24th September 2025 – Current Affairs

1. Pollution in Indian Rivers: CPCB Report, 2023 – Environment

Why in the News?

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has released its annual assessment for 2022–2023, focusing on the pollution status of Indian rivers. The report underlines persistent challenges in improving river water quality despite marginal improvements in some indicators.

What is it About?

Key Findings of CPCB Report 2023:

• Marginal improvement in water quality:
  • Unfit bathing locations declined from 815 (2022) to 807 (2023).
• Polluted river stretches:
  • 296 polluted stretches across 271 rivers were identified.
  • This is a slight improvement from 311 stretches in 279 rivers reported in 2022.

Understanding River Pollution Indicators:

• Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD):
  • BOD measures the amount of oxygen needed by microorganisms to decompose organic matter.
  • Healthy river: BOD < 3 mg/L
  • Polluted/Unfit river: BOD > 3 mg/L
  • High BOD levels indicate heavy organic pollution and poor river health.

About Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):

• Established: 1974, under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
• Expanded mandate: Air pollution control added under Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
• Functions:
  • Monitor and control air and water pollution
  • Provide technical services and data to the government
  • Promote cleanliness of streams and wells

Why is this Important?

• Environmental Significance:
  • Rivers are lifelines for ecosystems and human settlements.
  • Pollution affects aquatic biodiversity, drinking water, and agricultural use.
• Public Health Impact:
  • Polluted rivers lead to waterborne diseases, especially in rural areas with poor sanitation infrastructure.
• Policy & Governance:
  • Indicates partial effectiveness of river rejuvenation programmes like Namami Gange, National River Conservation Plan (NRCP).

Relevance for Himachal Pradesh

• Major rivers such as Beas, Sutlej, Ravi, and Yamuna originate or flow through HP.
• Tourism, hydropower, and agriculture depend on clean river water.
• Urban waste and religious practices (e.g., immersion of idols, ritual bathing) contribute to local pollution.
• Need for stronger solid waste management and sewage treatment infrastructure in HP towns.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. With reference to the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), consider the following statements:
1.A high BOD value indicates better water quality.
2.Rivers with BOD levels above 3 mg/L are considered unfit for bathing.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B. 2 only

2. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) was established under which of the following Acts?
A. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
B. Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
C. Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
D. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
Answer: C. Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

Mains

1.“Despite numerous government initiatives, river pollution remains a persistent challenge in India.” Analyze the findings of the CPCB Report 2023 and suggest long-term measures for effective river rejuvenation.
2.Discuss the impact of river pollution on public health, agriculture, and biodiversity. How can states like Himachal Pradesh, with several Himalayan rivers, manage pollution while balancing development and conservation?

2. India’s Growing Noise Crisis – Environment

Why in News?

Noise pollution is increasingly recognized as a major public health challenge in urban India. Though legally identified as a form of air pollution, it continues to be under-monitored and poorly enforced, despite growing evidence of its severe health impacts.

What is it About?

Legal Recognition of Noise Pollution:

• Classified as an air pollutant under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
• Regulated through the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Permissible Noise Levels (in decibels – dB):

Silence zones include areas near hospitals, schools, and courts.

WHO Recommendations:

• Daytime noise exposure should be below 55 dB for healthy living.
• Many Indian cities exceed this threshold regularly.

Why is it Important?

Health Impacts of Noise Pollution:

• Proven links with:
  • Hypertension
  • Sleep disorders
  • Cognitive decline (especially in children)
  • Stress and anxiety
• Vulnerable groups like street vendors, construction workers, and low-income residents face disproportionate exposure.

Governance and Policy Gaps:

• Lack of real-time noise monitoring infrastructure.
• Poor enforcement of regulations.
• Cultural norms (e.g. use of loudspeakers, firecrackers) often override legal limits.

Need for Reform:

• Integration of noise management in urban planning.
• Deployment of noise sensors, health impact assessments, and public awareness campaigns.
• Reframing “quiet surroundings” as a public right, not a privilege.

Relevance for Himachal Pradesh

• Urban centers like Shimla, Dharamshala, and Mandi are seeing increased traffic and tourism-related noise.
• Ecologically sensitive hill areas are more vulnerable to noise impacts, including impacts on wildlife.
• Need for zoning enforcement, especially around schools, hospitals, monasteries, and eco-sensitive zones.
• Tourist hotspots must implement strict decibel control during festivals and tourist seasons.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Under which Act are the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 framed?
A. Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
B. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
C. Indian Forest Act, 1927
D. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
Answer: B. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

2. Which of the following noise levels is permissible in silence zones during nighttime according to Indian regulations?
A. 55 dB
B. 45 dB
C. 40 dB
D. 35 dB
Answer: C. 40 dB

Mains

1.“Noise pollution is as much a public health crisis as air or water pollution.” Critically examine this statement in light of India’s urban environmental challenges. Suggest regulatory and technological solutions.

2. Discuss the impacts of noise pollution on vulnerable communities in India. How can better governance, monitoring, and public participation help in mitigating urban noise pollution?

3. Criminal Defamation in India – Polity

Why in News?

Justice M.M. Sundresh of the Supreme Court recently commented that the time has come to decriminalise defamation, indicating rising concerns over its misuse, especially for political or personal vendetta. The SC is now reconsidering the balance between free speech and the right to reputation.

What is it About?

Definition of Criminal Defamation:

• Defamation involves false and malicious statements that harm a person’s character or reputation.
• Two forms:
  • Libel – Written defamatory statements.
  • Slander – Spoken defamatory statements.
• In India, both forms are punishable as criminal offences if made publicly.

Constitutional Framework:

Legal Framework:

Under Indian Penal Code (IPC) – Now Repealed

• Section 499: Defined criminal defamation.
• Section 500: Punishment – up to 2 years imprisonment, fine, or both.

Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (New Law Replacing IPC):

• Section 354(2): Punishment up to 2 years, fine, or community service.
• Section 356: Covers words, gestures, or representations that harm reputation.

Scope:

• Applies to individuals, companies, and even deceased persons (where family reputation is harmed).

Essential Elements of Defamation:

1. A false statement
2. Causes harm to reputation
3. Is communicated to a third party
4. With intent or knowledge of likely harm

Nature of the Offence:

• Non-cognizable and bailable
• Arrest requires a warrant
• Bail is available

Digital & Social Media:

• Defamation now covers:
  • Social media posts
  • WhatsApp forwards
  • Web content, etc.

Defences/Exceptions to Defamation:

• Truth if made in public interest
• Fair comment on public figures
• Statements in judicial or parliamentary proceedings
• Cautionary statements made in good faith

Judicial Pronouncements:

1. Subramanian Swamy v. Union of India (2016)
   • SC upheld criminal defamation, stating that reputation is part of Article 21.
2. Kaushal Kishore v. UOI (2017)
   • Clarified that no restrictions on free speech exist beyond Article 19(2).
3. Shreya Singhal v. UOI (2015)
   • Struck down Section 66A of IT Act – termed vague and violative of free speech.
4. Imran Pratapgarhi Case (2025)
   • Introduced the “reasonable person” test – defamation should not be judged by overly sensitive perceptions.
5. Recent Stays (2024–25)
   • SC stayed multiple politically sensitive defamation cases (e.g., against Rahul Gandhi and Shashi Tharoor).
   • Emphasized that courts must not be used for political vendetta.

Why Is This Important?

Free Speech vs. Reputation

The debate reflects the core constitutional dilemma: Should speech be restricted to protect reputation, or should freedom be paramount?

Chilling Effect on Speech

• Criminal defamation laws are often used to harass journalists, activists, and political opponents.
• Risk of curbing dissent in a democracy.

Global Practice

• Many democracies have decriminalised defamation (e.g., UK, US).
• India still retains criminal penalties, though civil remedies are also available.

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Local journalists, RTI activists, and whistleblowers may face criminal cases under these laws.
• Rising use of digital platforms in rural HP brings risk of defamation charges through social media.
• Need for legal awareness and press freedom safeguards.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Under which article of the Indian Constitution is the right to reputation protected as a part of the right to life?
A. Article 14
B. Article 19
C. Article 21
D. Article 32
Answer: C. Article 21

2. Which section of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 deals with punishment for criminal defamation?
A. Section 500
B. Section 354(2)
C. Section 326
D. Section 66A
Answer: B. Section 354(2)

Mains

1. “Criminal defamation laws, though constitutional, are often weaponised to suppress dissent.” Critically evaluate this statement in light of recent judicial developments and the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

2. Examine the tension between the right to freedom of speech and the right to reputation. Should India follow global democracies in decriminalising defamation? Discuss with suitable case laws.

4. The Growing Relevance of Traditional Medicine – Economy

Why in News?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the increasing significance of traditional medicine in global healthcare systems. As of 2025, traditional medicine is practiced in 170 out of 194 WHO member countries, playing a central role in primary healthcare, especially in low- and middle-income nations, including India.

What is Traditional Medicine?

Traditional medicine refers to the knowledge, practices, and skills developed over generations within various cultures to maintain health and treat illnesses using natural remedies and holistic approaches.

Common Systems in India:

• Ayurveda
• Yoga and Naturopathy
• Unani
• Siddha
• Homeopathy
  (Collectively known as AYUSH)

Global Significance:

• WHO notes that over 80% of the world’s population uses some form of traditional medicine.
• In resource-poor settings, it serves as the primary or only form of healthcare.
• Many developed countries are now integrating traditional practices with modern healthcare through evidence-based research.

Why Is This Important for India?

Healthcare Access & Affordability:

• Traditional systems are cost-effective, making them especially valuable in rural and underserved areas.

Economic Potential:

• India’s AYUSH sector is a multi-billion-dollar industry, contributing to:
  • Exports (herbal products, Ayurvedic medicines)
  • Tourism (wellness and medical tourism)
  • Job creation (pharma, wellness centres, research)

Policy Initiatives:

• Ministry of AYUSH (established in 2014) to promote and regulate traditional systems.
• Schemes such as:
  • National AYUSH Mission (NAM) – improving AYUSH services and infrastructure.
  • AYUSH Health and Wellness Centres – integrating AYUSH into primary care.
• WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine – inaugurated in Jamnagar, Gujarat (2022) in collaboration with India.

Research & Integration:

• Push towards evidence-based validation of traditional treatments.
• Integrative medicine is gaining traction, combining modern diagnostics with traditional therapies.

Challenges:

• Standardization of medicine and dosage
• Lack of scientific evidence for some treatments
• Regulation of practitioners and medicines
• Intellectual property issues related to traditional knowledge

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Rich biodiversity with medicinal herbs in Himalayan forests
• Local communities use traditional remedies extensively
• Potential for AYUSH-based tourism and local enterprise
• Scope for conservation + economic development through regulated herbal harvesting and value addition industries

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine is located in:
A. Delhi
B. Varanasi
C. Jamnagar
D. Bengaluru
Answer: C. Jamnagar

2. Which of the following is not part of the AYUSH systems of medicine in India?
A. Ayurveda
B. Siddha
C. Allopathy
D. Unani
Answer: C. Allopathy

Mains

1. Discuss the economic and social relevance of traditional medicine in India. How can India leverage the AYUSH sector for inclusive growth?

2. How can states like Himachal Pradesh use traditional medicine as a tool for sustainable rural development and healthcare access? Suggest a roadmap for integrating traditional medicine with mainstream healthcare.

5. PHC Doctors — A Case Where the Caregivers Need Care – Governance

Why in News?

Primary Health Centre (PHC) doctors, the backbone of rural healthcare in India, are increasingly facing burnout, high workload, and administrative overload. Their crucial contributions remain under-recognized in policy discussions, despite being frontline providers for over 65% of India’s population.

What is a PHC?

A Primary Health Centre (PHC) is the first contact point between a village community and a medical officer in the public health system. As per the Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS):

• One PHC is meant to serve a population of ~30,000 in plain areas and 20,000 in hilly/tribal areas.
• Staffed by a medical officer, nurse, pharmacist, lab technician, and support staff.

Key Takeaways from the Issue:

Multifaceted Role of PHC Doctors:

• Provide clinical services across a wide range of diseases — maternal health, NCDs, infectious diseases.
• Act as administrators, handling procurement, budgeting, and reporting.
• Lead community-level programs like immunization, TB control, and health awareness.
• Train and monitor ASHA and ANM workers.

Administrative Burden & Digital Overload:

• Despite digital health initiatives like eSanjeevani or HMIS, doctors face excessive data entry, often duplicative.
• Non-clinical duties often exceed clinical work.
• Over 100 patients/day in some PHCs.

Burnout Crisis:

• Studies show 1 in 3 primary care doctors in low/middle-income countries experience emotional exhaustion.
• Burnout affects patient care, decision-making, and staff retention.

Systemic Reforms Needed:

• Simplify documentation.
• Employ administrative assistants to handle non-medical tasks.
• Incentivize rural postings with better infrastructure, housing, and mental health support.
• Strengthen career progression pathways for PHC doctors.

Why Is This Important?

• PHC doctors are the real implementers of national health schemes like:
  • Ayushman Bharat
  • National Health Mission (NHM)
  • Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP)
• Failure at the PHC level = policy failure on the ground.
• Achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is impossible without a strong and motivated primary health workforce.

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Geographical challenges (hilly terrain, remote villages) add to doctors’ workload.
• PHCs in tribal areas like Lahaul-Spiti or Pangi remain understaffed.
• HP has made progress in health outcomes, but doctor shortages persist.
• Opportunity to pilot innovations like telemedicine, mobile PHCs, and task-shifting to trained paramedics.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. What is the population coverage norm for a Primary Health Centre (PHC) in hilly or tribal areas, as per IPHS guidelines?
A. 10,000
B. 20,000
C. 30,000
D. 50,000
Answer: B. 20,000

2. Which of the following is not a function of a Primary Health Centre (PHC)?
A. Disease surveillance
B. Tertiary surgery services
C. Immunization programs
D. Health education
Answer: B. Tertiary surgery services

Mains

1.”Primary Health Centre (PHC) doctors are the most visible face of public healthcare in India, yet often the most neglected.” Examine this paradox and suggest reforms to improve working conditions and service delivery.

2. Discuss the role of PHC doctors in strengthening India’s primary healthcare system. How can administrative and systemic reforms reduce burnout and enhance their effectiveness?

6. Trans People Deserve Better: A Call for Social Justice – Polity

Why in News?

Despite the enactment of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 and schemes such as SMILE and Garima Greh, India’s transgender community continues to face marginalization, discrimination, and exclusion. This reflects a broader disconnect between constitutional guarantees of equality and their on-ground realization.

Legal and Policy Framework for Transgender Rights in India

Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019:

• Prohibits discrimination in:
  • Education
  • Employment
  • Healthcare
  • Housing
  • Access to public services
• Legal recognition of gender identity:
  • Allows self-perceived gender identity
  • However, requires certification through medical boards, which undermines autonomy
• Institutional obligations:
  • Mandates inclusive environments in schools, colleges, and workplaces
  • Implementation is patchy and inconsistent

Why Is This Important?

Constitutional and Human Rights Context:

• Article 14: Equality before law
• Article 15: Prohibits discrimination on grounds of sex
• Article 21: Right to life includes right to dignity and identity
• National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) v. UOI (2014):
  • Landmark SC judgment recognized transgender identity as a third gender
  • Affirmed the right to self-identification

Transgender Rights = National Development:

• Marginalization leads to a waste of talent, creativity, and human potential
• A truly inclusive democracy must protect and uplift all minorities, including gender minorities

Policy Initiatives & Government Schemes:

Measuring Inclusivity:

NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index:

• Tracks progress toward SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities)
• Recognizes transgender inclusion as a metric
• However, impact remains symbolic unless backed by strong implementation

Challenges in Policy Implementation:

Structural Gaps:

• “Hollow quotas”: Policies exist but implementation is weak
• Economic exclusion: Trans persons often resort to unsafe livelihoods due to lack of formal employment
• Data deficit: Census and national surveys underrepresent trans persons, leading to poor policy design

Access to Basic Needs:

• Housing discrimination: Landlords reject transgender tenants
• Public safety: Facing abuse, ridicule, and exclusion
• Abandonment by families leads to destitution

Political and Institutional Representation:

• Lack of meaningful representation in policymaking bodies and media
• Representation often remains tokenistic, not structural

Urgent Priorities for Reform:

Relevance to Himachal Pradesh

• Small and dispersed trans communities in HP face double marginalization due to rural conservatism and lack of support structures.
• Limited access to healthcare and safe shelter in hill and tribal areas
• Need for district-level sensitization programs, Garima Greh centres, and inclusion in local governance bodies (PRIs).
• Potential for skill-based employment in wellness tourism, crafts, and healthcare sectors

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following rights were affirmed in the NALSA v. Union of India (2014) case?
1.Right to self-identify gender
2.Recognition of transgender as third gender
3.Mandatory surgery for gender recognition
Choose 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

2. What is the primary objective of the Garima Greh scheme?
A. Scholarships for trans students
B. Providing legal aid to trans persons
C. Offering shelter and rehabilitation for transgender individuals
D. Ensuring free gender transition surgeries
Answer: C. Offering shelter and rehabilitation for transgender individuals

Mains

1. “Legal recognition alone does not guarantee social acceptance.” Critically examine the challenges faced by India’s transgender community despite progressive legislation like the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.

2. Discuss how India can ensure meaningful inclusion of transgender individuals in political, social, and economic life. Suggest institutional reforms to make governance gender-inclusive.