19th April 2025-Current Affairs

by | Apr 29, 2025 | Current Affairs

1. International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Establishes Headquarters in India – International Relations

Why in News?

  • India has been designated as the headquarters and permanent secretariat for the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA).
  • This landmark step emphasizes India’s global leadership in wildlife conservation and positions it as a global conservation hub for big cat species.
  • IBCA is the world’s first intergovernmental alliance focused exclusively on big cat conservation.

About International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

AspectDetails
LaunchBy PM Narendra Modi during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger (April 2023)
Treaty StatusBecame a global treaty-based organization after ratification by five nations in September 2023
Member CountriesOpen to all UN member countries (range and non-range countries)
Founding MembersIndia, Nicaragua, Eswatini, Somalia, Liberia
Focus SpeciesTiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar, Cheetah

Institutional Support and Funding

  • India’s Contribution (2023–2028):
    • ₹150 crore (approx.) corpus fund.
    • Infrastructure and operational cost support.
    • Covering secretariat’s recurring expenses initially.
  • Future Funding:
    • Expected from membership fees, voluntary donations, bilateral/multilateral grants.

IBCA’s Purpose and Goals

ObjectiveInitiatives Planned
Conservation and ResearchSharing best practices, coordinating conservation projects
Capacity BuildingTraining of field personnel, veterinary support, and anti-poaching measures
Technology TransferPromoting use of camera traps, GPS telemetry, and genetic studies
Community EngagementIncentivizing local communities living near big cat habitats
Crisis ManagementRapid deployment teams for rescue/mitigation during poaching, habitat loss

Why India? (Strategic Importance)

  • India hosts 5 of the 7 big cat species.
  • Success of Project Tiger, Project Lion, and Project Cheetah (reintroduction) showcases India’s conservation prowess.
  • India’s model of eco-development with people’s participation serves as an example internationally.
  • Enhances India’s soft power diplomacy in environmental leadership.

Relevance & Local Application

  • GS Paper II – International Relations & Conservation Diplomacy:
    • Showcases India’s leadership in wildlife protection and multilateral environmental cooperation.
    • Useful for questions connecting sustainable development goals (SDGs) with foreign policy.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • Snow Leopard conservation in HP can link with IBCA initiatives (Hemis–Spiti–Lahaul corridor).
    • HP can seek technical and financial support from IBCA for landscape conservation programs.

Summary


India has been chosen as the headquarters for the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), highlighting its leadership in global wildlife conservation. IBCA, a treaty-based intergovernmental alliance, focuses on protecting seven big cat species and promoting collaborative conservation practices. India’s success with initiatives like Project Tiger and Project Cheetah makes it a fitting leader for this mission. The alliance will foster research, community engagement, and technological support among member nations. This move strengthens India’s environmental diplomacy and contributes to global biodiversity goals.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

1. Which of the following big cats are included in the International Big Cat Alliance’s focus species?

  1. Tiger
  2. Snow Leopard
  3. Cougar (Puma)
  4. Lynx

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

Answer: a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(Note: Lynx is not part of IBCA focus species.)

2. The headquarters of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is located in:
a) Geneva
b) New York
c) Nairobi
d) India
Answer: d) India

Mains :

  1. “The establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance in India elevates India’s environmental diplomacy.” Discuss the strategic and conservation implications of this development.
    (GS Paper II – International Relations / Environmental Policy)
  2. “Wildlife conservation efforts must balance species protection with community livelihoods.” Critically analyze India’s big cat conservation strategies in light of global cooperation initiatives like IBCA.
    (GS Paper II – Governance / Environment Diplomacy)

2. Making Primary Health Visible: Challenges and Initiatives in India – Governance

Why in News?

  • The evolution of public health challenges such as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and mental health crises has spotlighted the urgent need to reform India’s public healthcare system.
  • Government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat aim to address these systemic challenges through financial protection, primary care strengthening, and health infrastructure development.

Major Public Health Challenges in India

ChallengeDetails and Data Points
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)Account for ~60% of global deaths; NFHS-5: 20% Indian adults have high blood pressure
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)Overuse of antibiotics leads to drug-resistant infections; ICMR reports rise in colistin resistance
Mental Health CrisisWHO: India loses ~$1 trillion annually in productivity; ~80% treatment gap due to stigma, resource gaps

Major Public Health Initiatives

Scheme/InitiativeObjective and Components
Ayushman Bharat – PM-JAY₹5 lakh annual health coverage for poor and vulnerable families
Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs)Strengthening Health and Wellness Centres for preventive, curative, and rehabilitative services
PM-ABHIM (Health Infra Mission)Infrastructure boost: Critical Care Units, Disease Surveillance Labs at district level

Why Is There a Lack of Trust in Public Healthcare?

IssueImpact
Poor User ExperienceLong wait times, overcrowding lead to dissatisfaction
Inconsistent InfrastructureLack of essential medicines, equipment, and sanitation
Communication Gaps and StigmaEspecially acute in mental health services, leading to avoidance of public care

Private vs Public Healthcare in India

Public SectorPrivate Sector
Affordable but overcrowded; inconsistent qualityBetter infrastructure, but high treatment costs
Located across rural and urban areasPredominantly urban, limited rural reach
Government-funded, mission-drivenMarket-driven, focused on profitable services

Role of National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS)

FunctionOutcome
Service StandardizationEnsures clinical protocols, patient safety, and hygiene practices
Performance MonitoringDrives accountability and continuous quality improvement
Public ConfidenceAligns public hospitals with global healthcare quality norms

Way Forward

Action AreaSpecific Strategy
Invest in InfrastructureEquip public hospitals with adequate staff, modern equipment
Enhance Public TrustConduct awareness campaigns on free health schemes and quality improvements
Address NCDs and Mental HealthScale-up screening at primary health centres; destigmatize mental illness
Strengthen Disease SurveillanceBoost public health data systems for early response to AMR and zoonoses

Relevance & Local Application

  • GS Paper II – Governance, Health Sector Reform:
    • Key for writing answers on public health failures and reform strategies.
    • Useful for discussing SDG Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • HP’s health initiatives (e.g., HIMCARE, Mukhya Mantri Chikitsa Sahayata Kosh) aim at universal health coverage.
    • Need to upgrade rural health infrastructure in tribal and remote areas like Lahaul-Spiti and Chamba.

Summary


India’s public health system faces growing pressure from non-communicable diseases (NCDs), antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and mental health issues. Government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and PM-ABHIM aim to strengthen primary healthcare through better infrastructure, insurance coverage, and wellness centres. However, poor service quality, overcrowding, and stigma continue to undermine public trust. National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) help raise standards, but systemic reforms and public awareness are essential for long-term impact. Strengthening primary care is crucial for achieving universal health coverage and addressing future health crises.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which of the following is not a component of Ayushman Bharat?
a) Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)
b) Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Health and Wellness Centres)
c) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
d) PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM)
Answer: c) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana

2. National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) are related to:
a) Accreditation of engineering colleges
b) Rating of rural roads
c) Benchmarking government hospitals’ service delivery
d) Food safety standards
Answer: c) Benchmarking government hospitals’ service delivery

Mains :

  1. “Primary healthcare is the foundation of a resilient public health system.” Discuss India’s efforts in strengthening primary healthcare, highlighting the challenges posed by NCDs and AMR.
    (GS Paper II – Governance / Social Justice)
  2. Analyze the causes behind the declining trust in India’s public health services. Suggest measures to revitalize faith in government healthcare systems.
    (GS Paper II – Health Infrastructure / Public Administration)

3. India’s Prison Crisis: Overcrowding and Healthcare Challenges – Polity

Why in News?

  • The India Justice Report 2025 highlights severe overcrowding, healthcare shortfalls, and mental health crises in India’s prisons.
  • With inmate numbers projected to reach 6.8 lakh by 2030, and a 43% vacancy rate for medical officers, urgent prison reforms are needed to ensure basic rights and dignity for prisoners.

Key Findings from India Justice Report 2025

IssueDetails
OvercrowdingCurrent occupancy at 131% nationally (Ideal: 100%)
Rising Prison PopulationFrom 3.8 lakh (2012)5.7 lakh (2022)6.8 lakh projected (2030)
Healthcare Personnel Shortage1 doctor for every 775 prisoners (Recommended: 1:300)
Mental Health Services DeficitOnly 25 psychologists available for 5.7 lakh inmates
Disability Data GapNo national database on disabled prisoners, affecting rights protection

Constitutional and Legal Framework for Prisoners’ Rights

Law / ProvisionSafeguard
Article 21 (Right to Life)Includes right to live with dignity; applies to prisoners too
Prison Act, 1894Governs prison administration, though outdated
Model Prison Manual, 2016Recommends standards for prisoner care, rehabilitation, healthcare
UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules)International benchmark India endorses

Critical Challenges in India’s Prisons

ChallengeImpact
Infrastructural OverloadInmates living in cramped, unsanitary conditions
Healthcare NeglectInadequate medical care leads to higher morbidity and mortality
Neglect of Mental HealthLeads to increased suicides, depression, behavioral disorders
Undertrial PrisonersAbout 77% of India’s prison population are undertrials, often detained for minor offenses
Inadequate Budget AllocationsPoor maintenance of facilities, shortage of rehabilitation programs

Recent Government Initiatives

InitiativeObjective
E-Prisons ProjectDigitization of prisoner management system for better monitoring
National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) InitiativesSpeedier bail processes, legal aid camps inside prisons
Model Prisons Act, 2023 (Draft)Proposes reform including provision for parole, furlough, and minimum healthcare standards

Way Forward

StrategyDetails
Improve Prison InfrastructureBuild more prisons and enhance facilities to match population growth
Recruit Medical and Mental Health StaffMandatory ratio enforcement for doctors and counselors
Fast-Track Undertrial ReleaseBail reforms, plea bargaining, community service options
Establish Disability and Mental Health ProtocolsTailored interventions for prisoners with special needs
Promote Non-Custodial AlternativesCommunity service, probation for non-violent offenders

Relevance & Local Application

  • GS Paper II – Governance and Justice Reforms:
    • Important for answering questions on rights of vulnerable sections, criminal justice administration, and human dignity.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • HP prisons face similar concerns: overcrowding at Model Central Jail Nahan, lack of mental health services.
    • Application of digital monitoring and legal aid in HP prisons is vital for improving rehabilitation outcomes.

Summary


The India Justice Report 2025 reveals critical issues in India’s prison system, including 131% overcrowding, severe healthcare shortages, and a growing mental health crisis. With undertrials making up 77% of inmates and a poor doctor-to-prisoner ratio, the system faces mounting human rights concerns. Despite reforms like the E-Prisons Project and the draft Model Prisons Act 2023, significant gaps remain in infrastructure, staffing, and rehabilitation. Urgent reforms are needed to uphold prisoners’ dignity, improve health services, and promote alternatives to incarceration.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. The “Nelson Mandela Rules” refer to:
a) Guidelines for juvenile rehabilitation
b) UN rules for treatment of prisoners
c) Principles for refugee protection
d) Climate change mitigation standards

Answer: b) UN rules for treatment of prisoners

2. Which of the following statements is/are correct about India’s prison system?

Answer: a) 1 only
(Note: Prison management is a State List subject.)

Mains :

  1. “India’s prison system reflects the deeper social and governance challenges in the justice delivery system.” Critically analyze in the light of the India Justice Report 2025 findings.
    (GS Paper II – Governance / Social Justice)
  2. Suggest measures to address the challenges of overcrowding and healthcare deficiency in Indian prisons. Highlight the role of judicial reforms and prison modernization.
    (GS Paper II – Criminal Justice Reform / Governance)

4. Government’s Equity Conversion in Vodafone Idea: Telecom Sector Revival – Economy

Why in News?

  • The Government of India has converted ₹36,950 crore of Vodafone Idea’s (Vi) deferred spectrum dues into 49% equity stake.
  • This strategic intervention aims to stabilize the telecom sector, protect banking sector exposure, and preserve competition.

Background: Vodafone Idea’s Financial Distress

IssueDetails
Supreme Court AGR Judgment (2019)Vi faced a huge burden due to legacy Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues.
Competition PressurePrice wars after Reliance Jio’s entry intensified financial distress.
Liquidity CrunchHigh debt, stagnant revenue, and delay in 5G investments hampered Vi’s competitiveness.
Banking Sector RiskVi’s collapse would expose banks to large NPAs, affecting financial stability.

Government’s Strategic Move

StepDetails
Equity Conversion₹36,950 crore spectrum liabilities converted into government-held shares (49%)
Cash Flow Relief~₹44,200 crore liquidity improvement projected between FY26–FY28
FundraisingVi raised ₹18,000 crore via FPO (Follow-on Public Offer) in April 2024
Debt PlansPlans to raise ₹25,000 crore more in debt to invest in network expansion
Operational Control RetainedStill managed by Vodafone Group and Aditya Birla Group to avoid full nationalization

Key Objectives Behind the Intervention

  • Avoid Telecom Sector Duopoly: Prevent market dominance by just two players (Jio and Airtel).
  • Safeguard Digital Ecosystem: Telecom infrastructure underpins digital governance, fintech, and startups.
  • Banking Sector Protection: Minimize potential non-performing asset (NPA) surge from telecom sector collapse.
  • Preserve Competition and Innovation: Ensures affordability and innovation for consumers.

Way Forward for Vodafone Idea

Focus AreaAction Points
Network ExpansionStrengthen 4G coverage; initiate 5G rollout.
ARPU GrowthImprove Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) through better service offerings.
Reduce Customer ChurnEnhance service quality to retain subscribers.
Financial SustainabilityTimely debt management and operational efficiency.

Relevance & Local Application

  • GS Paper III – Economy (Infrastructure & Industrial Policy):
    • Illustrates government intervention to stabilize critical sectors without resorting to nationalization.
    • Great example for questions on public-private partnerships, infrastructure financing, and digital economy development.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • Telecom connectivity improvements are crucial for remote rural areas, e-governance, tourism, and start-up ecosystems in HP.

Summary


The Indian government has converted ₹36,950 crore of Vodafone Idea’s spectrum dues into a 49% equity stake to stabilize the telecom sector. This move prevents market duopoly, protects banks from potential NPAs, and supports digital infrastructure. Despite the equity stake, operational control remains with Vodafone and Aditya Birla Group. With additional fundraising and network expansion planned, the aim is to restore financial health and competitiveness while safeguarding consumer choice and digital innovation.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. The term Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR), often in the news, refers to:
a) Total income earned by telecom companies before paying any dues
b) Revenue earned by telecom companies used to calculate government levies
c) Spectrum fee paid by telecom operators annually
d) Profit margin from broadband services

Answer: b) Revenue earned by telecom companies used to calculate government levies

2. Which of the following companies currently form the major players in India’s telecom sector?

  1. Reliance Jio
  2. Bharti Airtel
  3. Vodafone Idea
  4. Tata Communications

Select the correct answer:
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 1, 2 and 4 only
d) All of the above

Answer: a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(Note: Tata Communications operates mainly in enterprise solutions, not consumer telecom.)

Mains :

  1. “The government’s equity conversion in Vodafone Idea reflects a strategic balancing between market stability and regulatory integrity.” Critically evaluate.
    (GS Paper III – Economy / Infrastructure)
  2. Discuss the importance of a robust telecom sector for India’s digital economy. Highlight recent government interventions to stabilize the sector.
    (GS Paper III – Economy / Digital Infrastructure)

5. Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) in India’s Coal Plants – Environment

Why in News?

  • A study commissioned by the Principal Scientific Adviser has advised reconsideration of the 2015 Environment Ministry directive that mandated FGD installation in all 537 coal-fired power plants.
  • Debate continues between environmental urgency and economic feasibility regarding full-scale FGD implementation across India’s thermal sector.

What is Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)?

AspectDetails
PurposeRemoves Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) from exhaust gases of fossil-fuel power plants
EfficiencyCan eliminate up to 95% of SO₂ emissions
Technology UsedMainly wet scrubbers with limestone slurry (calcium carbonate), or ammonia
OutputProduces by-products like gypsum (can be used in construction)

FGD Process Overview (Wet Limestone Method)

StepDescription
1. Flue Gas CaptureHot gases from combustion are directed into a scrubber tower
2. Scrubbing ReactionLimestone slurry is sprayed into gas; SO₂ reacts with calcium carbonate to form calcium sulphite
3. Gypsum FormationFurther oxidation of calcium sulphite forms calcium sulphate (gypsum)
4. Emission ControlCleaned gas with drastically reduced SO₂ is released into the atmosphere

Importance of FGD

Environmental ReasonImpact
Control of Acid RainSO₂ is a major cause of acid rain; FGD reduces this drastically
Public Health ProtectionReduces respiratory and cardiovascular diseases linked to air pollution
Compliance with Emission NormsEssential for meeting India’s air quality targets and international commitments (e.g., Paris Agreement)

Challenges in Implementing FGD in India

IssueExplanation
High Capital CostsFGD installation can cost ₹5–₹7 crore per MW, burdening power producers
Operational CostsIncreases cost of power production by 20–25 paise per kWh
Water UsageWet FGD consumes large quantities of water—a concern in arid regions
Coal Quality VariabilityIndian coal has low sulphur content (~0.5%), leading to debate on necessity in all plants

Relevance & Local Application

  • GS Paper III – Environmental Management & Pollution Control:
    • Useful for writing answers about technological interventions in managing air pollution.
    • Connects with Himachal Pradesh’s commitment to clean energy transition, despite limited dependence on coal.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • HP focuses more on hydropower and renewable energy, but industrial pollution control measures can still learn from national FGD experiences (e.g., in cement plants, brick kilns).

Summary


Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) technology, which removes up to 95% of sulfur dioxide emissions, is crucial for reducing acid rain and improving air quality. While India mandated FGD in all coal power plants in 2015, a recent study questions its economic viability due to high installation and operational costs, especially given India’s low-sulphur coal. The debate now centers on balancing environmental benefits with financial and logistical constraints, especially for water-scarce and cash-strapped regions.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) technology is primarily used to control the emission of:
a) Carbon Dioxide
b) Methane
c) Sulfur Dioxide
d) Nitrogen Oxides

Answer: c) Sulfur Dioxide

2. Which of the following is a by-product of the wet FGD process using limestone?
a) Calcium chloride
b) Gypsum
c) Ammonium nitrate
d) Potassium sulphate

Answer: b) Gypsum

Mains :

  1. Discuss the role of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) technology in reducing industrial air pollution. What are the challenges in making FGD mandatory across Indian thermal power plants?
    (GS Paper III – Environment / Pollution Control Technologies)
  2. Critically evaluate the environmental and economic trade-offs involved in large-scale adoption of pollution control technologies like FGD in developing countries.
    (GS Paper III – Economy / Sustainable Development)

6. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) – International Relations

Why in News?

  • The Trump administration’s decision to phase out animal testing in specific federal research was welcomed by PETA and other animal rights organizations.
  • Highlights the growing global influence of non-state actors like PETA in shaping ethical standards and public policies internationally.

About PETA

AspectDetails
Full FormPeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
Founded1980 by Ingrid Newkirk and Alex Pacheco
HeadquartersNorfolk, Virginia, USA
MembershipOver 9 million global members and supporters
Philosophical InspirationPeter Singer’s book Animal Liberation (1975)

Mission and Focus Areas

MissionFocus Areas
Animal Rights AdvocacyPromote animal interests as an essential consideration in human decisions
Ending SpeciesismOppose discrimination based on species, advocating ethical treatment
Major Sectors Targeted– Food Industry (factory farming)
  • Fashion Industry (fur and leather trade)
  • Entertainment (circuses, zoos, film)
  • Laboratory Testing (cosmetics, pharmaceuticals) |

Global Impact and Activism

  • Public Education Campaigns: Raising awareness about animal cruelty.
  • Investigative Exposés: Undercover investigations into industries abusing animals.
  • Legislative Advocacy: Lobbying for animal protection laws (e.g., bans on animal-tested cosmetics).
  • Celebrity Endorsements: Using popular figures to spread messages (e.g., campaigns featuring prominent actors and athletes).
  • Legal Actions: Lawsuits and petitions for stronger animal rights protections.

Key Criticisms Against PETA

CriticismReason
Radical CampaignsUse of shock tactics sometimes seen as extreme or controversial
Animal Shelters ControversyAllegations of high euthanasia rates at PETA-run shelters
Opposition to Pet OwnershipPosition that pets should ideally not be domesticated has sparked debate

Relevance & Local Application

  • GS Paper II – Civil Society and Governance:
    • Useful for illustrating the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in shaping public policy internationally.
    • Example of how advocacy movements can impact international law, ethics, and governance.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • Wildlife protection initiatives (e.g., Snow Leopard Conservation, Great Himalayan National Park) align with ethical treatment of animals.
    • Awareness campaigns against animal cruelty in tourism (e.g., mule rides, wildlife exploitation) can draw inspiration from PETA’s activism models.

Summary


PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), a leading global animal rights organization, welcomed the U.S. move to reduce animal testing, underscoring the growing influence of civil society in shaping ethical policies. Founded in 1980, PETA campaigns against animal exploitation in industries like food, fashion, entertainment, and research. While impactful through activism and legislation, it faces criticism for its radical tactics and shelter practices. PETA exemplifies how non-state actors can shape international norms and governance on ethical and environmental issues.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) primarily advocates for:
a) Renewable energy adoption
b) Women’s rights
c) Animal rights and welfare
d) Data privacy and cybersecurity

Answer: c) Animal rights and welfare

2. Which book is widely regarded as the philosophical foundation for PETA’s formation?
a) Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
b) Animal Liberation by Peter Singer
c) The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins
d) The Lives of Animals by J.M. Coetzee

Answer: b) Animal Liberation by Peter Singer

Mains :

  1. Discuss the role of international civil society organizations like PETA in shaping ethical norms and influencing public policy globally. Highlight their relevance for environmental governance.
    (GS Paper II – International Relations / Civil Society Movements)
  2. Non-state actors are increasingly influential in setting global agendas. Critically analyze with reference to animal rights organizations like PETA.
    (GS Paper II – International Relations / Governance)