1. Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project: Himachal’s Power Push – Environment
Why in News?
The Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project, a major run-of-the-river hydroelectric power initiative, is under construction in Sainj, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. Once operational, it will significantly enhance India’s renewable energy capacity and contribute to the power needs of the Northern Grid. Despite being initiated in 2003, the project has seen multiple delays due to technical and environmental challenges.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sainj, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh |
| River | Parbati River (tributary of Beas) |
| Type | Run-of-the-river hydroelectric project |
| Capacity | 800 MW (4 units × 200 MW each) |
| Estimated Annual Generation | 3,074 million units (MU) |
| Developer | National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) |
| Dam Location | Village Pulga |
| Powerhouse | Suind Valley |
| Headrace Tunnel | 31.52 km long |
| Initial Target Completion | 2010 (delayed) |
| Project Initiation | 2003 |
Technical and Structural Overview
- Concrete Gravity Dam at Pulga to divert water from the Parbati River.
- Water is channeled through a long underground headrace tunnel (31.52 km).
- Powerhouse built in Suind Valley, where 4 turbines of 200 MW each will generate electricity.
- Based on run-of-the-river design, meaning minimal water storage and reduced ecological footprint compared to reservoir-based projects.
Challenges Faced During Construction
| Challenge | Impact |
|---|---|
| Geological Instability | Tunneling and excavation faced repeated rockfalls and collapses |
| Water and Silt Seepage | Delayed underground works and threatened tunnel stability |
| Flash Floods & Cloudbursts | Damaged equipment and infrastructure during monsoon seasons |
| Adverse Topography | Made transportation and construction logistics difficult |
| Delayed Environmental Clearances | Slowed early-stage development |
| Cost Overruns | Due to prolonged delays and changing material costs |
Environmental and Developmental Significance
Benefits:
- Green Energy: Contributes to India’s non-fossil fuel energy goals under National Energy Policy.
- Carbon Neutrality: Helps reduce dependence on coal and aligns with India’s net-zero commitments by 2070.
- Local Development: Boosts infrastructure, employment, and socio-economic upliftment in Kullu region.
- National Grid Support: Enhances power availability in the Northern Grid, especially during peak demand.
Concerns:
- Ecological Sensitivity: Located in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
- River Flow Alteration: Potential impact on downstream biodiversity and riverine communities.
- Disaster Vulnerability: Area is prone to landslides, flash floods, and seismic activity.
Conclusion
The Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project is a strategically important renewable energy project for India and Himachal Pradesh, combining power generation, regional development, and climate goals. However, its success depends on mitigating geological risks, ensuring timely completion, and maintaining ecological balance. As India transitions to cleaner energy, projects like Parbati-II represent both opportunities and lessons in balancing infrastructure with sustainability.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
1. The Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project is being constructed on which river?
A) Sutlej
B) Ravi
C) Beas
D) Parbati
Correct Answer: D) Parbati
2. What is the installed capacity of the Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project?
A) 600 MW
B) 800 MW
C) 1,000 MW
D) 500 MW
Correct Answer: B) 800 MW
3. The Parbati River is a tributary of which major river?
A) Chenab
B) Yamuna
C) Beas
D) Ganga
Correct Answer: C) Beas
4. Which organization is implementing the Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project?
A) NTPC
B) SJVN
C) NHPC
D) THDC
Correct Answer: C) NHPC
Mains:
1. “Himachal Pradesh holds vast untapped potential in hydroelectric power, but development must not come at the cost of ecological stability.” Discuss with reference to the Parbati-II Project.
2. Examine the significance of run-of-the-river hydroelectric projects in India’s renewable energy strategy. Highlight the challenges using Parbati-II as a case study.
3. Discuss the role of NHPC in India’s hydropower sector and evaluate its contributions in mountainous states like Himachal Pradesh.
2. Labour Reforms in India: Push for Labour Code Implementation and Revival of Tripartite Dialogue – Polity
Why in News?
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Labour has sharply criticized the Union Labour Ministry for its failure to convene the Indian Labour Conference (ILC) since 2015. The committee also expressed concern over delays in implementing the four Labour Codes, which were passed between 2019–2020 to overhaul India’s outdated labour law framework.
Background: The Four Labour Codes
India undertook the consolidation of 29 central labour laws into four broad Labour Codes to simplify compliance, enhance worker protection, and promote economic flexibility.
Overview of the Four Labour Codes:
| Labour Code | Key Features |
|---|---|
| 1. Code on Wages, 2019 | Universal minimum wage, streamlined wage payment system, and gender parity |
| 2. Industrial Relations Code, 2020 | Trade union regulation, lay-off rules, and balance between labour rights and employer flexibility |
| 3. Social Security Code, 2020 | Extends benefits (e.g., EPF, ESIC) to unorganised and gig workers |
| 4. Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code, 2020 | Uniform safety standards across all sectors and contract worker regulations |
Implementation Status
- Though legislatively passed, none of the codes are fully enforced yet.
- 32 States/UTs have pre-published rules, but many have not implemented them.
- West Bengal and Lakshadweep have notably lagged behind in initiating the process.
Revival of the Indian Labour Conference (ILC)
- The Indian Labour Conference is the highest tripartite consultative forum involving the government, employers, and workers.
- Last held in 2015, its absence means key labour reforms are not receiving adequate stakeholder feedback.
- The committee demands immediate revival of the ILC to restore inclusive policy-making in the labour sector.
Women’s Workforce Participation: A Rising Trend
- According to PLFS data:
- Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for women rose from 28.7% (2019–20) to 40.3% (2023–24).
- Key drivers:
- Increased participation in self-employment, rural employment, and small-scale enterprises
- Supportive policies like Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, and Digital Skilling Initiatives
Challenges in Labour Code Implementation
| Challenge | Description |
|---|---|
| Federal Structure | States must notify their own rules — creating variation in timelines |
| Capacity Gaps | Lack of trained labour officers and digital infrastructure |
| Apprehension from Workers’ Unions | Concerns over job security, bargaining power, and social protection |
| Gig and Informal Economy | Ambiguity in how the codes apply to platform workers and informal jobs |
Key Recommendations of the House Panel
- Expedite implementation of Labour Codes with state coordination
- Immediately revive the ILC to foster structured tripartite dialogue
- Establish a monitoring mechanism for code rollout
- Expand social security coverage to gig, platform, and informal sector workers
- Invest in capacity-building for labour officials to ensure effective enforcement
Conclusion
The implementation of the Four Labour Codes and the revival of the Indian Labour Conference are critical to ensuring worker welfare, industry flexibility, and social dialogue in India’s rapidly evolving labour market. In an economy where gig work, informal jobs, and digital platforms are rising, India needs modern, inclusive, and well-enforced labour laws. Moving from paper to practice is the next big step in realising labour justice and economic competitiveness.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
1. Which of the following Labour Codes includes provisions for gig and platform workers?
A) Code on Wages
B) Social Security Code
C) Industrial Relations Code
D) Occupational Safety Code
Correct Answer: B) Social Security Code
2. The Indian Labour Conference (ILC) functions as:
A) A constitutional body under Article 323
B) A tripartite advisory body for labour policy
C) A statutory body under the EPF Act
D) A committee under the Ministry of Skill Development
Correct Answer: B) A tripartite advisory body for labour policy
3. Which state has NOT yet pre-published rules for the Labour Codes as of 2024?
A) Maharashtra
B) West Bengal
C) Gujarat
D) Karnataka
Correct Answer: B) West Bengal
4. The Code on Wages, 2019, amalgamates which of the following?
- Minimum Wages Act, 1948
- Payment of Wages Act, 1936
- Equal Remuneration Act, 1976
- Industrial Disputes Act, 1947
A) 1, 2 and 3 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 1, 2, 3 and 4
D) 2 and 4 only
Correct Answer: A) 1, 2 and 3 only
Mains:
1. “Labour reforms in India remain incomplete without meaningful dialogue.” Discuss the role of the Indian Labour Conference in strengthening labour policy frameworks.
2. Evaluate the significance and implementation challenges of the four labour codes introduced between 2019 and 2020. Suggest a roadmap for their effective enforcement.
3. Examine the implications of rising women’s workforce participation in India. How can labour laws evolve to support this trend?
3. India’s Coal Dependence Rises to 79%: Energy Transition Challenges – Economy
Why in News?
According to the Energy Statistics in India 2025 report released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), coal accounted for 79% of India’s total energy generation in FY 2023-24 — a 2% rise from the previous year. Despite efforts toward decarbonization, India’s energy basket remains heavily reliant on coal, raising concerns over environmental sustainability and energy transition goals.
Key Highlights of the Report
🔹 India’s Energy Mix (2023–24)
| Energy Source | Share in Energy Output |
|---|---|
| Coal | 79% (16,906 PJ) |
| Renewable Energy | 7% |
| Crude Oil | 6% |
| Natural Gas | 7% |
| Nuclear Energy | ~1.7% |
Trends in Coal Production and Usage
- 12% growth in coal production in 2023–24
- 15% growth in 2022–23
- Coal imports reduced from 31% (2019–20) to 26% in 2023–24
- High ash content in Indian coal leads to lower thermal efficiency and more waste
India’s Renewable Energy Landscape
🔹 Renewable Contribution
- Renewable energy accounted for 7% of total energy production in 2023–24
- A marginal increase from 6% in 2014–15
🔹 Decadal Growth
- Generation from solar and wind energy surged by 210% over the past 10 years
🔹 Potential by Source
| Source | Share of Potential | Estimated Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Wind | 55.17% | 1,163,856 MW |
| Solar | 35.50% | 748,990 MW |
| Large Hydro | 6.32% | 133,410 MW |
Future Energy Targets
- India has committed to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030
- This includes solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear energy
- Aimed at aligning with Net Zero emissions goal by 2070
Environmental Concerns of Coal Usage
- Coal ash contains arsenic, lead, mercury — all hazardous pollutants
- Coal plants release:
- Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) – causes acid rain
- Oxides of nitrogen (NOx) – contributes to smog and respiratory diseases
- Indian coal has high ash content (~30-40%), making it less efficient and more polluting
Challenges in Reducing Coal Dependence
| Challenge | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Energy Demand | Rapid urbanization and industrialization fuel demand for coal-based energy |
| Grid Stability | Renewable sources are variable; coal ensures base load |
| Coal Industry Employment | Millions employed in coal mining and allied sectors |
| Cost of Transition | Renewables require high upfront investment and storage infrastructure |
Conclusion
India’s continued dependence on coal reflects a complex balance between energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. While coal remains dominant due to its affordability and reliability, the country must accelerate its renewable energy push, improve energy efficiency, and invest in clean technologies. Achieving the 500 GW non-fossil fuel target by 2030 will be critical in steering India toward a greener, low-carbon future.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
UPSC 2020 Question (Revisited):
Q. Consider the following statements:
- Coal ash contains arsenic, lead, and mercury.
- Coal-fired power plants release sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen into the environment.
- High ash content is observed in Indian coal.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Additional Prelims Question:
Q. Which of the following is the largest contributor to India’s renewable energy potential?
A) Solar Energy
B) Biomass
C) Wind Energy
D) Hydro Energy
Correct Answer: C) Wind Energy
Q. The majority of India’s coal-based thermal power plants use which type of coal?
A) Lignite
B) Anthracite
C) Bituminous with high ash content
D) Coking coal
Correct Answer: C) Bituminous with high ash content
Mains:
1. “India’s energy security depends heavily on coal, but environmental sustainability demands a transition to renewables.” Discuss the challenges and opportunities in this transition.
2. Examine the role of coal in India’s energy mix. What are the environmental costs and what policy measures can reduce dependence?
3. “Renewable energy is the future, but coal is the present reality.” Critically analyze with reference to India’s energy needs and international climate commitments.
4. Norms Surrounding Disclosure of Judges’ Assets: Transparency vs Judicial Autonomy – Polity
Why in News?
The recent discovery of large sums of unaccounted cash at the residences of Delhi High Court judges has reignited concerns over judicial accountability and corruption. This has renewed calls for mandatory public disclosure of judges’ assets and liabilities, an issue long debated but never fully addressed through legislation.
Current Framework: Asset Disclosure by Judges
Supreme Court Initiatives
| Year | Action |
|---|---|
| 1997 | Under CJI J.S. Verma, a resolution required judges to declare assets to the Chief Justice of India – but not for public disclosure |
| 2009 | Full bench of the Supreme Court decided to voluntarily publish judges’ assets on its website |
| Since 2018 | Website not updated; declarations submitted but not published |
2019 RTI Ruling
- The Supreme Court ruled that judges’ assets and liabilities qualify as public information and fall under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
- However, implementation remains patchy and voluntary.
High Courts’ Compliance and Resistance
- As of March 2024, only 13% of High Court judges (97 out of 770) have publicly declared their assets.
- Uttarakhand High Court (2012) passed a resolution opposing disclosure under RTI.
- Allahabad and several other High Courts have rejected RTI requests seeking information on judges’ assets.
- Some argue that disclosure violates judicial independence and personal privacy.
Comparison with Other Public Officials
| Public Role | Asset Disclosure Status |
|---|---|
| Civil Servants (IAS, IPS, etc.) | Mandatory under Conduct Rules; many disclosures public |
| Elected Representatives | Mandatory; declared during nominations and updated annually |
| Ministers | Required to declare to the PM and public as part of the Code of Conduct |
| Judges (SC/HC) | No statutory obligation for public disclosure |
Role of Parliament: Proposed Reforms
- In 2023, a Parliamentary Committee on Judicial Reforms:
- Recommended legislation to mandate public disclosure of judges’ assets
- Proposed a centralized online portal to publish annual declarations
- As of now, no legislative action has been taken to implement these reforms.
Issues and Concerns
| Concern | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Lack of Legal Backing | Asset disclosure is voluntary, not mandated by law |
| Judicial Resistance | Some judges believe this interferes with judicial independence |
| Lack of Transparency | Undermines public confidence and institutional credibility |
| Double Standards | Other public officials disclose assets; judges are treated differently |
Arguments in Favour of Public Disclosure
- Enhances accountability in the judiciary
- Deters corruption and unethical conduct
- Aligns with constitutional morality and public interest
- Restores public trust in judicial institutions
- Judicial officers, as custodians of law, must lead by example
Conclusion
The lack of mandatory public disclosure of judges’ assets reflects a serious gap in India’s transparency and accountability framework. While judicial independence is vital, it should not become a shield for opacity. As calls for reform grow louder, there is an urgent need for legislation that mandates regular and public asset declarations by judges—bringing the judiciary in line with other pillars of democratic governance and enhancing the credibility of the justice system.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
1. The 1997 resolution on judicial asset disclosure was issued by:
A) Parliament of India
B) Law Commission of India
C) Chief Justice of India
D) Ministry of Law and Justice
Correct Answer: C) Chief Justice of India
2. According to the 2019 Supreme Court ruling, judges’ assets:
A) Cannot be disclosed under RTI
B) Are personal and exempt from disclosure
C) Are considered public information under RTI
D) Can only be accessed with the President’s approval
Correct Answer: C) Are considered public information under RTI
3. Which of the following officials are not legally required to disclose their assets publicly?
A) IAS Officers
B) Members of Parliament
C) High Court Judges
D) Election Candidates
Correct Answer: C) High Court Judges
4. As of March 2024, approximately what percentage of High Court judges have publicly disclosed their assets?
A) 5%
B) 13%
C) 25%
D) 50%
Correct Answer: B) 13%
Mains:
1. “Judicial independence must be balanced with judicial accountability.” Critically examine the need for public disclosure of judges’ assets in India.
2. Evaluate the constitutional and ethical arguments surrounding the disclosure of assets by members of the higher judiciary.
3. “Transparency in the judiciary is essential for upholding the rule of law.” Discuss in light of recent developments regarding judicial asset disclosures.
5. India’s Textile and Apparel Export Target: Challenges and the Path Forward – Economy
Why in News?
India has set an ambitious target to increase its Textile and Apparel (T&A) exports to $100 billion by 2030, up from $34.8 billion in FY 2023–24. Achieving this target requires comprehensive structural reforms across the textile value chain to overcome persistent challenges in production, market access, and competitiveness.
Current Status of India’s Textile and Apparel Sector
| Indicator | Status (2023–24) |
|---|---|
| Total T&A Exports | $34.8 billion |
| Share in Global Market | ~4% |
| Apparel in T&A Exports | 42% |
| Global Rank | 5th (after China, EU, Bangladesh, Vietnam) |
- India’s export share in global T&A trade remains stagnant, even as China’s share fell from 34.8% to 29.8%, offering market space India has yet to capitalize on.
- Competitors like Bangladesh and Vietnam are gaining due to FTA access, MMF dominance, and efficient production models.
Key Challenges in the Textile Ecosystem
1. Declining Cotton Production
- Peak: 39.8 million bales (2013–14)
- 2024–25 projection: ~30 million bales (15-year low)
- Causes: Policy stagnation, restrictions on GM cotton, poor irrigation.
2. Over-Reliance on Cotton vs MMF
- India’s fiber consumption ratio: 60:40 (cotton: MMF)
- Global average: 30:70
- Lack of MMF support hampers India’s fashion-driven, synthetic-heavy global demand
3. Technological Bottlenecks & Informality
- 80% of garment units in decentralized, small-scale sector
- Limited technology adoption, R&D, and standardization
- Poor integration of the value chain, from yarn to fashion retail
4. Tariff and Trade Barriers
- Tariffs faced by Indian exporters:
- EU: 9.7%
- US: 11.47%
- Competitors like Bangladesh enjoy zero-duty access via FTAs or LDC benefits
Strategic Reforms: The Way Forward
1. Shift to MMF-Based Apparel
- Incentivize MMF production through PLI scheme
- Remove QCOs (Quality Control Orders) that restrict imports of key MMF inputs
2. Strengthening PM-MITRA
- Pradhan Mantri Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel Parks aim to integrate:
- Spinning → Weaving → Dyeing → Garmenting → Exports
- Focus on:
- Plug-and-play infrastructure
- Textile R&D centers
- Skilled workforce hubs
3. Market Diversification & FTAs
- Fast-track Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with:
- EU and UK (under negotiation)
- US (long-term goal)
- Explore non-traditional markets: Japan, Brazil, Russia, South Korea, Australia
4. Cotton Reforms
- Streamline GM cotton approvals (e.g., HTBt cotton)
- Invest in:
- Irrigation
- Soil health
- Precision farming
- Seed R&D
Conclusion
India’s ambition to achieve $100 billion in T&A exports by 2030 is ambitious but attainable. It demands a paradigm shift from low-cost cotton-based production to a value-added, technology-driven, diversified export strategy. By modernizing the textile ecosystem, ensuring competitive market access, and supporting fibre diversity, India can reposition itself as a global textile hub in the coming decade. Without these reforms, the goal may remain a missed opportunity in a rapidly transforming global textile landscape.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims:
1. Which of the following best describes the PM-MITRA scheme?
A) A skill development scheme for rural textile workers
B) A financial assistance scheme for khadi weavers
C) A scheme to develop integrated textile parks across India
D) A startup fund for fashion-tech entrepreneurs
Correct Answer: C) A scheme to develop integrated textile parks across India
2. As of FY 2023–24, India’s share in the global textile and apparel export market is approximately:
A) 7%
B) 10%
C) 4%
D) 12%
Correct Answer: C) 4%
3. India’s fiber consumption ratio is heavily tilted in favor of cotton. What is the ratio?
A) 70:30 (Cotton: MMF)
B) 60:40 (Cotton: MMF)
C) 40:60 (Cotton: MMF)
D) 50:50
Correct Answer: B) 60:40 (Cotton: MMF)
Mains:
1. “India’s textile industry holds immense potential, yet structural inefficiencies continue to limit its global competitiveness.” Discuss with reference to India’s $100 billion T&A export target.
2. Examine the key challenges faced by India’s textile and apparel sector and suggest policy measures to boost its global market share.
3. “India’s textile export strategy must shift from volume-based to value-based growth.” Critically analyze in the context of global fashion and fiber trends.