18th May 2025-Current Affairs

1. 50 Years of Sikkim’s Integration with India – Polity

Why in News?

• May 16 is celebrated as Sikkim Day, marking the date in 1975 when the Kingdom of Sikkim officially became the 22nd state of India.

Key Takeaways

1. Historical Background of Sikkim

• Founded in 1642: Coronation of Phuntsong Namgyal as the first Chogyal (King).
• Remained a Buddhist monarchy for 333 years.
• The rulers belonged to the Namgyal dynasty, which had strong Tibetan cultural and religious ties.

2. Colonial Era Treaties

• Treaty of Titaliya (1817): Between the British East India Company and Sikkim; reaffirmed British influence in the region.
• Treaty of Tumlong (1861):
  • Made Sikkim a British protectorate.
  • Chogyal retained internal sovereignty, but British controlled external affairs.
• Calcutta Convention (1890) & Lhasa Convention (1904): Consolidated British control over external affairs in Sikkim and surrounding regions.

3. Post-1947 Transition

• After Indian independence in 1947, Sikkim’s status as a British protectorate became uncertain.
• A Standstill Agreement was signed between Nehru’s government and Sikkim to maintain the status quo temporarily.

4. Indo-Sikkim Treaty (1950)

• Formalized Sikkim as an Indian Protectorate.
• India gained control over defense, communication, and foreign affairs.
• Sikkim retained autonomy in internal governance.

5. Events Leading to Merger (1975)

• Rising pro-democracy movements and internal discontent with monarchy.
• In April 1975, a referendum was held:
  • Over 97% voted in favor of abolishing the monarchy and joining India.
• India passed a constitutional amendment, officially making Sikkim the 22nd state of the Indian Union.

6. Article 371F: Special Provision for Sikkim

• Inserted via the 36th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1975.
• Ensures:
  • Protection of Sikkim’s cultural, religious, and social practices.
  • Recognition of pre-merger laws until altered or repealed by the legislature.
  • Special representation in the State Assembly.

Understanding the Significance

Political Significance:

• Marked the end of monarchy in Sikkim.
• Integration strengthened India’s strategic presence in the eastern Himalayas, bordering China, Bhutan, and Nepal.

Constitutional Significance:

• Example of peaceful democratic integration via referendum.
• Article 371F serves as a model for integrating culturally distinct regions while safeguarding local identities.

Strategic and Geopolitical Importance:

• Sikkim lies near the Chumbi Valley, a strategic tri-junction with China.
• Post-1975, India established stronger military presence in the region.

Summary

Sikkim, a Himalayan Buddhist monarchy founded in 1642, became a protectorate of British India in the 19th century. Post-independence, India gradually deepened its ties with Sikkim through treaties, especially the Indo-Sikkim Treaty of 1950. Due to political unrest and demand for democratic reforms, a 1975 referendum led to the abolition of the monarchy, and Sikkim’s peaceful integration into India as the 22nd state. Article 371F was introduced to protect Sikkim’s distinct identity and legal framework. The integration holds significance for India’s federalism, strategic security, and cultural pluralism.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements:

1. The Treaty of Tumlong (1861) made Sikkim a protectorate of India.
2. Article 371F of the Indian Constitution protects the cultural and legal rights of Sikkim.
   Which of the statements is/are correct?
   A. 1 only
   B. 2 only
   C. Both 1 and 2
   D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

2. Which of the following treaties is associated with making Sikkim a British protectorate?
A. Treaty of Titaliya
B. Treaty of Tumlong
C. Treaty of Salbai
D. Lhasa Convention

Answer: B

Mains

1. “Sikkim’s integration into India is a unique example of democratic expansion and constitutional accommodation.” Discuss with reference to Article 371F and the process of merger.

2. Analyze the constitutional mechanisms through which the Indian state integrates regions with distinct historical and cultural identities, with special reference to Sikkim.

3. Examine the strategic implications of Sikkim’s integration into India, especially in the context of India-China relations.

2. The New Normal After Pahalgam – India’s Response – International Relations

Why in News?

• In May 2025, a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, triggered Operation Sindoor—a significant Indian counter-terrorism operation.
• This event marked a shift in India’s counter-terrorism doctrine, redefining its strategic posture toward cross-border terrorism and regional security.

Key Takeaways

1. Operation Sindoor: The Turning Point

• A full-spectrum counter-terrorist operation, not limited to symbolic retaliation.
• Targeted nine high-value terrorist assets across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan.
• Showcased enhanced military preparedness and a proactive doctrine.

2. Doctrine Shift: From Restraint to Deterrence by Punishment

• Earlier strategy: “Strategic restraint” to avoid escalation, especially under nuclear threat from Pakistan.
• New doctrine: “Deterrence by punishment”, emphasizing decisive conventional retaliation.
• India now signals clear red lines and demonstrates willingness to cross LoC in response to terrorism.

3. Redefining the ‘New Normal’

• Reflects an evolution in India’s counter-terrorism response:
  • From measured diplomatic and covert responses to open, overt military action.
  • Accepts calibrated escalation as a tool of strategic signaling.
• Positions India as a regional actor ready to act unilaterally in defense of national security.

4. Role of the United States

• Initially adopted a non-interventionist stance.
• Later engaged diplomatically to manage risks of escalation, especially nuclear.
• Reinforced India’s commitment to strategic autonomy, i.e., avoiding formal third-party mediation.

5. Strategic Autonomy and Regional Stability

• India continues to reject external mediation, particularly on issues involving Pakistan and terrorism.
• Balancing act: Assertive action without inviting full-scale war or international backlash.
• This highlights India’s pursuit of regional leadership and independent defense strategy.

Analytical Insights

Implications for India-Pakistan Relations

• Pakistan may recalibrate its strategy in response to India’s overt conventional responses.
• Diminishes the deterrent value of Pakistan’s nuclear posture—India now operates under a “nuclear overhang” with increased confidence.

Impact on South Asian Security Architecture

• Could push South Asia into a more openly competitive security dynamic, increasing military vigilance across the region.
• Promotes a new status quo in which measured cross-border strikes are normalized as legitimate state responses.

Long-term Considerations for India

• Need to strengthen intelligence, cyber capabilities, and conventional forces to support new doctrine.
• Avoid over-reliance on military solutions; maintain diplomatic channels and international support.

Summary

Operation Sindoor, launched after the 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack, represents a strategic shift in India’s counter-terrorism doctrine from passive restraint to active deterrence through punishment. Unlike past responses, this operation targeted multiple high-value terrorist assets across the LoC, signaling a new normal in India’s security posture. Despite U.S. diplomatic involvement to prevent escalation, India reaffirmed its strategic autonomy. Going forward, India’s national security strategy is likely to involve a delicate balance of military strength, regional stability, and diplomatic self-reliance in a volatile South Asian environment.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following best describes the doctrine of “deterrence by punishment”?
A. Avoiding confrontation to reduce chances of escalation
B. Using covert diplomacy to resolve conflicts
C. Responding to aggression with overwhelming retaliatory force to deter future attacks
D. Allowing international bodies to mediate in bilateral conflicts

Answer: C

2. Operation Sindoor, conducted in 2025, is significant because:
A. It was India’s first operation in the Indian Ocean region.
B. It targeted terrorist camps within Indian territory.
C. It marked a doctrinal shift toward active deterrence through cross-border strikes.
D. It was led by a multilateral coalition involving the United States.

Answer: C

Mains

1. “Operation Sindoor reflects a shift in India’s strategic doctrine from defensive posturing to assertive deterrence.” Discuss in the context of India-Pakistan relations.

2. Examine the role of external actors, particularly the United States, in managing South Asian crises post-Operation Sindoor. What does this indicate about India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy?

3. How does India’s evolving counter-terrorism strategy balance regional stability with the need to assert its security red lines? Evaluate with reference to recent developments.

3. RBI’s Economic Capital Framework Under Review – Economy

Why in News?

• At its 615th board meeting, the RBI initiated a review of its Economic Capital Framework (ECF).
• This coincides with the Finance Ministry’s interest in higher dividend payouts, especially amid rising public expenditure (e.g., defense spending and pre-election spending pressures).
• The review could reshape the fiscal dynamics between the RBI and the Government of India.

Key Concepts

1. What is the Economic Capital Framework (ECF)?

• A guideline for how much capital the RBI should maintain as a buffer against risks.
• Helps determine how much of the RBI’s profits (surplus) can be safely transferred to the government.
• First introduced in 2019, based on recommendations of the Bimal Jalan Committee.

2. Contingency Risk Buffer (CRB)

• A critical component of ECF.
• Functions as a financial safeguard against market volatility, exchange rate risks, credit risks, etc.
• The Bimal Jalan committee recommended keeping CRB within a range of 5.5% to 6.5% of the RBI’s balance sheet.
• Surplus (dividend) transfers to the government can only happen once CRB is adequately funded.

Current Developments

Why is the ECF Being Reviewed Now?

• Five-year review cycle: The Jalan committee suggested a periodic review every 5 years, hence the review initiated in January 2025.
• The government wants to unlock more capital for fiscal spending.
• There are suggestions that the current CRB range might be too conservative, implying that a lower CRB could free up more funds for dividend transfers.

Fiscal Implications

Record Surplus Transfers

• FY 2023–24: ₹1.11 lakh crore transferred (a record high).
• FY 2024–25 (projected): Estimated between ₹2.5 lakh crore and ₹3 lakh crore—a significant fiscal boost for the government.

Importance of Surplus Transfers

• The RBI’s surplus acts as a non-tax revenue source for the central government.
• Helps bridge the fiscal deficit without borrowing.
• Particularly useful in election years or when there is increased defense and infrastructure spending.

Analytical Insights

Balancing Autonomy and Fiscal Needs

• RBI must ensure financial stability, so any loosening of CRB norms must still maintain the central bank’s credibility and resilience.
• On the other hand, the government’s demand for higher dividends reflects the growing pressure on public finances.

Strategic Importance

• The review is not merely technical—it could redefine the fiscal compact between India’s central bank and the government.
• Raises key questions:
  • How independent should the RBI remain in financial matters?
  • Can fiscal consolidation rely on central bank transfers without long-term risks?

Summary

The Economic Capital Framework (ECF) governs how much financial cushion the RBI maintains before transferring surplus profits to the government. Established in 2019 based on the Bimal Jalan Committee, it ensures risk provisioning through a Contingency Risk Buffer (CRB). Amid increasing public spending demands, especially ahead of elections, the RBI is reviewing the ECF, potentially allowing for higher dividend payouts. With a record surplus transfer already made in FY 2023–24 and more expected in FY 2024–25, this review could restructure fiscal support and test the balance between central bank autonomy and government expenditure needs.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about the Economic Capital Framework (ECF):

1. It was introduced on the recommendation of the Urjit Patel Committee.
2. It includes a provision called the Contingency Risk Buffer (CRB).
3. The ECF allows the RBI to transfer all its annual profits to the government.

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

Answer: A

2. The “Contingency Risk Buffer” in the context of the RBI’s ECF is:
A. A mechanism to regulate Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
B. A fund to finance public sector banks.
C. A capital buffer to safeguard the RBI against financial risks.
D. A fund for managing inflation.

Answer: C

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of the Economic Capital Framework (ECF) in maintaining the financial independence of the RBI while meeting the fiscal needs of the government. Should the Contingency Risk Buffer be revised?

2. How does the surplus transfer from the RBI to the government impact fiscal deficit management and public expenditure priorities? Critically evaluate in light of the 2025 ECF review.

4. Supreme Court Strikes Down Ex-Post Facto Environmental Clearance – Polity

Why in News?

• In a landmark 2025 ruling, the Supreme Court of India invalidated:
  • The 2017 notification by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
  • The 2021 Office Memorandum (OM)
• These allowed ex-post facto (retrospective) environmental clearances for projects that began operations without prior approval.
• The Court upheld the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 and reinforced Article 21 of the Constitution (Right to a pollution-free environment).

Key Concepts

What is Environmental Clearance (EC)?

• A statutory requirement for any industrial or infrastructure project to assess environmental impacts before commencement.
• Governed by the EIA Notification of 2006, issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

What is Ex-Post Facto Clearance?

• A post-approval mechanism where a project that began without EC is retrospectively legalized.
• Violates the principle of “prior informed decision-making” and the precautionary principle in environmental law.

The Supreme Court’s Rulin

1. Annulled Notifications

• 2017 Notification: Gave a 6-month amnesty to projects operating without EC.
• 2021 Office Memorandum (OM): Outlined procedures for reviewing such violations.
• The Court held that both legalized what was otherwise unlawful, undermining environmental safeguards.

2. Prior Clearance is Mandatory

• The judgment permanently bars ex-post facto ECs, reinforcing the need for:
  • Preliminary environmental scrutiny
  • Transparent project planning
  • Legal compliance from the outset

3. Constitutional Backing

• Article 21: Right to life includes the right to a clean and pollution-free environment.
• Article 51A(g): Fundamental duty of citizens to protect and improve the natural environment.

Legal & Institutional Implications

Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

• The ruling strengthens this Act as the central legal framework for environmental regulation.
• Reinforces the EIA 2006 Notification as the foundational law for EC procedures.

Criticism of the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC)

• The EAC was criticized for approving more than 100 projects under the violation category, including coal, cement, and real estate.
• The verdict questions the integrity and independence of environmental institutions.

Alignment with Global Norms

• India’s closure of the ex-post facto route aligns with global environmental governance standards, especially:
  • Precautionary Principle
  • Polluter Pays Principle
  • Sustainable Development

Analytical Insights

Balancing Development and Environment

• The Court underscores that economic development cannot override environmental laws.
• Projects that skip ECs not only breach laws but degrade public trust and natural ecosystems.

Environmental Rule of Law

• This case reinforces the rule of law in environmental governance, making non-compliance legally untenable.
• Encourages companies to internalize environmental due diligence.

Summary

In a pivotal decision, the Supreme Court struck down ex-post facto environmental clearance mechanisms introduced by the 2017 MoEFCC Notification and the 2021 OM, reaffirming that prior EC is a legal and constitutional mandate. The ruling strengthens environmental governance, upholds Article 21, and brings Indian practice in line with international standards. It serves as a judicial reaffirmation that environmental protection is not a procedural formality, but a substantive constitutional right.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following Articles of the Indian Constitution has been interpreted to include the right to a clean environment?
A. Article 19
B. Article 14
C. Article 21
D. Article 39

Answer: C

2. The Supreme Court recently struck down ex-post facto environmental clearances. Which of the following was criticized for facilitating such clearances?
A. Central Pollution Control Board
B. Forest Advisory Committee
C. Expert Appraisal Committee
D. NITI Aayog

Answer: C

Mains

1. “The Supreme Court’s ruling against ex-post facto environmental clearance is a critical moment in India’s environmental jurisprudence.” Discuss its implications on environmental governance and sustainable development.

2. Examine how the right to a pollution-free environment under Article 21 has evolved through judicial interpretation. How does the recent judgment on ex-post facto environmental clearance add to this jurisprudence?

3. Evaluate the role of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in ensuring sustainable development. Should EIA procedures be made more stringent in light of recent environmental violations?

5. Permanent Lok Adalats (PLAs) – Polity

Why in News?

• Permanent Lok Adalats (PLAs) in 16 districts of Rajasthan have stopped functioning due to the non-renewal of tenure for presiding officers and members.
• This has raised concerns over access to affordable and continuous dispute resolution, especially in cases related to public utility services.

Key Concepts

What are Permanent Lok Adalats?

• Statutory bodies established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
• Introduced via amendments in 2002, to provide permanent and continuous dispute resolution mechanisms for public utility services.
• Unlike regular Lok Adalats, which are held periodically and rely purely on mutual settlement, PLAs:
  • Operate permanently
  • Have adjudicatory powers if conciliation fails

Legal and Operational Framework

Legal Basis

• Section 22-B of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987
• Empowered to pre-litigatively resolve disputes related to public utility services.

Disputes Handled

PLAs deal with disputes concerning the following public utility services:

Composition of PLAs

Functioning and Powers

Key Features

• PLAs function continuously, not on an ad hoc basis.
• Pre-litigation stage: Disputes must be brought before they go to regular courts.

Jurisdiction and Limits

• Can handle claims up to ₹1 crore.
• If parties fail to reach a settlement through conciliation, PLAs can adjudicate and issue a binding award.
• Their award is final and enforceable, like a civil court decree.

Current Issue in Rajasthan

• In 16 districts, PLAs have ceased operations due to:
  • Delay in reappointment or extension of tenure of members
  • Administrative lapses affecting access to justice
• Highlights governance gaps in sustaining Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) systems, especially in rural and underserved regions.

Significance

Enhancing Access to Justice

• PLAs provide cost-effective, speedy, and citizen-friendly dispute resolution.
• Vital for poor and marginalized groups who cannot afford prolonged litigation.

Reducing Court Burden

• Help in decongesting regular courts by handling cases outside the formal judicial system.

Promoting Trust in Public Services

• By quickly resolving disputes with service providers, PLAs help restore public confidence in essential utilities.

Summary

Permanent Lok Adalats (PLAs) are statutory bodies under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, empowered to resolve disputes related to public utility services. Operating continuously and with powers of adjudication, PLAs offer speedy and low-cost justice. The recent shutdown of PLAs in Rajasthan due to administrative delays in appointments reveals structural weaknesses and threatens access to justice in essential service sectors. The situation underscores the urgent need for institutional continuity and governance accountability.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following statements about Permanent Lok Adalats (PLAs) is/are correct?

1. PLAs can adjudicate disputes even when conciliation fails.
2. They are established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
3. PLAs can handle disputes related to public utility services only.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B

2. The term “Permanent Lok Adalat” refers to:
A. A constitutional body dealing with civil litigation.
B. A statutory tribunal dealing with environmental disputes.
C. An institution that handles public utility disputes through pre-litigation conciliation and adjudication.
D. A legal forum that only handles criminal cases related to public services.

Answer: C

Mains

1. Discuss the role of Permanent Lok Adalats in promoting access to justice in India. What challenges are affecting their functioning, and how can these be addressed?

2. Evaluate the significance of Permanent Lok Adalats as part of India’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) framework. How do they contribute to reducing the burden on the judiciary

3. With reference to the recent non-functioning of PLAs in Rajasthan, analyze the administrative and policy gaps that hinder the performance of dispute resolution bodies in India.

6. Turning Around Nutrition Outcomes in India – Governance

Why in News?

Despite sustained economic growth and large-scale welfare programs like POSHAN Abhiyaan, malnutrition—especially among women and girls—remains a critical challenge in India. The issue has been exacerbated by deep-rooted gender norms and poor utilization of existing schemes, calling for a rethink in policy design and implementation.

Key Concepts and Data

1. Persistent Malnutrition Despite Progress

• 57% of women (15–49 yrs) are anaemic, compared to 26% of men.
• Malnutrition disproportionately affects women and children, reducing intergenerational health outcomes.

2. POSHAN Abhiyaan (2018–2022) and POSHAN 2.0

• Objective: Eliminate malnutrition, stunting, undernutrition, anaemia by 2022.
• POSHAN 2.0 (launched in 2021): An integrated nutrition support program combining:
  • Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
  • Anganwadi Services
  • Scheme for Adolescent Girls
  • Nutrition support for pregnant and lactating women
• 2022–23 Budget: ₹20,263 crore
  • Utilization: Only 69%; anaemia rates increased despite high allocation.

Gender Dimensions of Malnutrition

1. Nutritional Inequality Rooted in Cultural Norms

• In many households, women eat last and least, affecting their calorie and nutrient intake.
• Undernourished mothers are more likely to give birth to malnourished children, perpetuating a vicious cycle.

2. Women’s Economic Disempowerment

• Only 5% of Indian women have regular salaried jobs.
• Lack of financial control leads to limited agency over household nutrition choices, even when aware of best practices.

3. Empowerment-Nutrition Link

• Studies show that when women control resources, families (especially children) have better nutrition outcomes.
• Awareness campaigns alone are insufficient unless coupled with economic and social empowerment.

Key Issues with Implementation

Way Forward

Rethinking POSHAN 2.0

• Shift from targeted food provision to a rights-based and gender-responsive approach.
• Strengthen Anganwadi infrastructure and capacity building.
• Introduce digital monitoring systems for transparency.

Empower Women as Agents of Change

• Promote female employment, land rights, and self-help group (SHG) participation.
• Link nutrition goals with financial inclusion programs like Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile (JAM) trinity.

Intersectoral Convergence

• Integrate nutrition programs with:
  • National Health Mission (NHM)
  • Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (for hygiene)
  • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (for awareness)
  • MGNREGA (for economic empowerment)

Summary

India continues to face alarming levels of malnutrition, particularly among women and girls, despite substantial investments in initiatives like POSHAN 2.0. Key issues include low fund utilization, entrenched gender norms, and limited female economic agency. Empowering women economically and socially is not just a supplementary action—it is central to achieving nutrition goals. A gender-transformative approach that positions women as decision-makers and not just beneficiaries is essential for long-term success in building a healthy, nourished India.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. POSHAN 2.0 is implemented by which of the following ministries?
A. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
B. Ministry of Women and Child Development
C. Ministry of Rural Development
D. Ministry of Education

Answer: B

2. Which of the following is/are components of POSHAN 2.0?

1. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
2. Scheme for Adolescent Girls
3. Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana
4. National Health Mission

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. All of the above

Answer: B

Mains

1. Discuss the role of gender norms and women’s economic empowerment in improving nutrition outcomes in India. How can programs like POSHAN 2.0 evolve to address these factors?

2. Critically evaluate the implementation of POSHAN 2.0. What are the key challenges in achieving nutritional security in India?

3. Malnutrition in India is not merely a health issue, but a governance and equity challenge. Explain with reference to recent nutrition data and policies.

7. Restoration of Rajon ki Baoli – History & Culture

Why in News?

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in collaboration with private stakeholders, has completed the restoration of Rajon ki Baoli, a 16th-century stepwell located in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Delhi.
• The initiative highlights the importance of heritage conservation and reflects the architectural and cultural richness of the Lodi period.

Historical Background

Rajon ki Baoli

• Built in: 1506 CE
• Commissioned by: Daulat Khan Lodi, a noble in the court of Sikandar Lodi
• Name meaning: “Rajon” refers to masons, suggesting the baoli was frequented or constructed by skilled stone workers.
• Part of Lodi-era urban infrastructure that blended utility with aesthetics.

Lodi Dynasty (1451–1526)

• Founder: Bahlul Lodi (first Afghan ruler of Delhi)
• Notable rulers:
  • Sikandar Lodi: Known for patronizing architecture, agriculture, and language (supported Persian and vernaculars)
  • Ibrahim Lodi: Last Lodi ruler, defeated by Babur at the First Battle of Panipat (1526), leading to the rise of the Mughal Empire
• Contributed significantly to urban planning and hydraulic structures like baolis (stepwells).

Architectural Features

Purpose and Cultural Significance

Utility

• Served as a water reservoir during Delhi’s dry seasons.
• Acted as a resting space for travelers, pilgrims, and the local community.

Social and Religious Role

• Stepwells like Rajon ki Baoli had ritualistic and social functions—used for ablutions, prayers, and gatherings.
• Often linked with Islamic funerary architecture, indicating spiritual use alongside utility.

Restoration Efforts

• Led by: ASI, with support from corporate social responsibility (CSR) partners
• Focus areas:
  • Cleaning and waterproofing the stepwell
  • Restoring damaged medallions and arches
  • Landscaping surrounding heritage zone
• Promotes public awareness, tourism, and cultural education

Analytical Insights

Importance of Stepwells

• Unique to semi-arid regions of India, especially Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi.
• Combine engineering, art, and architecture to provide sustainable water management solutions.
• Stepwells are symbols of civilizational ingenuity.

Heritage Conservation

• Restoration of sites like Rajon ki Baoli showcases:
  • Importance of public-private partnerships (PPP)
  • Role of conservation in urban planning
  • Need for integrated cultural policy to preserve India’s layered history

Summary

Rajon ki Baoli, built in 1506 CE during the Lodi era, is a remarkable example of Indo-Islamic stepwell architecture located in Mehrauli, Delhi. Recently restored by the Archaeological Survey of India, this four-tiered structure reflects the engineering skill, religious syncretism, and community-centered design of medieval India. As part of broader Lodi architectural legacy, the Baoli symbolizes how heritage conservation can revive historical awareness and promote sustainable tourism. The restoration also underscores the continuing need to preserve functional heritage that once served vital water and social needs.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Rajon ki Baoli, recently restored, is associated with which dynasty?
A. Tughlaq
B. Mughal
C. Lodi
D. Slave

Answer: C

2. Consider the following statements about Rajon ki Baoli:

1. It is a stepwell located in Gujarat.
2. It was built by Daulat Khan Lodi during the reign of Sikandar Lodi.
3. The structure includes a mosque and a tomb.
   Which of the statements is/are correct?
   A. 1 only
   B. 2 and 3 only
   C. 1 and 2 only
   D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B

Mains

1. Stepwells in India reflect a unique synthesis of architecture, engineering, and cultural utility. Discuss with reference to Rajon ki Baoli and its recent restoration.

2. Examine the significance of heritage restoration projects like Rajon ki Baoli in promoting cultural awareness and sustainable urban development.

3. Assess the contribution of the Lodi dynasty to the architectural and urban development of Delhi. Illustrate your answer with examples.