23rd March 2025-Current Affairs

1. India’s Push for GM Food Crops: Progress Amid Legal Scrutiny – Science and Technology

Why in News?

India is currently focusing on advancing genetically modified (GM) food crops, particularly GM mustard, ahead of critical Supreme Court hearings. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has confirmed progress in the development and regulation of GM crops, despite legal and environmental opposition.

The Supreme Court is set to evaluate petitions challenging the 2022 approval granted to GM mustard by the Environment Ministry. While the government continues to advocate for the role of biotechnology in improving agricultural productivity, several environmental groups have raised safety and ecological concerns.

Additional Details

GM Mustard

• India’s first GM food crop to receive conditional approval by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC).
• Intended to improve crop yields and reduce reliance on edible oil imports.
• Commercial rollout has been delayed due to litigation, pending Supreme Court scrutiny.

Supreme Court Proceedings

• The Court recently delivered a split verdict, leading to the matter being referred to a larger bench.
• Legal concerns revolve around the approval process, potential health impacts, and environmental risk assessment.

Concerns from Activist Groups

• Farmer and environmental groups argue:
  • Lack of long-term safety data.
  • Risks to biodiversity and pollinators.
  • Inadequate transparency in GEAC’s decision-making process.

Government’s Position

• The Department of Biotechnology continues to:
  • Fund research in transgenic crops.
  • Support the creation of a national policy on GM crops.
• The BioE3 policy (Biotech for Economic, Environmental, and Ecological benefits) supports integrating biotechnology into agriculture, health, and climate resilience.

India’s Bio-Economy Context

• Bio-economy valued at $165.7 billion, with GM crops like Bt Cotton playing a critical role.
• GM crops are seen as key to:
  • Enhancing food security.
  • Reducing climate vulnerabilities.
  • Driving agricultural innovation.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper II & III: Government policies, biotechnology, agriculture, and environmental governance.
• Understanding regulatory institutions like GEAC, DBT.
• Intersections of science, policy, and public interest litigation.
• State-level implications for agricultural productivity and food safety.

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Consider the following statements about GM Mustard in India:

1. It is the first genetically modified food crop approved for commercial cultivation in India.
2. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the final approving authority for GM crops.
3. GM mustard is engineered for pest resistance.

Which of the statements above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only ✅
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: B
(Statement 3 is incorrect – GM mustard is engineered for higher yield, not pest resistance.)

Mains

Q. Discuss the legal, environmental, and economic implications of introducing genetically modified food crops in India. How can India balance innovation with bio-safety concerns?
(250 words)

Final Takeaway

India’s foray into GM food crops marks a pivotal juncture in its agricultural strategy. While GM mustard may open doors for biotech-driven productivity, the absence of legal clarity, concerns over biosafety, and lack of transparency in the approval process continue to stall progress. A well-regulated, science-backed, and publicly accountable framework is essential to harness biotechnology’s benefits while preserving ecological and consumer safety.

2. Charting a Route for IORA Under India’s Chairmanship – International Relations

Why in News?

The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) is a major regional organization promoting cooperation among countries bordering the Indian Ocean—including those in Asia, Africa, and Australia. As India prepares to assume the chairmanship in November 2025, the country is uniquely positioned to reform IORA’s governance and enhance its strategic and economic significance.

India seeks to address institutional challenges, boost financial sustainability, integrate technology into IORA’s operations, and initiate maritime-focused academic programs to strengthen the region’s collective response to security and economic issues.

Additional Details

Strategic Importance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)

• The IOR is crucial for global trade, facilitating:
  • 75% of global trade movement.
  • 50% of daily global oil consumption.
• It generates over $1 trillion annually.
• Intra-IORA trade reached $800 billion in 2023, showcasing its growing relevance.

Challenges Faced by IORA

1. Funding Constraints:
   • IORA’s budget is heavily dependent on contributions from developing member countries.
   • This results in financial instability, limiting the organization’s ability to address critical concerns like maritime security.
2. Limited Technological Capacity:
   • The IORA Secretariat in Mauritius suffers from:
     • Inadequate human resources.
     • Outdated data processing infrastructure, impacting evidence-based policymaking.
3. Private Sector Exclusion:
   • Lack of industry participation restricts innovation and investment in blue economy sectors like fisheries, shipping, and coastal tourism.

🇮🇳 India’s Role and Strategic Recommendations

• Diplomatic Bridge-Builder: India can serve as a consensus-builder among member nations with differing economic and strategic priorities.
• Technology Integration: Invest in data infrastructure to modernize IORA’s decision-making.
• Educational Capacity Building:
  • Propose maritime-ready academic curricula to build long-term capabilities in ocean governance, climate resilience, and disaster preparedness.
• Traditional Knowledge: Promote integration of local coastal knowledge systems for sustainable development models.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper II: Regional groupings, international relations, Indian diplomacy.
• GS Paper III: Maritime security, blue economy, and economic development in IOR.
• State perspective: Himachal Pradesh’s interest in national security, trade corridors, and climate impact via coastal and oceanic policies.

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Which of the following statements regarding the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) is/are correct?

1. IORA was established in 1997 with headquarters in Seychelles.
2. India will assume the chairmanship of IORA in 2025.
3. The IORA Secretariat is located in Mauritius.

Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only ✅
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: B
(Statement 1 is incorrect – the Secretariat is in Mauritius, not Seychelles.)

Mains

Q. Discuss the challenges faced by the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and analyze how India’s upcoming chairmanship could address them. What strategic priorities should guide India’s leadership?
(250 words)

Final Takeaway

The Indian Ocean Rim Association stands at a critical crossroads. With India set to chair the organization in 2025, it has the opportunity to reshape IORA into a strategically agile and economically robust platform. Tackling issues of funding, governance, technology, and capacity-building can help IORA become a central pillar in the Indo-Pacific regional order—reflecting India’s vision of inclusive development and maritime cooperation.

3. India and the Arctic – International Relations

Why in News?

The Russian Ambassador to India recently highlighted India’s involvement in the Arctic as a “stabilizing factor”, reinforcing the growing strategic and scientific collaboration between India and Russia in this geopolitically crucial region.

India’s Arctic policy emphasizes scientific research, sustainable development, and securing access to new shipping routes and energy resources, particularly through the Northern Sea Route (NSR).

Additional Details

India-Russia Collaboration in the Arctic

1. Energy Cooperation
   • Joint ventures in Arctic oil and gas fields such as:
     • Dolginskoye oil field
     • Vostok oil cluster
2. Northern Sea Route (NSR):
   • Aims to reduce shipping costs and improve Indo-Russian connectivity.
   • NSR is shorter than the traditional Suez Canal route, saving time and fuel.

About India’s Arctic Policy

India launched its first Arctic Policy in 2022, titled “India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development.”

It focuses on six pillars:

1. Science & Research:
   • Climate change, polar biology, atmospheric sciences, geosciences.
2. Climate & Environmental Protection:
   • Sustainable development without harming the fragile Arctic ecosystem.
3. Economic & Human Development:
   • Tapping into energy resources and enhancing skills in polar research.
4. Transportation & Connectivity:
   • Leveraging Arctic shipping routes for strategic maritime access.
5. Governance & International Cooperation:
   • Active participation in Arctic institutions and multilateral frameworks.
6. National Capacity Building:
   • Development of polar research talent and infrastructure.

🇮🇳 India’s Arctic Mission – Timeline & Achievements

• 2007: First research expedition to the Arctic.
• 2008: Establishment of Himadri, India’s first Arctic research station in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard (Norway).
• 2023: First winter Arctic expedition under polar night conditions to study:
  • Sea-ice dynamics
  • Ocean circulation
• Collaborations: Joint research with Norway, Russia, and other Arctic states.

Back2Basics: Arctic Council

• Established: 1996
• Members: Arctic states + permanent participants (Indigenous groups)
• Focus Areas: Environmental protection, sustainable development
• India’s Role:
  • Observer status since 2013
  • Participates in climate-related research and policy discussions

Note: Arctic Council’s activities have been suspended amid geopolitical tensions, but India continues constructive engagement.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper I: Geographical significance of polar regions
• GS Paper II: International relations – Arctic Council, India-Russia relations
• GS Paper III: Climate change, strategic shipping routes, energy security
• HP-specific context: Weather patterns in Himachal Pradesh are influenced by Arctic climatic changes; relevant for disaster preparedness & water management.

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. The term ‘IndARC’, sometimes seen in the news, is the name of:
A. An indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian Defence
B. India’s satellite to provide services to Indian Ocean Rim countries
C. A scientific establishment set up by India in the Antarctic region
D. India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region ✅

Correct Answer: D

Mains

Q. Why is India taking a keen interest in the Arctic region? Discuss the economic and strategic significance of Arctic resources and shipping routes, along with the environmental challenges.
(250 words)

Final Takeaway

India’s growing engagement in the Arctic region reflects a strategic shift towards securing energy resources, enhancing polar research, and leveraging new trade routes. As India deepens cooperation with Arctic stakeholders—especially Russia—it must also balance geopolitical interests with ecological responsibility. The 2022 Arctic Policy offers a framework to achieve this through science, sustainability, and strategic partnerships.

4. Bihar Makes Fresh Demand for Special Category Status – Polity

Why in News?

The Bihar government, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has renewed its appeal for Special Category Status (SCS) during the ongoing visit of the 16th Finance Commission to assess the state’s fiscal and developmental needs.

Bihar argues that its economic, infrastructural, and geographical disadvantages warrant SCS classification to ensure greater financial support and development equity.

Additional Details

What is Special Category Status (SCS)?

Definition:
Special Category Status is a classification granted by the Central Government to states facing specific developmental and structural challenges, ensuring preferential treatment in central assistance.

Origins:

• Introduced in 1969 by the Fifth Finance Commission.
• Initially granted to Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, and Nagaland.
• Later extended to include Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Uttarakhand, Mizoram, and Telangana.

Eligibility Criteria (As per Gadgil Formula)

1. Hilly & Difficult Terrain
2. Low Population Density and/or high tribal population
3. Strategic Location along borders
4. Economic & Infrastructure Backwardness
5. Non-viable state finances

Benefits of Special Category Status

Bihar’s Case for SCS

1. Industrial Backwardness:
   • Largely agrarian economy with limited manufacturing.
   • Suffered post-2000 after the creation of Jharkhand (loss of mineral-rich areas).
2. High Poverty & Low Per Capita Income:
   • Among the poorest states in terms of GDP per capita and human development indices.
3. Recurrent Natural Disasters:
   • Floods, droughts, and riverine instability disrupt livelihoods regularly.
4. Infrastructure Gaps:
   • Poor road connectivity, limited irrigation, and underdeveloped power sector.

About the Finance Commission

• Established under Article 280 of the Constitution every 5 years.
• Role: Recommends distribution of taxes between the Centre and States, and among states.
• Composition: 1 Chairperson + 4 Members (experts in public finance, economics, administration).

16th Finance Commission – Key Terms of Reference:

• Principles governing grants-in-aid.
• Assessment of disaster funding mechanisms.
• Evaluation of resource distribution for local bodies.
• Determining horizontal and vertical tax devolution.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper II: Centre-State relations, constitutional bodies (Finance Commission), fiscal federalism
• GS Paper III: Resource allocation, planning and budgeting
• HP-specific: Understanding how backward states or hilly regions (like Himachal) advocate for financial support in the federal system.

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. In the context of horizontal tax devolution, the Fifteenth Finance Commission used which of the following criteria apart from population, area, and income distance?

(a) Only two
(b) Only three
(c) Only four
✅ (d) All five

Correct Answer: (d) All five (population, area, income distance, forest cover, and demographic performance)

Mains

Q. Why is Special Category Status important in the Indian federal structure? Examine Bihar’s demand for SCS and the criteria for its allocation by the Centre.

Final Takeaway

Bihar’s push for Special Category Status highlights the enduring challenges of regional disparity in India’s development landscape. While economic data justifies its claim, the Centre’s reluctance stems from policy shifts post-Finance Commission reforms. A balanced reassessment—considering both constitutional equity and fiscal sustainability—is key to strengthening cooperative federalism in India.

5. World Happiness Index 2025 – International Relations

Why in News?

India has been ranked 118th in the World Happiness Report 2025, published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, in collaboration with Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

• Finland retains its position as the happiest country for the 8th consecutive year.
• Afghanistan is ranked the least happy nation, at 147th place.
• The report evaluates global happiness based on self-assessed life evaluations from 2022 to 2024.

Additional Details

Methodology:

• The index is based on the Cantril Ladder:
  Respondents rate their life on a scale of 0 (worst possible life) to 10 (best possible life).

Key Factors Assessed:

1. GDP per capita
2. Social support
3. Healthy life expectancy
4. Freedom to make life choices
5. Generosity
6. Perception of corruption

Regional Rankings

Despite India’s strong economic indicators, social factors like trust, mental health, and perceived freedoms have likely contributed to the lower happiness score.

Global Trends

• Europe dominates the top ranks, with Costa Rica (6th) and Mexico (10th) entering the top 10 for the first time.
• Youth Happiness Decline: The report noted that happiness among younger generations is decreasing in many countries, including India.
• Social cohesion and trust in governance are emerging as major determinants of national well-being.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper II: Governance, social justice, and international reports
• GS Paper III: Human development indicators
• Essay & Ethics: Use in themes like well-being, quality of life, development vs happiness

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Which of the following indices evaluates self-assessed life satisfaction across countries?

(a) Global Peace Index
(b) World Development Report
✅ (c) World Happiness Index
(d) Human Capital Index

Correct Answer: (c) World Happiness Index

Mains

Q. Despite steady economic growth, India continues to rank low in global happiness indices. Examine the reasons behind this trend and suggest measures to enhance citizens’ well-being.

Final Takeaway

India’s rank of 118th in the World Happiness Index 2025 serves as a reminder that economic growth alone does not guarantee happiness.
Improving social cohesion, mental health awareness, trust in institutions, and equitable access to healthcare and education is essential to boost national well-being.
For policymakers, this ranking should act as a call to prioritize “human development” over mere GDP expansion.

6. X Challenges Government’s Use of Section 79 – Polity

Why in News?

Elon Musk-owned X (formerly Twitter) has contested the Indian government’s application of Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, arguing that it undermines due process in online content moderation.
The challenge follows allegations that the government is bypassing the safeguards provided under Section 69A, and is misusing Section 79 to issue unlawful blocking orders.

Additional Details

Shreya Singhal Case (2015):

• Landmark ruling where Section 66A of the IT Act was struck down by the Supreme Court for being vague and violative of Article 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech).
• Section 69A was upheld but only with procedural safeguards for blocking content, including reasons in writing and review mechanisms.

Key Provisions Explained:

X’s Legal Challenge:

• Filed in the Karnataka High Court, X claims:
  • Blocking orders must follow Section 69A, not Section 79(3)(b).
  • Current use violates the Shreya Singhal precedent, which required procedural fairness in takedown requests.
  • The government’s interpretation expands censorship beyond what the law allows.

The Grok AI Controversy

• X’s AI chatbot, Grok 3, was flagged for using Hindi slang and allegedly anti-government responses.
• Raises a new legal question:
  🔍 Can AI-generated content be classified as “third-party content” under Section 79?

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper II: Governance, Fundamental Rights, Judiciary
• GS Paper III: IT Act, cyber law, data & platform regulation
• Essay / Ethics: Freedom of expression vs content moderation

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Which section of the IT Act, 2000 provides safe harbor protection to intermediaries?
✅ (a) Section 79
(b) Section 66A
(c) Section 69A
(d) Section 43A

Correct Answer: (a) Section 79

Mains

Q. The ongoing dispute between X and the Government of India brings attention to the regulatory limits of intermediary liability. Critically examine the implications of Section 79 and 69A of the IT Act in light of the Shreya Singhal judgment.

Final Takeaway

X’s legal challenge has reignited the debate on online free speech and government oversight. As India’s digital laws evolve, ensuring transparent and constitutional content regulation remains key.
The verdict will have long-term consequences for intermediary liability, AI governance, and the balance between state authority and digital freedom.