1. Is India Heading Towards Judicial Despotism? – Polity
Why in News?
- A series of recent Supreme Court judgments has sparked a national debate over whether India’s judiciary is overstepping its constitutional role.
- Central concerns revolve around the balance of power among the judiciary, executive, and legislature.
Key Constitutional Provisions
| Provision | Role |
|---|---|
| Judicial Review | Although not explicitly mentioned, Article 13 empowers courts to invalidate unconstitutional laws. |
| Article 32 & 226 | Empower individuals to approach courts to enforce fundamental rights (Supreme Court & High Courts respectively). |
| Article 142 | Authorizes the Supreme Court to pass any order necessary for doing “complete justice.” Critics argue it sometimes leads to judicial overreach. |
Recent Examples Fueling the Debate
| Case/Decision | Outcome | Public Reaction |
|---|---|---|
| Demonetization (2023) | Upheld government’s 2016 move. | Seen as judiciary favoring executive. |
| Same-Sex Marriage Petition (2023) | Declined to legalize marriage equality. | Criticized for conservative approach. |
| NRC in Assam | Supported updating the NRC for citizenship verification. | Praised by some; criticized for humanitarian concerns. |
| State of Tamil Nadu vs Governor (2025) | Imposed timelines on Governor for assent to bills under Article 142. | Raised concerns over judicial encroachment into executive domain. |
Judicial Review vs Judicial Activism
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Judicial Review | Legitimate constitutional mechanism to ensure laws and executive actions comply with the Constitution. |
| Judicial Activism | When courts step into policy-making or legislative functions to protect rights or enforce justice. |
| Judicial Overreach | When courts excessively interfere in the domains of the executive and legislature, undermining the separation of powers. |
Key Arguments in the Debate
| View Supporting Judiciary | View Warning Against Judicial Despotism |
|---|---|
| Courts act as guardians of fundamental rights. | Courts should respect the separation of powers. |
| Judicial activism is essential where legislative/executive action is absent or arbitrary. | Frequent and expansive use of Article 142 could undermine democracy. |
| Judiciary ensures checks and balances against majoritarian excesses. | Overuse of judicial review could erode public trust in democratic institutions. |
Conclusion
- The Indian Judiciary plays a vital role in protecting democracy and citizens’ rights.
- However, navigating the fine line between essential judicial intervention and overreach is critical.
- Judicial credibility depends not just on power but on restraint, reasoned judgments, and respecting constitutional boundaries.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Article 142 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Supreme Court to:
A. Review High Court decisions
B. Enforce fundamental duties
C. Appoint judges to lower courts
D. Pass any order necessary for complete justice
Answer: D
2. Which of the following best describes Judicial Overreach?
A. When courts strike down unconstitutional laws
B. When courts interpret laws to suit societal needs
C. When courts enter executive or legislative domains beyond constitutional limits
D. When courts delay judgments in sensitive cases
Answer: C
Mains :
1. Discuss whether the Indian judiciary’s recent actions reflect judicial activism necessary for democracy or judicial overreach risking democratic balance.
(GS Paper 2 – Polity and Governance)
2. Air Pollution in India — Where Does It Come From? – Environment
Why in News?
- Millions of deaths globally are linked to air pollution.
- India faces critical questions about key sources of pollutants like SO₂, NOx, CH₄, and NH₃.
- Understanding sources is essential for targeted pollution control.
Key Pollutants and Their Sources
| Pollutant | Major Source | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) | Energy Production (coal-fired power plants) | Burning coal releases sulfur impurities as SO₂. |
| Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) | Transportation (especially diesel vehicles) | Diesel engines emit high NOx; coal/gas combustion also contributes. |
| Methane (CH₄) | Agriculture (livestock and rice paddies) | Enteric fermentation (livestock digestion) and anaerobic decomposition in flooded fields release CH₄. |
| Ammonia (NH₃) | Fertilizers and Livestock Waste | Urea application and animal manure cause ammonia volatilization. |
India’s Air Pollution Scenario
- Energy Sector: Largest SO₂ emitter due to dependence on coal (~70% of electricity generation).
- Transport Sector: Growing NOx emissions due to increasing diesel vehicle usage.
- Agriculture: Dominates methane emissions via livestock and paddy cultivation.
- Fertilizers: Overuse of nitrogen-based fertilizers (e.g., urea) leads to excessive ammonia emissions.
Government Initiatives to Combat Air Pollution
| Scheme/Program | Objective |
|---|---|
| National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) | Target: 20-30% reduction in PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀ levels by 2024 (from 2017 levels). |
| Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana | Promotes LPG for cooking to reduce indoor air pollution from biomass. |
| Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) | Encourages use of electric vehicles to curb vehicular pollution. |
| Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) mandate | Installation of FGDs in coal power plants to reduce SO₂ emissions. |
| National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) | Supports transition to cleaner vehicles. |
Way Forward
- Energy Transition: Move from coal to renewable energy sources.
- Vehicle Emission Norms: Strict implementation of BS-VI standards across India.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Promote alternate wetting and drying (AWD) in paddy fields; bio-digesters for livestock waste.
- Fertilizer Reform: Incentivize use of biofertilizers and controlled urea application.
- Public Awareness: Encourage behavioral changes for reduced pollution.
Summary
India’s air pollution crisis is driven primarily by coal-based energy production, diesel transport, intensive agriculture, and fertilizer overuse. Pollutants like SO₂, NOx, CH₄, and NH₃ contribute not only to poor air quality but also to climate change. While government schemes such as NCAP, FAME, and Ujjwala show progress, the complexity of the issue demands a coordinated policy, behavioral change, and technology deployment. A sustainable future hinges on sector-specific reforms and a move towards a cleaner, greener economy.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following is a major anthropogenic source of methane emissions in India?
A. Cement production
B. Diesel vehicles
C. Rice paddies and livestock
D. Thermal power plants
Answer: C
2. Consider the following pollutants and their major sources in India:
- Sulfur Dioxide – Coal-fired power plants
- Nitrogen Oxides – Agriculture
- Ammonia – Urea fertilizers
- Methane – Livestock
Which of the above are correctly matched?
A. 1, 3, and 4 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2, and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
NOx is primarily from combustion sources, not agriculture.
Mains :
1. Identify the major anthropogenic sources of air pollution in India. Discuss the steps taken by the government to address the issue and suggest additional measures.
(GS Paper 3 – Environment and Ecology)
3. 🇮🇳 India’s 5-Point Action Against Pakistan After Pahalgam Terror Attack – InternationaI Relations
Why in News?
- After the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir (26 fatalities), India’s Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) announced a strong 5-point action plan against Pakistan.
- Aimed at disrupting Pakistan’s diplomatic presence, cross-border movements, and strategic agreements.
The 5-Point Action Plan
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty | India suspends the 1960 water-sharing treaty until Pakistan halts cross-border terrorism — a major shift in South Asian diplomacy. |
| 2. Closure of the Attari-Wagah Border | All movement of people and goods between India and Pakistan halted; Pakistani nationals already in India must return by May 1, 2025. |
| 3. Cancellation of SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) Visas | Visas cancelled; Pakistani nationals in India must leave within 48 hours. |
| 4. Expulsion of Pakistan’s Military Advisors | All military/naval/air advisors at Pakistan’s High Commission in Delhi expelled; reciprocal withdrawal by Indian advisors from Islamabad. |
| 5. Diplomatic Staff Reduction | India’s diplomatic presence in Pakistan to be reduced from 55 to 30 officials by May 1, 2025. |
Additional Geopolitical Context
| Aspect | Situation |
|---|---|
| Declining Strategic Value of Pakistan | U.S. disengagement post-Afghanistan (2021); reduced American and Gulf financial support. |
| China’s Waning Interest | Security risks and corruption issues have decreased Chinese investment enthusiasm in Pakistan. |
| Afghanistan Factor | Taliban-controlled Afghanistan now seen as a security threat rather than strategic depth for Pakistan. |
| Tensions with Iran | Cross-border strikes between Pakistan and Iran over militant camps have raised instability concerns. |
| India’s New Confidence Post-Article 370 (2019) | India’s assertive stance on Kashmir and greater diplomatic resilience is evident. |
Key Implications
- Diplomatic Isolation of Pakistan: Reduced channels for negotiation and formal engagement.
- Water Security Strategy: Using river waters strategically could apply significant pressure on Pakistan.
- Shift from Reactive to Proactive Policy: India is now taking assertive and coordinated measures rather than reactive diplomatic protests.
- Focus on Kashmir’s Stability: India’s long-term strategy is aimed at ensuring development, stability, and international confidence in Kashmir.
Key Concepts to Revise
- Indus Waters Treaty (1960): Brokered by the World Bank; covers rivers Sutlej, Beas, Ravi (India’s rights) and Indus, Chenab, Jhelum (Pakistan’s rights).
- Persona Non Grata: A diplomatic term for expelling foreign diplomats.
- SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES): Facilitated easier movement for officials and certain categories between SAARC nations.
Summary
| Theme | Summary |
|---|---|
| Why Action? | Cross-border terror links in Pahalgam attack. |
| Major Actions | Treaty suspension, border closure, visa cancellations, expulsions, staff cuts. |
| Broader Context | Pakistan’s strategic isolation post-Afghanistan withdrawal. |
| India’s Long-Term Focus | Stability and prosperity in Kashmir, assertive regional strategy. |
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The Indus Waters Treaty (1960) divides river usage between India and Pakistan. Which of the following rivers are allocated to Pakistan under the treaty?
- Chenab
- Jhelum
- Sutlej
- Indus
A. 1, 2, and 4 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 3, and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
2. The term Persona Non Grata is used in diplomacy to refer to:
A. A person granted asylum
B. A citizen holding multiple nationalities
C. A foreign diplomat declared unwelcome by the host country
D. An individual denied entry on health grounds
Answer: C
Mains :
1. Discuss the strategic and diplomatic implications of India’s recent 5-point action plan against Pakistan in light of the Pahalgam terror attack. How does it reflect a shift in India’s regional security approach?
(GS Paper 2 – International Relations)
4. 🇮🇳 India Puts Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in Abeyance – InternationaI Relations
Why in News?
- In response to the Pahalgam terror attack (26 fatalities), India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960.
- Decision taken during a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Suspension remains until Pakistan credibly ceases cross-border terrorism.
- This is the first time the IWT has been formally put in abeyance despite multiple past wars and conflicts.
About the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Signed | 1960 (India, Pakistan, brokered by the World Bank). |
| Water Division | – Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) for India. – Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) for Pakistan (with limited use for India). |
| Purpose | Equitable water sharing, prevent conflict over river waters. |
| Dispute Mechanism | Three-tier system: Neutral Expert → Court of Arbitration → World Bank facilitation. |
| Historical Endurance | Survived wars (1965, 1971, Kargil 1999) and crises, never previously suspended. |
Recent Background
| Factor | Situation |
|---|---|
| Rising Tensions Since 2016 | After the Uri attack (2016), India reviewed the treaty but continued adherence. |
| Environmental and Terrorism Challenges | India argued that fundamental changes (climate change + terrorism) warrant treaty modification (early 2023 notice). |
| Pakistan’s Concerns | Disputes over Kishanganga and Ratle hydropower projects. |
| Pahalgam Attack (2025) | Triggered the immediate suspension decision. |
Implications of Suspension
| For India | For Pakistan |
|---|---|
| Greater flexibility to utilize western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab). | Severe blow to agriculture (80% of cultivated land dependent on Indus basin). |
| Can enhance hydroelectric projects without treaty restrictions. | Urban water supply in Lahore, Karachi, Multan could face shortages. |
| Major strategic leverage in bilateral negotiations. | Economic distress, food security challenges, and international pressure. |
| Risk of international criticism if seen as weaponizing water. | Risk of Pakistan appealing to the UN or World Bank for intervention. |
Legal and Diplomatic Complexity
- No clear “exit clause” in the treaty — suspension may spark legal and international diplomatic disputes.
- Disabling the dispute resolution mechanism weakens Pakistan’s legal recourse.
- India’s move could set a precedent for linking security and water-sharing treaties globally.
Strategic Dimensions
| Aspect | Analysis |
|---|---|
| National Security Doctrine | Water as a strategic tool amid persistent terrorism threats. |
| Shift from Defensive to Assertive Diplomacy | India now actively reshaping regional agreements to safeguard national interests. |
| International Reactions | Likely divided; some may sympathize with India’s terror concerns, others may fear setting dangerous precedents. |
Quick Facts
| Theme | Details |
|---|---|
| Treaty Signed | 1960, brokered by World Bank. |
| Rivers for India | Ravi, Beas, Sutlej (eastern). |
| Rivers for Pakistan | Indus, Chenab, Jhelum (western). |
| Suspension Reason | Cross-border terrorism after Pahalgam attack. |
| Impact | Major blow to Pakistan’s agriculture and water security. |
Summary
India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) marks a watershed moment in Indo-Pak relations. It reflects a bold assertion of national security priorities, linking cross-border terrorism to regional cooperation frameworks. While the move offers tactical leverage, it carries legal and diplomatic risks, particularly in the absence of a formal exit clause. Going forward, India must balance its assertive strategy with careful management of global opinion and long-term hydrological diplomacy.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following rivers are allocated to Pakistan under the Indus Waters Treaty (1960)?
- Indus
- Beas
- Jhelum
- Chenab
A. 1, 2, and 3
B. 1, 3, and 4
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B
2. Consider the following statements about the Indus Waters Treaty:
- It was brokered by the United Nations.
- India has full control over the western rivers.
- The treaty survived wars and major diplomatic crises between India and Pakistan.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1 and 3 only
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect — It was brokered by the World Bank, not the UN.
Statement 2 is incorrect — India has limited non-consumptive rights over western rivers.
Mains :
1. “The Indus Waters Treaty has been a pillar of India-Pakistan engagement for over six decades. Critically examine the implications of India’s decision to suspend the treaty following recent security concerns.”
(GS Paper 2 – International Relations)
5. Responding to the Terror Attack in Pahalgam
Why in News?
- Terrorist attack at Baisaran, Pahalgam (J&K) resulted in major casualties.
- Occurred amidst an upsurge in tourism and U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance’s visit, aiming to destabilize Kashmir’s peaceful narrative.
- Highlights gaps in India’s security and intelligence apparatus.
- Calls for a long-term deterrence strategy to counter asymmetric threats.
Key Dimensions
| Theme | Details |
|---|---|
| Target Symbolism | Attack on Baisaran (popular tourist site) intended to undermine Kashmir’s image of peace. |
| Proxy Warfare | Attack claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed proxy linked to ISI. |
| Strategic Timing | Coordinated with diplomatic events to embarrass India internationally. |
| Intelligence Lapses | Inadequate surveillance, lack of area domination patrols, insufficient human intelligence (HUMINT) inputs. |
| Broader Pattern | Reflects continuation of asymmetrical warfare despite abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. |
Motives Behind the Attack
- Psychological Impact: Instill fear among tourists and locals.
- Disrupt Normalcy Narrative: Challenge claims of improved peace and economic revival in Kashmir.
- Diplomatic Sabotage: Undermine India’s efforts to portray Kashmir as stable during high-profile international visits.
- Low-Cost, High-Impact: Minimal resource investment by terrorists to create significant political and media disruption.
🇵🇰 Pakistan’s Involvement
- ISI-backed groups like TRF enable plausible deniability while maintaining strategic pressure on India.
- Shift from direct attacks to civilian and soft-target terrorism to avoid international scrutiny post-2019 FATF grey-listing.
Intelligence and Security Failures
- Predictable Pattern Ignored: Tourist hubs during peak seasons are vulnerable.
- Surveillance Gaps: Lack of facial recognition systems, CCTV network failures.
- Complacency in Intelligence Gathering: Inadequate monitoring of sleeper cells and logistic networks.
- Inadequate Community Policing: Failure to cultivate intelligence from local populations.
Way Forward: Institutionalizing Long-Term Deterrence
| Strategy | Details |
|---|---|
| Diplomatic Isolation of Pakistan | Strengthen global coalition against state-sponsored terrorism. Expose ISI-backed proxies at international forums (UN, FATF, etc.). |
| Enhancing Covert Capabilities | Empower Indian agencies (RAW, NTRO) for precision-based covert operations to dismantle terror networks across LOC. |
| Intelligence Reforms | Integrate AI-driven surveillance, better HUMINT networks, real-time data sharing between local and central agencies. |
| Strengthening Civil Administration | Accelerate development programs, engage youth, enhance community trust-building efforts. |
| Tourism Security Doctrine | Develop a dedicated security protocol for tourist hotspots, involving both visible and invisible security layers. |
Human-Centric Approach
- Recognize Kashmiris as Victims: Avoid stereotyping locals; promote inclusive development.
- Integrate Youth: Expand educational, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
- Counter Radicalization: Use social media, community leaders, and rehabilitation programs to counter extremist narratives.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| The Resistance Front (TRF) | Militant group operating as a front for Lashkar-e-Taiba. |
| Pahalgam | Popular hill station; gateway to Amarnath Yatra. |
| Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) | India’s highest decision-making body on national security, chaired by PM. |
Summary
The Pahalgam terror attack illustrates the enduring threat of asymmetric warfare in J&K, driven by proxy groups like TRF and Pakistan’s covert strategy. The incident exposed serious gaps in surveillance and intelligence despite visible peace gains post-Article 370. A long-term solution lies in a multi-layered strategy combining hard security measures, intelligence reforms, international diplomacy, and inclusive development, especially focused on tourism protection and youth engagement.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following correctly describes the role of The Resistance Front (TRF)?
A. A Kashmir-based human rights group
B. A diplomatic envoy of SAARC
C. A proxy terror outfit linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba
D. An army division guarding the Line of Control
Answer: C
2. Which of the following is India’s apex decision-making body on national security affairs?
A. National Security Council Secretariat
B. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
C. Cabinet Committee on Security
D. National Security Guard
Answer: C
Mains :
1. Discuss the strategic challenges posed by asymmetric warfare in Jammu and Kashmir. Suggest a comprehensive strategy combining security, diplomatic, and developmental approaches to ensure long-term peace.
(GS Paper 3 – Internal Security)
6. Food Safety and Nutrition in India – A Public Health Challenge
Why in News?
- Despite rising child malnutrition and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), food safety and nutrition often remain secondary political priorities.
- Food adulteration — from milk to spices — poses major public health and economic risks.
- Recent international concerns (e.g., EU bans on Indian spice brands) highlight regulatory failures.
Key Dimensions
| Theme | Details |
|---|---|
| Nutritional Status (NFHS-5 Data) | Children under 5: – Stunted: 35.5% – Wasted: 19.3% – Underweight: 32.1% |
| Major Food Adulteration Issues | – Milk: 70% adulterated (2011 survey); common adulterants: water, detergent, glucose. – Spices: MDH, Everest products flagged by EU for containing ethylene oxide (carcinogenic). |
| Health Implications | – Rise in diabetes (77 million adults affected). – Increased risk of cancers, heart diseases, and developmental delays in children. |
| Regulatory Framework | – Governed by FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India). – Challenges: Poor enforcement, weak state-level testing infrastructure, low public awareness. |
| International Repercussions | – Export bans and safety alerts hurt India’s agricultural and food export credibility. |
Broader Issues
| Issue | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Governance Failure | Weak regulation and enforcement at both state and central levels. |
| Public Awareness Gap | Consumers often unaware of adulteration risks; low demand for food quality. |
| Economic Costs | Health costs due to unsafe food burden the healthcare system and reduce productivity. |
| Social Inequality | Poorer sections are disproportionately affected by both malnutrition and food adulteration. |
Way Forward
| Solution | Details |
|---|---|
| Strengthen Regulatory Mechanisms | Expand testing labs, stricter implementation of FSSAI standards, third-party audits. |
| Promote Public Awareness | Nationwide campaigns on safe food practices, school education modules. |
| Tackle Malnutrition Holistically | Integrate food safety into nutrition programs like POSHAN Abhiyaan, Mid-Day Meal schemes. |
| Encourage Food Industry Compliance | Incentivize private sector for self-regulation and quality certifications (e.g., AGMARK, BIS). |
| Technological Interventions | Use AI-based surveillance, blockchain for supply chain tracking, mobile-based adulteration detection tools. |
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| FSSAI | Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. |
| Ethylene Oxide | A chemical linked to cancer, used illegally to sterilize spices and food products. |
| POSHAN Abhiyaan | National Nutrition Mission launched in 2018 to address malnutrition. |
Summary
India faces a dual burden of undernutrition and unsafe food, with rampant food adulteration and rising NCDs such as diabetes and cancer. While institutions like FSSAI exist, enforcement is weak, and public awareness remains low. The fallout of international food bans and domestic health crises necessitates an integrated strategy focusing on regulation, awareness, technological innovation, and inclusive nutrition policies. Food safety must be seen as integral to public health, not merely as a trade issue.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) was established under:
A. Essential Commodities Act, 1955
B. Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
C. Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954
D. Consumer Protection Act, 1986
Answer: B
2. Which of the following are adverse effects of food adulteration?
- Increased risk of non-communicable diseases
- Economic burden on healthcare
- Export growth in agriculture
- Loss of consumer trust
A. 1, 2, and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Mains :
1. Discuss the twin challenges of food safety and nutrition in India. Suggest a comprehensive strategy for addressing these issues through governance and public health reforms.
(GS Paper 2 – Governance, Public Health)