1st May 2025-Current Affairs

1. SC Upholds Use of Spyware, Says National Security Paramount in Pegasus Case – Polity

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India recently ruled that the use of spyware may be justified in the interest of national security, but emphasized that any misuse—particularly targeting individuals—must undergo judicial scrutiny.

Context and Background

• Multiple petitions were filed in the Supreme Court alleging that the Indian government used Pegasus spyware to surveil journalists, activists, and political figures.
• The petitioners claimed this violated their fundamental right to privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution.
• In 2021, the Pegasus Project, a global investigation, revealed potential state-sponsored surveillance using the Pegasus spyware developed by Israeli company NSO Group.
• The Supreme Court appointed a technical committee to examine the devices and allegations.
• In 2022, the committee confirmed malware presence on several devices, but could not conclusively identify Pegasus as the source.

Key Concepts Explained

What is Spyware?

Spyware is a type of malicious software (malware) that secretly infiltrates a user’s device to gather sensitive data.

Common Types of Spyware:

How Does Spyware Work?

1. Infiltration – Enters device via malicious links, apps, or attachments.
2. Monitoring – Records screen, messages, audio, and location.
3. Transmission – Sends data to third parties or is sold on the dark web.

Legal & Constitutional Angle

• Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the Right to Privacy.
• K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017): Recognized privacy as a fundamental right.
• The SC ruling attempts to balance individual privacy with national security concerns.
• The refusal to disclose the committee’s findings was justified citing national security.

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• The Pegasus case sets precedent for the use of surveillance technology—relevant in public administration, law and order, and digital governance topics in HAS mains.
• Concerns over surveillance may influence state-level policy on citizen data protection and digital rights.

Summary

• Pegasus is military-grade spyware developed by Israel’s NSO Group.
• Allegations of unauthorized surveillance raised questions on state overreach.
• SC emphasized national security, but also highlighted judicial oversight in privacy issues.
• The ruling is a landmark balance between citizen rights and state interests.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which of the following best defines spyware?
A. Software used to speed up a computer system
B. Malware that secretly collects data from a device
C. A firewall application that blocks viruses
D. Antivirus software for surveillance purposes
Answer: B. Malware that secretly collects data from a device

2. Pegasus spyware was developed by which of the following entities?
A. Microsoft
B. NSA
C. NSO Group (Israel)
D. Kaspersky
Answer: C. NSO Group (Israel)

3. The Right to Privacy was declared a fundamental right under which Article of the Constitution?
A. Article 14
B. Article 19
C. Article 21
D. Article 25
Answer: C. Article 21

Mains :

1. Discuss the challenges in balancing national security with individual privacy in light of the Pegasus spyware controversy. How should legal frameworks evolve to address such dilemmas? (250 words)
   
   
2. Evaluate the role of the judiciary in safeguarding citizens’ rights in the digital age with reference to recent surveillance cases in India. (250 words)
   
   
3. Examine the implications of unregulated digital surveillance on democratic institutions and civil liberties. Suggest policy reforms to ensure accountability. (250 words)
   
   

2. Kashmir, Terrorism, and India’s Long-Term Security Strategy – International Relations

Why in News?

Recent terrorist attacks on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, highlight the continued security threat emanating from Pakistan’s deep state. These acts aim to destabilize democratic progress and economic development in the Union Territory.

Context and Analysis

Persisting Security Threats

• The attacks indicate a shift in target selection, focusing on civilians and tourists to provoke fear and damage local livelihoods.
• These are strategic provocations linked to cross-border terrorism, often state-sponsored or supported by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

Pakistan’s Desperation

• India’s evolving counter-terrorism strategy and emphasis on institutional stability have limited the influence of separatist elements.
• Pakistan’s actions reflect frustration as India successfully integrates Kashmir through elections, development, and grassroots democracy.

India’s Long-Term Security Strategy in Kashmir

Key Concepts and References

Historical Parallels – Vietnam War Analogy

• The evacuation of US personnel from Saigon in 1975 symbolized strategic failure.
• Lesson for India: Avoid overdependence on military might; focus on institution-building and local legitimacy.

End of Soft Separatism

• The return of Sheikh Abdullah to electoral politics (1975 Indira-Sheikh Accord) is cited as a historic turn away from separatist politics.
• Demonstrates the effectiveness of democratic re-engagement over coercion.

Contrast with Pakistan

• India: Upholds constitutionalism, regular elections, and civil governance in Kashmir.
• Pakistan: Marked by military coups, political instability, and lack of electoral legitimacy in PoK (Pakistan-occupied Kashmir).

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Understanding India’s internal security policy is vital for GS Paper-III.
• Himachal Pradesh shares geographical proximity and must stay informed about regional security challenges, cross-border implications, and counter-insurgency models applicable in other Indian hill states.

Summary

• Recent attacks in Kashmir highlight continued terror threats, especially to the tourism sector.
• India’s strategy balances military action, democratic empowerment, and civilian integration.
• Historical and geopolitical lessons (e.g., Vietnam) offer caution against over-reliance on military solutions.
• The resilience of Indian institutions stands in contrast to Pakistan’s unstable governance structure.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1.Which of the following units is primarily responsible for counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir?
A. Assam Rifles
B. Rashtriya Rifles
C. National Security Guard
D. Central Reserve Police Force
Answer: B. Rashtriya Rifles

2.The Indira-Sheikh Accord of 1975 was significant because:
A. It granted statehood to Jammu & Kashmir
B. It integrated J&K into the Indian Union
C. It marked Sheikh Abdullah’s return to mainstream politics
D. It allowed foreign observers in J&K elections
Answer: C. It marked Sheikh Abdullah’s return to mainstream politics

3.Which of the following best describes ‘soft separatism’?
A. Use of violent methods for secession
B. Armed rebellion supported by foreign nations
C. Political participation while promoting secessionist ideology
D. Constitutional integration through military force
Answer: C. Political participation while promoting secessionist ideology

Mains :

1. Discuss India’s evolving counter-terrorism strategy in Jammu & Kashmir. How does it balance security with democratic integration? (250 words)
   
   
2. Evaluate the role of democratic institutions in stabilizing conflict-prone regions with reference to Jammu & Kashmir. (250 words)
   
   
3. How does the Vietnam War analogy apply to India’s security approach in Kashmir? What lessons can be drawn for long-term peace-building? (250 words)

3. Modernising India’s Education System: Government’s Push for 21st Century Readiness – Governance

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently reiterated the government’s commitment to modernising India’s education system to prepare students for the 21st-century knowledge economy. The initiative is being anchored in the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on talent, technology, and temperament as key enablers of transformation.

Context and Key Highlights

New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 – A Foundational Shift

• Replaces the 1986 National Policy on Education.
• Focuses on holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary education with an emphasis on critical thinking.
• Promotes mother tongue/regional languages as medium of instruction until at least Grade 5.
• Introduces a 5+3+3+4 curriculum structure corresponding to ages 3–18.

Driving Forces: Talent, Technology, Temperament

• Talent: Empowering youth with skills for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global competitiveness.
• Technology: Enhancing access, equity, and personalized learning.
• Temperament: Cultivating lifelong learning, ethical values, and scientific mindset.

Key Initiatives Under the Reform

Structural Reforms and Impact

Global and National Relevance

• Aligns India’s education system with UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.
• Prepares Indian youth for global employment, startups, and emerging sectors (AI, climate tech, space, biotech).

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Himachal Pradesh can implement NEP principles through digital education in remote areas, improving teacher training in tribal and hilly regions.
• Local language-based instruction aligns well with NEP’s multilingual focus.
• Strengthens the state’s human capital, aiding in long-term economic development and employment generation.

Summary

• NEP 2020 is the cornerstone of India’s educational modernization.
• Focus areas: digital access (PM e-Vidya), AI integration (IndiaAI Mission), innovation (ANRF), global expansion.
• Goal: A future-ready education system built on inclusion, flexibility, and excellence.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which of the following is not a feature of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020?
A. 5+3+3+4 school structure
B. Use of mother tongue till Grade 8
C. Introduction of multidisciplinary higher education
D. Establishment of Academic Bank of Credits
Answer: B. Use of mother tongue till Grade 8
(Mother tongue is recommended till at least Grade 5, not Grade 8)

2. The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is proposed to:
A. Fund early childhood care centres
B. Promote digital literacy in rural schools
C. Support and coordinate R&D across higher education
D. Regulate foreign universities in India
Answer: C. Support and coordinate R&D across higher education

3. Which initiative aims to integrate digital education resources across platforms?
A. Swayam
B. National Knowledge Network
C. PM e-Vidya
D. Vidyanjali
Answer: C. PM e-Vidya

Mains :

1. “The New Education Policy 2020 represents a paradigm shift in India’s educational landscape.” Discuss the key reforms introduced and their long-term implications. (250 words)
   
   
2. Digital education has the potential to bridge learning gaps but also risks widening inequalities. Critically examine India’s digital education initiatives in this context. (250 words)
   
   
3. Evaluate how India’s educational modernization strategy can contribute to its demographic dividend and innovation ecosystem. (250 words)
   

4. A Powerful Judicial Remedy for Waste Management – Environment

Why in News?

India has emerged as the largest contributor to global plastic emissions, releasing 9.3 million tonnes annually, nearly 20% of the global share, as per a recent study published in Nature. The crisis reflects a combination of weak local governance, infrastructure deficits, and poor enforcement, prompting a renewed call for judicial intervention to enforce environmental accountability.

Context and Significance

India’s Plastic Waste Crisis

• Underestimated Data: Official reports suggest 0.12 kg of plastic waste per person per day, but independent estimates put it closer to 0.54 kg/day.
• Infrastructure Gaps: For every 1 sanitary landfill, there are 10 uncontrolled dumpsites, severely affecting ecologically sensitive areas.
• Key Issues:
  • Lack of waste segregation at source.
  • Informal and unregulated recycling sectors.
  • Weak data collection mechanisms, especially in rural areas.

Judicial Role in Environmental Governance

Continuing Mandamus: A Judicial Innovation

• A continuing mandamus is a legal tool used by courts to retain jurisdiction over a matter and issue ongoing directions until compliance is achieved.
• The Supreme Court of India has invoked this principle in key environmental cases (e.g., Ganga pollution, vehicular pollution in Delhi).
• This tool can be applied to waste management failures, ensuring continuous oversight and enforcement.

Constitutional Mandate

• Article 48A: State shall protect and improve the environment.
• Article 51A(g): Fundamental duty of every citizen to protect the environment.
• Courts have interpreted the Right to Life (Article 21) to include the right to a clean and safe environment.

Institutional and Governance Dimensions

Way Forward: A Multi-Pronged Strategy

• Data Transparency: Create unified waste databases including rural and informal sectors.
• Legal Empowerment: Strengthen the legal mandates and resources of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and Panchayats.
• Judicial Oversight: Expand the role of courts using continuing mandamus to ensure compliance.
• Technological Integration: Use of IoT, GPS tracking, and data analytics for real-time waste monitoring.
• Circular Economy: Promote waste-to-energy, composting, and plastic recycling industries under clear regulations.

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Himachal Pradesh, a hilly and eco-sensitive state, faces unique challenges in solid waste disposal due to terrain and tourism.
• Emphasizing local waste segregation, tourist regulation, and judicial compliance is critical to safeguarding its ecosystems.
• Lessons from national judicial remedies can be localized through state high courts and environment tribunals.

Summary

• India is the world’s top plastic polluter by volume; estimates suggest plastic waste is 4x higher than reported.
• Continuing mandamus is a judicial tool enabling long-term oversight.
• A combination of judicial activism, data accuracy, local empowerment, and infrastructure investment is needed for meaningful change.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. The principle of ‘Continuing Mandamus’ is associated with which of the following?
A. Election reforms
B. Environmental jurisprudence
C. Judicial appointments
D. Emergency powers of the President
Answer: B. Environmental jurisprudence

2. Under which Article of the Constitution is the protection of the environment a fundamental duty of citizens?
A. Article 21
B. Article 48A
C. Article 51A(g)
D. Article 19(1)(a)
Answer: C.Article 51A(g)

3. The Plastic Waste Management Rules were introduced in which year?
A. 2014
B. 2016
C. 2018
D. 2021
Answer: B. 2016

Mains :

1. Critically evaluate the role of judicial activism in addressing India’s waste management crisis. Can continuing mandamus serve as a sustainable model for environmental governance? (250 words)
   
   
2. India’s plastic pollution is a reflection of both behavioral and systemic failures. Discuss how local governance reforms and legal mechanisms can jointly address this issue. (250 words)
   
   
3. Examine the constitutional and policy frameworks that govern waste management in India. Suggest structural improvements for achieving long-term sustainability. (250 words)
   

5. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Intensity (GEI) Targets: Draft Rules for 2025 – Environment

Why in News?

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has released the Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Intensity (GEI) Target Rules for 2025. These rules aim to reduce emissions intensity in energy-intensive sectors and are part of India’s broader climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

What is GEI?

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Intensity (GEI) refers to the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per unit of industrial output, such as per tonne of cement or aluminium produced. It provides a more nuanced metric than total emissions, emphasizing efficiency improvements.

Key Features of the Draft GEI Rules

Alignment with India’s Global Commitments

• Paris Agreement NDC Goal: 45% reduction in emissions intensity of GDP by 2030 (base year: 2005).
• Long-Term Strategy (LTS) submitted at COP27: Emphasizes low-carbon pathways in industry and energy.

Understanding Major GHGs

Challenges in Implementation

• Data Gaps: Inadequate reporting and lack of real-time emissions data from smaller units.
• Technological Barriers: High cost of retrofitting plants with cleaner technologies.
• Compliance Burden: Smaller firms may struggle with monitoring and carbon trading mechanisms.
• Market Readiness: India’s carbon credit trading infrastructure is still in nascent stages.

Opportunities and Benefits

• Promotes energy-efficient manufacturing and clean technology adoption.
• Encourages market-based mechanisms for emissions reduction.
• Improves India’s position in global green trade and diplomacy.
• Supports development of domestic carbon market, reducing import dependency for climate finance.

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Himachal Pradesh has hydropower-intensive industries and can benefit from lower emission profiles under GEI rules.
• The state’s cement industry (e.g., ACC, Ambuja plants) falls within GEI’s target sectors.
• Scope for biomass usage and eco-friendly industrial models in hilly terrains to support both economy and environment.

Summary

• GEI rules aim to reduce GHG emissions per unit of output in selected industrial sectors.
• Involves baseline setting, target-based reductions, and a carbon credit market.
• Aligns with India’s NDC under Paris Agreement: 45% emissions intensity reduction by 2030.
• Overseen by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).
• Supports market-based climate solutions and promotes low-carbon industrial growth.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Intensity (GEI) measures which of the following?
A. Total GHG emissions in a country
B. GHG emissions per unit of industrial output
C. GHG emissions from agriculture only
D. GHG emissions from forest degradation
Answer: B. GHG emissions per unit of industrial output

2. Which organization is responsible for monitoring compliance with the GEI Targets in India?
A. Central Pollution Control Board
B. NITI Aayog
C. Bureau of Energy Efficiency
D. National Green Tribunal
Answer: C. Bureau of Energy Efficiency

3. Which of the following is not a greenhouse gas covered under GEI calculations?
A. Carbon dioxide
B. Nitrous oxide
C. Methane
D. Sulphur dioxide
Answer: D. Sulphur dioxide

Mains :

1. Discuss the significance of sector-specific emission intensity targets in India’s climate strategy. How does the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme support industrial sustainability? (250 words)
   
   
2. Evaluate the role of market-based mechanisms like carbon trading in mitigating climate change. What challenges does India face in implementing such systems? (250 words)
   
   
3. Examine the potential of the GEI Target Rules 2025 in transforming India’s industrial emissions landscape. What role can states like Himachal Pradesh play in this transformation? (250 words)
   

6. CSR Spending in India Hits ₹17,967 Crore in FY 2023-24 – Economy

Why in News?

India’s listed companies reported ₹17,967 crore in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) spending during FY 2023–24—a 16% increase over the previous year. This rise parallels an 18% growth in net profits, as per a recent report by PRIME Database.

Understanding CSR: Background & Legal Framework

What is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)?

CSR is a self-regulating business practice where companies take responsibility for the social, environmental, and economic impacts of their operations. In India, CSR has a mandatory legal framework under the Companies Act, 2013.

Legal Mandate (Section 135, Companies Act, 2013)

India became the first country to mandate CSR with a structured legal obligation effective from April 1, 2014.

Applicability:

CSR rules apply to companies meeting any of the following in the preceding financial year:

• Net worth ≥ ₹500 crore, or
• Turnover ≥ ₹1,000 crore, or
• Net profit ≥ ₹5 crore

CSR Spending Obligation:

• Companies must spend 2% of the average net profits of the last three financial years on CSR activities.

Committee Requirement:

• If CSR expenditure exceeds ₹50 lakh, the company must form a CSR Committee (minimum 3 directors, including one independent director).

Eligible CSR Activities (Schedule VII of the Act)

Exclusion Clause: CSR cannot include activities that directly benefit employees or are part of the company’s normal business operations.

Recent Trends and Significance

Implications:

• Reflects greater corporate engagement in social development.
• Indicates economic recovery and profit growth post-pandemic.
• Encourages transparent and goal-aligned development funding.

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• CSR in HP can help fund rural development, education, tourism infrastructure, and ecological conservation, especially in tribal and hilly areas.
• HP-based public/private sector industries (e.g., hydropower, cement) can be made more accountable under CSR laws.

Summary

• CSR spending hit ₹17,967 crore in FY 2023–24 (16% rise YoY).
• CSR is mandated under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013.
• Applies to companies with net worth ≥ ₹500 crore, turnover ≥ ₹1,000 crore, or profit ≥ ₹5 crore.
• Companies must spend at least 2% of their 3-year average net profits.
• Activities must align with Schedule VII and exclude internal benefits.
• Oversight includes mandatory CSR committees and reporting.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which of the following criteria makes a company liable to comply with CSR provisions under the Companies Act, 2013?
A. Net profit of ₹2 crore
B. Turnover of ₹500 crore
C. Net worth of ₹300 crore
D. Net profit of ₹5 crore
Answer: D. Net profit of ₹5 crore

2. Consider the following statements regarding CSR in India:
1.Companies must spend at least 2% of their average net profits from the last three financial years on CSR.
2.CSR funds can be used to build employee recreation facilities.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A. 1 only

3. India was the first country to legally mandate CSR spending through which legal instrument?
A. Industrial Policy Resolution, 1991
B. Companies Act, 2013
C. SEBI Guidelines
D. National Corporate Responsibility Policy, 2016
Answer: B. Companies Act, 2013

Mains :

1. Discuss the significance of mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in promoting inclusive development in India. How has the legal framework ensured accountability and transparency? (250 words)
   
   
2. Evaluate the impact of CSR in supporting health, education, and environmental initiatives in India. Suggest ways to improve CSR implementation in rural and underdeveloped regions. (250 words)
   
   
3. CSR is often seen as a bridge between profit-making and social good. Critically analyze this statement in the Indian context with examples from recent trends. (250 words)
   
   

7. Induction of 26 Rafale M Fighter Jets for Indian Navy – Defence & Security

Why in News?

India and France have finalized a $7.4 billion (₹63,000 crore) government-to-government deal for the procurement of 26 Rafale M (Marine) fighter jets for the Indian Navy, strengthening India’s naval aviation capabilities. This follows the earlier induction of 36 Rafale jets into the Indian Air Force starting in 2021.

What is the Rafale M?

• The Rafale M is a naval variant of the French-made Dassault Rafale multirole fighter jet.
• It is carrier-capable, designed for take-off and landing on aircraft carriers.
• Features include:
  • Strengthened landing gear
  • Arrestor hook for landing on short decks
  • Folding wings to save space on carriers
  • Multirole capability: air-to-air, air-to-ground, and maritime strike missions

Naval Aviation: Strategic Importance

What is Naval Aviation?

Naval aviation involves the operation of military aircraft by naval forces from aircraft carriers, helicopter-equipped ships, or coastal air bases.

Key Roles of Naval Aviation:

Aircraft Carriers: Force Multipliers

• Rafale M jets are designed to operate from INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier.
• Aircraft carriers are floating airbases, critical for long-range maritime operations and strategic dominance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Strategic Significance for India

• Enhances India’s blue-water navy capabilities.
• Reinforces maritime strength in the face of growing Chinese presence in the IOR.
• Supports India’s aspiration for self-reliance in defence, especially when combined with Make in India initiatives in naval infrastructure.
• Boosts joint operational readiness with air and ground forces for network-centric warfare.

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• While Himachal Pradesh is landlocked, understanding India’s defence modernization and strategic maritime ambitions is key to GS Paper-III (Security, Defence, and Technology).
• Defence sector developments often influence defence employment, DRDO collaborations, and military education and training institutes, including those located in HP.

Summary

• India to induct 26 Rafale M fighter jets for the Navy under a ₹63,000 crore deal with France.
• These jets are meant for carrier-based operations, enhancing sea control and maritime strike capabilities.
• Supports India’s Indian Ocean Region strategy and strengthens naval aviation.
• Complements earlier 36 Rafale jets inducted into the Indian Air Force.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which of the following correctly distinguishes the Rafale M from the Rafale fighter jet used by the Indian Air Force?
A. Rafale M is a stealth aircraft
B. Rafale M is designed for aircraft carrier operations
C. Rafale M has no air-to-air combat capability
D. Rafale M is manufactured in the USA
Answer: B. Rafale M is designed for aircraft carrier operations

2. Which of the following statements about naval aviation is not correct?
A. It is limited to helicopters only
B. It includes aircraft launched from carriers
C. It supports amphibious landings
D. It can be used for anti-submarine warfare
Answer: A. It is limited to helicopters only

3. What is the role of aircraft carriers in modern naval warfare?
A. Transporting infantry soldiers
B. Floating airbases for fighter aircraft operations
C. Civilian maritime cargo monitoring
D. Underwater missile launches
Answer: B. Floating airbases for fighter aircraft operations

Mains :

1. Discuss the strategic significance of naval aviation in modern warfare. How will the induction of Rafale M fighter jets enhance India’s maritime security architecture? (250 words)
   
   
2. India’s focus on maritime security is a reflection of its growing geostrategic ambitions. Analyze this statement in light of recent naval procurements and developments. (250 words)
   
   
3. Evaluate the role of aircraft carriers and carrier-based aircraft in securing India’s maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (250 words)