26th March 2025-Current Affairs

1. Heat Action Plans (HAPs) – Environment

Why in News?

Hyderabad has been officially recognized as an Urban Heat Island (UHI) in the Telangana Socio-Economic Outlook 2025. Temperatures in urban areas are significantly higher than surrounding rural regions, raising concerns about public health, climate resilience, and urban sustainability.

Elevated nighttime temperatures in UHI zones impede heat recovery, increasing physical stress and worsening vulnerabilities during heatwaves.

What is Urban Heat Island (UHI)?

An Urban Heat Island (UHI) is a phenomenon where urban or metropolitan areas are significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities, urban infrastructure, and land-use patterns.

Causes of UHI

• Reduced Vegetation: Less greenery = less evapotranspiration and shade.
• Heat-Absorbing Materials: Roads, concrete, glass, and asphalt trap and radiate heat.
• Waste Heat Emission: Emitted by air conditioners, vehicles, and industries.
• Altered Wind Flow: Tall buildings restrict airflow, reducing natural cooling.
• Air Pollution: Particulate matter traps solar radiation, increasing temperatures.

Effects of UHI

• Increased Energy Consumption (e.g., A/C use in summer months).
• Health Impacts: Dehydration, heatstroke, respiratory distress.
• Air Quality Deterioration: Smog formation and ozone pollution.
• Water Stress: Higher evaporation and urban demand.
• Biodiversity Loss: Urban wildlife faces heat stress and habitat shrinkage.

Mitigation Strategies

Relevance for Exam

Relevant for:

• GS Paper I: Geography – Urban Climate, Environmental Impact
• GS Paper II & III: Governance, Sustainable Development, Urban Planning
• State-specific focus: Urbanisation patterns in Himachal Pradesh’s hill towns

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Which of the following is/are causes of the Urban Heat Island effect?

1. High-rise buildings obstructing wind flow
2. Reduced green cover
3. Use of reflective roofing materials

Options:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All of the above

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Mains

Q. “The Urban Heat Island effect poses a serious challenge to sustainable development in Indian cities.”
Discuss the causes, consequences, and mitigation strategies.
(250 words)

Final Outcome

The UHI effect is a growing climate and urban development concern in India. Cities like Hyderabad are facing rising health risks, infrastructure strain, and ecological imbalance.

Tackling UHI requires:

• Integrated urban planning,
• Ecological restoration, and
• Community-led adaptation strategies.

Promoting climate-resilient cities is crucial for safeguarding public health and ensuring sustainable urbanization.

2. Urban Heat Island (UHI) – Environment

Why in News?

Hyderabad has recently been identified as an Urban Heat Island (UHI), with urban temperatures significantly higher than those in nearby rural areas. This finding has been acknowledged in the Telangana government’s Socio-Economic Outlook 2025, raising concerns about climate resilience, public health, and urban environmental degradation.

What is an Urban Heat Island?

An Urban Heat Island (UHI) is a phenomenon where urban regions experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to human activities, infrastructure, and land-use changes. It is especially pronounced at night and during summer, posing serious health and environmental risks.

Causes of UHI

• Reduced Vegetation: Less green cover leads to decreased evapotranspiration.
• Heat-Absorbing Infrastructure: Concrete, glass, and asphalt retain heat.
• Waste Heat Emissions: From air conditioning units, vehicles, and industries.
• Altered Wind Flow: High-rise buildings block natural air circulation.
• Air Pollution: Smog and suspended particles trap heat in the lower atmosphere.

Effects of UHI

• Increased Energy Demand: More air conditioning = higher electricity consumption.
• Public Health Hazards: Heatstroke, dehydration, respiratory issues.
• Worsened Air Quality: Triggers smog formation and respiratory diseases.
• Water Stress: Accelerated evaporation + increased urban demand.
• Biodiversity Loss: Native flora and fauna affected by extreme heat.

Mitigation Strategies

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper I: Physical Geography – Urban Climate Patterns
• GS Paper III: Environmental Conservation, Infrastructure Planning
• HP Specific: As cities like Shimla, Dharamshala, and Solan expand, managing microclimates becomes critical for local governance.

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Which of the following contributes to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect?

1. Increased vegetation
2. Heat-absorbing building materials
3. Emissions from vehicles and air conditioners

Options:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All of the above

Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Mains

Q. “The Urban Heat Island effect is a growing concern for Indian cities.”
Discuss the causes, consequences, and mitigation strategies for managing UHI. (250 words)

Final Outcome

The Urban Heat Island effect presents a pressing climate and planning challenge in rapidly urbanizing regions like Hyderabad. Without intervention, UHIs can intensify heatwaves, increase mortality rates, and strain energy and health infrastructure.

A multi-pronged urban climate resilience strategy, focused on green infrastructure, urban design innovation, and community awareness, is essential for long-term mitigation.

3. Why Indian Cities Need Local Solutions, Not One-Size-Fits-All Plans – Governance

Why in News?

India is projected to have the largest urban population globally in the coming decades, yet urban development continues to be driven by centralized, one-size-fits-all policies. This approach often fails to address the diverse realities of individual cities, prompting calls for a decentralized and localized planning model.

Urbanization in India: The Problem with Uniform Planning

Localized Approach

• India’s urbanization is regionally diverse, with states like Kerala, Gujarat, and Himachal Pradesh exhibiting unique urban challenges.
• Urban development policies often fail when they ignore geographical, cultural, and economic differences between regions.

Top-Down Central Schemes

Key central schemes shaping India’s urban growth:

• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
• Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)
• Smart Cities Mission

While these schemes aim to standardize urban services, their rigid structures limit adaptability to local needs.

Challenges of the Current Urban Development Model

• Priority Mismatch: Centrally designed schemes often misalign with city-specific challenges.
• Resource Wastage: Funds may be diverted into low-impact projects that meet compliance but not real needs.
• Undermined Local Bodies: Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) lack the autonomy and resources for need-based planning.

What Needs to Change?

Recommendations for Reform:

1. Decentralized Funding: At least 70% of urban development budgets should go directly to states and ULBs.
2. City-Specific Planning: Encourage cities to create localized development blueprints based on scientific data and public consultation.
3. Empowering ULBs: Build capacity, autonomy, and staffing strength of municipal bodies.
4. Citizen Participation: Adopt ward-level planning and include residents’ voices in infrastructure and service delivery decisions.

Relevance for Exam

This topic connects with:

• GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Urban Development
• GS Paper III: Infrastructure, Sustainable Development, Disaster Management
• State-level Issues: Urbanization challenges in hilly states like Himachal Pradesh

Understanding this topic will help you frame answers on:

• Federalism and decentralization
• Urban resilience and planning
• Role of local self-government

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Which of the following statements regarding Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in India is/are correct?

1. ULBs are governed under the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act.
2. Central schemes like PMAY are implemented with complete autonomy by ULBs.
3. ULBs have constitutionally guaranteed financial autonomy.

Options:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All of the above

Answer: (a) 1 only

Mains

Q. “India’s urban challenges cannot be addressed through a centralized, one-size-fits-all policy.”
Critically examine this statement in the context of urban governance and development planning.
(250 words)

Final Outcome

India’s urban future must be built on the principle of local empowerment, not uniformity. Decentralized urban governance, driven by scientific data, public engagement, and regional needs, will ensure cities are:

• Resilient to climate and demographic shocks
• Inclusive for all residents
• Efficient in delivering infrastructure and services

A bottom-up approach is the key to creating livable and sustainable cities in India’s rapidly urbanizing landscape.

4. Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) – Environment

Why in News?

The 20th meeting of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA-20) is currently underway in Rome. This meeting underscores international collaboration on the sustainable management and conservation of biodiversity related to food and agriculture.

The CGRFA is the only permanent intergovernmental body dedicated to biodiversity for food and agriculture under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

About CGRFA

• Established: 1983 under the FAO
• Membership: 179 countries + the European Union
• Mandate:
  • Conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources.
  • Fair and equitable sharing of benefits from their use.

Focus Areas

• Forestry, Livestock, Aquatic Genetic Resources
• Pollinators, Soil Microorganisms, and Plants vital for global food security
• Integrates biodiversity with:
  • Food production
  • Climate adaptation
  • Sustainable agriculture

Structure & Working

Key Policy Instruments

• Global Plans of Action: To conserve and sustainably use plant, animal, forest, and aquatic genetic resources.
• Codes of Conduct: For responsible access, use, and sharing of genetic material.
• Global Assessments: Monitor trends in biodiversity, including endangered species and genetic erosion.

Major Achievement: ITPGRFA

The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), adopted in 2001, is a landmark output of CGRFA:

• Promotes access to genetic materials for breeders, scientists, and farmers.
• Recognizes farmers’ rights and their contributions to maintaining crop diversity.
• Establishes benefit-sharing mechanisms at the global level.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper III: Environment and Agriculture, Biodiversity Conservation, International Environmental Agreements
• GS Paper II: International Bodies and Treaties
• HP Specific: Relevance in the context of agro-biodiversity in Himalayan ecosystems, indigenous farming, and seed diversity.

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Consider the following international agreements:

1. International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture
2. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
3. World Heritage Convention

Which of the above has/have a bearing on biodiversity?

Options:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Mains

Q. “Preserving genetic resources is essential for sustainable agriculture and food security.”
Critically examine the role of CGRFA and international treaties like ITPGRFA in this context. (250 words)

Final Outcome

CGRFA plays a critical global role in safeguarding the genetic diversity necessary for resilient food systems and climate-smart agriculture. Its work ensures that both traditional knowledge and modern science contribute to food security, equitable growth, and environmental sustainability.

As challenges like climate change and genetic erosion intensify, CGRFA’s deliberations and treaties such as the ITPGRFA will be vital in shaping international biodiversity governance.

5. IOS Sagar: India-Africa Maritime Engagement – International Relations

Why in News?

The Indian Navy is preparing to participate in a multilateral maritime exercise with nine African nations under the ‘Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement’ (AIKEYME). The broader initiative, IOS Sagar, scheduled from April 5 to May 8, 2025, aims to strengthen maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
India will be represented by INS Sunayna, an offshore patrol vessel.

Participating Countries

• India + 9 African Nations:
  Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and South Africa

About IOS Sagar

IOS Sagar (Indian Ocean Security through SAGAR) is a key initiative for enhancing maritime security and regional cooperation in the Southwest Indian Ocean Region (SWIOR).

Activities:

• Port Calls: Dar-es-Salaam (Tanzania), Nacala (Mozambique), Port Louis (Mauritius), Port Victoria (Seychelles), and Male (Maldives)
• Joint EEZ Surveillance: With Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, and Seychelles
• Naval Training: At Indian Naval institutions (e.g., Kochi), covering:
  • Watchkeeping
  • Naval operations
  • Security drills

What is AIKEYME?

• AIKEYME = Sanskrit for “Unity”
• A co-hosted multilateral exercise by the Indian Navy and Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF)
• Participants: Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania
• Schedule: Mid-April 2025 (6 days)
• Inauguration by India’s Defence Minister

Two Phases:

1. Harbour Phase

• Tabletop and command post exercises
• VBSS (Visit, Board, Search & Seizure) drills
• Maritime info-sharing, piracy simulation
• Seamanship training

2. Sea Phase

• Search and Rescue (SAR) ops
• Helicopter operations
• Small arms firing and tactical maneuvers

SAGAR Doctrine – Security and Growth for All in the Region

Launched: 2015 by PM Modi
Aim: A free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific
Core Objectives:

• Maritime Security: Anti-piracy, counter-terrorism, surveillance
• Counterbalance China: Build strategic ties with IOR nations
• Capacity Building: Infrastructure, humanitarian aid, disaster relief
• Trade & Connectivity: Economic corridor development

Supporting Indian Initiatives

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper II: India and its neighborhood, Bilateral relations, Regional groupings
• GS Paper III: Maritime security, SAGAR, Indian Ocean geopolitics
• Essay/GS IV: India-Africa partnership, diplomacy, security cooperation
• HP Specific: Highlights India’s regional leadership & defense cooperation

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. The AIKEYME multilateral maritime exercise recently seen in the news involves India and which of the following regions?
(a) ASEAN countries
(b) African nations
(c) QUAD members
(d) SAARC countries
Answer: (b) African nations

Q. Which of the following correctly describes the SAGAR initiative?
(a) India’s naval shipbuilding program
(b) A regional space cooperation program
(c) A maritime diplomacy initiative for the Indian Ocean Region
(d) A digital infrastructure project
Answer: (c) A maritime diplomacy initiative for the Indian Ocean Region

Mains

Q. “India’s SAGAR initiative is central to its maritime diplomacy and strategic outreach in the Indian Ocean Region.”
Discuss in light of the recent IOS Sagar and AIKEYME exercises. (250 words)

Final Outcome

India’s participation in IOS Sagar and AIKEYME marks a strategic pivot to deepen maritime ties with African coastal states, thereby reinforcing its SAGAR doctrine. This proactive maritime diplomacy serves not only strategic and security objectives but also fosters trust and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, especially in light of China’s increasing footprint in the region.

6. China Ties – Beware Conciliation Without Deterrence – International Relations

Why in News?

India has recently adopted a more conciliatory stance towards China, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizing dialogue as a means to ensure global peace. This shift, interpreted as a strategic recalibration of India’s China policy, has sparked debate over whether conciliation could undermine national security if not backed by credible deterrence.

Historical & Strategic Context

Border Tensions:

• The India-China border dispute stems from colonial-era ambiguities and has led to repeated confrontations.
• Key flashpoints include:
  • 1962 Sino-Indian War
  • 2017 Doklam Standoff
  • 2020 Galwan Valley clash (first fatalities in 45 years)

Economic Interdependence:

• China is India’s largest trading partner.
  • Bilateral trade: $136 billion in 2023
  • Trade deficit in China’s favor: Over $100 billion
• Despite military tensions, economic ties have remained strong, leading to concerns about strategic overdependence.

Diplomatic Engagements:

• Efforts like the Wuhan (2018) and Chennai (2019) informal summits attempted to stabilize ties.
• However, China’s assertive behavior at the LAC undercut these goodwill measures.

Strategic Calculations:

• India’s priorities: economic growth, regional security, and global leadership.
• India continues to engage with Quad partners (USA, Japan, Australia) while managing its northern border tensions diplomatically.

Military Preparedness:

• While diplomacy is essential, India must:
  • Maintain forward military deployment.
  • Invest in border infrastructure.
  • Strengthen joint commands and cyber-defense capabilities.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper II: India-China Relations, Foreign Policy, International Diplomacy
• GS Paper III: National Security, Defence Preparedness
• Essay: Strategic Autonomy, Diplomacy vs. Deterrence

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Which of the following border regions has seen military tensions between India and China in the recent past?

1. Doklam
2. Galwan Valley
3. Arunachal Pradesh
4. Siachen Glacier

Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(d) 2 and 4 only
Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 3 only (Siachen involves India-Pakistan)

Mains

Q. “India’s strategic relations with China must combine diplomatic conciliation with credible deterrence.”
Discuss in light of recent developments at the LAC. (250 words)

Final Outcome

India’s current approach reflects a delicate balancing act: it seeks peace and economic progress through diplomacy, but must not overlook the strategic necessity of deterrence. Past experiences like the Galwan conflict serve as reminders that dialogue without credible defense preparedness could prove costly. Long-term stability will require parallel tracks of diplomatic engagement and military modernization.

7. Judiciary’s In-House Inquiry Against Judge – Polity

Why in News?

Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has ordered a three-member in-house inquiry into Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma following allegations related to the discovery of large amounts of cash at his official residence after a fire incident.
This marks a rare and significant exercise of judicial accountability outside the formal impeachment process laid out in the Constitution.

Additional Details

Impeachment Process under Article 124(4):

• Judges of the Supreme Court or High Courts can be removed only on grounds of proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
• Requires:
  • Motion supported by 100 Lok Sabha MPs or 50 Rajya Sabha MPs.
  • Two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament.
  • President’s approval for removal.

In-House Procedure:

• Developed in 1997 in response to past scandals (e.g. Justice A.M. Bhattacharjee, Bombay HC).
• Designed for cases that do not meet the threshold for impeachment but require internal disciplinary action.
• Clarified in 2014 following a sexual harassment allegation against a High Court judge.

Steps in the In-House Procedure:

1. Complaint received by Chief Justice of High Court, CJI, or President.
2. If not prima facie serious — complaint is dropped.
3. If deemed serious — CJI sets up a three-member committee.
4. The committee may summon witnesses, examine evidence, and complete a detailed investigation.
5. Report submitted to the CJI with recommended action.
6. The CJI may issue an advisory, censure, or suggest voluntary resignation.
7. In extreme cases, findings may be forwarded for impeachment motion in Parliament.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper II: Structure, organization, and functioning of the judiciary; constitutional bodies
• Polity & Governance: Judicial accountability, separation of powers
• Ethics (GS Paper IV): Integrity in public institutions, accountability

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Consider the following statements about the impeachment of High Court judges:

1. A judge of the High Court can be removed by the President on the recommendation of the Chief Justice of India.
2. The impeachment motion must be passed by a simple majority in both Houses of Parliament.
3. Misconduct is not a valid ground for the removal of a judge.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) None of the above
Answer: (d) None of the above

Mains

Q. “The in-house mechanism for judicial accountability helps maintain institutional integrity without infringing judicial independence.”
Critically examine in the context of recent controversies involving High Court judges. (250 words)

Final Outcome

The in-house inquiry against Justice Varma reflects the judiciary’s internal system of self-regulation, meant to uphold judicial integrity without compromising independence.
This mechanism provides a swift and discreet process to address allegations of judicial misconduct without waiting for formal impeachment — which is politically complex and rarely used.

8. Reviving Vikramshila University – History & Culture

Why in News?

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is currently working to develop the ancient site of Vikramshila University to boost tourism and heritage education.
The Bihar government has allocated 202.14 acres in Antichak village, Bhagalpur, for establishing a Central University at this historic site.
The project, approved in 2015 with a ₹500 crore budget, was delayed due to land acquisition issues but is now gaining momentum.

Additional Details

Location:

• Antichak village, Bhagalpur district, Bihar.
• Situated on the banks of the Ganga River.

Foundation and Historical Significance:

• Founded by: King Dharmapala of the Pala Dynasty in the late 8th to early 9th century CE.
• Established in response to declining standards at Nalanda.

Academic & Religious Importance:

• Known for Tantric and Vajrayana Buddhism.
• Became a global centre for advanced learning, especially in esoteric Buddhist philosophy.
• Hosted 1000+ students and 100+ teachers, including renowned scholar Atisa Dipankara, who helped spread Buddhism in Tibet.

Campus Features:

• Central stupa with 208 monk cells around it.
• Library with a natural cooling system for preserving manuscripts.
• Subjects included:
  • Theology
  • Philosophy
  • Grammar
  • Metaphysics
  • Tantric texts (Tantras)

Leadership:

• Managed by a Kulpati (Chancellor) or Mahasthavir, reflecting an organized administration.

Decline:

• Destroyed around 1203 CE by Muhammad Bin Bakhtiyar Khalji, during the same invasion that led to Nalanda’s decline.

Relevance for Exam

• GS Paper I: Ancient Indian history, culture, and education systems
• GS Paper II: Government initiatives for education and heritage conservation
• GS Paper III: Development of tourism, infrastructure, and cultural economy
• State-specific (Bihar): Historical heritage sites, tourism promotion, and regional development

Possible Exam Questions

Prelims

Q. Vikramshila University, recently in the news, was primarily known for which of the following?

(a) Jain theology
(b) Tantric and Vajrayana Buddhism
(c) Hindu Vedanta philosophy
(d) Medical sciences

Answer: (b) Tantric and Vajrayana Buddhism

Mains

Q. “The revival of ancient universities like Vikramshila is key to reclaiming India’s knowledge legacy and promoting cultural diplomacy.”
Discuss the historical significance and contemporary relevance of Vikramshila University. (250 words)

Final Outcome

The revival of Vikramshila University seeks to:

• Reclaim India’s ancient academic glory.
• Promote cultural tourism in Bihar.
• Position the site as a global educational hub focused on Buddhist studies and heritage research.

This project is a symbolic step towards restoring India’s status as a knowledge centre and could also contribute to economic development through tourism and heritage conservation.