1. Indus Waters Treaty and Simla Agreement: ‘In Abeyance’ — What It Means – International Relations
Why in News?
- Following the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025), India announced the suspension (“in abeyance”) of:
- The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) (1960) with Pakistan.
- Diplomatic ties, including visa cancellations and border closures.
- Pakistan responded by suggesting a review of all bilateral agreements, including the Simla Agreement (1972).
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| India’s Action | Suspended IWT due to security concerns and Pakistan’s support for terrorism. |
| Pakistan’s Potential Response | Considering suspension of bilateral agreements like the Simla Agreement. |
| Legal Ambiguity | “Abeyance” has no formal recognition under international law (Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties – VCLT). |
Indus Waters Treaty (1960) — Key Facts
- Brokered by: World Bank.
- Rivers Divided:
- India: Eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej).
- Pakistan: Western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab).
- Resilience: Survived wars (1965, 1971, Kargil 1999) — until now.
- Dispute Examples:
- Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects.
- 2016 bypass: Pakistan skipped Neutral Expert arbitration and went directly to Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA).
India’s Current Arguments:
| Argument | Example |
|---|---|
| Fundamental Change in Circumstances | Growing development needs, clean energy focus (hydropower projects). |
| Violation of Good Faith | Pakistan’s ongoing support for cross-border terrorism. |
| Obstruction of Treaty Implementation | Delays via bypassing normal dispute resolution processes. |
Legal Issues: Suspension and “Abeyance”
| Issue | Explanation |
|---|---|
| VCLT Recognition | Vienna Convention only recognizes suspension or termination — not “abeyance.” |
| Article 62 – Fundamental Change | Changes must fundamentally alter circumstances tied directly to the treaty’s core (high threshold). |
| International Law Precedent | Nicaragua v. United States (1984) reinforced strict conditions for valid treaty suspension. |
Simla Agreement (1972) — Key Points
- Signed post-1971 Indo-Pak war to ensure peaceful resolution of disputes.
- Created the Line of Control (LoC) from the 1949 ceasefire line.
- No Strong Enforcement Mechanism:
- Language is advisory (“shall prevent”, “pending settlement”) not mandatory.
- Past Violations:
- E.g., Kargil Conflict (1999) — no treaty enforcement or penalties imposed.
Broader Implications
| Positive Outlook | Risk Factors |
|---|---|
| Push for new negotiation frameworks. | Erosion of existing conflict-resolution mechanisms. |
| Opportunity to expose Pakistan’s global support for terrorism. | Heightened LOC skirmishes, diplomatic isolation of SAARC structures. |
| Strengthening India’s internal development in J&K. | Internationalization efforts by Pakistan at UN and OIC. |
Mains :
1. Critically analyze the strategic implications of India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan’s reaction involving the Simla Agreement. What does this reveal about the evolution of conflict resolution mechanisms in South Asia?
Final Insight
- Diplomatic Framework Eroding: The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and potential nullification of the Simla Agreement mark a serious shift from bilateral engagement to hardened posturing.
- Moving forward, regional stability will heavily depend on India’s ability to balance security concerns with strategic restraint while navigating international pressure.
2. Pakistan Airspace Closure and Its Impact on Indian Carriers – InternationaI Relations
Why in News?
- Pakistan has closed its airspace to all Indian-registered aircraft and those operated by Indian airlines following escalating diplomatic tensions after the Pahalgam terror attack response.
- The closure impacts over 800 weekly flights, primarily west-bound international routes from northern Indian cities, especially Delhi.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Flights | Delhi to Europe, UK, North America, West Asia, Central Asia, Caucasus. |
| Major Airline Impacted | Air India faces the maximum disruption, given its long-haul west-bound international network. |
| Potential Fare Impact | Expected airfare rise of 8-12% on affected routes. |
| Operational Challenges | Longer flight routes, increased fuel consumption, scheduling complexities, weight restrictions. |
| Competitive Disadvantage | Non-Indian carriers (e.g., Emirates, Qatar Airways) still using Pakistani airspace gain cost and time advantages. |
Scope of the Airspace Ban
- Completely restricted for Indian aircraft.
- Rerouting Needed:
- Flights must divert southwestward over the Arabian Sea.
- Avoid direct paths over Pakistan.
- Fuel Management Issues:
- Higher fuel load requirements.
- Possible passenger or baggage load restrictions to comply with aircraft weight limits.
Airlines Most Affected
| Airline | Impact |
|---|---|
| Air India | Direct flights to Europe, U.S., Canada face significant delays and cost hikes. |
| IndiGo | Expanded to Central Asia and Turkey, now facing longer routes and increased costs. |
| Vistara | International expansion plans (e.g., London, Frankfurt) disrupted. |
Broader Impact on Indian Aviation
| Challenge | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Longer Flight Paths | 1–2 hours added to flight durations. |
| Fuel Costs Rise | Operational costs significantly increase. |
| Crew Scheduling | Duty hour limitations strain planning and operations. |
| Airfare Hikes | Ticket prices rise, affecting passengers and demand. |
| Market Share | Indian airlines at a disadvantage against Gulf carriers and European airlines. |
Historical Context
- February 2019: After the Pulwama attack, Pakistan closed its airspace for over four months, affecting more than 400 daily flights and costing Indian carriers an estimated ₹550 crore.
- Lesson: Airspace closures have lasting financial impacts on Indian aviation and expose vulnerabilities.
Strategic and Diplomatic Implications
| Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Economic Pressure | Pakistan uses airspace closure as an economic retaliation tool. |
| Impact on Connectivity | India’s growing aviation ambitions (hub model) take a hit. |
| Diplomatic Fallout | Highlights fragility of India-Pakistan ties even outside traditional political/military domains. |
Mains :
1. Evaluate the implications of Pakistan’s airspace closure on India’s aviation sector and foreign relations. How should India respond to ensure minimal disruption to its strategic connectivity goals?
Final Insight
- Pakistan’s move has economic, strategic, and public perception dimensions.
- India must diversify its aviation routes, invest in fuel-efficient technology, and strengthen regional and transcontinental partnerships to mitigate the adverse impacts of such geopolitical decisions.
3. India Considers Allowing 49% Foreign Investment in Nuclear Power Plants – Economy
Why in News?
- The Indian government is exploring a major policy shift to permit up to 49% foreign direct investment (FDI) in nuclear power projects.
- This move is aimed at:
- Boosting clean energy capacity.
- Reducing dependence on coal.
- Attracting global technology and investment for energy security and carbon neutrality goals.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposal | Allow 49% foreign ownership in nuclear power facilities. |
| Legal Changes Required | Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010. |
| Target | Expand nuclear capacity from 8 GW to 100 GW by 2047. |
| Investment Potential | Indian private conglomerates expected to invest $26 billion. |
| Foreign Interest | Companies like Westinghouse Electric and GE-Hitachi are keen to collaborate. |
Current Legal and Operational Framework
| Law | Current Provision | Proposed Change |
|---|---|---|
| Atomic Energy Act, 1962 | Only state-owned entities (like NPCIL) can operate nuclear facilities. | Amend to allow private and foreign participation (up to 49%). |
| Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 | Operator liability in case of accidents; suppliers’ liability clause discouraged foreign investment. | Potential adjustments to make liability framework more investor-friendly while retaining safety standards. |
Why Foreign Investment in Nuclear?
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Technology Transfer | India needs advanced reactor technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Gen-III+ reactors. |
| Financial Resources | Nuclear power plants are capital-intensive; public sector funds alone are insufficient. |
| Climate Goals | Critical for India’s net-zero emissions target by 2070 and fulfilling energy needs sustainably. |
| Energy Security | Reducing reliance on coal, increasing baseload clean energy to complement renewables. |
Challenges and Concerns
| Challenge | Description |
|---|---|
| Legislative Hurdles | Amendments to sensitive laws like the Atomic Energy Act require political consensus. |
| Nuclear Liability Issues | Past hesitations by suppliers due to India’s stringent liability regime could persist. |
| Safety and Regulation | Ensuring strict compliance with nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation commitments. |
| Public Resistance | Potential local resistance due to concerns over nuclear accidents (e.g., after Fukushima). |
Impact on India’s Energy Transition
- Diversification of energy sources.
- Strengthening grid stability alongside renewables.
- Reduced emissions from the energy sector.
- Job creation in high-skill manufacturing and operation sectors.
- Enhanced global technological cooperation in the nuclear domain.
Mains :
1. Critically analyze the impact of allowing foreign investment in India’s nuclear energy sector. How can India balance energy security, economic growth, and public safety?
Final Insight
The move to allow foreign participation in India’s nuclear sector reflects pragmatism in energy policymaking. However, careful legal, diplomatic, and operational frameworks are necessary to ensure that foreign involvement strengthens, rather than compromises, India’s strategic autonomy and energy sovereignty.
4. DRDO Achieves Milestone in Scramjet Hypersonic Engine Development – Science and Technology
Why in News?
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) in Hyderabad, successfully conducted a ground test of an Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor for over 1,000 seconds.
- This major achievement accelerates India’s hypersonic weapons program.
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology | Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor |
| Duration of Ground Test | Over 1,000 seconds |
| Speed of Hypersonic Missiles | Above Mach 5 (around 6,100 km/h) |
| Propulsion | Scramjet engine using atmospheric oxygen |
| Significance | Moves India closer to hypersonic cruise missile capability |
Understanding Scramjets and Hypersonic Missiles
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Scramjet Engine | (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet) — Air-breathing engine using atmospheric oxygen at supersonic speeds for combustion, reducing the need to carry oxidizers. |
| Hypersonic Missiles | Missiles traveling at speeds >Mach 5, highly maneuverable, capable of penetrating existing missile defenses. |
| Advantages of Hypersonic Missiles | Fast strike capability, minimal warning time, harder to intercept, extended range. |
| India’s Vision | Enhance strategic deterrence, future-ready defense technology. |
DRDO’s Milestone: Why is it Important?
| Point | Importance |
|---|---|
| Validation | Successful long-duration ground tests validate design and test facility. |
| Foundation for Flight Tests | Paves way for future full-scale flight demonstrations of hypersonic missiles. |
| Strategic Edge | Keeps India competitive with countries like USA, Russia, and China, which are leading in hypersonic tech. |
Additional Concepts: Ballistic vs Cruise Missiles
| Feature | Ballistic Missile | Cruise Missile |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Path | Follows a ballistic (projectile) path, mostly outside atmosphere. | Flies within Earth’s atmosphere, follows a near-horizontal trajectory. |
| Propulsion | Rocket-powered throughout ascent; no jet propulsion after burnout. | Jet engines (like turbofans) allow sustained powered flight. |
| Examples | Agni series (Agni-V), Prithvi series. | BrahMos, Nirbhay. |
UPSC 2023 Question
1. Consider the following statements:
- Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.
- Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
| Statement | True or False? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | False | Ballistic missiles are rocket-powered during ascent, not jet-propelled; cruise missiles use jet engines throughout. |
| 2 | False | Agni-V is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), not a cruise missile; BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile, not an ICBM. |
Correct Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Mains :
1. What are Scramjet engines and how are they critical to the development of hypersonic weapons? Discuss their strategic implications for India’s defense preparedness.
Final Insight
With this successful test, India is steadily moving toward developing operational hypersonic missile capabilities — a domain critical for next-generation warfare and national security. However, challenges remain in thermal management, material science, and flight control systems, which need continued focus.
5. India to Ban Chlorpyrifos: A Step Toward Safer Agriculture and Biodiversity Protection – Environment
Why in News?
- India is advocating for a global ban on Chlorpyrifos at the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions meeting in Geneva.
- Chlorpyrifos remains in use in India despite being banned in over 40 countries due to its serious health and environmental risks.
- India’s Pesticide Action Network is pushing for urgent action.
Quick Facts About Chlorpyrifos
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Organophosphate pesticide |
| Uses | Crop protection (e.g., rice, cotton, groundnut, onion) and non-crop areas |
| Mode of Action | Inhibits acetylcholinesterase, disrupting pest nervous systems |
| Health Risks | Developmental disorders, cancer, liver/kidney damage |
| Environmental Risks | Toxic to aquatic life, bees, and leads to biodiversity loss |
Current Status in India
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Regulation | Registered under the Insecticides Act, 1968 |
| Restrictions | 2023 notification restricts use on ber, citrus, and tobacco crops |
| Ongoing Use | Still allowed for crops like rice, cotton, groundnut, and onion |
| Production | India is a major producer and exporter of Chlorpyrifos |
Threats Posed by Chlorpyrifos
| Category | Impact |
|---|---|
| Human Health | – Developmental problems in children (IQ reduction, ADHD) – Risk of cancer and chronic diseases |
| Environmental Damage | – Highly toxic to aquatic life and pollinators like bees – Leads to biodiversity decline |
| Agricultural Risks | – Soil and crop contamination – Persistence in food chains |
| Resistance Development | – Overuse can cause pests to develop resistance, leading to increased pesticide usage |
Global Scenario
| Region | Action |
|---|---|
| USA | Banned for residential use (2000); agricultural uses banned by EPA (2021) |
| EU | Complete ban in 2020 |
| Others | Banned in Canada, Australia, South Africa, etc. |
Key Conventions: Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS)
| Convention | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Basel Convention | Control of transboundary movement of hazardous wastes |
| Rotterdam Convention | Prior informed consent for hazardous chemical trade |
| Stockholm Convention | Ban or restrict persistent organic pollutants (POPs) |
Chlorpyrifos is under discussion for listing as a hazardous substance requiring global regulation under the Rotterdam Convention.
Implications for India
| Positive Outcomes | Challenges |
|---|---|
| – Improved public health – Protection of biodiversity – Better global environmental credibility | – Economic impact on pesticide producers – Need for alternatives for pest management – Resistance from agrochemical lobbies |
Mains :
1. Critically analyze the challenges India faces in regulating harmful agrochemicals like Chlorpyrifos. How can India balance agricultural productivity with environmental sustainability?
Final Insight
The proposed ban on Chlorpyrifos is a progressive step toward aligning India’s agricultural practices with public health and environmental sustainability goals. However, careful transition planning, promotion of organic alternatives, and strengthened regulatory frameworks are essential for successful implementation without harming farmers’ interests.
6. Teaching Children to Eat Well Must Begin in School – Governance
Why in News?
- Global urgency: The UN has extended the Decade of Action on Nutrition to 2030.
- Indian relevance: Tackling malnutrition, obesity, and promoting dietary diversity are critical for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Core Argument: Beyond just providing food (e.g., midday meals), schools must actively teach children how to make healthy food choices.
Global and National Context
| Theme | Details |
|---|---|
| UN Decade of Action on Nutrition | Aims to eradicate all forms of malnutrition by 2030. Focuses on nutrition education, better food systems, and sustainable agricultural practices. |
| SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) | Includes ending hunger, achieving food security, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture. |
| India’s Challenge | High rates of both undernutrition (stunting, wasting) and rising childhood obesity. According to NFHS-5: – Stunting (children under 5): 35.5% – Wasting: 19.3% – Overweight/obesity in children is also a growing concern. |
Why Focus on Nutrition Education in Schools?
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Prevent Long-Term Health Problems | Poor childhood diets are linked to diabetes, heart disease, and obesity later in life. |
| Shape Lifelong Eating Habits | Early exposure to healthy eating creates informed, mindful adults. |
| Combat Malnutrition and Obesity Together | Education can address both undernutrition (lack of key nutrients) and overnutrition (excessive calories but poor nutrition). |
| Support National Programs | Enhances the effectiveness of initiatives like Mid-Day Meal Scheme and POSHAN Abhiyaan. |
| Empower Future Consumers | Children learn to demand better, nutritious food, pressuring food systems to improve. |
What Should a School-Based Nutrition Education Include?
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Understanding Balanced Diets | Teaching about fruits, vegetables, proteins, and reducing processed foods. |
| Kitchen Gardens | Encouraging children to grow and eat their own food. Promotes farm-to-plate understanding. |
| Reading Food Labels | Helping children make better food choices independently. |
| Understanding Sustainability | Explaining the impact of food choices on the environment (local foods, reducing food waste). |
| Reducing Junk Food Promotion | Limiting advertisements and sale of unhealthy foods near schools. |
| Practical Activities | Cooking classes, field trips to farms, healthy meal competitions. |
Related Challenges
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Overcrowded Curricula | Integrate nutrition education into existing subjects (science, social studies). |
| Teacher Training | Specialized modules for teacher training on nutrition. |
| Social Inequalities | Tailor education to include affordability and accessibility of healthy foods. |
| Marketing of Junk Foods | Stricter regulations on advertising unhealthy foods to children. |
Government Initiatives Supporting Nutrition
- POSHAN Abhiyaan (2018): India’s flagship program to improve nutritional outcomes.
- Mid-Day Meal Scheme: Now evolving into the PM-POSHAN Scheme, integrating nutrition awareness.
- FSSAI’s Eat Right Movement: Promotes safe, healthy, and sustainable food habits among citizens.
- School Health and Wellness Programme under Ayushman Bharat: Focuses on nutrition, mental health, and hygiene.
Mains :
1. “Nutrition education is as important as nutrition provision in schools.” Discuss the need for integrating food literacy into India’s school curriculum and suggest measures for effective implementation.
Final Insight
Merely feeding children is not enough; teaching them what, why, and how to eat is essential for creating a healthier India.
Nutrition education must be mainstreamed, practical, and empowering, preparing children for a future where both personal health and planetary sustainability are priorities.
7. Revive Our Ocean Initiative – Environment
Why in News?
- ‘Revive Our Ocean’ — a new global initiative — has been launched to enhance marine conservation.
- Goal: Protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030, aligning with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).
- Backed by: David Attenborough, Dynamic Planet, and National Geographic’s Pristine Seas.
Key Features of the Initiative
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Aim | Scale up community-led Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to safeguard marine ecosystems. |
| Initial Focus Countries | UK, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Philippines, Indonesia, and Mexico. |
| Economic Importance | Example: Medes Island (Spain) generates €16 million/year from diving tourism — showing MPAs’ eco-tourism potential. |
| Vision | Strengthen local economies while conserving biodiversity and marine health. |
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
- MPAs are zones designated to protect marine ecosystems, resources, and cultural heritage.
- Effective MPAs can boost fish populations, improve biodiversity, and increase local livelihoods via eco-tourism and sustainable fishing.
Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)
| Target | Details |
|---|---|
| Adoption | December 2022, COP15, under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). |
| 30×30 Goal | Protect 30% of global land and marine areas by 2030. |
| Broader Goals | Halt species extinction, reduce pollution (e.g., pesticides, nutrients), promote sustainable agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. |
| Comparison | Dubbed the “Paris Agreement for Nature” for its global environmental ambition. |
Ocean Acidification — A Related Concern
Ocean acidification results from increased absorption of CO₂ by oceans, leading to lower pH levels.
| Impact | Explanation |
|---|---|
| On Calcareous Phytoplankton | Impairs the growth and survival of phytoplankton with calcium carbonate shells. |
| On Coral Reefs | Weakens coral structures, hampering reef-building processes. |
| On Marine Animals | Affects animals whose larvae rely on phytoplankton, disrupting marine food chains. |
| On Cloud Formation | Alters marine cloud-seeding processes, potentially affecting climate patterns. |
MCQ
Ocean Acidification impacts:
Which of the following statements are correct?
- Growth and survival of calcareous phytoplankton will be adversely affected.
- Health of coral reefs will be negatively impacted.
- Animals with phytoplanktonic larvae will struggle to survive.
- Cloud formation processes may be adversely affected.
Options:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
Cloud formation is influenced by many factors, but the direct link to acidification affecting cloud seeding remains under research.
Final Insight
The Revive Our Ocean initiative is crucial in addressing biodiversity loss, economic resilience, and climate resilience together.
Community participation, local economic models, and scientific conservation techniques will be key to achieving sustainable ocean stewardship.