1. How Inclusive is the Election Commission’s Special Revision Exercise? – Polity
Why in News?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has launched a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
It has sparked debate due to its strict documentation requirements, especially for birth certificates, raising concerns about voter exclusion and the principle of universal adult suffrage.
A Lokniti-CSDS survey in five states and one UT highlights major inclusivity challenges.
Key Takeaways
SIR risks excluding eligible voters instead of cleaning rolls.
50%+ respondents lack essential documents like birth certificates, domicile, caste certificates.
Women and poorer sections face the highest risk of disenfranchisement.
Documentation Burden
Birth Certificate: Missing for >50% of respondents.
Parental Birth Certificate: Absent in ~66% of households.
Domicile/Caste Certificate: Missing for a majority.
No-document citizens: ~5% respondents had none of the required documents, largely women & poor.
Awareness and State Disparities
Only 36% respondents aware of SIR and document requirements → information gap.
Regional variation:
Madhya Pradesh → only 11% had a birth certificate.
West Bengal → around 49% had one. → Shows administrative inequality across states.
Impact on Democracy
Universal Adult Suffrage (Art. 326) threatened by exclusionary practices.
Strict documentation → may disenfranchise the poor, women, migrants, and marginalized groups.
Risks undermining free & fair elections by narrowing the voter base.
ECI’s Justification
Aims at “cleansing” electoral rolls to remove duplicates, ineligible entries, and non-citizens.
However, overly rigid rules risk defeating the core inclusive mandate of Indian democracy.
Way Forward
Suggested Reform
Why Needed
Flexible documentation norms
Accept a wider set of IDs (Aadhaar, PAN, ration card, school certificates).
Awareness campaigns
Reduce information gaps about SIR.
Targeted inclusion drives
Focus on vulnerable groups (women, migrants, SC/ST).
State-level administrative reforms
Harmonize disparities in document availability.
Balance between roll-purity & inclusivity
Electoral cleansing must not come at the cost of disenfranchisement.
Broader Context
Universal Adult Franchise → cornerstone of Indian democracy, ensured since 1950 Constitution adoption.
SC in People’s Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India (2003) → Right to vote = constitutional right under Art. 326.
ECI’s role → Must balance purity of elections with inclusivity of the voter list.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which Article of the Constitution provides for elections to be held on the basis of universal adult suffrage? A. Article 324 B. Article 325 C. Article 326 D. Article 327 Answer: C. Article 326
Which of the following is NOT a function of the Election Commission of India? A. Conduct of free and fair elections B. Preparation of electoral rolls C. Allocation of party symbols D. Determination of constituency boundaries Answer: D. Determination of constituency boundaries
Mains
“Electoral roll cleansing should not compromise inclusivity.” Critically examine the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in light of universal adult suffrage.
Discuss the challenges faced by marginalized groups in accessing electoral registration in India. Suggest measures to make voter inclusion more robust and equitable.
The legitimacy of democracy depends not only on free and fair elections but also on inclusive participation. Evaluate this statement in the context of the ECI’s SIR initiative.
2. Supreme Court’s Intervention in Electoral Roll Revision – Continuity with Past Judgments – Polity
Why in News?
In Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) vs Election Commission of India (2025), the Supreme Court ruled on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.
The judgment echoes principles from Lal Babu Hussain vs Electoral Registration Officer (1995).
The case highlights citizenship verification, voter exclusion, and the constitutional right to vote.
Key Takeaways from SC’s 2025 Ruling
Burden of Proof on State, Not Citizens
Citizens cannot be compelled to prove citizenship without credible evidence against them.
Transparency Mandated
Draft rolls must be accessible & searchable.
Reasons for exclusions must be clearly stated.
Flexibility in Documents
Voters can use Aadhaar, EPIC (Voter ID), and other valid IDs – not restricted to birth certificates.
Historical Parallel: Lal Babu Hussain Case (1995)
Issue: ECI tried to remove names as “non-citizens”.
SC held that:
Electoral Registration Officers must conduct proper inquiries.
Must consider all evidence submitted by voters.
Principle: Presumption in favor of the citizen’s right to vote unless disproved.
Present Issue: SIR in Bihar
SIR lacked statutory basis under Representation of the People Act, 1950 & Registration of Electors Rules, 1960.
ECI tried to remove non-citizens using:
Only the 2003 electoral roll as reference.
A narrow set of documents (e.g., birth certificates).
This shifted the burden of proof to citizens, raising risk of wrongful exclusions.
Supreme Court’s 2025 Order
SIR must: Be conducted under statutory framework. Provide due process (reasons for exclusion, right to appeal). Allow multiple identity proofs.
Reinforces universal adult suffrage as part of constitutional democracy.
Democratic Principles at Stake
Universal Adult Suffrage (Art. 326) → cornerstone of Indian democracy.
Exclusionary roll revision undermines electoral integrity.
SC ruling strengthens:
Transparency (public access to draft rolls),
Fairness (burden of proof on state),
Inclusivity (acceptance of wider documents).
Significance
Upholds citizen-centric democracy in line with India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047.
Ensures reforms in voter registration are inclusive, transparent, and legally accountable.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which Article of the Indian Constitution provides for elections to be held on the basis of universal adult suffrage? A. Article 324 B. Article 325 C. Article 326 D. Article 327 Answer: C. Article 326
In Lal Babu Hussain vs Electoral Registration Officer (1995), the Supreme Court held that: A. Citizens must prove their citizenship for electoral registration. B. Electoral officers must conduct proper inquiries and consider evidence before removing names. C. Non-citizens can contest elections if registered voters. D. Only birth certificates can be used for voter verification. Answer: B. Electoral officers must conduct proper inquiries and consider evidence before removing names.
Mains
Critically examine the Supreme Court’s 2025 ruling on electoral roll revision. How does it balance the need for electoral roll integrity with the principle of universal adult suffrage?
Compare the Supreme Court’s judgments in Lal Babu Hussain (1995) and ADR vs ECI (2025). What continuity of constitutional principles can be seen?
Discuss the democratic implications of burdening citizens with excessive documentation for electoral registration. Suggest reforms for an inclusive voter registration system.
The Prime Minister launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY) to boost formal job creation.
It provides direct financial incentives to both employees and employers.
Target: 3.5 crore jobs in 2 years.
Objectives
Encourage first-time formal employment.
Provide direct cash incentives to employees and employers.
Expand social security coverage via EPFO.
Promote manufacturing-led job growth.
Encourage saving and financial literacy among young workers.
Scheme Components
Part A – Support to First-Time Employees
Eligibility:
First-time EPFO registrants.
Salary up to ₹1 lakh/month.
Incentive:
One-month EPF wage support (up to ₹15,000), given in two installments.
Installment 1: After 6 months of continuous service.
Installment 2: After 12 months + completion of financial literacy program.
Savings habit: Part of incentive deposited in savings account.
Part B – Incentives for Employers
Eligibility: Creation of new jobs with salary up to ₹1 lakh/month.
Incentive:
Up to ₹3,000 per month per employee, for at least 6 months.
Manufacturing sector: Incentives may extend into 3rd & 4th years.
Incentive Payment Mechanism
Employees (Part A) → Paid via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) using Aadhaar Bridge Payment System (ABPS).
Employers (Part B) → Payments credited to PAN-linked accounts.
Expected Outcomes
Formalisation of workforce → reduces informal/unregistered jobs.
Social security expansion via EPFO coverage.
Greater job creation in manufacturing sector, boosting Make in India.
Enhances financial literacy and savings culture.
Strengthens India’s path to Viksit Bharat @2047.
Challenges
Ensuring effective implementation and preventing misuse.
Monitoring whether jobs created are sustainable or short-term to gain incentives.
Risk of informal sector exclusion if workers remain outside EPFO framework.
Fiscal burden on government to sustain large-scale DBT incentives.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following statements about the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY) is correct? A. It provides incentives only to employers. B. It provides wage support and incentives for both employees and employers. C. It is limited to the agriculture sector. D. It does not cover employees earning more than ₹15,000/month. Answer: B. It provides wage support and incentives for both employees and employers.
Under the PMVBRY, what is the maximum monthly salary eligibility for both employees and new recruits? A. ₹50,000 B. ₹75,000 C. ₹1,00,000 D. ₹1,50,000 Answer: C. ₹1,00,000
Mains
Discuss the significance of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana in promoting formal job creation in India. How does it complement social security reforms?
Critically evaluate the dual incentive structure (employees + employers) of PMVBRY. How can it help bridge the gap between informal and formal labour markets?
Job creation in India faces structural challenges. In this context, assess whether incentive-based schemes like PMVBRY are sufficient to ensure sustainable employment generation.
The Prime Minister recently praised the achievements of PM SVANidhi, highlighting its role in empowering street vendors and helping them achieve self-reliance after the Covid-19 pandemic.
About the Scheme
Launched: 1 June 2020.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
Implementation Partner: SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India).
Objective: Provide affordable working capital loans to street vendors affected by the pandemic, while promoting financial inclusion & digital adoption.
Key Features
Provision
Details
Loan Amount
Initial working capital loan of ₹10,000 (1 year tenure, monthly installments).
Interest Subsidy
7% p.a. interest subsidy on timely/early repayment, credited quarterly via DBT.
Credit Escalation
Vendors with good repayment record become eligible for higher loans in next cycles (₹20,000 → ₹50,000).
Digital Incentives
Cashback up to ₹100/month for promoting digital transactions.
No Penalties
No penalty for early repayment, encouraging financial discipline.
Loan Use
For buying raw materials, rent, equipment, and other vending needs.
Eligibility
Must be a street vendor with:
Certificate of Vending or Identity Card issued by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
Also eligible:
Vendors identified in ULB surveys but without certificates/IDs.
Vendors not in survey but with Letter of Recommendation (LoR) from ULB/Town Vending Committee.
Vendors from peri-urban/rural areas vending within ULB limits with valid LoR.
Significance
Restored livelihoods of street vendors hit by Covid-19.
Formalised informal sector workers through ULB surveys and EPFO/SIDBI linkages.
Encouraged digital payments ecosystem among small vendors.
Promoted financial inclusion by linking vendors to the banking system.
Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of self-reliance.
Challenges
Many street vendors still lack documents or LoRs → risk of exclusion.
Dependence on ULB surveys → not always accurate/updated.
Small loan size may not meet needs of vendors in high-cost urban centres.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which institution is responsible for implementing the PM SVANidhi Scheme? A. NABARD B. SIDBI C. RBI D. NITI Aayog Answer: B. SIDBI
Under PM SVANidhi, what is the maximum cashback incentive for digital transactions per month? A. ₹50 B. ₹75 C. ₹100 D. ₹150 Answer: C. ₹100
Mains
Discuss the role of PM SVANidhi Yojana in formalising the informal economy in India. How does it promote both financial inclusion and digital adoption?
Street vendors form a vital part of the urban economy but remain vulnerable to shocks. Critically analyse the impact of PM SVANidhi in improving their socio-economic security.
Evaluate the challenges of implementing PM SVANidhi across India. What reforms are necessary to make it more inclusive and effective?
5. Launch of e-Sushrut@Clinic – Science & Technology
Why in News?
The National Health Authority (NHA) and Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) signed an MoU to implement e-Sushrut@Clinic,
Aimed at enhancing digital healthcare delivery in outpatient (OPD) settings.
About e-Sushrut@Clinic
A lightweight, cloud-based Hospital Management Information System (HMIS) for small and medium healthcare providers.
Part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).
Simplifies onboarding & management of patient records in clinics.
Key Features
Feature
Details
Scope
Outpatient management, pharmacy, nursing modules.
Low Cost
Affordable per-user subscription → suited for small & medium clinics.
Registration
Providers can register directly if not in Health Facility Registry (HFR) or Health Professionals Registry (HPR).
Integration
Access to patient health records, prescriptions, diagnostics, telemedicine.
Decision Support
Utilises AIIMS Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS) for hypertension & diabetes.
Digital Health Linkage
Connected with ABDM ecosystem → ensures interoperability of health records.
Significance
Boosts digitisation of healthcare delivery in India.
Bridges the gap for small/medium clinics (major part of India’s healthcare).
Promotes efficient patient management & continuity of care.
Supports National Digital Health Ecosystem (NDHE) → citizen-centric healthcare services.
Challenges
Ensuring digital literacy among smaller healthcare providers.
Infrastructure limitations → internet connectivity in rural/semi-urban areas.
Data privacy & security → sensitive health data must be protected.
Integration with existing hospital systems & state-level health platforms.
Broader Context
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to:
Create a digital health ecosystem with Health IDs, registries, & interoperable systems.
Ensure citizen access to longitudinal health records.
C-DAC → premier R&D body under MeitY, developing indigenous IT solutions.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following institutions is responsible for implementing e-Sushrut@Clinic along with NHA? A. NIC B. C-DAC C. ICMR D. NITI Aayog Answer: B. C-DAC
Which national programme is e-Sushrut@Clinic a component of? A. Digital India Mission B. National e-Governance Plan C. Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission D. Make in India Answer: C. Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
Mains
Discuss how e-Sushrut@Clinic can strengthen India’s digital healthcare ecosystem under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.
Examine the challenges of adopting digital health platforms in India, especially for small and medium healthcare providers. Suggest measures to overcome them.
“Digitisation of healthcare is as important as physical infrastructure in ensuring equitable access.” Evaluate this statement in light of initiatives like e-Sushrut@Clinic.
6. Kishtwar Flash Floods: Role of Climate Change in J&K’s Extreme Weather – Environment
Why in News?
Kishtwar (Jammu & Kashmir) witnessed devastating flash floods near the Machail Mata temple route.
Impact: At least 65 deaths, 50+ missing.
Event highlights the rising frequency of extreme weather events in J&K, linked to climate change.
Key Takeaways
J&K recorded 2,863 extreme weather events (2010–2022).
Fatalities: 552 deaths.
Deadliest phenomenon: Heavy snowfall (182 deaths).
Flash floods & landslides increasingly frequent.
Types of Extreme Weather Events in J&K (2010–2022)
Thunderstorms → 1,942 incidents (most common).
Heavy Rainfall → 409 incidents.
Landslides → 186 incidents.
Heavy Snowfall → 182 deaths, high vulnerability.
Key Drivers of Extreme Weather
Climate Change & Rising Temperatures
Western Himalayas warming at 2x the rate of the Indian subcontinent since 2000.
Higher warming → intensified precipitation & severe rainfall.
Changing Western Disturbances
Traditionally winter systems, now occur outside winter months.
Lead to unseasonal heavy rainfall & floods.
Glacial Shrinkage
Melting glaciers → formation of unstable glacial lakes.
Heavy rainfall → sudden Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
Unique Topography of J&K
Mountainous terrain amplifies risk of flash floods & landslides.
Narrow valleys channel water quickly, magnifying flood impact.
Impact of Climate Change on J&K
Increased frequency of extreme events.
High vulnerability due to population density in valleys.
Enhanced glacial lake monitoring, high-resolution weather forecasting.
Policy Integration
Align state disaster management with India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
Which of the following is the deadliest extreme weather phenomenon in J&K (2010–2022)? A. Thunderstorms B. Heavy Rainfall C. Heavy Snowfall D. Landslides Answer: C. Heavy Snowfall
Western Disturbances are associated with which of the following? 1. Winter rainfall in North India 2. Flash floods in J&K during summer months 3. Origin in the Mediterranean region A. 1 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Mains
Discuss the role of climate change in increasing the frequency of flash floods and landslides in the Western Himalayas. Illustrate with examples from J&K.
“The topography of J&K amplifies the impact of climate change.” Examine this statement in the context of recent extreme weather disasters.
Suggest a comprehensive strategy for disaster preparedness and climate adaptation in Himalayan regions prone to extreme weather events.
7. National Gopal Ratna Award 2025 – Polity
Why in News?
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has invited nominations for the National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025.
These are among the highest national awards in the livestock & dairy sector, instituted to encourage excellence and innovation.
About the National Gopal Ratna Award
Initiated: 2021
Part of: Rashtriya Gokul Mission
Objective:
Promote indigenous cattle & buffalo breeds.
Recognise excellence in dairy farming, cooperatives, and allied services.
Strengthens dairy sector growth, particularly in NER & Himalayan states.
Contributes to Atmanirbhar Bharat by reducing dependence on imported cattle breeds.
Link with Rashtriya Gokul Mission
Mission launched to conserve & develop indigenous breeds.
Focuses on:
Breed improvement (genetic upgradation)
Scientific rearing practices
Value chain development in dairy sector.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
The National Gopal Ratna Awards were instituted under which scheme? A. National Dairy Plan B. Rashtriya Gokul Mission C. White Revolution Mission D. National Livestock Mission Answer: B. Rashtriya Gokul Mission
Which of the following are categories under the National Gopal Ratna Award?
Best Dairy Farmer
Best Dairy Cooperative/FPO/MPC
Best Artificial Insemination Technician
Best Veterinary Scientist A. 1, 2 and 3 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 2, 3 and 4 only D. All of the above Answer: A. 1, 2 and 3 only
Mains
Discuss the significance of the National Gopal Ratna Awards in promoting indigenous cattle and buffalo breeds in India.
Evaluate the role of dairy cooperatives and farmer producer organisations in strengthening India’s dairy economy, with reference to initiatives like the Gopal Ratna Awards.
“Recognising grassroots excellence is crucial for sustainable livestock development.” Critically examine this statement in the context of the National Gopal Ratna Awards.
