1. Supreme Court Limits Arrest Powers of Officers Under CGST and Customs Acts – Polity
Why in News?
In Radhika Agarwal v. Union of India, the Supreme Court (SC) ruled that officials exercising arrest, search, and seizure powers under the Customs Act, 1962, and the CGST Act, 2017, must comply with the procedural safeguards of the CrPC, 1973.
This decision aims to prevent misuse of arrest powers by tax enforcement agencies.
The ruling aligns with the Court’s broader efforts to curb arbitrary use of prosecutorial authority and protect individual rights.
Key Highlights of the SC Judgment
Aspect
Details
Customs & CGST Officials’ Role
Though not police officers, they have similar investigative powers.
CrPC Applicability
Provisions of CrPC apply unless the special act explicitly overrides them.
Arrest Conditions
Officers must present the arrested person before a magistrate within 24 hours.
Family & Legal Representation
Arrestees have the right to inform family & have a lawyer present.
Evidentiary Standard
Arrests must be based on material evidence, not just suspicion.
Extension of Safeguards: The SC extended protections from Arvind Kejriwal v. Directorate of Enforcement (2025) to Customs & CGST officials, tightening arrest procedures.
Cognizable vs. Non-Cognizable Offences Under the Customs Act
Offence Type
Definition
Cognizable Offences
Severe offences (e.g., smuggling prohibited goods), allowing officers to arrest without a warrant.
Non-Cognizable Offences
Less severe; arrests require magistrate approval.
Example:Smuggling of banned drugs = Cognizable, Evasion of customs duty = Non-Cognizable.
Significance of the Judgment
Prevents Arbitrary Arrests – Ensures Customs & CGST officials do not misuse arrest powers.
Strengthens Constitutional Safeguards – Protects Fundamental Rights under Articles 21 & 22.
Enhances Legal Clarity – Confirms that CrPC rules apply unless a special law overrides them.
Balances Enforcement & Rights – Ensures fair tax enforcement while preventing misuse of power.
Concerns & Challenges
Issue
Concern
Tax Evasion & Enforcement
May delay action against tax fraud & smuggling.
Burden on Judiciary
Mandatory magistrate oversight may slow down legal processes.
Differing Interpretations
Potential ambiguity in how different courts apply the ruling.
Business Perspective: Ensures fair treatment, but government agencies fear difficulty in tackling economic offenses.
Way Forward: Strengthening Legal Clarity & Fair Tax Enforcement
Detailed Guidelines for Arrests – Standardizing CrPC-based protocols for tax officers.
Judicial Oversight for Cognizable Cases – Ensuring only serious cases warrant immediate arrest.
Use of Technology for Compliance – Digital monitoring to reduce reliance on physical arrests.
Balancing Enforcement & Rights – Training officers to ensure due process & legal compliance.
Relevance for Exam
Indian Polity & Governance
Judicial limitations on executive powers.
Fundamental Rights (Article 21 – Right to Life & Liberty, Article 22 – Protection Against Arbitrary Arrests).
Economy & Fiscal Policy
Role of tax enforcement agencies in preventing tax evasion.
Impact of judicial intervention on business & trade.
Ethics & Accountability
Balance between law enforcement & protection of civil liberties.
Judicial oversight as a check on arbitrary state actions.
Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)
Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:
Which act governs arrest powers related to the evasion of Goods and Services Tax (GST)? a) Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 b) Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017 c) Customs Act, 1962 d) Companies Act, 2013
As per the Supreme Court ruling in Radhika Agarwal v. Union of India, Customs and CGST officials must adhere to which legal framework while conducting arrests? a) Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973 b) Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 c) Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860 d) Information Technology Act, 2000
Which of the following statements is correct regarding cognizable offences under the Customs Act, 1962? a) Certain offences, like smuggling prohibited goods, are cognizable, allowing arrest without a warrant b) All offences under the Customs Act are non-cognizable c) Magistrate approval is required for every arrest d) Customs officers do not have the power to arrest
What is the primary objective of the Supreme Court’s ruling on arrest powers under the CGST and Customs Acts? a) To increase tax collection b) To prevent arbitrary arrests and uphold fundamental rights c) To eliminate indirect taxation d) To abolish customs duties
Which fundamental right is most closely associated with the Supreme Court’s ruling on arrest powers under the CGST and Customs Acts? a) Article 19 – Freedom of Speech b) Article 21 – Right to Life & Liberty c) Article 16 – Equality of Opportunity d) Article 32 – Right to Constitutional Remedies
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Explain the Supreme Court’s ruling in Radhika Agarwal v. Union of India regarding arrest powers under the CGST and Customs Acts. How does it strengthen legal safeguards for individuals?
Discuss the balance between law enforcement and civil liberties in light of the Supreme Court’s decision to limit arrest powers under the CGST and Customs Acts.
Analyze the impact of judicial oversight on tax enforcement. What challenges does it pose for economic offenses like smuggling and tax evasion?
How does the Supreme Court’s ruling on arrest powers under the CGST Act align with the principles of Article 21 and Article 22 of the Indian Constitution?
Should taxation laws in India be more aligned with the criminal justice system? Discuss the need for judicial reforms in economic offenses.
Final Takeaway
The Supreme Court has ruled that CGST & Customs officials must follow CrPC safeguards when arresting individuals.
Strengthens protection of fundamental rights (Articles 21 & 22), preventing arbitrary detentions.
Ensures fair tax enforcement but raises concerns about enforcement efficiency.
The ruling balances tax investigation powers with judicial oversight.
The Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project (PSP) has received final approval from the Karnataka government after clearance from the State Wildlife Board in January.
The project has triggered controversy due to its environmental impact, as it is close to the Sharavathi Lion-Tailed Macaque Sanctuary, a crucial biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats.
It aims to generate 2,000 MW of electricity using the pumped storage hydropower mechanism.
Key Features of the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project
Feature
Details
Location
Sharavathi River, Karnataka
Capacity
2,000 MW
Reservoirs Used
Talakalale (Upper) & Gerusoppa (Lower)
Technology
Pumped storage hydroelectricity (stores energy by moving water between reservoirs)
Infrastructure
Talakalale Dam (62.48m) & Gerusoppa Dam (64m)
Working Mechanism:
Water is pumped to the upper reservoir during off-peak hours.
During high demand, the stored water is released to generate electricity.
Acts as a battery for storing renewable energy (solar/wind power backup).
About the Sharavathi River
Feature
Details
State
Karnataka
Length
128 km
Basin Area
2,985 sq. km
Flow Direction
Westward, drains into the Arabian Sea at Honavar.
Notable Feature
Forms Jog Falls (253m), one of India’s highest waterfalls.
Geographical Importance: Located in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Environmental Concerns & Opposition
Concern
Impact
Deforestation & Habitat Loss
Project is near Lion-Tailed Macaque Sanctuary, threatening endangered species.
Groundwater Disruptions
Pumping alters natural river flow & aquifers.
Threat to Jog Falls
Water flow control could affect tourism & ecology.
Biodiversity Risk
Impact on flora & fauna of the Western Ghats.
Local & Environmentalist Protests: Highlight displacement risks & ecosystem damage.
Potential Benefits of the Project
Boosts Renewable Energy Storage – Complements solar & wind power.
Reduces Dependence on Thermal Power – Cuts coal-based power use.
Provides Grid Stability – Ensures stable power supply during peak demand.
Supports Karnataka’s Growing Energy Needs – Essential for Bengaluru’s industrial growth.
Government Justification: Part of India’s Net Zero 2070 strategy & National Hydropower Policy.
Way Forward: Balancing Energy & Environment
🔹 Alternative Locations – Explore less ecologically sensitive sites. 🔹 Reduced Forest Clearance – Modify design to minimize tree felling. 🔹 Comprehensive EIA – Conduct transparent environmental impact assessments. 🔹 Local Community Involvement – Ensure fair rehabilitation & compensation.
Relevance for Exam
Energy & Infrastructure Development
India’s hydropower strategy & renewable energy goals.
Role of pumped storage hydropower in India’s energy transition.
Environmental Conservation
Impact of large infrastructure projects on biodiversity.
Balancing energy needs with conservation in ecologically sensitive zones.
Governance & Public Policy
Forest conservation laws, EIA norms, and sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Community engagement in decision-making for mega projects.
Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)
Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:
Where is the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project located? a) Maharashtra b) Karnataka c) Tamil Nadu d) Kerala
Which two reservoirs are used in the Sharavathi PSP? a) Sardar Sarovar & Hirakud b) Talakalale & Gerusoppa c) Tehri & Bhakra d) Mullaperiyar & Idukki
What is the primary advantage of pumped storage hydropower? a) It generates power only during floods b) It stores energy for peak demand periods c) It requires no reservoirs d) It replaces nuclear energy
Which major waterfall is formed by the Sharavathi River? a) Dhuandhar Falls b) Jog Falls c) Athirappilly Falls d) Kempty Falls
Why are environmentalists opposing the Sharavathi PSP? a) It produces excessive carbon emissions b) It threatens the biodiversity of the Western Ghats c) It diverts water from the Ganga d) It reduces Karnataka’s hydropower potential
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Discuss the role of pumped storage hydropower in India’s renewable energy sector. How does the Sharavathi PSP fit into India’s energy strategy?
Evaluate the environmental and social challenges associated with the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project. Suggest alternative strategies for sustainable hydropower development.
What are the major environmental concerns associated with large hydropower projects in the Western Ghats? How can India achieve a balance between energy security and biodiversity conservation?
Analyze the significance of the Sharavathi River in Karnataka’s ecosystem and economy. How can sustainable water resource management be ensured in such ecologically sensitive areas?
Explain the functioning of pumped storage hydropower technology. What are its advantages and limitations in the context of India’s energy transition?
Final Takeaway
Sharavathi PSP is India’s largest pumped storage hydro project, aimed at energy security but facing strong environmental concerns.
Threats include habitat loss, impact on Jog Falls, and risks to the Lion-Tailed Macaque Sanctuary.
The project supports India’s renewable energy goals but must be balanced with ecological conservation.
Future hydropower projects must integrate sustainability principles to protect India’s natural heritage.
3. India’s Semiconductor Manufacturing – Science and Technology
Why in News?
India is set to launch its first domestically produced semiconductor chip in 2025 as part of its broader goal to reduce reliance on imports.
The Semicon India Programme (2021) aims to build a semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem.
Five semiconductor manufacturing and assembly plants are under construction, including:
Tata Semiconductor Assembly & Test Facility (Morigaon, Assam)
Enhances Strategic Security – Reduces reliance on China & Taiwan for critical technology.
Job Creation & Economic Growth – Can create millions of high-skilled jobs.
Supports Electronics & AI Revolution – Essential for 5G, IoT, EVs, and AI development.
Way Forward: Overcoming Challenges
Develop Domestic Fab Infrastructure – Encourage global firms to set up fabs in India.
Boost R&D in Core Chip Design – Increase funding for semiconductor innovation.
Invest in Semiconductor Talent Development – Create specialized courses & training programs.
Ensure Reliable Supply Chains – Reduce dependence on China & Taiwan.
Strengthen India’s Position in Global Semiconductor Trade – Through strategic partnerships & free trade agreements.
Relevance for Exam
Economy & Industrial Development
India’s semiconductor strategy & role in global supply chains.
“Make in India” & Atmanirbhar Bharat in electronics.
Science & Technology
Semiconductor fabrication process & chip design.
India’s role in AI, 5G, and IoT development.
International Relations
India’s trade ties with Taiwan, US, Japan, and China in semiconductors.
Governance & Policy Implementation
Challenges in implementing industrial incentive schemes (PLI, Semicon India).
Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)
Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:
Which of the following is NOT a major semiconductor supplier to India? a) China b) Taiwan c) Russia d) South Korea
What is the primary goal of India’s Semicon India Programme? a) Promote domestic semiconductor design & manufacturing b) Boost agricultural productivity c) Encourage textile exports d) Improve cybersecurity regulations
Which Indian state is home to the Tata Semiconductor Assembly & Test Facility? a) Gujarat b) Assam c) Maharashtra d) Karnataka
Which key raw material is essential for semiconductor fabrication? a) Wafers b) Lithium c) Rare earth magnets d) Graphene
Which government initiative provides financial support for semiconductor fabs in India? a) Startup India b) Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme c) Smart City Mission d) National AI Mission
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Discuss the significance of semiconductor manufacturing in India’s economic and technological growth. How does the Semicon India Programme aim to address this need?
Analyze India’s semiconductor import dependency. What policy measures are being implemented to reduce this reliance?
What are the major challenges in establishing a robust semiconductor industry in India? Suggest strategies to overcome them.
Semiconductors are the backbone of modern digital economies. Examine India’s potential to become a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing.
How do semiconductor supply chains impact India’s strategic security and economic self-reliance? Discuss with reference to India’s relations with Taiwan and China.
Final Takeaway
India is taking major steps to develop its domestic semiconductor industry, aiming for self-reliance by 2025.
The Semicon India Programme (₹76,000 Cr) is supporting new chip fabs, but challenges remain in core technology & supply chain dependence.
Overcoming issues in R&D, fab tools, and skilled workforce is crucial for India to become a global semiconductor hub.
Strong semiconductor manufacturing will drive India’s AI, 5G, IoT, and EV sectors, boosting economic growth & strategic security.
4. The Empowerment of India’s Women with Bold Policies – Governance
Why in News?
International Women’s Day (March 8) serves as a reminder of India’s progress in gender equality and the work that remains.
Government policies have significantly improved sanitation, clean water access, financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, and governance participation for women.
Digital connectivity & financial independence have reshaped women’s roles in the workforce, governance, and economic activities.
Key Areas of Women’s Empowerment in India
1. Sanitation & Clean Water: Dignity & Health for Women
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
116 million toilets built, reducing open defecation & improving women’s security.
Jal Jeevan Mission
150 million households provided with safe drinking water.
Impact: Women spend less time fetching water, allowing for greater economic participation.
Dropout rates are higher for girls due to cultural & financial reasons.
Despite progress, India still ranks low in gender equality indexes.
Way Forward: Strengthening Women’s Empowerment
🔹 Expanding Digital & Financial Literacy – Ensuring more rural women can access digital banking & e-commerce. 🔹 Encouraging STEM Education – Promoting women in science, technology, and innovation sectors. 🔹 Strengthening Legal Frameworks – Enforcing stronger laws against workplace discrimination & gender-based violence. 🔹 More Investment in Women-Led Enterprises – Expanding credit facilities & mentorship for women entrepreneurs. 🔹 Increasing Representation in Corporate Leadership – Encouraging more women in executive roles & boards.
Relevance for Exam
Social Justice & Governance
Government schemes for women empowerment.
Panchayati Raj & women’s political participation.
Economy & Workforce
Financial inclusion, MSMEs, and economic participation of women.
Public Policy & Education
Digital connectivity, entrepreneurship, and gender equality policies.
Which scheme has contributed to financial inclusion by opening over 300 million bank accounts for women? a) Mudra Yojana b) Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) c) Beti Bachao Beti Padhao d) Mahila Shakti Kendra
Which scheme aims to support women entrepreneurs through financial assistance? a) Stand-Up India b) Digital India c) Ujjwala Yojana d) Rashtriya Mahila Kosh
What is the share of women’s representation in Panchayati Raj Institutions? a) 30% b) 46% c) 50% d) 25%
The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has significantly benefited women by: a) Providing free healthcare b) Constructing 116 million household toilets c) Reducing domestic violence d) Increasing women’s labor force participation
Which initiative has expanded digital access for women in rural India? a) Ujjwala Yojana b) PM-WANI & BharatNet c) Ayushman Bharat d) Skill India
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Discuss the role of government policies in women’s empowerment in India. How have initiatives such as financial inclusion, digital access, and sanitation improved gender equality?
Despite significant policy efforts, gender disparities persist in India. Analyze the major challenges hindering women’s empowerment and suggest policy solutions.
Examine the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in increasing women’s political participation. How has greater representation of women influenced governance at the grassroots level?
Critically evaluate the impact of financial inclusion schemes such as Jan Dhan Yojana and Stand-Up India on women’s entrepreneurship in India.
Digital connectivity is a key enabler of women’s empowerment. Discuss how initiatives like BharatNet and PM-WANI can enhance women’s participation in the economy.
Final Takeaway
India has made significant progress in women’s empowerment through sanitation, financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, and digital access.
46% of Panchayati Raj representatives are women, reflecting growing political participation.
Challenges like the gender wage gap, low workforce participation, and digital illiteracy persist.
Sustained policy focus is needed to ensure gender equality, financial security, and leadership opportunities for women.
5. Women in Judiciary – Progress, Challenges, and the Path Ahead – Polity
Why in News?
Women in India’s legal profession have made significant strides, beginning with Cornelia Sorabji (first woman lawyer, 1924).
Despite growing numbers of women lawyers and judges, their representation in higher judiciary remains low.
Women constitute only 14.27% of High Court judges and just 2 women serve in the Supreme Court.
Systemic biases and barriers continue to hinder gender parity in the judiciary.
Key Statistics on Women in Judiciary
Judicial Body
Women Representation
Supreme Court
2 women judges out of 34 (5.88%)
High Courts
14.27% women judges
District Courts
~30% women judges
Allahabad High Court (largest HC) – Only 3 women judges (2% of total).
Since 2021 – No women have been appointed to SC, whereas 28 men have been appointed.
Justice Bela Trivedi’s retirement (June 2025) will leave only 1 woman judge in the SC.
Challenges Faced by Women in Judiciary
Challenge
Details
Low Representation in Higher Judiciary
Many High Courts have no women judges, limiting role models.
Late Appointment Age
Women are appointed at an average age of 53 years, reducing their chances of reaching senior positions.
Barriers in Judicial Appointments
Collegium system lacks transparency, making it difficult for women to secure HC/SC appointments.
Perceived Lack of “Eligible” Candidates
Women face stricter scrutiny in judicial selections.
Gender Bias & Stereotypes
Women judges are often assumed to be less assertive in handling serious cases.
Work-Life Balance & Family Expectations
Many women lawyers leave practice early due to family responsibilities.
Lack of Government Support
Since 2020, 9 women HC nominees were not confirmed, with 5 outright rejected.
Outcome: Fewer women reach top judicial positions, limiting gender diversity in constitutional courts.
Importance of Gender Diversity in Judiciary
Enhances Judicial Legitimacy – A gender-balanced judiciary increases public trust.
Improves Representation of Women’s Issues – More women judges bring sensitivity to cases like domestic violence, sexual harassment, and child rights.
Strengthens Inclusivity in Legal Interpretation – A diverse bench reflects broader perspectives in constitutional matters.
Encourages More Women in Legal Profession – Women judges inspire the next generation of female lawyers and judges.
Reforms Needed to Improve Women’s Representation
1. Reforming the Collegium System
Introduce a Transparent Selection Process – Set clear merit-based criteria for appointments.
Structured Application Process – Allow lawyers to formally apply for judicial positions.
2. Prioritizing Gender Diversity in Higher Judiciary
Aim for at least 1/3rd women judges in HC & SC.
Ensure state-wise, caste, and religious diversity in judicial selections.
3. Normalizing Women’s Representation
Judicial vacancies should actively consider gender balance.
Encourage women to enter litigation and remain in legal careers through mentorship programs.
4. Addressing Institutional Gender Bias
Sensitization of male judges & legal fraternity.
Flexible work policies & family support to retain women in the judiciary.
Global Comparisons: Women in Judiciary
Country
Women in Supreme Court
USA
4 out of 9 judges (44%)
UK
3 out of 12 judges (25%)
Canada
4 out of 9 judges (44%)
India
2 out of 34 judges (5.88%)
India lags behind in gender parity in higher courts compared to other democracies.
Way Forward: Building a Gender-Balanced Judiciary
Set Target for Women’s Representation in Judiciary – Ensure 1/3rd representation by 2030.
Introduce Reservation for Women in HC/SC Appointments – Similar to Panchayati Raj & government jobs.
Mentorship & Leadership Programs for Women Lawyers – Encouraging them to pursue higher judicial positions.
Amend Judicial Selection Process – Make Collegium recommendations more transparent & inclusive.
Government Must Approve More Women Appointments – Reduce political reluctance in confirming women judges.
Relevance for Exam
Indian Polity & Governance
Judicial appointments & Collegium system.
Gender representation in constitutional bodies.
Social Justice & Women’s Empowerment
Legal challenges in gender equality.
Need for gender-balanced institutions.
Ethics & Legal Reforms
Judicial accountability & need for transparency in appointments.
Role of women in justice delivery & constitutional interpretation.
Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)
Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:
Which of the following statements about women’s representation in India’s judiciary is correct? a) Women constitute 33% of Supreme Court judges. b) Women make up only 14.27% of High Court judges. c) The Allahabad High Court has the highest percentage of women judges. d) The Supreme Court has more than 10 women judges.
Which factor contributes to the low representation of women in higher judiciary? a) Lack of qualified women lawyers b) Late appointment age & gender bias in judicial selection c) Lack of women-centric legal cases d) No reservation policy in legal education
Which of the following reforms is suggested to improve women’s representation in judiciary? a) Reforming the Collegium system & ensuring transparent selection b) Allowing women to bypass judicial examinations c) Providing reservation in Supreme Court judgments d) Limiting male judges in constitutional courts
Which country has the highest percentage of women judges in the Supreme Court? a) USA b) India c) UK d) Germany
Why is gender diversity important in the judiciary? a) To ensure only women judges handle gender-related cases b) To enhance judicial legitimacy, inclusivity, and justice for women’s issues c) To replace male judges in the legal system d) To introduce different laws for men and women
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Discuss the progress of women’s representation in the Indian judiciary. What systemic challenges continue to limit their appointment to higher judicial positions?
Analyze the importance of gender diversity in judiciary. How can India improve women’s participation in the Supreme Court and High Courts?
The Collegium system has been criticized for its lack of transparency. How can judicial reforms ensure better representation of women in higher judiciary?
Compare women’s representation in India’s judiciary with global standards. What lessons can India learn from countries like the USA and UK?
Despite legal advancements, gender bias persists in judicial appointments. Suggest policy measures to increase women’s leadership in India’s judiciary.
Final Takeaway
Women’s representation in higher judiciary remains critically low (14.27% in High Courts, 5.88% in SC).
Challenges include gender bias, late appointments, & lack of government support.
Judicial reforms, transparency in selection, and gender diversity targets are essential for progress.
A gender-balanced judiciary enhances legitimacy, justice delivery, and public trust.
