1. Judiciary and Constitutional Boundaries: National Debate Ignited by VP’s Remarks – Polity
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Key Issues Raised by VP | Transparency in judicial inquiries, use of Article 142, accountability deficit, timeline directives for President/Governors, and bench size concerns. |
| Supreme Court’s Role | Guardian of the Constitution, protector of fundamental rights, enforcer of constitutional boundaries through judicial review. |
| Current Context | SC’s recent ruling setting timelines for gubernatorial and presidential assent to state Bills has stirred debate on separation of powers. |
Details of the Vice-President’s Concerns
| Concern | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Transparency in Judiciary | Criticism over lack of openness in judicial misconduct proceedings. Example: Secrecy in Delhi High Court judge inquiry. |
| Use of Article 142 | Fear that expansive use may erode democratic structures by bypassing legislative or executive processes. |
| Judicial Review Timelines | Questioned if judiciary can set time limits for President/Governor decisions. |
| Accountability Gap | Judiciary is unelected and lacks the regular checks that the executive and legislature face. |
| Bench Strength Concerns | Suggested revisiting Constitution Bench rules (minimum 5 judges) for more efficient adjudication. |
Understanding Key Constitutional Provisions
| Article | Provision |
|---|---|
| Article 142 | Supreme Court can pass any order necessary for complete justice. |
| Article 145(3) | Matters involving substantial constitutional interpretation require a minimum five-judge bench. |
| Judicial Review (Basic Structure Doctrine) | Judiciary can invalidate laws that violate the Constitution’s basic structure (Keshavananda Bharati case, 1973). |
Judicial Activism vs Judicial Overreach
| Judicial Activism (Positive) | Judicial Overreach (Negative) |
|---|---|
| Filling governance gaps (e.g., Vishaka Guidelines, 1997). | Encroaching upon executive/legislative domains without constitutional backing. |
| Protecting rights when political will fails (e.g., Bhopal Gas Compensation). | Mandating administrative or political actions (e.g., criticism of timeline orders). |
| Corrective justice when laws are silent. | Creation of new policies which ideally belong to Parliament/Executive. |
Arguments for Judicial Transparency and Reforms
- Public Confidence: Transparent handling of misconduct strengthens faith in the judiciary.
- Collegium System Critique: Calls for revisiting judicial appointments through a National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC)-like body.
- Balancing Act: Need to ensure judicial independence without making judiciary an unchecked institution.
Summary
A national debate has emerged following the Vice-President’s remarks on judicial overreach and constitutional propriety, especially concerning the Supreme Court’s recent rulings under Article 142. Key issues raised include lack of transparency in judicial conduct, judicial timelines for executive action, and concerns over accountability and bench size. While the judiciary plays a vital role in safeguarding rights and constitutional boundaries, critics argue for reforms to ensure checks and transparency. The episode highlights the ongoing tension between judicial activism and the principle of separation of powers.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which Article empowers the Supreme Court to pass any decree to ensure “complete justice” in any case?
a) Article 32
b) Article 142
c) Article 136
d) Article 145
Answer: b) Article 142
2. In India, which of the following is considered part of the “Basic Structure” of the Constitution as recognized by the Supreme Court?
- Judicial Review
- Parliamentary Sovereignty
- Secularism
Select the correct answer:
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: a) 1 and 3 only
Mains :
- Critically examine the scope and implications of Article 142 of the Constitution in the context of separation of powers in India.
(GS Paper II – Polity) - Discuss the significance of maintaining a balance between judicial independence and judicial accountability in a constitutional democracy like India.
(GS Paper II – Polity and Governance)
2. World’s First Market for Particulate Emissions Trading in Gujarat – Environment
Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Surat Industrial Cluster, Gujarat |
| Launched | 2019 |
| Target Industries | Textile and dyeing industries using coal, lignite, diesel |
| Key Players | Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), J-PAL, EPIC India, Yale University |
| Objective | To regulate and reduce Particulate Matter (PM) emissions through a market-based trading mechanism. |
How Does the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) Work?
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Cap Setting | Authorities set an upper limit (“cap”) on total allowable emissions. |
| 2. Permit Allocation | 80% permits are allocated free; 20% are auctioned. |
| 3. Trading | Industries emitting less than their cap can sell surplus permits; industries exceeding caps must buy permits or face penalties. |
| 4. Compliance Check | Emissions monitored via Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS). Non-compliance leads to double-penalty enforcement. |
Achievements and Results
| Impact | Evidence |
|---|---|
| Pollution Reduction | 20–30% drop in PM emissions among participants. |
| High Compliance | 99% compliance rate by permit-holding industries. |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Cheaper than traditional command-and-control regulations. |
| Flexibility for Industries | Firms can innovate or buy permits based on economic preference. |
Comparison: ETS vs. Traditional Regulation
| ETS (Market-Based) | Traditional Command-and-Control |
|---|---|
| Flexibility in how emissions are reduced. | One-size-fits-all compliance rules. |
| Creates financial incentives for pollution control. | No direct financial rewards for better performance. |
| Encourages innovation in cleaner technologies. | Focuses mainly on enforcement and penalties. |
Global Examples of Emissions Trading
| Region | Scheme |
|---|---|
| EU | European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) |
| China | National ETS (world’s largest carbon market) |
| USA | Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) in northeastern states |
Quick Concept: “Cap-and-Trade” Model
- Cap: Total limit on emissions is set.
- Trade: Companies can buy and sell emission permits.
- Goal: Gradually reduce total emissions by tightening the cap over time.
Challenges of ETS in Surat
- Over-reliance on free permits → Smaller players may struggle when free permits are phased out.
- Market Manipulation Risk → Need strict oversight to prevent collusion.
- Limited Geographic Scope → Only applicable to Surat’s industrial belt currently.
Way Forward
- Expand ETS to other industrial clusters like Ahmedabad, Vapi, Ankleshwar.
- Gradually tighten emission caps to push industries towards greener technologies.
- Develop a national-level particulate or carbon trading framework inspired by Surat’s success.
- Strengthen CEMS infrastructure to ensure reliable monitoring.
Summary
Gujarat’s Surat became home to the world’s first emissions trading scheme (ETS) for particulate matter, targeting pollution in textile and dyeing industries. The scheme uses a cap-and-trade model, enabling industries to buy and sell emission permits while maintaining a collective pollution limit. It has led to a 20–30% reduction in emissions and high compliance at low cost. This market-based approach offers a flexible, innovative alternative to conventional environmental regulation.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. With reference to the Surat Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), which of the following statements is/are correct?
- It applies to particulate matter emissions from industries.
- Industries can trade permits based on their actual emissions.
- The scheme covers the entire state of Gujarat.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Mains :
“The Surat PM-ETS demonstrates that market-based instruments can be an effective alternative to traditional environmental regulations in India.” Discuss, highlighting the benefits and limitations of emissions trading schemes.
(GS Paper III – Environment and Economy)
3. 🇮🇳🇨🇳 India, China at 75 — A Time for Strategy, Not Sentiment – InternationaI Relations
Key Themes
| Theme | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Mistrust and Opportunity | Relations are marked by border tensions (e.g., Galwan 2020), but there remains scope for selective cooperation. |
| China Lens | Nearly every major Indian foreign policy decision — from QUAD participation to defence modernization — is influenced by China. |
| Economic Interdependence | Despite tensions, China remains one of India’s top trading partners. Trade imbalance persists, but full decoupling is impractical. |
| Regional Competition | China’s expanding influence in South Asia (e.g., Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka) challenges India’s traditional leadership in the region. |
| Strategic Autonomy | India’s balancing act: deepening ties with the U.S. (e.g., I2U2, Indo-Pacific partnerships) while preserving independent decision-making. |
Major Challenges
| Challenge | Details |
|---|---|
| Border Disputes | Ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC); unresolved disputes in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh. |
| Economic Deficit | Huge trade imbalance (~$100 billion deficit in 2024-25), with China exporting far more to India than vice versa. |
| South Asia Strategy | China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects challenge India’s regional initiatives like SAGAR and BIMSTEC. |
| U.S.-China Rivalry | India must carefully navigate between its growing security ties with the U.S. and managing China without full confrontation. |
Strategic Approach: Competitive Coexistence
- Engage selectively with China on global issues (e.g., climate change, BRICS, SCO).
- Compete assertively on border issues, regional influence, and critical technologies (semiconductors, 5G).
- Strengthen regional alliances (BIMSTEC, Indian Ocean Region outreach) to balance Chinese influence.
- Maintain strategic autonomy without becoming a pawn in U.S.-China rivalry.
Quick Concept: “China Lens” in Indian Strategy
- Every decision (from 5G bans to defence exercises) is evaluated in terms of how China might react or how it affects India’s China policy.
- Example:
➔ Ban on Chinese apps (2020)
➔ Investment screening policies (FDI restrictions from neighboring countries)
Opportunities for Cooperation
| Area | Potential |
|---|---|
| Climate Change | Both are major players in global environmental negotiations. |
| Multilateral Forums | Cooperation within BRICS, SCO, G20 where interests align. |
| Economic Complementarity | Future collaboration in pharmaceuticals, services, and IT sectors possible if political trust improves. |
Summary
As India and China mark 75 years of diplomatic ties, their relationship is shaped by mistrust, border tensions, and economic interdependence. Despite unresolved disputes like those along the LAC and a large trade imbalance, selective cooperation in multilateral forums and climate action remains possible. India’s strategy revolves around competitive coexistence — asserting itself regionally while maintaining strategic autonomy and navigating U.S.-China rivalries. All policy moves are increasingly filtered through a “China lens” to balance engagement and deterrence.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. India and China are members together in which of the following groupings?
- SCO
- RCEP
- BRICS
- QUAD
Answer: SCO, BRICS (Not QUAD, Not RCEP for India).
Mains :
1. “The 75th anniversary of India-China relations must move beyond nostalgia to strategic realism.” Critically examine India’s options for managing competition and cooperation with China in the emerging global order.
(GS Paper II – International Relations)
4. Nitrogen: A Double-Edged Sword for Life and Climate – Environment
Why Nitrogen Is Essential
- Atmospheric Abundance:
~78% of Earth’s atmosphere is nitrogen gas (N₂). - Biological Functions:
➔ Vital for DNA, ATP (energy molecule), proteins, and chlorophyll formation. - Nitrogen Cycle:
Natural circulation of nitrogen among the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms.
Steps of the Nitrogen Cycle
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Nitrogen Fixation | Diazotroph bacteria (e.g., Rhizobium) convert inert N₂ into ammonia (NH₃). |
| Nitrification | Ammonia is converted into nitrites (NO₂⁻) and nitrates (NO₃⁻) by nitrifying bacteria. |
| Assimilation | Plants absorb nitrates to build amino acids and proteins. |
| Ammonification | Decomposition releases ammonia back into the soil. |
| Denitrification | Anaerobic bacteria convert nitrates back into N₂ gas, completing the cycle. |
Industrial Impact: Haber-Bosch Process
- Revolutionary invention (early 20th century) to artificially fix nitrogen into ammonia (NH₃).
- Boosted global agriculture (Green Revolution) by enabling mass fertilizer production.
- Negative Side-effect: Created an “excess nitrogen” crisis in ecosystems.
Environmental Risks of Excess Nitrogen
| Problem | Effects |
|---|---|
| Eutrophication | Fertilizer runoff into water bodies → Algal blooms → Oxygen depletion → Dead zones (e.g., Gulf of Mexico). |
| Soil Acidification | Excess nitrates lower soil pH, damaging crops and forests. |
| Air Pollution | Nitrogen oxides (NOx) contribute to ground-level ozone and acid rain. |
| Global Warming | N₂O is a greenhouse gas 300× more potent than CO₂. |
India’s Nitrogen Challenge
- India is the 2nd largest N₂O emitter after China.
- Major sources:
➔ Overuse of chemical fertilizers (esp. urea),
➔ Livestock waste,
➔ Biomass burning. - Agriculture accounts for ~80% of nitrogen pollution in India.
Quick Concept: Why is Nitrous Oxide Dangerous?
- Lifetime in atmosphere: ~114 years
- Potency: 300× stronger than CO₂ in trapping heat
- Additional Harm: Depletes the ozone layer.
Key Terms to Remember
- Haber-Bosch Process: Industrial fixation of nitrogen for fertilizer production.
- Diazotrophs: Microorganisms that fix atmospheric nitrogen.
- Reactive Nitrogen: Nitrogen compounds like NH₃, NO₃⁻, and N₂O involved in environmental harm.
- Dead Zone: Oxygen-depleted water body caused by excessive nutrient pollution.
Solutions for Sustainable Nitrogen Management
| Strategy | Example |
|---|---|
| Precision farming | Optimal fertilizer use through soil testing. |
| Use of biofertilizers | Rhizobium-based inoculants instead of chemical fertilizers. |
| Crop rotation and intercropping | Use legumes (nitrogen fixers) to reduce fertilizer need. |
| Nutrient Management Plans | Regulating fertilizer application timing and quantity. |
| Promotion of Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) | Government schemes like Soil Health Card. |
Summary
Nitrogen is vital for life, forming key biological compounds and enabling plant growth through the nitrogen cycle. However, industrial overuse—especially via fertilizers—has led to excess reactive nitrogen, causing eutrophication, soil acidification, and emissions of nitrous oxide (a potent greenhouse gas). India, as the second-largest N₂O emitter, faces major environmental risks from nitrogen mismanagement. Sustainable practices like precision farming, biofertilizers, and nutrient-use efficiency are essential to mitigate these impacts.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which of the following processes returns nitrogen to the atmosphere?
(a) Nitrification
(b) Denitrification
(c) Nitrogen fixation
(d) Assimilation
Answer: (b) Denitrification
Mains :
- “Nitrogen is essential for life but a growing threat to climate stability.” Discuss the dual nature of nitrogen and suggest strategies for sustainable nitrogen management in India.
(GS Paper 3 – Environment)
5. Why is Europe Warming Faster? – Environment
Key Findings from 2024 Report
- Europe = Warmest Year on Record (especially Eastern Europe).
- Southeastern Europe: Experienced its longest heatwave ever (affecting Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Kosovo, Serbia).
- Regional Contrast:
➔ Western Europe: Cloudier and wetter
➔ Eastern Europe: Sunnier and significantly warmer
Why Is Europe Warming Faster?
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Proximity to Arctic | Europe lies close to the Arctic, where warming is 3–4× faster than global average (known as Arctic amplification). |
| Albedo Effect | Melting ice reduces Earth’s reflectivity (albedo). Darker land/ocean absorbs more heat, accelerating warming. |
| Reduction in Aerosols | Cleaner air (post-1970s environmental reforms) means fewer aerosols, allowing more sunlight to reach the ground and increase warming. |
| Land-based Warming | Land heats faster than oceans. Since Europe is largely landmass, it experiences quicker and more extreme warming than coastal regions. |
| Atmospheric Circulation Changes | Changes in jet streams and air currents cause heatwaves and stagnant weather patterns over Europe. |
| Global Climate Dynamics | Europe’s location and topography (e.g., Alps) exacerbate extreme events like floods, droughts, and heatwaves. |
Potential Future Risks If Warming Continues
| Temperature Rise | Consequences |
|---|---|
| >2°C (above pre-industrial levels) | Breach Paris Agreement goals; increased extreme weather events, crop failures. |
| >3°C | – Terrestrial ecosystems could emit more carbon than they absorb. – Coral reefs may face widespread mortality. – Major sea-level rise impacts. |
Quick Concepts to Remember
- Arctic Amplification: Faster warming of polar regions compared to the global average.
- Albedo Effect: Ice reflects sunlight; water or land absorbs it. Loss of ice = more heat absorption.
- Aerosols: Tiny particles that block sunlight; their reduction → increased surface warming.
- Extreme warming in Europe affects global food markets and commodity prices (e.g., wheat, energy).
- Changing climate in Europe can disrupt monsoon patterns due to global atmospheric circulation shifts.
- Opportunity for India to lead in climate diplomacy (climate resilient agriculture, renewable energy exports).
Summary
Europe is warming faster than the global average due to its proximity to the rapidly warming Arctic, land-dominated geography, and reduced aerosol pollution post-industrial reforms. Effects like Arctic amplification and the albedo effect are accelerating heatwaves, especially in Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Changes in jet streams and stagnant weather patterns further intensify extreme climate events. This trend threatens ecosystems, agriculture, and global climate stability.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1.Which of the following factors contribute to Europe’s faster warming compared to the global average?
- Proximity to the Arctic
- Reduction in Aerosols
- Presence of large oceans moderating climate
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
(Large oceans moderate temperatures, but Europe’s interior is mostly land.)
Mains :
1. “Discuss the reasons behind Europe’s accelerated warming compared to the global average. What lessons can India learn from Europe’s climate change experience?”
(GS Paper 3 – Environment and Climate Change)
6. SpaDeX Mission: ISRO’s Major Leap in Satellite Docking – Science and Technology
Key Facts
- Mission Name: SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment)
- Satellites Involved:
➔ SDX-01 (Chaser)
➔ SDX-02 (Target) - Weight of each satellite: ~220 kg
- Orbit: 460 km circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO), 45° inclination
- Launch Vehicle: PSLV-C60
What is Space Docking
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Space Docking | Physical joining of two orbiting spacecraft, enabling transfer of crew, materials, power, or conducting repairs and refueling. |
| Undocking | Controlled separation of two previously docked spacecraft. |
| Rendezvous | Controlled approach of one spacecraft towards another in orbit. |
Objectives of SpaDeX
| Primary Objectives | Secondary Objectives |
|---|---|
| – Demonstrate autonomous rendezvous and docking in space. | – Transfer of electric power between docked spacecraft. |
| – Validate spacecraft composite control systems (for attitude, orbit, thrust). | – Operate payloads even after undocking (important for deep-space missions). |
| – Enable future servicing missions (repair, refuel, rescue). | – Prepare for advanced space missions like space stations, on-orbit assembly, and refueling stations. |
Global Context
| Country | Docking Capability Achievements |
|---|---|
| USA | First manned docking (Gemini 8 mission, 1966). |
| Russia | Extensive experience via Soyuz missions, Mir Space Station. |
| China | Mastered docking through Tiangong missions. |
| India | Now joins the elite group with SpaDeX success (2025). |
Significance of SpaDeX for India
- Space Station Program: Lays foundation for India’s future Bharatiya Antariksha Station (targeted for 2035).
- Satellite Servicing: Enables life-extension missions (refueling, repairing defunct satellites).
- Deep-Space Exploration: Supports complex missions (Mars, Moon, Asteroid rendezvous).
- Strategic Advantage: Enhances India’s capabilities in space warfare and defense technologies (e.g., anti-satellite defense, rescue missions).
Summary
ISRO’s SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) marks India’s entry into elite spacefaring nations with autonomous docking capabilities. The mission tested orbital rendezvous between two satellites (SDX-01 and SDX-02) and validated power transfer and spacecraft control. It lays the groundwork for India’s future space station and satellite servicing missions. SpaDeX boosts India’s capacity for deep-space exploration and strategic space technologies.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1.What is the SpaDeX mission by ISRO associated with?
(a) Lunar soft-landing technology
(b) Docking of two spacecraft in orbit
(c) Deployment of communication satellites
(d) Development of reusable launch vehicles
Answer: (b) Docking of two spacecraft in orbit
Mains :
1. Discuss the significance of India’s SpaDeX mission for the future of the Indian space program, particularly in the context of space station development and deep-space exploration.
(GS Paper 3 – Science & Technology)