25th July 2025 – Current Affairs

1. China Commences Construction of Mega Dam over Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) – International Relations

Why in News?

China has initiated the construction of a massive hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River (known as Brahmaputra in India), in Nyingchi, southeastern Tibet—near the Arunachal Pradesh border.

Key Features of the Project

Strategic and Geopolitical Concerns for India

1. Proximity to India

• The dam is close to Arunachal Pradesh, a region India claims as part of its territory but is disputed by China.
• Enhances China’s strategic presence in a sensitive border region, amid ongoing military tensions.

2. Control Over Water Flow

• Brahmaputra is a transboundary river, vital for northeastern India and Bangladesh.
• China’s control over upstream infrastructure could affect downstream water availability, agriculture, and ecosystems.

3. Possibility of Water Weaponization

• In times of conflict, control over water resources could be used strategically (e.g., flooding or withholding water).

4. Lack of Water-sharing Treaty

• Unlike the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan, India and China do not have a formal water-sharing agreement over the Brahmaputra.
• India depends on limited hydrological data provided by China, mainly during monsoon.

Environmental and Seismic Risks

• The region is ecologically fragile and seismically active.
• Large-scale damming in such zones increases the risk of:
  • Earthquakes and landslides
  • Ecosystem disruption and biodiversity loss
  • Sediment flow disruption affecting agriculture and aquatic life

Contextual Reference: Three Gorges Dam

This project is often referenced when evaluating China’s hydropower ambitions and the potential scale of environmental and social impact.

Implications for India

• Security: Raises national security concerns due to proximity to Line of Actual Control (LAC).
• Water Security: Affects river flow regulation into Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
• Diplomacy: Necessitates stronger water diplomacy and transboundary cooperation mechanisms.
• Infrastructure Response: India may need to expedite its own hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh and improve dam safety and resilience.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about the Brahmaputra River:
   1.It originates in India and flows through China and Bangladesh.
   2. It is known as Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet.
   3.India and China have a formal treaty for sharing Brahmaputra water.
   Which of the above statements is/are correct?
   A. 1 and 2 only
   B. 2 only
   C. 1 and 3 only
   D. 2 and 3 only
   Answer: B. 2 only
   
   
2. The ‘Nyingchi’ region, recently in news, is located in:
   A. Eastern Nepal
   B. Southern Bhutan
   C. Southeastern Tibet
   D. Arunachal Pradesh
   Answer: C. Southeastern Tibet
   
   
3. Which of the following rivers flows through Arunachal Pradesh and Assam before entering Bangladesh?
   A. Mekong
   B. Salween
   C. Brahmaputra
   D. Irrawaddy
   Answer: C. Brahmaputra

Mains

1. “Hydropower development in the upper reaches of transboundary rivers can have strategic and ecological consequences for downstream nations.” Examine this statement in the context of the Brahmaputra River and recent developments in Tibet.
2. Discuss the geopolitical and environmental challenges posed by China’s dam-building activities on the Yarlung Tsangpo. How should India respond diplomatically and strategically?
3. Water diplomacy is becoming increasingly vital in international relations. Evaluate India’s preparedness in managing transboundary river disputes with China and suggest a way forward.
   

2. Lantana camara: An Invasive Threat to Biodiversity – Environment

Why in News?

The spread of Lantana camara, a highly invasive alien plant species, has become a serious ecological threat in Himachal Pradesh, affecting around 3.25 lakh hectares of forest land and endangering native biodiversity.

What is Lantana camara?

Why is Lantana a Threat?

1. Ecological Impact

• Allelopathy: Lantana releases allelochemicals that inhibit the germination and growth of native species beneath its canopy.
• Monoculture Formation: It forms dense thickets, pushing out native flora and thereby reducing overall biodiversity.
• Disruption of Food Web: Native species that depend on indigenous plants are displaced, affecting pollinators, herbivores, and predators.

2. Fire Hazard

• Highly flammable dry leaves and stems increase the risk and intensity of forest fires.

3. Human-Wildlife Conflict

• Reduction in native vegetation alters wildlife habitats, sometimes forcing animals into human settlements in search of food.

Impacts on Himachal Pradesh

• Over 325,000 hectares of forests are now infested.
• Biodiverse regions like Shivalik foothills, Kangra, Solan, and Bilaspur are particularly affected.
• Impacts traditional forest-based livelihoods and agroforestry systems.

Management & Utilization Strategies

Note: Management must be continuous and region-specific. One-time removal often leads to regrowth due to resilient root systems.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements regarding Lantana camara
   1.It is native to India.
   2.It releases chemicals that suppress the growth of other plants.
   3.It is useful in reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.
   Which of the statements is/are correct?
   A. 2 and 3 only
   B. 1 and 2 only
   C. 1 and 3 only
   D. 1, 2 and 3
   Answer: A. 2 and 3 only
   
   
2. Which of the following terms is most accurately associated with the effect of Lantana camara on native plants?
   A. Photosynthesis
   B. Mutualism
   C. Allelopathy
   D. Commensalism
   Answer: C. Allelopathy
   
   
3. The spread of Lantana camara poses a major threat to biodiversity in which of the following Indian states?
   A. Gujarat
   B. Himachal Pradesh
   C. Punjab
   D. Sikkim
   Answer: B. Himachal Pradesh

Mains

1. Lantana camara, while being an ecological threat, also holds potential for socioeconomic benefits. Critically analyze its impact on forest biodiversity in Himachal Pradesh and suggest sustainable management strategies.
2. What are invasive alien species? Explain their impact on native biodiversity with reference to Lantana camara. What measures can be adopted to prevent their spread in ecologically sensitive areas?
3. Discuss how integrating invasive species management with local livelihoods can offer a win-win solution. Use Lantana camara as a case study.
   

3. Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) – Defence & Security

Why in News?

India has officially submitted a Letter of Request (LoR) to the United States for the co-production of Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aiming to strengthen its indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem.

What is the Javelin ATGM?

Technical Specifications

Strategic Importance for India

1. Modernization of Infantry Forces

• Indian infantry lacks sufficient high-tech portable anti-tank systems.
• Javelin ATGMs can significantly enhance the tactical capabilities of frontline troops.

2. Border Defense

• Useful in high-altitude warfare (e.g., LAC with China, LoC with Pakistan), where heavy armor is used.
• Effective against both armored units and fortified enemy positions.

3. ‘Make in India’ and Technology Transfer

• Co-production boosts India’s defence indigenization under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
• Opportunity to absorb critical missile guidance and sensor technologies.
• Reduces long-term dependence on imports and improves maintenance and logistics.

Global Context & Operational Relevance

• Javelins were prominently used in Ukraine, proving highly effective against Russian tanks.
• Their “shoot-and-scoot” capability suits modern, mobile warfare.
• Successful integration into India’s forces could modernize battalion-level anti-armor doctrines.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following statements about the Javelin missile is/are correct?
   1.It is a man-portable, anti-aircraft missile.
   2.It uses infrared guidance and fire-and-forget technology.
   3.It is jointly developed by Lockheed Martin and Raytheon.
   A. 2 and 3 only
   B. 1 and 2 only
   C. 1 and 3 only
   D. All of the above
   Answer: A. 2 and 3 only
   
   
2. The ‘top-attack mode’ in an anti-tank guided missile is designed to:
   A. Hit the tank’s front armor
   B. Hit the tank’s tracks
   C. Hit the weaker upper armor of a tank
   D. Hit underground bunkers
   Answer: C. Hit the weaker upper armor of a tank
   
   
3. Under which of the following initiatives is India seeking to co-produce Javelin ATGMs?
   A. Startup India
   B. Digital India
   C. Make in India
   D. Bharat Shakti
   Answer: C. Make in India

Mains

1. India’s effort to co-produce Javelin anti-tank missiles under the ‘Make in India’ initiative marks a shift towards defence self-reliance. Examine the significance of this move in the context of India’s evolving military needs.
2. Discuss the role of precision-guided munitions like Javelin ATGMs in modern warfare. How can India balance foreign procurement with indigenization in defence technology?
3. What are the challenges and opportunities in India’s defence co-production with the United States? Illustrate with recent examples including the Javelin missile deal.
   

4. Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD): A Viral Threat to Cattle Health and Dairy Economy – Science & Technology

Why in News?

Over 900 cattle have been infected with Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Pune district, Maharashtra, with new cases emerging daily. The outbreak is threatening milk supply chains and local dairy-based livelihoods, prompting urgent containment efforts.

What is Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD)?

Symptoms

• High fever
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Multiple firm skin nodules across the body (including neck, head, limbs)
• Lameness, nasal discharge, and loss of appetite

Transmission

Seasonal Pattern & Geographic Spread

• Favours wet, humid conditions – Common during summer and post-monsoon in low-lying, water-abundant regions
• Increasingly reported in parts of:
  • Africa, Middle East
  • Europe, Southeast Asia
  • India (including HP, Punjab, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan)

Economic Impact

• Drop in milk yield due to stress and illness
• Sterility in infected bulls (temporary or permanent)
• Damage to hides and skins, reducing leather quality
• Animal deaths in severe untreated cases
• Indirect losses from movement restrictions, trade bans, and treatment costs

Treatment and Control

• Antibiotics for secondary infections
• Anti-inflammatory drugs, topical wound sprays, and nutritional supplements |
  | Prevention |
• Vaccination is key
• India uses vaccines based on Goatpox virus and has developed LSD-specific vaccines like Lumpi-ProVacInd |
  | Biosecurity Measures |
• Isolating infected animals
• Disinfection of premises, equipment
• Control of vector insects
• Public awareness and monitoring by veterinary officers |

Significance for Himachal Pradesh and India

• Himachal Pradesh has a large population dependent on dairy and livestock farming.
• The spread of LSD can severely impact small and marginal farmers who rely on cattle for livelihood.
• Need for state-wide vaccination drives, especially before the monsoon.
• Integration of animal health in disaster and epidemic preparedness is vital.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following correctly describes Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD)?
   A. A zoonotic bacterial disease
   B. A viral disease of cattle caused by the Capripoxvirus
   C. A fungal disease of goats and sheep
   D. A protozoan disease of buffaloes
   Answer: B. A viral disease of cattle caused by the Capripoxvirus
   
   
2. Lumpy Skin Disease is primarily transmitted by:
   A. Contaminated drinking water
   B. Aerosol droplets from infected humans
   C. Blood-feeding insects like mosquitoes and flies
   D.Infected poultry feed
   Answer: C. Blood-feeding insects like mosquitoes and flies
   
   
3. Lumpy Skin Disease is most prevalent during which season in India?
   A. Winter
   B. Spring
   C. Monsoon and post-monsoon
   D. Dry summer months
   Answer: C. Monsoon and post-monsoon

Mains

1. Lumpy Skin Disease poses a rising threat to India’s livestock and dairy economy. Discuss the nature, spread, and economic impact of the disease. What preventive and control measures should be adopted by the state governments?
2. Animal health is an often-overlooked component of agricultural resilience. In light of recurrent outbreaks like Lumpy Skin Disease, suggest policy-level and grassroots-level interventions to build robust veterinary disease surveillance systems in India.
3. The success of disease control in livestock requires coordination between veterinary services, farmers, and administration. Analyze the role of local governance in managing livestock epidemics with special reference to Lumpy Skin Disease.
   

5. Financial Inclusion Index: FY 2025 Update – Economy

Why in News?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released the updated Financial Inclusion Index (FI Index) for FY 2025, which has risen to 67.0, up from 64.2 in FY 2024, signaling steady improvement in the reach and usage of financial services across India.

What is the Financial Inclusion Index (FI Index)?

Three Key Parameters of the FI Index

The index is built on 97 indicators, capturing both supply- and demand-side data.

Significance of the FI Index

1. Tracks Progress of Government Schemes

• Reflects the impact of flagship schemes like:
  • Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
  • PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana
  • Aadhaar-enabled payment systems
  • Digital India, UPI adoption

2. Facilitates Targeted Policymaking

• Helps identify regional disparities in financial inclusion (e.g., NE states vs. urban centers)
• Supports priority-sector lending and inclusion-focused policies in rural and semi-urban areas

3. Boosts Economic Participation

• Enables better access to credit, insurance, pension, and savings instruments, particularly for:
  • Women
  • Small and marginal farmers
  • MSMEs
  • Informal sector workers

Challenges in Achieving Full Financial Inclusion

• Digital divide in rural and tribal areas
• Low financial literacy among the poor and elderly
• Inadequate grievance redressal mechanisms
• Reluctance of formal institutions to serve low-income, low-margin customers
• Over-dependence on Jan Dhan accounts, many of which remain inactive

Way Forward

• Expand digital and mobile banking infrastructure in rural India
• Invest in financial education and customer protection frameworks
• Strengthen business correspondent models
• Integrate financial services with social welfare schemes for deeper penetration

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Financial Inclusion Index (FI Index):
   1.It is published monthly by the Reserve Bank of India.
   2.It includes parameters such as Access, Usage, and Quality.
   3.The index includes data only from the banking sector.
   Which of the above statements is/are correct?
   A. 2 only
   B. 1 and 3 only
   C. 2 and 3 only
   D. 1, 2, and 3
   Answer: A. 2 only
   
   
2. What does a higher score in the Financial Inclusion Index indicate?
   A. A decline in the usage of financial services
   B. Complete exclusion from formal finance
   C. Improved access and quality of financial services
   D. Higher inflation in the financial sector
   Answer: C. Improved access and quality of financial services
   
   
3. Which of the following is NOT a component of the Financial Inclusion Index?
   A. Usage of services
   B. Quality of services
   C. Employment generation
   D. Access to services
   Answer: C. Employment generation

Mains

1. “Financial inclusion is not just about opening bank accounts, but ensuring meaningful usage and quality of services.” In the light of this statement, examine the role of the RBI’s Financial Inclusion Index in assessing India’s financial inclusion landscape.
2. Discuss the progress made and challenges faced in achieving financial inclusion in India. Suggest policy measures to enhance inclusion, especially in rural and underdeveloped regions.
3. How can technology and digital infrastructure contribute to improving financial inclusion? Discuss with examples from recent initiatives such as UPI and Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile (JAM) trinity.
   

6. Takeaways from the Swachh Survekshan 2024–25 – Governance

Why in News?

The 9th edition of Swachh Survekshan, the world’s largest urban cleanliness survey, has been completed under the Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban (SBM-U). It now covers over 4,500 cities, showing progress in urban waste management, citizen engagement, and governance innovation.

What is Swachh Survekshan?

Key Features & Innovations in 2024–25

1. Super Swachh League (SSL)

• Cities categorized into five population brackets, allowing fairer competition.
• Cities like Bhubaneswar improved from 34th to 9th, thanks to focused effort in their category.

2. Best Practices

• Indore: Six-stream waste segregation (dry, wet, sanitary, hazardous, e-waste, plastic)
• Surat: Revenue generation through treated sewage reuse, contributing to circular economy

3. Focus on Behavioural Change

• Shifting from mere infrastructure to changing public behavior on waste disposal, segregation, and recycling.
• Increased citizen participation through public feedback and social media campaigns.

Parameters of Evaluation (10 Key Themes)

Though specific indicators evolve yearly, they generally include:

1. Solid waste management
2. Segregation at source
3. Door-to-door collection
4. Processing and disposal
5. Sanitation infrastructure
6. Citizen feedback
7. Awareness and outreach
8. Innovative practices
9. Waste to wealth initiatives
10. Use of technology and transparency

Economic and Governance Implications

1. Economic Gains

• RRR (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle): Emphasis on waste as a resource, promoting jobs, entrepreneurship, and tourism
• Healthier cities = lower disease burden + better urban livability index

2. Good Governance in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)

• Data-driven decision-making using cleanliness metrics
• Encourages healthy competition, transparency, and community ownership

Challenges Identified

Significance for Himachal Pradesh

• Hill towns face unique challenges: limited space for landfills, lack of composting facilities, rising tourist waste
• Participation in Swachh Survekshan can help HP cities like Shimla, Dharamshala, Solan improve waste governance
• Opportunity to integrate eco-tourism and waste management

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Swachh Survekshan is conducted by which of the following institutions?
   A. NITI Aayog
   B. Quality Council of India
   C. Central Pollution Control Board
   D. National Green Tribunal
   Answer: B. Quality Council of India
   
   
2. Which of the following cities is known for its six-way waste segregation model in Swachh Survekshan?
   A. Ahmedabad
   B. Bhubaneswar
   C. Indore
   D. Pune
   Answer: C. Indore
   
   
3. In the Swachh Survekshan framework, the Super Swachh League categorizes cities based on:
   A. Budget size
   B. Population brackets
   C. Climate zones
   D. Political divisions
   Answer: B. Population brackets

Mains

1. “Swachh Survekshan has evolved from a competitive ranking tool to a catalyst for urban reform.” Examine this statement in light of recent developments and best practices from Indian cities.
2. Discuss the role of data, public participation, and innovation in transforming urban waste management systems in India. Use examples from Swachh Survekshan 2024–25.
3. Despite significant investment and monitoring, India faces persistent urban sanitation challenges. Critically analyze the limitations of cleanliness surveys like Swachh Survekshan in achieving long-term sustainability.