12th May 2025-Current Affairs

1. Impact of India–U.K. Free Trade Agreement – International Relations

Why in the News?

India and the United Kingdom have finalized a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) after over three years of negotiations. The deal, expected to be signed within the next three months, aims to deepen economic ties amid a shifting global trade landscape.

Background: India–U.K. Trade Relations

Key Features of the India–U.K. FTA

1. Tariff Reductions

Tariff savings estimated at $534 million (2022 base)

2. Sectoral Impacts: Key Beneficiaries

3. Services & Labour Mobility

• Double Contribution Convention: Exemption from social security contributions for Indian professionals in the U.K. for 3 years
• Commitment to transparent visa processes
• Supports India’s services export potential

Concerns and Challenges

A. Agriculture Sector

• Fears of price crashes in tea, spices, rubber (e.g., rubber down from ₹230/kg in 2011 to ₹170/kg in 2025 post ASEAN FTA)
• Unequal competition due to:
  • Small landholdings
  • Outdated WTO price benchmarks for subsidies
• Past FTA experiences (ASEAN, Sri Lanka) raised caution

B. MSMEs and Public Procurement

• Worries of displacement by foreign firms
• Risk of weakening domestic capacity-building tools (especially in defense, health, renewable energy)
• Concerns about preferential access for U.K. firms in government contracts

C. Import Dependency & Strategic Vulnerabilities

• Potential long-term reliance on foreign suppliers
• Impacts on strategic sectors, risking domestic industrial policy space

D. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

• Though a European Union initiative, U.K. may adopt similar carbon pricing
• Indian exports of aluminium and steel could face barriers
• India exploring retaliatory carbon taxes — adds trade uncertainty

Strategic Significance

• Strengthens India’s economic diplomacy with the West
• Reduces dependency on China-centric supply chains
• Builds momentum for India’s other pending FTAs (e.g., EU, Canada)
• Reinforces post-Brexit U.K.’s pivot toward Indo-Pacific trade partnerships

Summary

The India–U.K. FTA promises to transform bilateral economic relations by eliminating trade barriers, improving labour mobility, and enhancing market access. Key Indian sectors like textiles, gems, and automobiles stand to benefit. However, concerns remain for agriculture, MSMEs, and strategic sectors vulnerable to import surges and carbon pricing regimes. The deal’s success will hinge on safeguard mechanisms, domestic readiness, and adaptive policy frameworks.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following sectors is expected to benefit significantly from the India–U.K. FTA?

1. Textiles and Apparel
2. Alcoholic Beverages
3. Defense Equipment Manufacturing
4. Gems and Jewellery

Choose the correct options:
(a) 1, 2, and 4
(b) 1 and 3
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 2, and 4

2. Under the India–U.K. FTA, what is the key feature of the Double Contribution Convention?

(a) Ensures zero tariffs on Indian industrial goods
(b) Exempts Indian workers from U.K. taxation
(c) Waives social security contributions for Indian workers in the U.K.
(d) Guarantees permanent residency for Indian professionals

Answer: (c) Waives social security contributions for Indian workers in the U.K.

Mains

1. “The India–U.K. Free Trade Agreement represents a strategic economic partnership with substantial trade-offs.” Critically evaluate the potential benefits and challenges of the FTA.
2. “Free Trade Agreements must balance growth with inclusivity.” Examine how the India–U.K. FTA could impact India’s agriculture sector and MSMEs. Suggest safeguards.
3. “India’s proactive FTA strategy post-pandemic signals a shift in global trade diplomacy.” Discuss the geopolitical and economic significance of the India–U.K. FTA in this context.

2. Safe Harbour Protections for Social Media in India – Polity

Why in the News?

• The Government of India is reassessing the concept of ‘safe harbour’ for online intermediaries due to growing concerns about fake news, cyber fraud, and AI-generated deepfakes.
• This was highlighted in submissions by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and IT.

Key Concept: What is Safe Harbour?

Global Context:

• USA: Governed by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act (1996)
• India: Governed by Section 79 of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000

Safe harbour aims to balance free speech and innovation with legal responsibility.

Safe Harbour Under Indian Law

Section 79, IT Act, 2000:

• Provides conditional immunity to intermediaries from criminal liability
• Conditions include:
  • Platforms must not initiate the transmission
  • They must act as mere conduits
  • Must remove unlawful content once they gain actual knowledge (through court order or government notice)

Failure to act leads to loss of safe harbour protection

IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021

These rules are challenged in courts for potential infringement on free speech and privacy rights.

Limitations & Challenges

Key Concerns:

• Delayed response from platforms like Twitter in removing harmful content
• Lack of uniform enforcement
• Difficulty in tracing originators of fake news and deepfakes
• Alleged non-compliance with Indian law by global tech firms

Notable Case:

• 2004: eBay India’s head arrested over user-generated CSAM (Child Sexual Abuse Material) — highlighted grey areas in intermediary liability

International Perspective

• U.S.: Debates around reforming Section 230 to hold platforms accountable for extremist or harmful content
• EU: Implemented the Digital Services Act (DSA) to impose greater obligations on big tech for content moderation
• India: Proposes the Digital India Act (DIA) to:
  • Update the IT Act
  • Redefine intermediary roles and obligations
  • Potentially narrow safe harbour protections

Implications for Governance

Summary

India’s reconsideration of safe harbour protections reflects growing anxiety over platform unaccountability, cybersecurity threats, and misinformation in the digital ecosystem. While the IT Rules, 2021 attempt to create accountability, they face legal scrutiny. The upcoming Digital India Act may redefine intermediary liability, bringing India in line with global shifts toward tighter tech regulation. The challenge lies in balancing free expression, technological innovation, and national security.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. With reference to the concept of ‘Safe Harbour’ in Indian law, consider the following statements:

1. It provides unconditional immunity to all online platforms for third-party content.
2. It is governed by Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000.
3. The IT Rules, 2021 prescribe certain due diligence norms to retain safe harbour status.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b) 2 and 3

2. Which of the following countries is debating reforms to its safe harbour laws under Section 230 of its Communications Decency Act?

(a) United Kingdom
(b) Australia
(c) United States
(d) Germany

Answer: (c) United States

Mains

1. “The safe harbour protection provided to social media platforms is a legal safeguard that must evolve with technology.” Discuss in the context of rising digital misinformation and deepfakes.
2. “Balancing freedom of speech with online accountability is one of the core challenges of digital governance.” Evaluate India’s approach to intermediary liability and the proposed reforms.
3. Discuss the significance of the IT Rules, 2021 in regulating social media platforms in India. What are the constitutional and operational challenges associated with these rules?

3. India’s Military Response and International Law – International Relations

Why in the News?

On May 10, India and Pakistan agreed to cease all military action following Indian strikes in response to the Pahalgam massacre, where 26 civilians were killed. The legality of India’s military response, termed Operation Sindoor, is under international scrutiny—particularly its compatibility with international law on self-defense against terrorism.

Legal Framework: Use of Force in International Law

1. UN Charter Provisions

The core legal tension lies in interpreting what constitutes an “armed attack” and whether states can use force against non-state actors on foreign territory.

2. Role of the ICJ (International Court of Justice)

• The ICJ in the Nicaragua Case (1986) interpreted “armed attack” as:
  • Involving large-scale force, such as invasion or significant cross-border operations.
• The ICJ has generally limited the scope for unilateral self-defense, especially where non-state actors are involved, unless direct state support is established.

Self-Defense Against Non-State Actors

Precedent: Post-9/11 Shift

• After the 9/11 attacks, the UN Security Council (Resolutions 1368 and 1373) implicitly recognized the right of self-defense against non-state actors, even without state complicity.
• This expanded the interpretation of Article 51 to include terrorist threats emanating from foreign soil.

3. “Unwilling or Unable” Doctrine

• Though not codified in treaty law, it is increasingly invoked by countries like the U.S., Israel, and India to justify cross-border counter-terrorism operations.
• India invoked this framework, citing Pakistan’s inaction against the terrorist groups responsible for Pahalgam.

Customary International Law: Necessity and Proportionality

For a military action to be legally justified, it must meet:

1. Necessity – Force must be a last resort, and there must be imminent danger.
2. Proportionality – The scale and intensity of the response must match the threat.

India claimed Operation Sindoor targeted only terrorist infrastructure, aiming to prevent further attacks while minimizing civilian harm.

Strategic and Legal Implications for India

Justifications

• Protection of civilians and prevention of future attacks
• Pakistan’s lack of credible action against cross-border terrorism
• Citing evolving international norms on self-defense

Concerns

• Potential violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty
• Risk of escalation between nuclear-armed neighbours
• Absence of clear international consensus on the “unwilling or unable” doctrine

India’s actions could influence the evolving interpretation of international law, especially regarding counter-terrorism and use of force across borders.

Summary

India’s military response to the Pahalgam massacre raises critical questions about state sovereignty, self-defense, and the use of force against non-state actors under international law. While India’s actions were justified on grounds of necessity, proportionality, and Pakistan’s inaction, the operation highlights the legal grey areas in using military force against terrorism. As India navigates its role as a responsible power, its approach may shape the emerging doctrine of self-defense in international law.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following articles of the UN Charter permits a country to take action in self-defense?

(a) Article 1
(b) Article 2(4)
(c) Article 33
(d) Article 51

Answer: (d) Article 51

2. The “Unwilling or Unable” doctrine in international law pertains to:

(a) State responsibility for cybercrime
(b) Territorial claims in disputed waters
(c) Use of force against non-state actors when the host state does not act
(d) Refugee repatriation procedures

Answer: (c) Use of force against non-state actors when the host state does not act

Mains

1. “The right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter is evolving in response to modern threats like terrorism.” Critically assess this statement in the context of India’s cross-border military actions.
2. Discuss the legal and strategic implications of India invoking the ‘Unwilling or Unable’ doctrine in its counter-terrorism operations against Pakistan.
3. “In an age of asymmetric warfare, traditional interpretations of international law face new challenges.” Analyze this statement with reference to India’s military response to the Pahalgam massacre.

4. National Scheme for ITI Upgradation & Establishment of NCOEs – Economy

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet has approved a landmark Centrally Sponsored Scheme to:

• Upgrade 1,000 Government ITIs
• Establish five National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) for skilling
• Align vocational training with industry demand
• Skill 20 lakh youth over the next five years

Scheme Structure & Funding

• Co-financing partners:
  • Asian Development Bank (ADB)
  • World Bank
  • Cover 50% of the Central share

Objectives of the Scheme

• Upgrade the quality and relevance of ITI training
• Ensure industry-driven curriculum and infrastructure
• Build capacity for 20 lakh skilled youth in five years
• Train 50,000 vocational trainers
• Establish model institutions for aspirational skill development

Key Features

1. Implementation Model

• Industry-led Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model
• Encourages PPP (Public-Private Partnership) to bring real-time market alignment
• Ensures accountability and efficiency in operations

2. Infrastructure and Trainer Development

• 5 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) to be upgraded as NCOEs:
  • Bhubaneswar
  • Chennai
  • Hyderabad
  • Kanpur
  • Ludhiana
• Enhanced Training of Trainers (ToT) infrastructure
• Focus on pre-service and in-service training for 50,000 trainers

Strategic Importanc

Summary

The National Scheme for ITI Upgradation and creation of five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling represents a transformative step in India’s vocational education ecosystem. With ₹60,000 crore in investments, it aims to make government ITIs aspirational, modern, and industry-managed, empowering the youth with employable skills in alignment with India’s economic and industrial goals.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following correctly describes the new National Scheme for Upgradation of ITIs in India?

1. It is fully funded by the Central Government.
2. It includes the establishment of five National Centres of Excellence.
3. It aims to skill 20 lakh youth in five years.
4. The Asian Development Bank and World Bank are involved in co-financing.

Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1, 2, and 4
(b) 2, 3, and 4
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4

Answer: (b) 2, 3, and 4

2. Under the new ITI Upgradation Scheme, which model is adopted for implementation?

(a) Central Sector model
(b) Public Distribution model
(c) SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) model
(d) Cooperative Society model

Answer: (c) SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) model

Mains

1. “Skilling the workforce is vital for realizing India’s demographic dividend.” Discuss how the National Scheme for ITI Upgradation addresses this challenge.
2. “Industry-led skilling models can transform vocational education in India.” Examine the implementation strategy of the new ITI and NCOE initiative.
3. How do initiatives like the ITI Upgradation Scheme contribute to India’s goals under ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’?

5. Pangenome of Asian Rice – A Genetic Breakthrough – Science and Technology

Why in the News?

Scientists have created the first-ever pangenome of Asian rice (Oryza sativa L.), compiling genetic data from 144 rice varieties — both wild and cultivated. This is a major milestone in agricultural genomics, similar in intent to the Human Genome Project for humans.

What is a Pangenome?

• Core genes (present in all varieties)
• Accessory/unique genes (specific to individual strains) |

A pangenome provides a more complete picture of genetic diversity than a single reference genome.

Key Features of the Asian Rice Pangenome

Agricultural Relevance for India

• India produced a record 220 million tonnes of rice in 2024–25.
• Cultivated on 51,000 hectares with an average yield of 4.2 tonnes/ha.
• The pangenome helps:
  • Identify climate-resilient traits
  • Breed varieties with higher yield, drought tolerance, and disease resistance

Genome Editing & ICAR’s Role

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed:
  • Samba Mahsuri (edited) – potential for higher yield and bacterial blight resistance
  • MTU 1010 (edited) – improved drought tolerance
• These are yet to be commercially released but signify India’s move into precision breeding.

Climate Change & Rice Vulnerability

Benefits of the Rice Pangenome

Global Context

• Rice feeds over half the world’s population
• As a staple crop, understanding its full genetic potential is crucial for global food security

Summary

The development of the Asian Rice Pangenome marks a milestone in agricultural genomics, offering new opportunities for breeding climate-resilient, disease-resistant, and high-yield rice varieties. With rising climate pressures, especially in countries like India, such genetic resources are essential for food security, health, and economic stability. India’s proactive role, via ICAR, reflects a growing emphasis on data-driven agricultural policy and research.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. What does a pangenome represent?

(a) The genome of a single individual
(b) The total genetic material present in an organism’s mitochondria
(c) A collection of all core and strain-specific genes across multiple varieties
(d) The complete set of chromosomes in a single plant

Answer: (c) A collection of all core and strain-specific genes across multiple varieties

2. With reference to recent developments in rice genomics, consider the following statements:

1. The Asian rice pangenome includes both wild and cultivated rice varieties.
2. India’s ICAR has released commercially genome-edited rice varieties for large-scale cultivation.
3. PacBio HiFi sequencing was used in compiling the pangenome.

Which of the statements above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only

Mains

1. “Pangenomic research in staple crops like rice is key to achieving sustainable food security in the era of climate change.” Discuss with reference to recent developments in Asian rice genomics.
2. Examine the role of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in promoting genome-editing technologies. What are the regulatory and ethical challenges in commercializing such crops?
3. “Agricultural biotechnology must balance innovation with biosafety.” In light of India’s rice pangenome project, assess the opportunities and concerns of deploying genomics in crop improvement.

6. Key Facts about the Gomti River – Geography

Why in the News?

The Gomti River, a crucial tributary of the Ganges flowing through Uttar Pradesh, is under environmental stress due to rapid urbanization, especially in Lucknow. Concerns have been raised by citizens and experts regarding its ecological degradation.

Geographical Overview

Unique Characteristics

• The Gomti is both rain-fed and groundwater-fed.
• Unlike Himalayan rivers, it is not snow-fed, making it hydrologically distinct from most other Ganga tributaries.
• It is a perennial river, meaning it flows throughout the year due to its aquifer support.

Major Cities and Districts Along the River

Additional districts in the drainage basin include:

• Barabanki
• Faizabad
• Pilibhit

Important Tributaries

Ecological and Cultural Significance

• Cultural Lifeline: Revered in local traditions and festivals, especially in Lucknow.
• Ecological Role: Supports wetlands, aquifers, and agriculture in the Ganga basin.
• Urban Impact: Provides water for domestic and industrial use, but also bears heavy pollution load from untreated sewage and industrial effluents.

Environmental Concerns

Summary

The Gomti River is a critical ecological and cultural artery of Uttar Pradesh, flowing entirely within the state. As a groundwater-fed tributary of the Ganga, its unique hydrological character makes it vital for sustainable water management. However, rapid urbanization, especially in Lucknow, threatens its health. A coordinated approach involving urban planning, sewage treatment, and groundwater recharge is essential to conserve this river.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. With reference to the Gomti River, consider the following statements:

1. It is a snow-fed tributary of the Ganga River.
2. It originates from Gomat Taal in Pilibhit district.
3. The Sai River is one of its tributaries.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect as Gomti is not snow-fed.

2. Which of the following cities is not located on the banks of the Gomti River?

(a) Lucknow
(b) Jaunpur
(c) Varanasi
(d) Sultanpur

Answer: (c) Varanasi

Mains

1. “The Gomti River, once a lifeline for central Uttar Pradesh, is now at risk due to unchecked urban expansion.” Examine the factors contributing to its degradation and suggest sustainable urban planning strategies.
2. Discuss the ecological importance of groundwater-fed rivers in the Indo-Gangetic plains. How can rivers like the Gomti be conserved amidst rising urbanization and climate stress?

7. National Technology Day 2025 – Science & Technology

Why in the News?

The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) announced the theme for National Technology Day 2025:

“YANTRA – Yugantar for Advancing New Technology, Research & Acceleration”

The day commemorates India’s critical technological milestones and affirms its innovation-led development strategy.

What is National Technology Day

Key Events on May 11, 1998

These events symbolize India’s transition to self-reliant technological capability.

Theme for 2025: YANTRA – Yugantar for Advancing New Technology, Research & Acceleration

1. What is “YANTRA”?

• Derived from Sanskrit, meaning instrument, mechanism, or system
• In this context, it symbolizes:
  • Systemic thinking
  • Technological synergy
  • Scalable and integrated innovation models

2. What is “Yugantar”?

• Translates to “epochal transformation“
• Indicates:
  • A shift from technology adoption to technology leadership
  • A new era of India-driven global innovation narratives

The theme reflects India’s ambition to become a technology superpower.

Role of the Technology Development Board (TDB)

Broader Significance

Summary

National Technology Day, observed on May 11, marks a pivotal moment in India’s scientific journey, celebrating achievements like Pokhran-II and promoting technological self-reliance. The 2025 theme “YANTRA – Yugantar” signals a paradigm shift where India positions itself not just as a consumer but as a creator and global leader in technology. It reinforces the country’s commitment to innovation, research acceleration, and sustainable technological development.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. What is the significance of May 11 in India?

(a) National Science Day
(b) National Technology Day
(c) National Innovation Day
(d) National Defence Production Day

Answer: (b) National Technology Day

2. Which of the following events are associated with May 11, 1998?

1. Pokhran-II nuclear tests
2. First flight of Hansa-3 aircraft
3. Chandrayaan-1 launch
4. Trishul missile test

Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4

Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 4

Mains

1. “India is transitioning from a technology adopter to a technology leader.” Discuss in the context of the National Technology Day 2025 theme ‘YANTRA – Yugantar’.
2. “Commemorative days like National Technology Day are more than symbolic gestures—they reflect policy direction and innovation priorities.” Critically examine the relevance of such events in India’s S&T policy ecosystem.
3. Evaluate the role of the Technology Development Board in fostering innovation and commercializing indigenous technologies in India.