servicemen-led MSMEs, defence policy awareness, and science & tech optional subjects.
Summary
DRDO’s successful test of the Mk-I I(A) Laser-DEW system, Sahastra Shakti, marks a major milestone in India’s defence innovation. This 30-kilowatt, laser-based, non-kinetic weapon neutralizes aerial threats like drones and missiles at the speed of light, offering high precision with minimal collateral damage. Fully indigenous, it enhances India’s asymmetric warfare capability and supports Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence. The system is cost-effective, sustainable, and strategically vital for protecting critical infrastructure.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. The Mk-I I(A) Laser-DEW system, recently tested by DRDO, is primarily intended to:
a) Intercept ballistic missiles in outer space
b) Detect submarine movements in coastal waters
c) Neutralize aerial threats like drones and missiles
d) Replace conventional gunpowder in artillery shells
Answer: c) Neutralize aerial threats like drones and missiles
2. With reference to Indian defence, which one of the following statements is NOT correct?
a) With the induction of Prithvi-II, the IAF is the only air force in the world with surface-to-surface ballistic missiles under its command.
b) Sukhoi-30 MKI jet fighters can launch air-to-air and air-to-surface precision missiles.
c) Trishul is a supersonic surface-to-air missile with a range of 30 km.
d) The indigenously built INS Prabal can launch surface-to-surface missiles.
Answer: a) is not correct – IAF does not operate Prithvi-II; it is under the control of Strategic Forces Command (SFC), not the Air Force.
Mains :
- “Directed Energy Weapons represent the future of tactical battlefield superiority.” Discuss India’s recent achievements in this domain and their strategic implications.
(GS Paper III – Security and Defence Technology) - “As warfare becomes smarter, so must our defence systems.” Examine the relevance of non-kinetic and cost-effective weaponry in India’s national security framework.
(GS Paper III – Indigenization of Defence Technology)