14th April 2025-Current Affairs

1. President Must Consult SC When Governor Flags Bill as Unconstitutional – Polity

Why in News?

• The Supreme Court has laid down clear guidelines and timeframes for the Governor and President to act on state Bills, especially when a Governor reserves a Bill for the President on grounds of unconstitutionality.
• The ruling arises from a dispute between the Tamil Nadu Government (DMK) and the Governor, who delayed assent to several Bills.

Key Constitutional Issues Addressed

Governor’s Powers on State Bills

• Under Article 200, the Governor may:
  • Give assent to a Bill
  • Withhold assent
  • Reserve the Bill for the President’s consideration

Reservation of Bill – When and Why?

• A Governor can reserve a Bill if:
  • It conflicts with central laws
  • It raises constitutional concerns
  • It threatens national interest or federal structure

SC’s Interpretation – Safeguarding Constitutional Process

• A Bill reserved for the President due to unconstitutionality must involve consultation with the Supreme Court under Article 143.
• The President cannot act unilaterally in such matters.

Article 143 – Advisory Jurisdiction of Supreme Court

• Article 143(1): The President may refer any question of law or fact of public importance to the SC for its advisory opinion.
• Nature of Opinion: Not legally binding, but carries persuasive constitutional weight and is usually respected by the executive.

Key Takeaways from the Judgment

Significance of the Judgment

• Ensures federal balance by checking gubernatorial overreach.
• Promotes accountability and transparency in legislative procedures.
• Strengthens the role of judiciary in maintaining constitutional supremacy.
• Encourages a collaborative constitutional process between executive and judiciary.

Relevance & Implications

• GS Paper II – Indian Constitution & Governance:
  • Highlights Centre-State relations and constitutional checks on executive powers.
  • Important for questions on role of Governor, President, and judicial review.
• For Himachal Pradesh:
  • HP, as a state legislature, can learn from this judgment to ensure that governance is not stalled due to political differences with the Governor.
  • Reinforces the rule of law over political discretion in legislative matters.

Summary

The Supreme Court has ruled that when a Governor reserves a Bill for the President over constitutional concerns, the President must consult the Supreme Court under Article 143 before rejecting it. This judgment ensures time-bound decision-making, curbs arbitrary gubernatorial delays, and reinforces constitutional checks and balances. It strengthens judicial oversight, safeguards federalism, and promotes collaboration between the executive and judiciary in legislative matters. The ruling is particularly relevant for ensuring fair governance across Indian states.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which Article of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to seek the Supreme Court’s advisory opinion?
a) Article 131
b) Article 143
c) Article 148
d) Article 124
Answer: b) Article 143

2. Under Article 200, which of the following options is not available to a Governor when a Bill is presented?
a) Assent to the Bill
b) Withhold assent
c) Refer to the Supreme Court
d) Reserve for the President
Answer: c) Refer to the Supreme Court

Mains :

1. “The recent Supreme Court judgment mandating the President to consult the judiciary when a Bill is flagged as unconstitutional by a Governor reaffirms judicial oversight. Discuss its implications for Centre-State relations and legislative federalism in India.”

2. (GS Paper II – Polity and Governance)”Evaluate the constitutional and ethical responsibilities of the Governor in the legislative process of a state. Should judicial timelines be imposed to ensure efficiency?”
(GS Paper II – Role of Constitutional Authorities)

2. India Supports First Global Carbon Tax to Decarbonize Shipping Sector – Environment

Why in News?

• In a historic decision, India and 62 other nations have supported a global carbon tax on the maritime shipping sector, led by the International Maritime Organization (IMO)—the UN’s shipping agency.
• The tax aims to decarbonize international shipping, a sector excluded from the Paris Agreement but responsible for around 3% of global GHG emissions.

Key Features of the Global Carbon Tax on Shipping

How It Works:

• Vessels must either:
  • Shift to cleaner fuels like bio-LNG, green hydrogen, or ammonia.
  • Pay a carbon tax proportional to their emission load.
• Funds collected are intended to be reinvested in:
  • Cleaner maritime technologies
  • Infrastructure upgrades
  • R&D in low-emission propulsion systems

🇮🇳 India’s Position and Strategic Relevance

• Supportive Role: India joins the EU, Brazil, and China in endorsing the resolution.
• Alignment with India’s Climate Goals:
  • Contributes to India’s Panchamrit goals (e.g., net zero by 2070).
  • Aligns with the push for green ports and cleaner shipping corridors.
• Diplomatic Message: India’s vote signals its commitment to climate diplomacy and global governance on emissions.

Challenges and Criticisms

• Shortfall in Emission Goals: Experts warn the tax may only reduce emissions by 10%, below the IMO’s 30% ambition by 2030.
• Equity Concerns:
  • Developing countries want revenue distribution beyond the maritime sector to support broader climate adaptation efforts.
  • Oil-exporting nations like Saudi Arabia and Russia opposed the move, fearing economic impacts.

Relevance & Implications

• GS Paper III – Environment and Climate Policy:
  • Demonstrates use of economic instruments (carbon pricing) in environmental governance.
  • Illustrates India’s growing role in international climate negotiations.
• GS Paper II – International Institutions (Secondary Angle):
  • A case study in multilateral environmental governance, showcasing how global consensus is built despite resistance.
• Himachal Pradesh Perspective:
  • While landlocked, HP can benefit from emission mitigation finance mechanisms like this to develop eco-tourism and sustainable transport initiatives (e.g., electric mobility in hilly terrain).

Summary

India, alongside 62 nations, has backed a global carbon tax on maritime shipping, aimed at curbing emissions from a sector responsible for 3% of global GHGs. Set to begin in 2028 under the IMO, the tax encourages cleaner fuel use or payment per tonne of CO₂ emitted, potentially raising $40 billion by 2030. While aligned with India’s climate goals, the move faces criticism for limited emission impact and unequal revenue use, especially from developing and oil-exporting countries.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which international agency is responsible for the implementation of the global carbon tax on shipping?
a) UNFCCC
b) IMO
c) WTO
d) UNEP
Answer: b) IMO

2. What percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions is attributed to the shipping industry?
a) 1%
b) 3%
c) 7%
d) 12%
Answer: b) 3%

Mains :

1.“The global carbon tax on shipping represents a milestone in maritime climate regulation.” Critically examine its potential in addressing emissions from an under-regulated sector and India’s role in shaping this policy.
(GS Paper III – Environment and International Governance)

2. “Equitable climate finance distribution is essential for true climate justice.” In light of the recent shipping carbon tax, discuss the concerns of developing nations regarding resource allocation in global climate mechanisms.
(GS Paper III – Environment and Economic Development)

3. Benefits of Genetic Mapping for the Indian Population – Science and Technology

Why in News?

• The Genome India Project (GIP) has published its preliminary findings in Nature Genetics.
• The study sequenced the genomes of 9,772 healthy individuals from 83 Indian population groups, revealing 180 million genetic mutations—demonstrating the vast genetic diversity of India.

About the Genome India Project (GIP)

Key Scientific Highlights

• Sample Composition:
  • Total: 9,772 individuals (4,696 men + 5,076 women)
  • 30 tribal + 53 non-tribal communities
  • Included parent-child pairs to trace de novo mutations
• Mutation Discovery:
  • ~180 million unique mutations cataloged
  • Provides high-resolution insight into India’s population-specific gene variations

Benefits of Genetic Mapping for India

Global and National Importance

• Corrects Data Gaps: India represents over 17% of global population but less than 2% of global genome data.
• Strategic Innovation: Strengthens India’s position in biotech, AI in health, and global genomics research.
• Fosters Collaboration: Encourages interdisciplinary research between genomics, anthropology, and healthcare systems.

Relevance & Implications

• GS Paper III – Science & Tech in Health:
  • Perfect case study for indigenous scientific innovation and technology-driven health care.
  • Highlights the convergence of data, ethics, and public policy.
• GS Paper II – Health Policy (interlink):
  • Informative for discussing universal health access, especially for tribal populations in remote regions.
• For Himachal Pradesh:
  • HP has its own genetic micro-diversity due to high-altitude isolation—such studies can help:
    • Understand local health patterns (e.g., anemia, thalassemia)
    • Tailor hill-area medical infrastructure
    • Explore traditional medicine integration with genomic profiling

Summary

The Genome India Project has mapped the genomes of nearly 10,000 individuals from 83 diverse groups, uncovering around 180 million genetic mutations and showcasing India’s immense genetic diversity. This data lays the foundation for precision medicine, better disease prediction, and more inclusive healthcare tailored to India’s unique population. It corrects global data imbalances, aids drug development, and strengthens India’s biotechnology and health innovation capacity. The project also holds promise for addressing regional and tribal health challenges through targeted interventions.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. The Genome India Project is primarily funded by which government department?
a) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
b) Department of Science and Technology
c) Department of Biotechnology
d) Indian Council of Medical Research
Answer: c) Department of Biotechnology

2. One of the objectives of genetic mapping under the Genome India Project is to:
a) Develop vaccines for plant viruses
b) Identify plant species for reforestation
c) Create a reference for precision medicine
d) Promote inter-caste genetic mixing
Answer: c) Create a reference for precision medicine

Mains :

1. “India’s Genome Mapping initiative has the potential to revolutionize healthcare through precision medicine. Discuss the benefits and ethical considerations associated with large-scale genomic data collection.”
(GS Paper III – Science & Technology / Public Health)

2. “With vast genetic diversity and underrepresentation in global research, how can India’s Genome India Project contribute to inclusive and equitable healthcare?”
(GS Paper III – Science & Tech / Inclusive Development)

4. Development of Indigenous rt-LAMP Assay for TB Detection – Science & Technology

Why in News?

• Scientists at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) have developed an indigenous real-time Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (rt-LAMP) assay for early detection of Tuberculosis (TB).
• The test is rapid, cost-effective, and well-suited for low-resource settings, potentially revolutionizing TB diagnostics in India.

What is the rt-LAMP Assay?

Why is This a Breakthrough for India?

• Low-Cost Diagnostic Alternative: Suitable for rural and remote areas with limited lab infrastructure.
• Faster Case Detection: Enables early treatment, reducing transmission.
• Scalable: Licensed for industrial production and currently undergoing validation by ICMR.
• Regulatory Approval: Approved by CDSCO, under evaluation by WHO’s Health Technology Access Pool (HTAP).
• Supports National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP):
  • India aims to eliminate TB by 2025, ahead of global SDG targets.

Comparison: rt-LAMP vs RT-PCR

Relevance & Implications

• GS Paper III – Science & Technology in Health:
  • A strong case study in indigenous innovation, affordable diagnostics, and public health technology.
  • Shows how technology aligns with policy goals (e.g., NTEP, Make in India).
• GS Paper II – Health Policy (indirect link):
  • Aids in improving health service delivery, especially for diseases affecting rural and tribal populations.
• Himachal Pradesh Relevance:
  • HP has several remote and tribal areas where TB is underdiagnosed due to poor lab infrastructure.
  • This low-cost tool can boost TB surveillance and early detection, particularly in high-altitude rural blocks.

Summary

India has developed a cost-effective and rapid rt-LAMP assay for Tuberculosis detection, led by SCTIMST. Unlike RT-PCR, this test amplifies DNA at a constant temperature, yielding results in just 10–20 minutes with minimal equipment—ideal for rural settings. Approved by CDSCO and under WHO evaluation, the test supports India’s goal to eliminate TB by 2025. It represents a major step in affordable, indigenous innovation for public health, especially in underserved areas like remote Himachal Pradesh.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

1. The rt-LAMP assay developed in India is primarily used for detecting which of the following diseases?
a) Malaria
b) Tuberculosis
c) COVID-19
d) Dengue
Answer: b) Tuberculosis

2. Which of the following correctly distinguishes the rt-LAMP assay from RT-PCR?
a) Requires thermal cycling
b) Less specific due to fewer primers
c) Operates at a constant temperature
d) Needs high-end lab infrastructure
Answer: c) Operates at a constant temperature

Mains:

1. “India’s fight against Tuberculosis requires not only policy but also innovation.” Discuss how indigenous diagnostic technologies like the rt-LAMP assay can transform public health outcomes.
(GS Paper III – Science and Technology / Health)

2. “Technological breakthroughs in diagnostics are vital for achieving national health goals in developing countries.” Evaluate the role of real-time molecular assays in disease surveillance and elimination programs.
(GS Paper III – Innovation in Public Health)

5. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) – International Relations

Why in News?

• During a meeting between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Italian Deputy PM Antonio Tajani, both countries reaffirmed strategic cooperation under the Joint Strategic Action Plan (JSAP) 2025–2029.
• Discussions emphasized collaboration on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), signaling deeper engagement between India and Italy.

What is IMEEC?

Structure of IMEEC

• Utilizes railways, roads, and sea ports for efficient trade and cargo movement.
• Aims to reduce transport time and cost, and boost energy and digital connectivity.

Strategic Significance of IMEEC

Relevance & Implications

• GS Paper II – International Relations:
  • Helps understand India’s evolving foreign policy architecture, especially strategic balancing between the West and East.
  • Reflects India’s push towards becoming a global connectivity and logistics hub.
• For Himachal Pradesh (Indirect Relevance):
  • Boosts export potential for niche Himachali products (e.g., apples, handicrafts) through better global trade infrastructure.
  • Opportunities for young professionals in logistics, digital trade, and renewable sectors emerging from such global corridors.

Summary

Launched at the 2023 G20 Summit, the IMEEC is a strategic trade and connectivity initiative linking India to Europe via the Middle East. Involving partners like the EU, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, it aims to counter China’s BRI by enhancing multimodal infrastructure for faster, more secure trade. It boosts India’s geopolitical influence, trade diversification, and digital connectivity. The corridor also opens new economic opportunities for Indian exports and strategic partnerships with Europe and West Asia.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

1. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) was officially launched during which of the following summits?
a) BRICS Summit 2022
b) G20 Summit 2023
c) SCO Summit 2024
d) G7 Summit 2021
Answer: b) G20 Summit 2023

2. Which of the following countries is not a part of the IMEEC initiative?
a) Germany
b) UAE
c) Russia
d) France
Answer: c) Russia

Mains:

1. “India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) represents a new chapter in global connectivity. Discuss the strategic and economic implications of this initiative for India in the context of global geopolitics.”
   (GS Paper II – International Relations)
2. “With initiatives like IMEEC, India aims to position itself as a global connectivity leader. Critically evaluate how such economic corridors can reshape regional diplomacy and trade routes.”
   (GS Paper II – India’s Global Strategy)

6. Microplastics and Their Impact on Plants and Ecosystems – Environment

Why in News?

• A multinational research study, led by Nankai University and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, has confirmed that plant leaves can absorb microplastics and nanoplastics directly from the atmosphere.
• This challenges prior understanding that microplastics entered plants mainly through soil or water, now revealing airborne pathways.

What Are Microplastics and Nanoplastics?

• Origin: Product abrasion, plastic degradation, cosmetics, vehicle tires, and industrial emissions.
• Non-biodegradable: Persist in the environment for decades.
• Mobile & Toxic: Can move across ecosystems and carry other pollutants.

How Do Microplastics Enter Plants?

• Pathways Identified:
  • Stomata: Tiny pores on leaves that usually control gas exchange.
  • Cuticle: Waxy layer that also allows airborne particles to penetrate.
• Internal Movement:
  • Can reach leaf trichomes (hair-like structures).
  • May travel via xylem/phloem to other plant tissues.
  • Trichomes can act as “sinks,” partially restricting their spread to roots.

Ecological & Health Impacts

Long-term health effects remain under-researched, but potential links to inflammation, hormonal disruption, and cellular damage are being studied.

Relevance & Implications

• GS Paper III – Environmental Pollution:
  • Expands understanding of airborne microplastic pollution, not just marine.
  • Highlights the intersection of pollution and food safety.
• GS Paper III – Agriculture & Food Security:
  • Raises concerns about crop contamination, soil degradation, and nutritional quality.
  • Important for organic farming and sustainable agricultural policy.
• For Himachal Pradesh:
  • Airborne plastic can affect horticulture-based crops (e.g., apples, vegetables).
  • Need to monitor plastic use in packaging and agri-inputs in HP’s eco-sensitive zones.
  • Highlights importance of rural solid waste management, especially in hill tourism zones.

Summary

Recent research has revealed that microplastics and nanoplastics can enter plant leaves directly from the air through stomata and cuticles, expanding our understanding of plastic pollution pathways. These particles can disrupt plant functions like photosynthesis and growth, and may travel through the food chain, posing health risks to humans. As non-biodegradable carriers of toxins, microplastics threaten ecosystem stability and agricultural sustainability, especially in eco-sensitive and high-altitude farming regions like Himachal Pradesh.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Microplastics can enter plant leaves through:
a) Root hairs
b) Trichomes
c) Stomata and cuticle
d) Xylem vessels
Answer: c) Stomata and cuticle

2. Which of the following statements is incorrect about microplastics?
a) They are biodegradable
b) They can carry toxic pollutants
c) They may be inhaled or ingested by humans
d) They can affect photosynthesis in plants
Answer: a) They are biodegradable

Mains :

1. “Microplastics are an emerging pollutant affecting ecosystems and food security.” Discuss the pathways through which microplastics enter terrestrial food chains and suggest measures to reduce their impact.
   (GS Paper III – Environment & Pollution Control)
2. “With increasing evidence of microplastics in plants and crops, evaluate the implications for human health and agricultural sustainability in India.”
   (GS Paper III – Environmental Health and Agriculture)

7. Revival of Ramgarh Lake, Rajasthan – Environment

Why in News?

• The Rajasthan government has launched a restoration initiative for the historic Ramgarh Lake, which once served as the primary water source for Jaipur city.
• The lake has been dry for years due to climate change and shrinking inflows from feeder rivers.

About Ramgarh Lake

Historical & Cultural Significance

• 1982 Asian Games: Hosted rowing events, reflecting national-level importance.
• Polo Ground: Located between Aravalli Hills and the lake; among India’s best polo grounds.
• Jamwa Mata Temple: A revered shrine located downstream; adds to the spiritual significance.
• Built Heritage: Reflects the legacy of water architecture in pre-modern India.

Ecological Importance

• Wildlife Sanctuary Status: Declared in 1982; includes thick forest zones.
• Fauna: Home to chital, nilgai, lions, and diverse bird species.
• Ecosystem Services: The lake once supported aquatic biodiversity, recharged groundwater, and regulated local microclimate.

Environmental Concerns

• Drying of Inflows: Due to deforestation, urbanization, and changing rainfall patterns.
• Encroachments: Illegal construction and land-use change around lakebed.
• Loss of Biodiversity: Degradation of natural habitat and water-dependent species.
• Climate Vulnerability: Reduction in water storage affects climate resilience of the region.

Revival Efforts – Objectives

• Restoration of Catchment Rivers: Rejuvenating the feeder rivers and natural channels.
• Eco-restoration: Replanting native species, protecting the wildlife sanctuary, and soil conservation.
• Water Management: Integrated lake basin management with community involvement.
• Tourism and Heritage: Promoting eco-tourism and heritage conservation to revive local economy.

Relevance & Implications

• GS Paper III – Environment:
  • Illustrates the concept of urban water bodies and ecosystem services.
  • A model case for integrated water conservation and heritage protection.
• GS Paper I – Geography (Rajasthan Context):
  • Useful for questions on river basins, man-made reservoirs, and human-environment interaction.
• For Himachal Pradesh:
  • Offers lessons for reviving traditional water bodies like khads, bawris, and naulas.
  • Highlights potential for heritage-based eco-tourism in HP’s temple towns and glacial lakes.

Summary

The Rajasthan government has launched efforts to revive the historic Ramgarh Lake, once Jaipur’s main water source, now dry due to deforestation, urbanization, and climate change. The restoration aims to rejuvenate feeder rivers, restore biodiversity, and promote eco-tourism. The lake, with ecological, historical, and cultural significance, offers a model for integrated water and heritage conservation. Its revival underscores the need to protect urban water bodies amid growing environmental stress.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which of the following rivers currently feeds Ramgarh Lake?
a) Banas
b) Chambal
c) None (all feeder rivers are dry)
d) Yamuna
Answer: c) None (all feeder rivers are dry)

2. Ramgarh Lake hosted which event during the 1982 Asian Games?
a) Equestrian
b) Rowing
c) Archery
d) Marathon
Answer: b) Rowing

Mains :

1. “The revival of urban and rural lakes is essential for sustainable ecological development.” With reference to Ramgarh Lake, discuss the environmental and socio-cultural importance of restoring traditional water bodies in India.
   (GS Paper III – Environment / Water Resources)
2. “Urbanization and climate change are accelerating the degradation of natural ecosystems.” Analyze how integrated conservation of water bodies like Ramgarh Lake can serve as a model for other semi-arid and hill states.
   (GS Paper III – Sustainable Development / Disaster Management)

8. Saras Mk2: India’s Upcoming Indigenous Civilian Aircraft – Science & Technology

Why in News?

• The first test flight of the Saras Mk2, a 19-seater indigenous civilian aircraft, is scheduled for December 2027, as per CSIR-NAL (National Aerospace Laboratories).
• Saras Mk2 is designed to bridge India’s regional air transport gap, offering connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, with applications in civil aviation, emergency services, and disaster relief.

What is Saras Mk2?

Technical Specifications

🇮🇳 Strategic and Civilian Importance

• Enhances Regional Connectivity:
  • Promotes UDAN scheme goals (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) by reaching underserved areas.
• Disaster & Medical Use:
  • Ideal for air ambulance, emergency medical response, and disaster logistics.
• Boosts Indigenous R&D and Aviation Sector:
  • Reduces reliance on foreign small aircraft (e.g., Dornier 228).
  • Aligns with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ in aerospace.
• Environmental Efficiency:
  • Designed for low operational costs and better fuel efficiency, suitable for short-haul routes.

Relevance & Implications

• GS Paper III – Science and Infrastructure:
  • A milestone in indigenous transport innovation in aerospace engineering.
  • Reflects how technology supports inclusive development through regional connectivity.
• For Himachal Pradesh:
  • Valuable for intra-state connectivity in difficult terrain (e.g., Kullu, Spiti, Chamba).
  • Could enable air ambulance services and tourism logistics in hilly and snowbound areas.

Summary

Saras Mk2 is a 19-seater indigenous aircraft developed by CSIR-NAL to improve regional air connectivity under the UDAN scheme. With its short takeoff capacity and multipurpose design, it supports passenger transport, disaster relief, and medical evacuation, especially in remote and hilly regions. Scheduled for test flights by 2027, Saras Mk2 boosts India’s aerospace self-reliance and aligns with ‘Make in India’ goals, while offering an eco-efficient alternative for short-haul routes.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Saras Mk2, developed by CSIR-NAL, is designed primarily for:
a) Long-haul international travel
b) Regional civil aviation and multi-role utility
c) Military surveillance
d) Satellite deployment
Answer: b) Regional civil aviation and multi-role utility

2. The engine used in the Saras Mk2 aircraft is:
a) Rolls Royce Turbofan
b) HAL-Safran JV engine
c) Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67A
d) GE Turboprop X290
Answer: c) Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67A

Mains :

1. “Discuss the significance of the Saras Mk2 aircraft in enhancing India’s regional air connectivity and strengthening the indigenous aerospace sector.”
   (GS Paper III – Science & Tech / Infrastructure)
2. “India’s civil aviation sector is expanding rapidly. Evaluate how innovations like Saras Mk2 can support sustainable and inclusive development in remote and hilly regions.”
   (GS Paper III – Technology for Development)