24th July 2025 – Current Affairs

1. Empowering Urban India for Climate Resilience: World Bank–MoHUA Report Highlights – Environment

Why in News?

A recent World Bank report titled “Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India”, developed in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), calls for greater urban autonomy and significant investment to build climate-resilient cities. The report estimates that India will need $2.4 trillion by 2050 to strengthen its urban infrastructure against climate risks.

Key Themes and Findings of the Report

1. Urban Climate Risks in India

• Projected annual losses from floods:
  • $5 billion by 2030
  • $30 billion by 2070
• Heat-related deaths could double to 300,000+ annually by 2050

2. Urban Demographic and Financial Projections

3. Need for Urban Autonomy & 74th Amendment

• 74th Constitutional Amendment Act (1992):
  Advocates decentralization by empowering Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) for:
  • Local decision-making
  • Revenue generation
  • Planning and climate governance
• Current Challenge: ULBs lack adequate fiscal and functional autonomy, leading to weak climate adaptation at the local level.

4. Best Practice Models from Indian Cities

5. Key Recommendations from the Report

For National & State Governments:

• Develop a climate financing roadmap
• Establish minimum standards for resilient infrastructure
• Encourage public-private partnerships for funding adaptation projects

For Cities and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs):

• Conduct local climate risk assessments
• Mobilize finance through:
  • Green bonds
  • Carbon credits
  • Municipal reforms
• Implement practical solutions:
  • Cool roofs, early warning systems
  • Green infrastructure
  • Improved stormwater management
  • Revised work schedules during heatwaves

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Urban centers in Himachal like Shimla, Dharamshala, Solan, and Mandi are vulnerable to:
  • Flash floods, landslides, and urban heat traps
• Eco-sensitive hill planning is essential, including:
  • Vertical zoning
  • Green roofs
  • Rainwater harvesting
  • Disaster-resilient infrastructure
• State-level Urban Climate Resilience Action Plans can be modeled on best practices from Ahmedabad or Indore.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following cities is known for implementing India’s first Heat Action Plan?
   A. Chennai
   B. Indore
   C. Ahmedabad
   D. Pune
   Answer: C. Ahmedabad
   
   
2. Which Constitutional Amendment Act relates to the empowerment of Urban Local Bodies in India?
   A. 42nd
   B. 44th
   C. 73rd
   D. 74th
   Answer: D. 74th
   
   
3. As per the World Bank–MoHUA report, India’s estimated investment need for urban climate resilience by 2050 is:
   A. $500 billion
   B. $2.4 trillion
   C. $1 trillion
   D. $150 billion
   Answer: B. $2.4 trillion

Mains

1. “Climate resilience in urban India requires more than just funding—it demands institutional reform and local empowerment.”
   Discuss in light of the World Bank and MoHUA report on urban resilience.
2. Evaluate the role of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in addressing climate change risks in Indian cities. What reforms are needed to strengthen their capacity?
3. Explain how Indian cities can become climate-resilient while ensuring inclusive and equitable urban development. Support your answer with examples.
   

2. Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX): Enhancing Fog Forecasting for Safer Winters – Science and Technology

Why in News?

The Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX), launched in 2015, has completed ten years of groundbreaking research aimed at improving the prediction and management of dense winter fog, especially over North India. It is one of the few long-term global experiments focused on fog phenomena.

Key Features of WiFEX

1. What is WiFEX?

2. Objectives of WiFEX

• Improve now-casting (next 6 hours) and short-term forecasting of fog.
• Enhance public safety by:
  • Reducing transport delays (especially aviation and rail)
  • Mitigating economic losses
  • Preventing road accidents due to low visibility
• Develop a robust fog forecasting system tailored to the Indian subcontinent.

3. Scientific Methodology & Tools

• Use of micrometeorological towers, ceilometers, and high-frequency sensors to collect data on:
  • Temperature
  • Humidity
  • Visibility
  • Wind dynamics
  • Aerosol and particulate interactions
• Creation of a dense, location-specific dataset over 10 years—vital for scientific modeling and policy inputs.

4. Development of High-Resolution Fog Prediction Model

5. Importance of WiFEX for India

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Himachal experiences seasonal fog in lower valleys (e.g., Una, Kangra, Bilaspur), affecting:
  • Highway travel
  • Rail movement
  • Agriculture (due to prolonged low sunlight and cold conditions)
• Data-sharing and model integration from WiFEX can:
  • Improve early warning systems in fog-prone areas
  • Support disaster management authorities at the district level
  • Help in planning fog mitigation infrastructure like highway reflectors and lighting

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX) is primarily associated with:
   A. Studying Himalayan glacial retreat
   B. Forecasting cyclones in the Bay of Bengal
   C. Studying dense fog events in North India
   D. Monitoring air quality in metro cities
   Answer: C. Studying dense fog events in North India
   
   
2. Which of the following instruments is NOT typically used in fog monitoring under WiFEX?
   A. Ceilometers
   B. Seismometers
   C. Micrometeorology towers
   D. High-frequency sensors
   Answer: B. Seismometers
   
   
3. Which institution leads the WiFEX initiative?
   A. Indian Space Research Organisation
   B. Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology
   C. National Centre for Seismology
   D. Indian Council of Agricultural Research
   Answer: B. Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of the Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX) in enhancing weather forecasting capabilities in India. How can this benefit sectors like transport and disaster management?
2. Weather-related disasters are not always dramatic but can be persistently disruptive. Examine this statement with reference to winter fog events in North India.
3. How can states like Himachal Pradesh leverage national scientific initiatives like WiFEX to improve local environmental and transport planning?
   

3. MiG-21s to Retire by September 2025: End of an Era in Indian Air Defence – Defence & Security

Why in News?

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced that all remaining MiG-21 fighter aircraft will be phased out by September 2025, bringing an end to the six-decade-long service of this iconic but controversial combat aircraft. The indigenous Tejas Mark-1A will serve as its replacement.

Key Features and Legacy of the MiG-21

1. About the MiG-21

2. Operational Record

• 1965 War with Pakistan: First major deployment
• 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War: Played a decisive role in achieving air superiority
• 1999 Kargil Conflict: Active in providing air support
• 2019 Balakot Aftermath: MiG-21 Bison shot down a Pakistani F-16; Gp. Capt. Abhinandan Varthaman became a national hero

3. Why Are MiG-21s Being Phased Out?

Currently, three MiG-21 Bison squadrons remain operational, each consisting of 16–18 aircraft.

4. The Successor – Tejas Mark-1A

Strategic Significance

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Airbases near HP, like Ambala and Pathankot, have previously housed MiG squadrons.
• HP students in NCC and Sainik Schools should be aware of defence modernization trends.
• The LCA program offers new career paths in aerospace and engineering for youth in the state.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The MiG-21 Bison was developed by which country and later indigenously upgraded in India?
   A. France
   B. USA
   C. Russia
   D. USSR
   Answer: D. USSR
   
   
2. Which indigenous aircraft is set to replace the MiG-21 fleet in the Indian Air Force?
   A. HAL Marut
   B. Tejas Mark-1A
   C. Sukhoi Su-30MKI
   D. Rafale
   Answer: B. Tejas Mark-1A
   
   
3. Which of the following was a key limitation of the MiG-21 aircraft in recent decades?
   A. Lack of radar systems
   B. Poor manoeuvrability
   C. High accident rate and aging technology
   D. Excessive fuel efficiency
   Answer: C. High accident rate and aging technology

Mains

1. The phasing out of MiG-21s marks a crucial transition in India’s defence preparedness.
   Evaluate the operational legacy of the MiG-21 and discuss how its replacement by the Tejas will contribute to defence indigenisation.
2. Critically examine the challenges and opportunities in India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program.
3. Discuss the role of indigenous defence technology in enhancing national security. How does the Tejas aircraft exemplify this strategy?
   

4. Stablecoins: Bridging the Gap Between Cryptocurrency and Traditional Finance – Economy

Why in News?

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Genesis Act, aimed at regulating USD-pegged stablecoins. This reflects growing international recognition of stablecoins as an important component of the evolving digital financial ecosystem. India too is evaluating how to regulate such digital assets amid increasing adoption.

Understanding Stablecoins

1. What Are Stablecoins?

• Stablecoins are a category of cryptocurrencies designed to maintain a stable value by being pegged to traditional assets such as:
  • Fiat currencies (e.g., USD, INR)
  • Commodities (e.g., gold)
  • Other cryptocurrencies
• Objective: To combine the benefits of digital currencies (like fast, global, programmable payments) with reduced volatility, making them more suitable for daily use, unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum.

2. Types of Stablecoins

3. Advantages of Stablecoins

Concerns and Challenges

Global & Indian Context

• USA: Genesis Act aims to establish federal oversight for USD-backed stablecoins.
• India:
  • No separate law yet governing stablecoins.
  • RBI is pushing for Digital Rupee (CBDC) as a safer alternative.
  • Crypto taxation framework (30% tax + 1% TDS) already in place.
  • India may need to create a balanced regulatory framework to prevent risks without stifling innovation.

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Youth and startups in HP’s emerging tech ecosystem may interact with digital assets.
• Financial literacy programs under Digital India could educate users about the risks and uses of stablecoins.
• Important for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers who might receive cross-border payments in digital currencies.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency primarily designed to:
   A. Increase transaction speed only
   B. Serve as a long-term investment asset
   C. Maintain a stable value by being pegged to a real-world asset
   D. Replace all fiat currencies
   Answer: C. Maintain a stable value by being pegged to a real-world asset
   
   
2. Which of the following stablecoins is algorithmic and not backed by any reserve assets?
   A. USDT
   B. DAI
   C. USDC
   D. TerraUSD
   Answer: D. TerraUSD
   
   
3. Which Indian institution is responsible for issuing the Digital Rupee (CBDC)?
   A. SEBI
   B. RBI
   C. Ministry of Finance
   D. NITI Aayog
   Answer: B. RBI

Mains

1. Stablecoins offer a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto economy but pose serious regulatory challenges.
   Discuss the merits and concerns surrounding the adoption of stablecoins. How should India regulate them?
2. What are the different types of stablecoins? Evaluate their potential role in promoting financial inclusion and reducing remittance costs.
3. Critically examine the difference between stablecoins and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). Should India promote stablecoins alongside its digital rupee?
   

5. IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025: Powering Transformative Conservation – Environment

Why in News?

The IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 is scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi, with a central focus on applying genetic tools in conservation. This global event will shape the future direction of biodiversity conservation and climate resilience strategies for the coming decade.

About the IUCN World Conservation Congress

1. What Is the IUCN Congress?

2. Theme for 2025

“Powering Transformative Conservation”

• Focuses on five major areas aimed at:
  • Reversing biodiversity loss
  • Integrating conservation with climate action
  • Harnessing science and genetic tools
  • Enhancing global collaboration
  • Empowering communities for sustainable development

3. Key Components of the Congress

4. About IUCN

5. Governance of IUCN

Significance of Genetic Tools in Conservation

• Enable species identification and monitoring through DNA barcoding
• Support wildlife forensics, anti-poaching strategies, and habitat mapping
• Help in restoration of degraded ecosystems using genetic diversity
• Aid in climate-resilient crop and species conservation

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Himachal is a biodiversity-rich hill state, home to endangered species like:
  • Western Tragopan, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Monal
• Genetic conservation tools can assist in:
  • Breeding programs in Himalayan zoos
  • Monitoring medicinal plant species under threat
  • Enhancing efforts of Great Himalayan National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following organizations publishes the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species?
   A. UNEP
   B. WWF
   C. IUCN
   D. UNDP
   Answer: C. IUCN
   
   
2. The IUCN World Conservation Congress is held:
   A, Annually
   B. Biennially
   C. Every four years
   D. Every ten years
   Answer: C. Every four years
   
   
3. Which of the following is NOT a component of the IUCN World Conservation Congress?
   A. Forum
   B. Exhibition
   C. Scientific Parliament
   D. Members’ Assembly
   Answer: C. Scientific Parliament

Mains

1. Discuss the role of the IUCN and its World Conservation Congress in shaping global biodiversity policies. How can India benefit from such international platforms?
2. Genetic tools have revolutionized wildlife conservation. Examine their potential and challenges, especially for biodiversity hotspots like the Himalayas.
3. Critically assess India’s preparedness in integrating global conservation goals into its national biodiversity and climate strategies.
   

6. China, India, and the Conflict Over Buddhism: A Spiritual Front in Himalayan Geopolitics – International Relations

Why in News?

As global attention focuses on India–China strategic tensions in the Indo-Pacific, a quieter yet significant contest for influence in Himalayan Buddhism is intensifying. This involves the use of Buddhism as a geopolitical instrument, especially in the context of the Dalai Lama’s succession, which could reshape allegiances across Himalayan and Southeast Asian regions.

Understanding the Buddhist Geopolitical Dimension

1. Buddhism as a Tool of Statecraft

2. India’s Buddhist Diplomacy: Late but Growing

3. The Dalai Lama Succession Crisis

• The current 14th Dalai Lama has suggested that his reincarnation will not take place in China, likely outside its influence—possibly in India or Nepal.
• China plans to appoint its own 15th Dalai Lama, creating a dual succession crisis:
  • Two Dalai Lamas could emerge, dividing Tibetan Buddhist followers globally.
  • The schism may influence loyalties across Ladakh, Sikkim, Nepal, Bhutan, and even Southeast Asia.

4. China’s Cultural Expansionism in the Himalayas

Strategic Implications for India

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Dharamshala (HP) is the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile and the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama.
• HP is at the epicenter of this soft-power battle, hosting global Buddhist delegations and Tibetan institutions.
• Understanding the religious-geopolitical overlap is crucial for state-level foreign policy awareness and border area governance.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which Indian city is the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile?
   A.Gangtok
   B. Leh
   C. Dharamshala
   D. Bodh Gaya
   Answer: C. Dharamshala
   
   
2. Which of the following countries are involved in the succession controversy of the Dalai Lama?
   A. India and Bhutan
   B. China and India
   C. Nepal and China
   D. Mongolia and India
   Answer: B. China and India
   
   
3. The requirement of state approval for recognizing reincarnated Tibetan lamas was enforced by China in:
   A. 1959
   B. 1999
   C. 2007
   D. 2015
   Answer: C. 2007

Mains

1. “Soft power is becoming the new battleground in India–China relations.”
   Discuss this statement with reference to the emerging conflict over Himalayan Buddhism and the Dalai Lama’s succession.
2. How has China used Buddhism as a tool of diplomacy and statecraft? Examine the strategic challenges this poses for India’s cultural and foreign policy interests.
3. Critically evaluate India’s Buddhist diplomacy in contrast with China’s approach. What steps should India take to reclaim its spiritual and cultural influence in Asia?