14th May 2025-Current Affairs

1. Why Farmers Prefer Growing Rice and Wheat – Economy

Why in News?

Indian farmers continue to prioritize rice and wheat cultivation due to guaranteed government procurement and advancements in crop technology. These factors ensure economic security and yield stability, making alternatives less attractive.

Key Concepts & Takeaways

1. Assured Procurement at Minimum Support Prices (MSP)

• Definition: MSP is the price at which the government purchases crops from farmers, regardless of market fluctuations.
• Impact: Provides farmers with a guaranteed income, reducing their exposure to price volatility.
• Example: In Punjab, rice cultivation expanded from 29.8 lakh hectares in 2015-16 to 32.4 lakh hectares in 2024-25, due to reliable MSP support.

2. Irrigation and Yield Stability

• Rice and wheat are grown primarily under irrigated conditions, which makes their production more resilient to weather variations.
• Public sector investments in irrigation infrastructure further strengthen this stability.

3. Agricultural Technological Advancements

• Breeding innovations have led to high-yield and disease-resistant varieties.
• Example: Wheat variety HD-3385 (released in 2023):
  • Yield: Up to 6 tonnes/hectare.
  • Disease resistance: Particularly against rust diseases, which commonly affect wheat.

Why Are Other Crops Less Attractive?

• Lack of assured MSP and procurement for alternative crops (like pulses, millets, oilseeds).
• Limited private sector interest and public R&D in non-rice/wheat crops.
• Lower and more uncertain yields due to rain-fed cultivation.
• Market and pricing volatility without MSP safety net.

Implications for Economy & Policy

Summary

Farmers prefer rice and wheat due to the government’s guaranteed procurement at MSP, technological improvements (such as high-yield and disease-resistant varieties), and the predictability of irrigated agriculture. These advantages are lacking for alternative crops, which face market uncertainties, lower productivity, and less research investment, leading to an unbalanced and potentially unsustainable agricultural landscape.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following factors contribute to Indian farmers preferring rice and wheat cultivation?

1. Assured government procurement at MSP
2. Higher export demand
3. Better irrigation infrastructure
4. More public R&D investment

Select the correct answer:
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1, 3 and 4 only
C) 2, 3 and 4 only
D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: B) 1, 3 and 4 only
(Export demand is not a primary reason as rice and wheat are largely driven by domestic policy incentives.)

2. Wheat variety HD-3385 is known for:
A) High iron content
B) Rust disease resistance and high yield
C) Drought tolerance
D) Organic adaptability

Answer: B) Rust disease resistance and high yield

Mains

1. Why do Indian farmers continue to prefer rice and wheat over other crops? Discuss the economic and institutional factors contributing to this preference. Also, suggest policy interventions for promoting crop diversification.

2. Examine the implications of sustained rice and wheat dominance in Indian agriculture on environmental sustainability and food security. How can government policy balance these two concerns?

2. India’s Rising E-Waste and Its Management – Environment

Why in News?

India has implemented the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, effective from April 1, 2023, replacing the 2016 rules. This move reflects India’s commitment to managing its rapidly growing e-waste crisis caused by the digital boom.

Key Provisions of the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022

What is EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility)?

• Definition: EPR holds producers responsible for the entire lifecycle of the product, especially for take-back, recycling, and final disposal.
• Goal: To shift the burden of waste management from government to producers, ensuring accountability and encouraging sustainable design.

Why is This Reform Needed?

1. Dominance of the Informal Sector

• Nearly 95% of e-waste is handled by unregulated informal units using hazardous techniques like acid baths and open burning.
• Leads to severe health risks and environmental damage.

2. Economic and Social Costs

• Estimated $10 billion economic loss annually due to pollution from unsafe e-waste practices.
• Additional $20 billion social loss, especially affecting women and children in informal sectors.
  • Life expectancy in some informal recycling zones: <27 years.

3. Public Health Hazards

• Use of cyanide, sulphuric acid, and open incineration leads to:
  • Air, water, and soil pollution
  • Long-term health conditions (e.g., cancer, respiratory diseases)

4. Link to Digital Growth

• Rapid digitization has led to an explosion in electronic waste—mobile phones, laptops, batteries, and consumer electronics.

How EPR Floor Pricing Supports Formal Sector

Role in Circular Economy

• Encourages resource recovery (e.g., gold, copper, rare earth metals from circuit boards).
• Reduces need for raw material imports.
• Shifts focus from waste disposal to materials reuse and sustainability.

Challenges in Implementation

Way Forward

1. Awareness Campaigns
   • Target households and small businesses.
   • Use mass media and schools to promote safe disposal practices.
2. Infrastructure Development
   • Expand formal collection centres and recycling units.
   • Incentivize investment in clean technology.
3. Strengthen Enforcement
   • Ensure strict monitoring of EPR targets.
   • Penalize non-registered and informal units.
4. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
   • Encourage collaboration between government, industry, and civil society.

Summary

India’s e-waste problem is escalating due to its digital expansion. The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, with mandatory registration, EPR obligations, and floor pricing for recyclers, represent a shift toward a formal, accountable waste management system. However, informal sector dominance, low public awareness, and infrastructure gaps continue to hinder effective implementation. Strengthening formal recycling and educating citizens is key to creating a sustainable and circular e-waste economy.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about India’s E-Waste Management Rules, 2022:

1. Producers are exempted from registering with the CPCB.
2. EPR floor pricing helps reduce the dominance of the informal sector.
3. The rules set mandatory collection and recycling targets for producers.

Which of the statements 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

2. Which of the following best describes the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
A) A policy requiring consumers to safely dispose of electronics.
B) A system where producers are financially and legally responsible for the post-consumer stage of their products.
C) Government-led program to recycle industrial waste.
D) A program promoting import of recycled materials.

Answer: B) A system where producers are financially and legally responsible for the post-consumer stage of their products.

Mains

1. India’s e-waste management is at a critical crossroads. Discuss the key features of the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022 and evaluate their potential in curbing informal recycling practices.

2. The rising e-waste in India poses not only environmental but also socio-economic challenges. Analyze these challenges and suggest a holistic strategy to address them in line with the principles of circular economy.

3. India’s Role in Global Shipping Emission Reforms – Environment

Why in News?

At the 83rd session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC-83) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London, major strides were made towards reducing global shipping emissions. Notably, India played a key role in shaping the consensus for a Market-Based Measure (MBM) framework, now moving toward final ratification.

The Shipping Sector and Emissions: A Global Challenge

• Shipping contributes ~2.8% of global GHG emissions.
• If considered a country, the shipping industry would rank as the 6th largest emitter.
• Without reforms, emissions from shipping could rise by 50%–250% by 2050.

Key Takeaways from MEPC-83

Geopolitical Divide

• Oil-exporting countries: Opposed aggressive reforms fearing economic losses.
• Small island nations: Supported steep carbon levies to fund climate-resilient development.
• India and Singapore: Played mediating roles to bridge policy differences.

IMO’s Climate Strategy: Existing Measures

IMO Targets

• 40% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 (relative to 2008 levels).
• Net-zero emissions by 2050.

India’s Strategic Contributions and Opportunities

India’s Role in MEPC-83

• India proposed a Greenhouse Gas Fuel Standard (GFS):
  • Ships required to gradually reduce GHG intensity of fuels.
  • Incentives for use of Zero/Near-Zero (ZNZ) fuels.
• India’s proposal inspired the Singapore hybrid model, now on path to global adoption.

Economic and Policy Implications for India

Market-Based Measure (MBM) Framework: Why It Matters

• First sector-wide global emissions regulation with binding climate targets.
• Sets precedent for similar mechanisms in aviation, heavy industry, and global logistics.
• Makes carbon pricing central to international shipping.

Summary

The MEPC-83 session of the IMO represents a turning point in climate governance for global shipping. India’s proposal for a GHG Fuel Standard, and its influence on the approved Singapore hybrid model, underscores the country’s emerging leadership in green diplomacy. The Market-Based Measure (MBM) framework, once ratified, will regulate global shipping emissions for the first time under a binding climate regime. While cost implications exist, India’s clean energy ambitions, particularly in green hydrogen, stand to gain significantly in the global low-carbon transition.\

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following best describes India’s proposal at MEPC-83 of the IMO?
A) Carbon tax based on distance covered
B) Emission trading system
C) Greenhouse Gas Fuel Standard with tiered incentives
D) Fuel ban on high-emitting vessels

Answer: C) Greenhouse Gas Fuel Standard with tiered incentives

2. Which of the following international organizations is primarily responsible for regulating global shipping emissions?
A) UNFCCC
B) WTO
C) International Maritime Organization (IMO)
D) World Bank

Answer: C) International Maritime Organization (IMO)

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of the Market-Based Measure (MBM) framework adopted at MEPC-83 for global shipping emissions. Evaluate India’s role and the potential impact on its economy and climate strategy.

2. The shipping sector is both a major polluter and a vital economic artery. Analyze how international regulation of shipping emissions can balance environmental sustainability and economic growth, particularly for developing countries like India.

Indian Grey Wolf – Environment

Why in News?

The Indian Grey Wolves in the Kadbanwadi Grasslands (Pune District, Maharashtra) are under threat from disease transmission by stray dogs. These diseases include:

• Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
• Rabies
• Canine Parvovirus

This highlights the growing threat of disease spillover and underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts.

Indian Grey Wolf: An Overview

Ecological Importance

• Apex Predator: Maintains ecosystem balance by regulating herbivore populations.
• Keystone Species: Their decline can disrupt trophic cascades, affecting overall biodiversity.

Threats to Survival

Conservation Status

Protected Areas

• Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary:
  • Location: Latehar district, Jharkhand.
  • Established: 1976, within Palamau Tiger Reserve.
  • Note: Only protected area in India specifically designated for Indian Grey Wolves.

Summary

The Indian Grey Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) is a unique subspecies of the Grey Wolf found in semi-arid and grassland regions of India. As an endangered apex predator, it is vital for maintaining ecological balance. However, threats such as disease spillover from dogs, habitat loss, and human conflict are putting the species at risk. Conservation efforts—including disease control, habitat preservation, and awareness campaigns—are essential to prevent further decline.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Indian Grey Wolf:

1. It is classified as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List.
2. It is listed in CITES Appendix I.
3. It is mainly found in tropical rainforests.

Which of the statements is/are correct?
A) 2 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A) 2 only
(Explanation: It is classified as Endangered by the IUCN, not Vulnerable, and is found in grasslands/semi-arid regions, not rainforests.)

2. Which of the following is true about the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary?

A) It is located in Rajasthan.
B) It is India’s only protected area for Indian Grey Wolves.
C) It was established under Project Tiger.
D) It is part of the Gir National Park.

Answer: B) It is India’s only protected area for Indian Grey Wolves.

Mains

1. Discuss the ecological significance of the Indian Grey Wolf and the threats it faces. What policy and conservation measures are needed to ensure its survival in India’s grassland ecosystems?

2. The growing interface between wildlife and domestic animals increases the risk of zoonotic and interspecies disease transmission. Analyze this issue in light of the threats faced by the Indian Grey Wolf population in Maharashtra.

4. International Maritime Organization (IMO) – Environment

Why in News?

The 83rd session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC-83) under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted a key decision on reducing global shipping emissions, signaling a major step toward marine environmental protection and compliance with global climate goals.

About the IMO: An Overview

Mandate and Functions

• Shipping Safety and Security: Develops global standards for maritime safety.
• Pollution Prevention: Key focus on marine and atmospheric pollution from ships.
• Legal Issues: Covers topics like liability, compensation, and facilitation of maritime traffic.
• SDG Alignment: Contributes directly to Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).

Note: IMO formulates and recommends binding regulations, but it does not enforce them. Implementation is the responsibility of member states, which integrate IMO rules into domestic laws.

Organizational Structure

Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC)

• MEPC is the main committee responsible for environmental issues.
• It develops regulations to reduce marine and air pollution from ships.
• MEPC-83 was pivotal in advancing the Market-Based Measure (MBM) to control shipping emissions.

MARPOL Convention: IMO’s Key Treaty

Full Form: International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships

Six Technical Annexes of MARPOL

Recent Environmental Reforms at IMO (MEPC-83)

• Movement toward a Market-Based Measure (MBM) framework to reduce shipping emissions.
• Focus on climate-smart maritime practices and regulating air pollution from ships under MARPOL Annex VI.
• Aligns shipping industry with net-zero targets by 2050.

India and the IMO

• India is a founding member of IMO and a signatory to MARPOL.
• Implements IMO regulations through domestic maritime and pollution control laws.
• Actively participated in MEPC-83, proposing a GHG Fuel Standard model influencing the adopted framework.
• India’s commitment aligns with its larger climate goals and National Hydrogen Mission.

Summary

The IMO, a UN specialized agency headquartered in London, is at the forefront of regulating international maritime safety and pollution. It developed the MARPOL Convention, a key treaty to combat pollution from ships. The recent MEPC-83 decision signals global consensus on tackling greenhouse gas emissions from shipping, with India playing a proactive role. IMO’s actions are vital for achieving SDG 14 and ensuring sustainable maritime activity.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements regarding the International Maritime Organization (IMO):

1. IMO is a specialized agency of the World Trade Organization.
2. It enforces global maritime safety laws directly through a central enforcement unit.
3. MARPOL is a key treaty adopted under the IMO to prevent marine pollution.

Which of the statements is/are correct?
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 2 and 3 only

Answer: B) 3 only

2. MARPOL Annex VI deals with:
A) Oil pollution
B) Garbage management
C) Air pollution from ships
D) Harmful packaged goods

Answer: C) Air pollution from ships

Mains

1. The International Maritime Organization plays a critical role in global environmental governance. Discuss the significance of the IMO and its MARPOL convention in the context of marine and air pollution.

2. India has emerged as a leader in shaping international maritime emissions regulations. Evaluate India’s strategic engagement with the IMO and its implications for domestic and global environmental policy.

5. The Educational Landscape and Its Disconcerting Shift – Governance

Why in News?

The article highlights a growing concern in India’s higher education system — a shift away from academic freedom and institutional autonomy, influenced by bureaucratic centralization and the corporatisation of education. This trend mirrors global patterns but has unique governance implications for India.

Key Issues and Trends in Higher Education

1. Erosion of University Autonomy

• Earlier Model: Universities functioned with significant academic and administrative independence.
• Current Model: Increasing control by regulatory bodies like the University Grants Commission (UGC) and central mandates under the National Education Policy (NEP).
• Effect: Loss of self-governance and institutional decision-making capacity.

2. Centralization of Control

• Policy and academic directions are now more uniform and top-down.
• Centralization often leads to bureaucratic interference and standardized curricula, which limits diversity in academic inquiry.

3. Suppression of Academic Freedom

• Fear of ideological backlash results in self-censorship among faculty and students.
• Reduced space for dissent and debate, especially on political, social, and cultural issues.
• Creates an atmosphere of conformity over critical thinking.

4. Corporatisation of Education

• Higher education institutions are increasingly run on corporate management models, where:
  • Profitability and rankings are prioritized.
  • Marketable courses (e.g., business, technology) are favored over the arts and humanities.
• Intellectual value is undermined by return-on-investment logic.

5. Governance Crisis in Academia

• Shift in leadership from academic scholars to bureaucrats and corporate managers.
• Emphasis on efficiency, metrics, and outputs rather than critical inquiry and scholarly engagement.

Implications for Democratic Governance and Society

Way Forward: Reaffirming Academic Values

Summary

The current trajectory of Indian higher education reflects a dangerous drift from its foundational ideals of academic freedom, intellectual independence, and ethical inquiry. Driven by centralized control and corporatisation, universities are increasingly becoming spaces of compliance rather than creativity. To reclaim their democratic role, universities must restore autonomy, encourage diverse thought, and resist market-centric models that undermine their public mission.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following correctly defines “academic freedom”?
A) Freedom to fund education institutions without government oversight.
B) Autonomy of universities in managing private donations.
C) The liberty of scholars to teach, research, and publish without external control.
D) The freedom to set tuition fees independently.

Answer: C) The liberty of scholars to teach, research, and publish without external control.

2. Which of the following is a consequence of corporatisation in higher education?

1. Emphasis on profitability over knowledge
2. Growth in arts and humanities funding
3. Marginalization of dissent
4. Academic leadership by scholars

Select the correct answer:
A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 and 4 only
C) 1, 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: A) 1 and 3 only

Mains

1. Critically examine the impact of centralization and corporatisation on academic freedom and institutional autonomy in India’s higher education system. Suggest reforms to strengthen academic governance.

2. Universities are vital for the functioning of a democracy. Discuss how erosion of academic freedom undermines democratic values and propose strategies to safeguard intellectual diversity on campuses.

6. Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine (GFTM) – International Relations

Why in News?

The Sixth Meeting of the Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine (GFTM) was recently hosted by the Permanent Mission of India in Geneva, showcasing India’s leadership in promoting traditional medicine at the global level.

What is the GFTM?

Objectives and Focus Areas of GFTM

India’s Leadership in Traditional Medicine

India is at the forefront of global traditional medicine advocacy, using its rich heritage and institutional frameworks to promote health diplomacy.

Key Initiatives by Government of India:

Protection of Traditional Knowledge (TK)

Preventing Biopiracy and Misuse

• Challenge: Pharmaceutical companies seeking to patent traditional medicinal knowledge without proper attribution or benefit-sharing (biopiracy).
• India’s Response:
  • Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL): A searchable repository documenting formulations from Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Yoga to prevent misappropriation.
  • Collaboration with WIPO: India has worked with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to strengthen protection of traditional knowledge in international patent law.
  • Legislation: India enforces protection through laws like the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and Patents Act, 1970 (as amended), which exclude patenting of traditional knowledge.

Summary

The Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine (GFTM) is an emerging international coalition supporting the global integration of traditional medicine systems. With India’s leadership, the GFTM aligns with WHO’s broader strategy and reinforces India’s role in health diplomacy and soft power projection. India is also at the forefront of efforts to scientifically validate, promote, and protect traditional medicine through a blend of policy, innovation, and international collaboration.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about the Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine (GFTM):

1. It is a formal treaty-based organization under WHO.
2. India coordinates the platform through its Permanent Mission in Geneva.
3. It supports the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034.

Which of the statements 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
(GFTM is an informal group, not a treaty-based body.)

2. The Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) is primarily aimed at:
A) Providing free public access to Ayurvedic remedies
B) Promoting scientific research in genomics
C) Preventing the patenting of Indian traditional medical knowledge
D) Cataloguing endangered Indian languages

Answer: C) Preventing the patenting of Indian traditional medical knowledge

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of India’s leadership in the Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine (GFTM) in the context of global health diplomacy and soft power projection.

2. How is the Government of India protecting its traditional knowledge systems from exploitation by international pharmaceutical interests? Suggest further measures to strengthen this protection.

7. Tackling Emissions in the Global Shipping Industry – Environment

Why in News?

The International Maritime Organization (IMO), during its 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC-83) session, adopted a Net Zero Framework to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the shipping industry. This represents a major leap in integrating the maritime sector into global climate governance.

Background: Shipping and Global Emissions

• The shipping industry contributes ~1 billion metric tonnes of GHG emissions annually.
• This accounts for ~2.8% of total global emissions, making shipping a significant emitter.
• If shipping were a country, it would rank as the 6th largest emitter globally.

The IMO and Its Role

IMO’s Climate Targets for Shipping

Net Zero Framework (MEPC-83 Outcome)

Technological Innovations in Shipping

Challenges in Implementation

India’s Role and Concerns

• India has supported a balanced approach that:
  • Recognizes the historical emissions responsibility of developed countries.
  • Protects the economic competitiveness of developing countries’ maritime trade.
• India is also investing in green hydrogen and advocates incentives for clean fuel use rather than punitive taxes alone.

Significance of the Reforms

Summary

The shipping industry is undergoing a pivotal transition as the IMO’s Net Zero Framework introduces emissions levies and targets aimed at decarbonizing maritime transport. While challenges persist—especially around cost, technology, and equity—the move signals a landmark moment in climate governance. With clear emissions goals and incentives for green fuels, the industry is charting a new course toward sustainable global trade.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following best describes the role of the IMO?
A) Regulates international aviation emissions
B) Ensures nuclear safety in maritime zones
C) Sets standards for international shipping safety and pollution control
D) Conducts marine wildlife conservation programs

Answer: C) Sets standards for international shipping safety and pollution control

2. Consider the following statements about the Net Zero Framework in shipping:

1. It includes a mandatory emission levy.
2. It provides incentives for ships using low-emission fuels.
3. It applies only to domestic shipping routes.

Which of the statements are correct?
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) All of the above

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of the International Maritime Organization’s Net Zero Framework for global climate change mitigation. Highlight the challenges in implementing such reforms, especially for developing countries.

2. The shipping industry is often excluded from national emissions targets. In this context, evaluate the role of multilateral institutions like the IMO in addressing transboundary environmental challenges.