22nd May 2025-Current Affairs

1. Supreme Court Reinstates Three-Year Practice Rule for Judicial Services – Polity

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India has reinstated the three-year minimum practice requirement for law graduates applying for the judicial services. This marks a significant policy reversal aimed at enhancing judicial competence through prior legal experience.

Key Takeaways

• The three-year practice rule seeks to improve the quality and efficiency of judicial officers by ensuring candidates have courtroom experience.
• The idea dates back to the 14th Law Commission Report (1958).
• Originally removed in 2002 following the Justice Shetty Commission’s recommendation, the rule was abolished to attract younger talent to the judiciary.
• The Court now argues that practical legal exposure is essential and cannot be fully replaced by academic knowledge or judicial training.
• However, the reinstatement has sparked debate regarding its impact on inclusivity, especially for:
  • Economically disadvantaged students
  • Women facing early-career challenges
  • Marginalized communities who may struggle to afford years of unpaid or low-paid legal practice.

Background & Context

Earlier System:

• Before 2002: Minimum legal practice required.
• Post-2002: Direct recruitment allowed for fresh law graduates, based on written exams and interviews.

Justice Shetty Commission (2002):

• Advocated removal of the practice requirement to bring in young, energetic, and trainable law graduates.
• Proposed strong pre-service judicial training instead.

Recent Verdict:

• The Supreme Court now prioritizes courtroom exposure over purely theoretical legal education.
• Stated that “real courtroom experience sharpens judgment and reasoning”, essential qualities for judicial officers.

Critical Analysis

Arguments in Favor:

• Enhances judicial maturity and decision-making.
• Reduces dependency on theoretical understanding alone.
• Promotes a stronger connection with courtroom realities, such as court procedure, client interaction, and case handling.

Arguments Against:

• May disadvantage underprivileged aspirants who can’t afford unpaid internships or low-paying junior roles.
• Could discourage women who may face societal or family pressures during early career years.
• Risks creating elitism in judicial entry, favoring those with established legal networks.
• Potentially narrows the talent pool.

Proposed Reforms

• Dual Entry System: One path for experienced lawyers, another for top-performing law graduates with intensive training.
• Reform of Judicial Exams: Introduce practical-based assessments to evaluate candidate readiness.
• Enhanced Judicial Training Institutes: Stronger post-selection training can bridge gaps in courtroom exposure.
• Financial Assistance/Scholarships: To support early-career legal professionals from marginalized backgrounds.

Summary

The Supreme Court’s reinstatement of the three-year practice rule is a notable attempt to improve judicial competence through practical legal experience. While well-intentioned, it raises concerns about social equity and accessibility in judicial recruitment. A more inclusive and balanced approach — blending experience with training and support systems — may be required to both enhance quality and preserve diversity in the judiciary.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following reports originally recommended a three-year legal practice requirement for judicial service candidates?
A. Justice Verma Committee Report
B. Justice Shetty Commission Report
C. 14th Law Commission Report
D. Second Administrative Reforms Commission Report
Answer: C. 14th Law Commission Report

2. What was the key recommendation of the Justice Shetty Commission in 2002 regarding judicial recruitment?
A. Make LL.M. mandatory for judges
B. Reserve 50% of posts for women
C. Remove the legal practice requirement
D. Increase age limit for judicial exams
Answer: C. Remove the legal practice requirement

Mains

1.Critically evaluate the Supreme Court’s decision to reinstate the three-year legal practice requirement for judicial service aspirants. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a policy in the context of access to justice and judicial quality?

2. “While courtroom experience is vital, equitable access to judicial careers must also be ensured.” Discuss the implications of the Supreme Court’s verdict on social equity in the legal profession. Suggest reforms to balance quality and inclusivity.

2. Doctrine of Presumption of Constitutionality – Polity

Why in News?

A legal challenge has been made against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, with petitioners arguing it represents a “creeping acquisition” of Waqf properties belonging to the Muslim community. In this context, the Supreme Court reaffirmed the doctrine of presumption of constitutionality, asserting that laws passed by legislatures are presumed valid unless proven otherwise.

Key Takeaways

• The doctrine of presumption of constitutionality means that any law passed by Parliament or a State Legislature is presumed to be constitutional.
• The burden of proof lies on the petitioner who challenges the law, not on the state to justify it.
• This doctrine is a judicial principle, rooted in respect for legislative authority and democratic legitimacy.
• The Supreme Court has consistently upheld this principle in various judgments.
• The doctrine ensures legal stability, avoiding the disruption of laws unless they clearly violate constitutional provisions.

Concept Explained

What is the Doctrine of Presumption of Constitutionality?

• It is a legal presumption that laws enacted by the legislature are valid and in accordance with the Constitution.
• Unless a law is shown to clearly violate a fundamental right or any constitutional provision, courts assume it is valid.

Source and Evolution

• Rooted in constitutional jurisprudence and the principle of separation of powers.
• Reinforced through various judgments, including:
  • State of Bihar v. Kameshwar Singh (1952)
  • Ram Krishna Dalmia v. Justice Tendolkar (1958)
  • Kedar Nath Singh v. State of Bihar (1962)
• Aligns with Article 13 of the Constitution, which allows courts to strike down laws inconsistent with Fundamental Rights — but only with clear evidence.

Judicial Reasoning Behind the Doctrine

• Respect for Legislature: Parliament and state legislatures are elected bodies; their laws reflect democratic will.
• Judicial Restraint: Courts avoid unnecessary interference with legislative functions.
• Burden of Proof: Lies on the person alleging the unconstitutionality, ensuring that courts don’t casually strike down legislation.
• Stability of Laws: The doctrine provides a buffer against frequent legal uncertainty.

Relevance in Current Scenario

• The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 is being challenged as unconstitutional, with claims of unfair targeting of a minority community’s property rights.
• The Court, however, invoked the presumption of constitutionality, emphasizing the need for concrete proof of constitutional breach before striking down the law.
• This sets the stage for a deliberate judicial review, rather than a reactionary invalidation.

Criticism and Challenges

• May shield discriminatory laws if courts are overly deferential.
• Potential delay in justice, as it places a heavy burden on affected individuals or groups.
• Some critics argue it can lead to institutional imbalance, favoring the legislature over the judiciary.

Summary

The Doctrine of Presumption of Constitutionality is a foundational principle of Indian constitutional law. It affirms that legislation, as an outcome of democratic processes, is assumed valid unless clearly shown to violate the Constitution. This doctrine respects legislative authority, promotes legal stability, and ensures judicial restraint. However, its application must be balanced to ensure it does not become a shield for unconstitutional laws, especially when rights of minorities or vulnerable groups are at stake.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. What does the Doctrine of Presumption of Constitutionality imply?
A. All laws are unconstitutional unless proven otherwise
B. Courts must automatically approve all legislation
C. Laws passed by the legislature are presumed to be constitutional until proven otherwise
D. Only the Supreme Court can challenge laws
Answer: C. Laws passed by the legislature are presumed to be constitutional until proven otherwise

2. The burden of proof in challenging the constitutionality of a law lies on:
A. The Legislature
B. The Judiciary
C. The President
D. The Petitioner
Answer: D. The Petitioner

Mains

1. Examine the significance of the Doctrine of Presumption of Constitutionality in maintaining the balance between legislative authority and judicial review. Discuss its implications in the context of recent controversies such as the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.

2. The presumption of constitutionality strengthens legislative autonomy but may pose challenges to minority rights. Critically analyze this statement with reference to the Indian constitutional framework and judicial practice.

3. Operation Olivia: Protecting Olive Ridley Turtles – Environment

Why in News?

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has successfully protected over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha under its annual Operation Olivia initiative, marking a significant milestone in marine wildlife conservation.

Key Takeaways

• Operation Olivia is a seasonal marine conservation initiative conducted annually from November to May by the Indian Coast Guard.
• Its primary objective is to ensure the safe nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles along India’s eastern coastline, especially at:
  • Gahirmatha Beach
  • Rushikulya river mouth
  • Devi river mouth, Odisha
• Activities include:
  • Surface patrolling
  • Aerial surveillance
  • Monitoring fishing activities
• Since its inception, the ICG has carried out:
  • 5,387 surface patrol sorties
  • 1,768 aerial missions

Additional Details

Integrated Conservation Approach

• Community involvement: Collaboration with local fishermen and coastal communities.
• Use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs):
  • TEDs are specialized devices that allow turtles to escape from fishing nets.
  • Promoted to reduce turtle mortality due to trawling activities.
• Partnerships with NGOs:
  • The ICG signs MoUs with environmental NGOs to strengthen awareness campaigns, education programs, and training for sustainable fishing.

Ecological Significance

• Olive Ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) are:
  • Classified as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List
  • Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
• They play a key role in:
  • Maintaining marine food chains
  • Controlling jellyfish populations
  • Contributing to nutrient cycling through nesting and hatching activity
• Mass nesting events called Arribadas occur primarily in Odisha.

Challenges to Conservation

• Bycatch in fishing nets (especially trawlers without TEDs)
• Light and noise pollution near nesting beaches
• Coastal development leading to habitat degradation
• Climate change affecting nesting patterns and hatchling sex ratios

Government and Legal Framework

• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Olive Ridley turtles listed under Schedule I (maximum protection)
• Environment Protection Act, 1986: Used to regulate coastal development
• Convention on Migratory Species (CMS): India is a signatory; Olive Ridley turtles are a listed species
• Marine Fishing Regulation Acts: Enforced by states to regulate fishing during nesting season

Summary

Operation Olivia is a proactive marine conservation program by the Indian Coast Guard that safeguards Olive Ridley turtles during their crucial breeding and nesting seasons. By combining surveillance, community engagement, technological interventions (like TEDs), and NGO partnerships, the operation helps protect India’s marine biodiversity. It stands as a model of integrated conservation, balancing ecological sustainability with coastal livelihoods.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about Olive Ridley turtles:

1. They are classified as Critically Endangered under the IUCN Red List.
2. They exhibit mass nesting behaviour known as “Arribada.”
3. Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) help reduce their bycatch during trawling.
   Which of the statements is/are correct?
   A. 1 and 2 only
   B. 2 and 3 only
   C. 1 and 3 only
   D. All of the above
   Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
   

2. ‘Operation Olivia’ is associated with the conservation of:
A. Snow Leopards in Ladakh
B. Gangetic Dolphins in Bihar
C. Olive Ridley turtles along the Odisha coast
D. Coral reefs in Lakshadweep
Answer: C. Olive Ridley turtles along the Odisha coast

Mains

1. Operation Olivia represents a model of marine conservation integrating technology, community participation, and legal enforcement. Discuss the role and significance of this operation in conserving Olive Ridley turtles along India’s eastern coast.

2. Discuss the challenges in protecting marine biodiversity in India. How do initiatives like Operation Olivia help address these challenges?

4. Govt Opens Spectrum for Fast WiFi: Big Boost for Tech Industry – Science & Technology

Why in News?

The Indian government has proposed licence-free access to a segment of the 6 GHz frequency band (5925–6425 MHz) to boost WiFi performance and connectivity across India. This move is expected to significantly benefit the tech industry, particularly in enhancing gaming, VR, and high-speed wireless streaming experiences.

Key Takeaways

• The 6 GHz spectrum band has been partially opened (5925–6425 MHz) for unlicensed WiFi use.
• This policy supports the adoption of Wi-Fi 6E, enabling faster, low-latency wireless communication.
• The move is geared toward next-generation tech devices, such as PlayStation Pro, VR equipment, and other high-throughput applications.
• Aimed at bolstering digital infrastructure, improving connectivity, and enhancing real-time application performance like gaming and video conferencing.

Understanding Spectrum Bands for WiFi

• 6 GHz band offers 1200 MHz of spectrum, more than double that of 2.4 and 5 GHz bands combined.
• Supports seven 160 MHz-wide channels, essential for high-bandwidth applications.
• Only devices compatible with Wi-Fi 6E (and upcoming Wi-Fi 7) can utilize this band.

Significance for India’s Digital Ecosystem

For Users:

• Higher WiFi speeds, smoother video calls, streaming, and online gaming.
• Less interference and congestion in densely populated areas.

For Industry:

• Boosts innovation in smart devices, AR/VR, and IoT ecosystems.
• Supports edge computing, telemedicine, and remote work platforms.

For the Economy:

• Encourages startups and global tech companies to invest in India.
• Aligns with Digital India and Make in India initiatives.
• Contributes to telecom modernization and digital infrastructure growth.

Concerns and Criticism

• The currently opened portion (5925–6425 MHz) is only part of the 6 GHz band.
• Industry experts recommend full liberalization of the band to maximize the potential of Wi-Fi 6E and future Wi-Fi 7 standards.
• There is a trade-off between WiFi access and future mobile broadband (5G/6G) use, as both compete for mid-band spectrum.

Summary

India’s decision to open up a segment of the 6 GHz band for licence-free WiFi is a landmark step towards enhancing digital connectivity. It empowers users with faster, more stable wireless internet, supports the rollout of advanced wireless technologies, and attracts investment in emerging tech sectors like AR/VR and IoT. However, to fully harness the benefits of Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, broader spectrum access may be necessary in the future.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following WiFi standards can access the 6 GHz spectrum band?
A. Wi-Fi 5
B. Wi-Fi 6
C. Wi-Fi 6E
D. Wi-Fi 4
Answer: C. Wi-Fi 6E

2. What is the key advantage of the 6 GHz spectrum band compared to the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands?
A. Longer range
B. Greater compatibility with legacy devices
C. Larger bandwidth and less interference
D. Stronger signal penetration through walls
Answer: C. Larger bandwidth and less interference

Mains

1. Discuss the strategic importance of the Indian government’s move to open the 6 GHz spectrum for licence-free WiFi usage. How will it impact India’s digital economy and technological innovation?

2. High-speed wireless connectivity is crucial for the development of smart technologies and real-time applications. Evaluate how the liberalization of the 6 GHz band aligns with India’s broader digital infrastructure goals.

5. Scheme-Based Workers: The Struggle for an Identity – Indian Society

Why in News?

Recent debates have reignited over the status and rights of Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs), such as Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), ASHAs, and Mid-Day Meal Workers, in light of persistent demands for recognition, better pay, and social security. These workers, while crucial to the delivery of welfare schemes, are not recognized as formal government employees.

Key Takeaways

• SBWs are integral to India’s welfare delivery system but are largely denied employee rights.
• They face low honorariums, no social security, and lack of legal recognition.
• The government resists regularization due to potential financial and administrative burdens.
• Trade unions and courts have increasingly supported their demands for fair compensation and benefits.

Who Are Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs)?

• Definition: Workers engaged in implementing government welfare schemes but not classified as formal employees.
• Estimated Workforce: Around 60 million.
• Major Categories:
  • Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Helpers (AWHs) – Women and child development (ICDS)
  • Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) – Rural public health outreach
  • Mid-Day Meal Workers (MDMWs) – Nutritional support in schools

Role and Contributions

These workers are often the face of government welfare in the most marginalized communities.

Challenges Faced by SBWs

1. Lack of Formal Recognition
   • Labeled as “volunteers” or “honorary workers”, not employees.
   • Limits their access to job security and legal protections.
2. Inadequate Remuneration
   • Paid honorariums significantly below minimum wage standards.
   • For instance, Anganwadi workers earn as little as ₹5,000–₹10,000/month.
3. No Social Security Benefits
   • Denied benefits like:
     • Pensions
     • Health insurance
     • Paid maternity leave
4. Suppression of Collective Action
   • Protests and strikes often face police action and legal threats.
   • Right to unionize remains practically constrained.

Why Is the Government Reluctant?

Support from Trade Unions and Judiciary

• Trade Unions:
  • Have organized strikes demanding recognition, wage hikes, and benefits.
  • Resulted in periodic increases in honorariums.
• Judicial Backing:
  • Courts have acknowledged SBWs’ contribution.
  • Recognized their eligibility for gratuity under the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972.

Policy Implications

1. Recognition as Government Employees:
   • Would ensure fair wages, social protection, and legal safeguards.
   • Necessitates a standardized recruitment and service framework.
2. Fiscal Impact:
   • Increase in public expenditure.
   • May require budgetary reallocation or expansion of social sector funding.
3. Broader Precedent:
   • May lead to demands for regularization from other informal or contract-based workers.

Summary

Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs) are essential to India’s social welfare architecture but remain invisible in terms of legal recognition and labor rights. Despite their crucial roles in health, nutrition, and education, they face systemic exploitation due to inadequate pay, lack of benefits, and policy neglect. While trade unions and courts have championed their cause, the government’s reluctance to regularize them continues. A comprehensive policy framework is urgently needed to affirm their identity, ensure social security, and uphold their dignity as frontline welfare workers.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following workers are considered Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs)?

1. Anganwadi Workers
2. ASHA Workers
3. MGNREGA Labourers
4. Mid-Day Meal Cooks
   A. 1 and 2 only
   B. 1, 2 and 4 only
   C. 2, 3 and 4 only
   D. All of the above
   Answer: B. 1, 2 and 4 only
   

2. Consider the following statements:

1. SBWs are recognized as permanent government employees.
2. ASHA workers play a major role in rural public health outreach.
3. Mid-Day Meal Workers are involved in delivering nutritional support in schools.
   Which of the above is/are correct?
   A. 2 and 3 only
   B. 1 and 2 only
   C. 1 and 3 only
   D. All of the above
   Answer: A. 2 and 3 only

Mains

1. Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs) form the backbone of India’s welfare delivery system but lack identity and protection. Discuss the socio-economic implications of their informal status and suggest policy measures for their integration into the formal workforce.

2. Analyze the challenges faced by Scheme-Based Workers in India. How can the state balance fiscal constraints with the need to ensure labor rights and social protection for this workforce?

6. Potato Cultivation in India – Economy

Why in News?

India is projected to become the world’s largest potato producer by 2050, surpassing China, according to experts from the International Potato Center (CIP). This projection underlines the strategic importance of potato cultivation in India’s agricultural and economic landscape.

Key Takeaways

• India is currently the world’s second-largest producer of potatoes.
• Production is expected to double to 100 million tonnes by 2050.
• Growth is driven by rising domestic demand, expansion of cultivation area, and government initiatives like Operation Greens.

About the International Potato Center (CIP)

• Established: 1971
• Headquarters: Lima, Peru
• Focus: Research on potatoes and related tuber crops
• Operations: Over 20 countries, including India
• Asset: Maintains the world’s largest potato gene bank

Potato: India’s King of Vegetables

• Botanical Name: Solanum tuberosum
• Importance: 4th most significant food crop in India (after rice, wheat, maize)
• Origin in India: Introduced by Portuguese traders in the 17th century

Geographical Spread & Top Producing States

• 85% of India’s potato production comes from the Indo-Gangetic plains, which provide fertile alluvial soil and favorable climate conditions.

Agro-Climatic Requirements

Planting Seasons

Seed & Fertilizer Management

• Seed: Use sprouted, disease-free seed tubers (30–50g)
• Popular Varieties:
  • Kufri Jyoti
  • Kufri Bahar
  • Kufri Pukhraj
  • Kufri Chandramukhi
• Fertilization:
  • Balanced use of phosphorus and potassium
  • Encouragement of organic and micronutrient-rich inputs

Harvesting

• Duration: Ready for harvest in 3 to 4 months post-planting
• Methods:
  • Manual in small farms
  • Mechanical harvesters in commercial farms

Global Standing

• Current Rank: 2nd (after China)
• Annual Output: ~50 million tonnes
• Projected Output by 2050: 100 million tonnes

Drivers of Growth

• Expanding cultivation area
• Domestic consumption in processed and fresh form
• Demand from urban, peri-urban, and export markets
• Climate resilience: Potato is more water-efficient than rice/wheat
• Government support through price stabilization and processing infrastructure

Policy Measures: Operation Greens

Launched: 2018

Ministry: Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)

Initial Budget: ₹500 crore

Modeled on: Operation Flood (white revolution)

Objectives:

• Stabilize prices of Tomato, Onion, and Potato (TOP)
• Reduce post-harvest losses
• Promote investment in cold storage, processing, logistics
• Protect both producers and consumers from price volatility

Challenges in Potato Cultivation

• Post-harvest wastage due to lack of cold chains
• Price crashes due to market glut
• Smallholding patterns and poor access to formal credit
• High perishability and transport challenges
• Dependence on middlemen in the supply chain

Way Forward

• Expand processing and export infrastructure
• Integrate cold storage with rural FPOs
• Promote value-added products (chips, flakes)
• Training farmers on modern practices and market intelligence
• Strengthen crop insurance and minimum support price mechanisms

Summary

Potato cultivation is emerging as a strategic agri-sector in India, with significant nutritional, economic, and export potential. Backed by policies like Operation Greens and rising domestic demand, India is on track to become the global leader in potato production. However, bottlenecks like post-harvest losses, price instability, and inadequate storage infrastructure must be addressed through technology, investment, and policy reforms.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following crops is included under “Operation Greens”?
A. Wheat
B. Tomato
C. Potato
D. Both B and C
Answer: D. Both B and C

2. Which of the following is NOT true about potato cultivation in India?
A. It was introduced by Portuguese traders.
B. Uttar Pradesh is the highest producer.
C. Potato prefers saline, water-logged soil.
D. It is grown in both kharif and rabi seasons in some states.
Answer: C. Potato prefers saline, water-logged soil. (Incorrect – it needs well-drained, fertile soil)

Mains

1. India is poised to become the world’s largest potato producer by 2050. Discuss the role of potato cultivation in enhancing food security, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience. What steps are necessary to address the challenges in the value chain?

2. Examine the role of government initiatives such as Operation Greens in supporting horticultural farmers, with a focus on tomato, onion, and potato (TOP) crops. Evaluate their effectiveness and suggest improvements.

7. Trade Diplomacy: India-Bangladesh Trade-Related Tensions – International Relations

Why in News?

India has recently imposed trade restrictions on Bangladeshi exports, especially readymade garments, amid growing concerns over Bangladesh’s evolving foreign policy under interim Prime Minister Mohammed Yunus. His administration’s increasing closeness with China and Pakistan, particularly comments about providing China access to India’s Northeast via Bangladesh, has alarmed Indian policymakers.

Key Takeaways

• The trade restrictions mark a departure from India’s traditionally cooperative trade approach with Bangladesh.
• Triggered by:
  • Bangladesh’s shifting foreign alignment toward China and Pakistan.
  • Political statements made by PM Yunus in China.
• The move may fuel anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh and destabilize Northeast India, a sensitive and strategically important region.

Contextual Background

India-Bangladesh Trade Relations (Overview)

• Bangladesh is India’s largest trading partner in South Asia.
• Bilateral trade in 2022-23: Over $18 billion, with India enjoying a trade surplus.
• Key Indian exports: Raw cotton, machinery, vehicles, cereals.
• Key Bangladeshi exports: Readymade garments, jute, fish, and leather goods.

Recent Shift in Policy

• India imposed non-tariff barriers and tighter customs checks on Bangladeshi goods.
• Aimed at signaling displeasure with Dhaka’s current foreign policy drift.

Bangladesh’s Strategic Tilt and India’s Concerns

Implications of the Trade Restrictions

For India

• Strategic signaling: Asserts India’s geopolitical red lines.
• Security implication: Seeks to prevent increased Chinese strategic access near Northeast India.
• Diplomatic cost: May weaken India’s soft power and image as a regional partner.

For Bangladesh

• Potential economic distress for garment exporters, especially SMEs.
• Rise in anti-India rhetoric, giving leverage to opposition parties and pro-China elements.
• Could weaken India-friendly constituencies, such as the Awami League.

For the Region

• Increased instability in Northeast India if local discontent is stirred.
• May drive Bangladesh to seek deeper engagement with China, further undermining India’s influence.

Strategic Recommendations for India

• Engage all stakeholders: Awami League, BNP, civil society to maintain democratic credibility.
• Avoid one-dimensional trade coercion; instead, use multi-channel diplomacy.
• Reinforce economic interdependence through:
  • Connectivity projects
  • Regional energy sharing
  • People-to-people exchanges
• Enhance border infrastructure and surveillance in Northeast India.

Summary

India’s recent trade restrictions on Bangladesh signal a shift from economic cooperation to geopolitical assertiveness, prompted by Dhaka’s warming ties with China and comments from PM Yunus about providing China access to India’s Northeast. While these moves reflect India’s strategic anxieties, they risk damaging long-standing ties and fueling instability. India must balance hard and soft power by maintaining diplomatic engagement, supporting democratic forces, and reinforcing economic ties to secure its interests in the eastern neighborhood.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following is NOT a major export item from Bangladesh to India?
A. Readymade garments
B. Jute products
C. Fish
D. Crude oil
Answer: D. Crude oil

2. Which of the following statements is correct regarding India-Bangladesh relations?
A. Bangladesh is India’s largest trading partner in the world.
B. India has a trade deficit with Bangladesh.
C. Bangladesh is India’s largest trading partner in South Asia.
D. India and Bangladesh do not share a land border.
Answer: C. Bangladesh is India’s largest trading partner in South Asia.

Mains

1. Analyze the strategic and diplomatic implications of India’s recent trade restrictions on Bangladesh. How should India balance its security interests with regional cooperation?

2. In the context of growing Chinese influence in South Asia, examine the challenges India faces in its relationship with Bangladesh. Suggest policy options for sustaining constructive bilateral engagement.

8. Stitch in Time: Judiciary vs Environment Ministry’s Clearance Bypass Orders – Environment

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India recently invalidated two executive orders issued by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) that allowed industries to continue operations despite breaching environmental regulations. The ruling reaffirmed the importance of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) process and parliamentary oversight in environmental governance.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court struck down the Environment Ministry’s notifications that:
  • Allowed retrospective clearance for environmental violations.
  • Enabled industries to regularise non-compliance by merely paying fines.
• The Court emphasized that such executive actions cannot override statutory requirements under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.

Background: What Was at Stake?

Environment Impact Assessment (EIA), 2006

• A statutory framework under the Environment Protection Act (EPA), 1986.
• Mandates prior environmental clearance for certain categories of industrial and infrastructure projects.
• Objective: To assess and mitigate adverse environmental impacts before project implementation.

MoEFCC’s Executive Orders

1. 2017 Notification (“One-Time Amnesty”):
   • Allowed industries operating without prior EIA clearance to pay penalties and apply retrospectively.
2. 2021 SOP:
   • Created a regularisation process for ongoing and future violations, effectively undermining the preventive nature of EIA.

Supreme Court’s Observations

• The Court ruled that:
  • These notifications violated the precautionary principle and rule of law.
  • Statutory compliance (like prior EIA clearance) cannot be substituted by fines or retrospective approval.
  • Bypassing parliamentary procedures to regularise illegality via executive orders is unconstitutional.
• Impact:
  • Existing industries regularised through these orders may escape penalties, but
  • Future projects must obtain prior clearances without exception.

Government’s Justification

• Claimed the measures were to:
  • Avoid economic disruption
  • Provide a pragmatic solution to widespread violations
  • Cited legal precedents that allow for flexible enforcement

However, the Court found this approach undermined environmental accountability and legal sanctity.

Implications of the Verdict

Positive Impacts

• Reaffirms the importance of environmental rule of law.
• Strengthens the preventive and precautionary approach of environmental policy.
• Sets a precedent that executive discretion has limits in environmental governance.

Challenges Ahead

• Thousands of projects may now face delays or legal hurdles.
• State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and regional authorities must now enhance compliance monitoring.
• Risk of conflict between industrial development and environmental regulation may intensify.

Way Forward

Summary

The Supreme Court’s ruling on invalidating MoEFCC’s executive orders is a landmark judgment that upholds the sanctity of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) framework. It highlights the judiciary’s role in enforcing environmental accountability, especially against attempts to regularise illegal industrial activities through executive shortcuts. Going forward, stringent monitoring, institutional capacity, and legislative integrity are critical to achieving a balance between economic development and ecological sustainability.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following correctly describes the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) process?
A. It is a post-construction pollution audit.
B. It is a mechanism for imposing environmental fines.
C. It assesses environmental impact before project approval.
D. It is part of the Forest Rights Act implementation.
Answer: C. It assesses environmental impact before project approval.

2. The Environment Protection Act (EPA), 1986 was enacted in response to:
A. Bhopal Gas Tragedy
B. Chernobyl Disaster
C. Stockholm Conference
D. Kyoto Protocol
Answer: A. Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Mains

1.The Supreme Court’s invalidation of MoEFCC’s clearance bypass orders highlights tensions between environmental law and economic growth. Critically examine the implications of this judgment on India’s environmental regulatory framework.

2.Discuss the significance of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) process in India’s environmental governance. How does judicial intervention ensure accountability in cases of regulatory violations?