1. Parliamentary Panel Recommends Increased Fertilizer Subsidy and Domestic Production – Economy
Why in News?
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilizers has urged the Union Ministry of Fertilizers to request additional funding during the revised estimates stage for effective implementation of fertilizer subsidy schemes. The panel highlighted the need for:
- Strengthening domestic fertilizer production, particularly Nano Urea and Nano DAP.
- Ensuring self-reliance in fertilizer supply through domestic mining.
- Avoiding fund underutilization, which negatively affects agricultural productivity.
Additional Details
Need for Additional Budget Allocation
- The projected fertilizer budget for 2025–26 was ₹1,84,704.63 crore.
- It was reduced by 7.38% to ₹1,71,082.44 crore, impacting both:
- Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme
- Urea Subsidy Scheme
- The committee stressed that this cut could harm farmers and suggested asking for additional funding in the Revised Estimates (RE) stage.
Expansion of Nano Fertilizer Production
- Emphasis on the timely establishment of Nano Urea and Nano DAP production units.
- Nano fertilizers offer:
- Higher nutrient use efficiency
- Reduced input cost for farmers
- Better soil health due to minimal residue
Push for Self-Sufficiency
- Suggested exploration of domestic phosphorus and potassium reserves via mining lease agreements.
- Encouraged public-private partnerships (PPP) to reduce import dependence.
Addressing Underutilization of Funds
- 20% funds underutilized for indigenous phosphorus and potassium fertilizer production in 2024–25.
- The committee recommended better planning and execution of fund utilization.
Continuation of the Urea Subsidy Scheme
- The scheme is critical to:
- Keep urea affordable and accessible
- Support food grain production
- Prevent black marketing of subsidized urea
Relevance for Exam
- GS Paper III: Agriculture, Economy, Government Policies
- State-Specific Relevance: Himachal Pradesh, being an agricultural state with hill farming challenges, benefits from subsidies and innovations like Nano Urea that reduce logistics and wastage.
Possible Exam Questions
Prelims
Q.1 Which of the following are features of Nano Urea?
- Reduces nutrient loss to the environment
- Requires higher dosage than conventional urea
- Enhances crop yield
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only ✅
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Mains
Q.1 What are the challenges and opportunities in achieving self-sufficiency in fertilizer production in India? Evaluate the role of Nano fertilizers in this context. (250 words)
Q.2 Analyze the implications of underutilization of agricultural subsidies on India’s food security and farmer welfare. Suggest policy solutions. (250 words)
Final Takeaway
India’s move towards fertilizer subsidy reforms and domestic production is critical for agricultural sustainability, food security, and reducing import dependency. Innovations like Nano Urea offer eco-friendly alternatives, but adequate funding, efficient execution, and domestic resource utilization are necessary for long-term impact.
2. India’s Push for Global Ban on Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and the Challenges Ahead – International Relations
Why in News?
During the Raisina Dialogue 2025, India reaffirmed its demand for an international ban on the separatist organization Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). This comes in response to SFJ’s plan to hold a “referendum” in Los Angeles on March 23, 2025, seeking support from the Sikh diaspora for its Khalistan movement.
- India is lobbying countries like the U.S. and New Zealand to take legal action against SFJ.
- SFJ’s referendums in Western countries are seen as tools for promoting secessionist propaganda.
- Diplomatic, legal, and ideological challenges complicate India’s efforts due to free speech protections in these countries.
Additional Details
🇮🇳 India’s Diplomatic Efforts
- PM Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh have raised the issue of SFJ with international counterparts, emphasizing its anti-India agenda.
- India seeks the designation of SFJ as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) in the U.S., which would trigger:
- Asset freezes
- Ban on SFJ fundraising and recruitment
- Visa restrictions and sanctions
Questionable Referendums
- SFJ organizes referendums with unverified voter lists.
- They lack legal backing and are criticized as symbolic exercises that fuel extremist sentiments.
- SFJ was banned in India in 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Challenges at the International Level
- New Zealand reiterated its commitment to free speech, making an outright ban unlikely.
- The U.S. and Canada are cautious due to recent tensions involving alleged plots against Khalistani figures, complicating India’s case diplomatically.
- International free speech protections clash with India’s domestic legal framework for counterterrorism.
Security Concerns
- India draws historical parallels with the rise of militancy in Punjab during the 1980s.
- There is concern that neglecting SFJ’s global activities could rekindle similar extremist movements.
- The SFJ issue has potential ramifications for India’s internal security, diaspora relations, and bilateral ties with Western nations.
Relevance for Exam
- GS Paper II: International Relations, Internal Security, Diaspora Issues
- GS Paper III: Security Challenges & Cyber Terrorism
- State Focus: Himachal Pradesh has a significant Sikh population and is a neighboring state to Punjab — making the issue indirectly relevant in regional security discussions.
Possible Exam Questions
Prelims
Q.1 Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), often in the news, has been banned under which of the following Indian laws?
(a) Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act
(b) National Security Act
(c) Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act ✅
(d) Prevention of Money Laundering Act
Mains
Q.1 Discuss the challenges India faces in seeking an international ban on extremist diaspora organizations like Sikhs for Justice. How do free speech laws abroad complicate India’s counter-terrorism efforts? (250 words)
Q.2 Evaluate the impact of diaspora-based separatist movements on India’s internal security and foreign relations. (250 words)
Final Takeaway
India’s push to globally ban SFJ reflects broader concerns over diaspora extremism, security threats, and digital propaganda. However, the initiative faces hurdles due to contrasting international norms on free speech, diplomatic sensitivities, and lack of uniform counterterrorism standards. Success will require strategic diplomacy, legal coherence, and multilateral pressure to curb extremist narratives while preserving bilateral relations.
3. Challenges in Uploading Voting Data: A Closer Look at Form 17C and Electoral Transparency – Polity
Why in News?
During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Supreme Court heard a petition filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) seeking the publication of booth-wise voter turnout data within 48 hours after polling. The petition sparked debate around electoral transparency, particularly concerning the online disclosure of Form 17C, a critical document used in the vote-counting process.
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) has resisted demands for public online access to Form 17C.
- Alleged discrepancies in turnout data have led to public skepticism and calls for greater transparency in the voting process.
- The debate centers around balancing legal mandates, administrative capacity, and public trust in the electoral process.
Additional Details
What is Form 17C?
Form 17C is a statutory document under Rule 49S of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, prepared at every polling station.
Part 1 – Polling Day Data:
- Includes the total number of electors, votes polled, and EVM serial numbers.
- Signed by the Presiding Officer and polling agents.
- One copy is given to each polling agent, another is sealed and sent to the Returning Officer.
Part 2 – Counting Day Data:
- Records candidate-wise vote counts from EVMs.
- Used to verify the consistency between votes polled and votes counted.
- Requires countersignature from the counting agents and officers.
The Current Controversy
- ADR’s Petition: Demands online publication of Part 1 within 48 hours of polling to enable public scrutiny.
- ECI’s Position:
- Argues that it is not legally obligated to publish Form 17C online.
- Claims it already ensures transparency by providing physical copies to agents.
- Warns of potential misuse of granular data by vested interests.
Logistical Challenges
- 10.5 lakh polling stations across India.
- Over 1 crore polling personnel operate under intense time constraints.
- Data entry errors, delays in uploading, and verification bottlenecks are significant hurdles.
Way Forward
- Digitization of Form 17C with standard formats.
- Creating a centralized electoral data portal with layered access.
- Clarifying the legal framework for transparency obligations.
- Ensuring data privacy and integrity, while fostering trust in EVMs and the EC’s role.
Relevance for Exam
- GS Paper II: Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Electoral Processes
- GS Paper IV: Ethics in Governance, Transparency and Accountability
- State Perspective: Enhances awareness of how booth-level voting data could impact transparency and voter confidence even in smaller states like Himachal Pradesh.
Possible Exam Questions
Prelims
Q.1 Form 17C, often seen in news, is associated with:
(a) Appointment of election observers
(b) Disclosure of election expenditure by candidates
(c) Recording of polling and vote-counting data ✅
(d) Certification of final electoral roll
Mains
Q.1 “Transparency in electoral data enhances public trust but must balance legal, logistical, and privacy concerns.” Critically examine in the context of Form 17C and the Election Commission’s recent stance. (250 words)
Final Takeaway
The Form 17C debate underscores the evolving nature of electoral democracy in the digital age. While electoral transparency is vital to public trust, it must be weighed against legal mandates, logistical feasibility, and data integrity. A reform-oriented, technology-driven approach that safeguards both democracy and due process is the need of the hour.
4. Doctrine of Precedent – Polity and Governance
Why in News?
The Kerala High Court recently held that tax assessment orders issued without considering binding precedents of higher courts are unsustainable. This ruling reinforces the doctrine of precedent, a cornerstone of the Indian judicial system that ensures uniformity and predictability in the application of law.
Understanding the Doctrine of Precedent
Also known by its Latin term “stare decisis” (to stand by things decided), the doctrine of precedent promotes legal consistency by ensuring that courts follow previous decisions in similar cases.
Key Concepts
- Binding Nature
- Lower courts are bound by decisions of higher courts, particularly the Supreme Court.
- Ensures equal treatment under the law and minimizes arbitrary interpretations.
- Constitutional Backing: Article 141
- “The law declared by the Supreme Court shall be binding on all courts within the territory of India.”
- This makes Supreme Court rulings universally applicable across all Indian courts.
- Ratio Decidendi
- The legal principle or reasoning behind a judgment.
- This forms the binding part of the decision and must be followed in future similar cases.
- Obiter Dicta
- Non-essential observations or comments made by the court.
- Not binding but carry persuasive value and may influence future decisions.
Landmark Case Reference
- State of Orissa v. Mamata Patnaik (1978):
The Supreme Court emphasized that departing from established precedent without valid reasoning weakens the consistency and predictability of the legal system.
Relevance for Exam
- GS Paper II – Constitution and Judiciary
- HPJS and Law Optional Candidates – Core legal doctrine with frequent application
- State Judiciary Practices – Importance of applying higher court rulings in administrative and tax matters
Possible Exam Questions
Prelims
Q. Article 141 of the Indian Constitution deals with:
(a) Original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court
(b) Composition of the High Courts
(c) Binding nature of Supreme Court decisions ✅
(d) Disqualification of MPs and MLAs
Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of the Doctrine of Precedent in maintaining legal consistency and judicial discipline. How does Article 141 of the Constitution support this doctrine? (250 words)
Final Takeaway
The Doctrine of Precedent ensures judicial consistency, discipline, and fairness by mandating that lower courts follow higher court rulings, especially the Supreme Court. Ignoring this principle can undermine legal certainty and erode public trust in the judiciary. Its recent reaffirmation by the Kerala High Court highlights its continuing relevance in both constitutional and administrative law.
5. Astronauts’ Recovery Process After Space Missions – Science and Technology
Why in News?
A SpaceX capsule recently returned safely to Earth with astronauts Sunita Williams, Barry Wilmore, Aleksandr Gorbunov, and Nick Hague, after a nine-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
This mission highlighted the importance of post-spaceflight recovery protocols, which are critical for re-adapting to Earth’s gravity after extended periods in microgravity.
Key Details
Effects of Microgravity
- In space, the absence of gravity leads to:
- Fluid shift toward the head (causing puffy faces and pressure on eyes)
- Muscle atrophy due to minimal use
- Bone density loss, similar to rapid osteoporosis
- Astronauts experience vestibular disturbances, such as dizziness and disorientation, upon return.
In-Flight Countermeasures
- Astronauts follow daily exercise routines (treadmills, resistance training) on the ISS.
- Strict dietary plans maintain bone and muscle health.
- Constant monitoring of vital signs, mental health, and cognitive performance.
Post-Flight Rehabilitation
- A structured recovery regimen begins immediately after landing:
- Medical check-ups (cardiovascular, neurological, musculoskeletal)
- Physical therapy to regain muscle tone and balance
- Psychological support for reintegration
- NASA and Roscosmos (Russia) follow distinct, agency-specific protocols.
- Recovery usually takes 30–45 days, but varies based on mission length and individual health.
Relevance for Exam
- GS Paper III – Science & Technology (Space Missions, Human Physiology)
- Relevant for understanding space medicine, India’s future space plans (e.g. Gaganyaan), and ISRO-NASA collaborations.
- Also useful for essay writing on space exploration or human endurance.
Possible Exam Questions
Prelims
Q. What physiological effect does prolonged exposure to microgravity have on astronauts?
(a) Increased bone density
(b) Enhanced muscle strength
(c) Fluid shift toward the lower body
(d) Muscle atrophy and bone loss ✅
Mains
Q. Discuss the physiological and psychological effects of prolonged space missions on astronauts and the measures adopted for their recovery upon returning to Earth. (250 words)
Final Takeaway
Astronauts face significant physical and mental challenges during long-duration space missions. Their return to Earth involves a comprehensive recovery program to help them re-adapt to gravity. With India preparing for Gaganyaan, understanding these recovery protocols becomes especially important for India’s human spaceflight ambitions and for building robust support systems for future Indian astronauts.
6. Dog-Faced Water Snake & Sheathia rosemalayensis (Algae Species) – Environment and Ecology
Why in News?
For the first time, a dog-faced water snake has been spotted in Northeast India, far beyond its usual coastal habitat. This finding is ecologically significant and expands our understanding of the species’ range and habitat adaptability.
About the Dog-Faced Water Snake
Scientific Classification
- Family: Homalopsidae (Indo-Australian rear-fanged water snakes)
Natural Habitat
- Commonly found in:
- Mangroves
- Coastal mudflats
- Estuarine zones
- Countries: Widespread in Southeast Asia and northern Australia
- Indian Distribution:
- Previously found in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- New sighting: Northeast India
Physical Characteristics
- Length: Up to 1 meter
- Appearance: Broad head and snout resembling a dog’s face
- Color: Striped dark brown with a white underbelly
Behavior and Diet
- Feeding Strategy: Ambush predator; feeds on fish and crustaceans
- Activity: Largely aquatic
- Adaptation: Has salt glands to survive in brackish and marine environments
- Movement:
- In Water: Strong swimmer in shallow, murky areas
- On Land: Moves using sidewinding in soft mud
Conservation Status
- Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List
Relevance for Exam
- GS Paper III – Environment & Ecology
- Useful for questions on:
- Wetland and mangrove biodiversity
- Rare and newly recorded species in India
- Conservation status and habitat adaptation
Possible Exam Questions
Prelims
Q. The Dog-Faced Water Snake was recently in the news. Consider the following statements:
- It is commonly found in desert habitats.
- It possesses salt glands that allow it to survive in marine ecosystems.
- It uses sidewinding for movement on land.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only ✅
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Mains
Q. Discuss the ecological significance of the expansion of non-native species’ habitat ranges in India, with reference to the recent sighting of the Dog-Faced Water Snake in Northeast India.
Final Takeaway
The first-time sighting of the Dog-Faced Water Snake in Northeast India underscores the need for continuous biodiversity monitoring and highlights how species distributions may shift due to ecological or climatic changes. It also opens up new questions on wetland conservation, adaptability, and species migration patterns in India.