28th May 2025-Current Affairs

1. Arms Deals: India Moves Away from Russia; Pakistan from the U.S. – Defence & Security

Why in News?

• Operation Sindoor has brought focus to the shifting trends in defence procurement by India and Pakistan:
  • India: Reducing dependence on Russia, diversifying defence imports.
  • Pakistan: Increasing military dependence on China.

India’s Defence Import Trends

• Decline in Russia’s Share:
  • 1990s: 96.5% of Indian arms from Russia.
  • 2020s: Reduced to ~75%.
• Diversification of Sources:
  • France: ~9% (e.g., Rafale jets).
  • UK: 5.5%.
  • Israel: ~5% (e.g., SkyStriker drones).
  • US: ~3% (e.g., Apache helicopters, Predator drones).
• Air Power: Over 55% sourced from Western nations.

Reasons for India’s Shift

1. Strategic Diversification: Reduce risks of overdependence; build partnerships with the West.
2. Technological Edge: Access advanced systems like Israeli drones and Western jets.
3. Geopolitical Pressures: Sanctions on Russia post-Ukraine war leading to delays (e.g., S-400 missiles).

Weaponry in Operation Sindoor

• India’s Arsenal: Israeli (e.g., SkyStriker) + Russian (e.g., Pechora, OSA-AK) systems.
• Pakistan’s Arsenal:
  • Chinese PL-15 missiles, Turkish UAVs (e.g., Bayraktar TB2).
  • Signifies Pakistan’s growing reliance on Chinese military tech.

Pakistan’s Defence Dependence on China

• Strategic Alliance: China-Pakistan geopolitical alignment (CPEC, BRI projects).
• Decline of U.S. Cooperation:
  • U.S. share dropped from 67% (2000s) to 0.85% (2020s).
• Affordable Chinese Systems:
  • JF-17 fighter jets, HQ-9 air defence systems.

Global Arms Export Landscape

India’s Arms Exports

• Contributes <1% to global arms trade.
• Focus: Light arms, Akash missile, BrahMos.
• Initiatives:
  • Make in India.
  • Defence Export Policy 2020: Target exports to Southeast Asia, Africa.

Way Forward for India

1. Strengthen Indigenous Manufacturing: Invest in R&D, engage private sector.
2. Forge Export Alliances: Diplomatic and commercial push for defence exports, targeting emerging markets.

Summary

India is diversifying its defence procurement, reducing dependence on Russia due to technological, strategic, and geopolitical reasons. Pakistan, on the other hand, has shifted from the U.S. to China for defence supplies, influenced by regional dynamics and cost considerations. These shifts impact South Asia’s security architecture, highlighting the importance of indigenous defence manufacturing and strategic diplomacy for India.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about India’s defence imports:
   1.Russia’s share in India’s defence imports has dropped from over 95% in the 1990s to around 75% in the 2020s.
   2.France, Israel, and the U.S. together account for over 20% of India’s defence imports.
   3.Pakistan imports more weapons from Turkey than from China.
   Which of the above statements are correct?
   a) 1 and 2 only
   b) 2 and 3 only
   c) 1 and 3 only
   d) 1, 2 and 3
   Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
   
   
2. Which of the following countries is the largest arms exporter globally?
   a) Russia
   b) United States
   c) China
   d) France
   Answer : b) United States

Mains

1. Discuss the key factors driving India’s diversification of defence imports in recent years.
   
2. Analyse the implications of Pakistan’s increasing reliance on Chinese military technology for regional security in South Asia.
   
3. India’s defence sector is undergoing a transition from being a major importer to becoming an exporter. Examine the challenges and strategies involved in this transformation.
   

2. National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) – Governance

Why in News?

• The 38th Meeting of the Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC), chaired by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), proposed a 36% increase in stipends under the NAPS and NATS.

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)

Launched:

• August 19, 2016

Objectives:

1. Enhance Employability: Provide practical, hands-on training to improve job readiness.
2. Skilled Manpower Development: Create a workforce aligned with industry needs.
3. Financial Support to Employers:
   • Partial stipend support for establishments enrolling apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961.
4. Focus on Underserved Areas: Promote apprenticeship in MSMEs, aspirational districts, and the North-East.
5. Upskilling: Offer opportunities for candidates with short-term skill training.

Key Features:

• Mandatory Registration: Candidates and establishments must register under NAPS to avail benefits.
• NAPS Certificate: Issued upon completion, enhancing employability.
• Incentivizes Industry: Encourages industries to provide on-the-job training.

National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS)-

Target Group:

• Graduates, Diploma holders, and Vocational certificate holders.

Key Features:

1. Hands-on Practical Training: Duration 6 months to 1 year.
2. Stipend Support:
   • 50% of stipend reimbursed to employers by the government.
3. Certification:
   • Certificate of Proficiency awarded after completion.
   • Recognized across India as valid employment experience.

Limitations:

• No Job Guarantee: Training improves employability but does not ensure employment.

Significance of Apprenticeship Schemes

Challenges & Way Forward

Challenges:

• Limited industry participation due to lack of awareness and administrative hurdles.
• Mismatch between training and actual industry requirements.
• Uneven adoption across states and sectors.

Way Forward:

Increase industry awareness and simplify processes.
Enhance focus on MSMEs and underserved regions.
Link apprenticeship more closely with employment opportunities.
Regularly revise stipends to attract talent.
Monitor quality of training and ensure industry-relevant skills.

Summary

The NAPS and NATS are flagship government schemes aimed at bridging the gap between formal education and employability. They provide practical, industry-aligned training through on-the-job learning, with financial support to encourage industry participation. While the recent increase in stipends is a positive step, there remains a need to expand outreach, ensure training quality, and link apprenticeships more directly to job opportunities.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following statements about the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) is/are correct?
   1.The scheme provides 50% stipend reimbursement to employers.
   2.It promotes apprenticeship in aspirational districts and the North-East.
   3.Registration under NAPS is mandatory to avail benefits.
   a) 1 and 2 only
   b) 2 and 3 only
   c) 1 and 3 only
   d) 1, 2, and 3
   Answer : d) 1, 2, and 3
   
   
2. Under the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS), the Certificate of Proficiency is:
   a) Mandatory for all engineering graduates
   b) Considered valid employment experience across India
   c) Issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC)
   d) Only valid in the private sector
   Answer : b) Considered valid employment experience across India

Mains

1. Discuss the objectives and features of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS). How does it address the gap between skill development and employment?
   
2. “While the NAPS and NATS schemes offer critical support for skill development, they fall short in ensuring employment for the trainees.” Critically analyse.
   
3. Suggest measures to improve the implementation and impact of apprenticeship schemes in India, particularly for MSMEs and underserved regions.
   

3. Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) Version 2.0 – Governance

Why in News?

• The Ministry of Panchayati Raj conducted a two-day national write-shop in New Delhi to discuss the implementation of PAI Version 2.0 for the financial year 2023-24.
• PAI is a key tool to measure and improve the performance of Panchayats towards localized Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

What is the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI)?

Definition & Purpose:

• A multi-domain, multi-sectoral index that evaluates the overall development and performance of Panchayats.
• Assesses localized SDG progress and supports evidence-based planning at the grassroots level.
• Helps identify development gaps within Panchayats.

Key Features of PAI Version 2.0

• 566 data points across 9 SDG-aligned themes. |
  | Panchayat Categories | – Achiever: 90+
• Front Runner: 75–89
• Performer: 60–74
• Aspirant: 40–59
• Beginner: <40 |
  | Version Transition | – Version 1.0: Baseline (covered 2.16 lakh Gram Panchayats).
• Version 2.0: Enhanced indicators, refined usability. |
  | Data Usage | Facilitates evidence-based planning for grassroots development. |

Significance of the PAI

Strengthens bottom-up governance in line with SDG 2030 Agenda.
Identifies development gaps in Panchayats.
Promotes data-driven policy and performance benchmarking at the local level.
Reflects India’s commitment to participatory, inclusive development.
Helps Panchayats plan more effectively for sustainable rural development.

Localized SDGs and PAI Themes

The PAI aligns with localized SDGs, focusing on issues like:

• Poverty alleviation
• Health & well-being
• Education
• Gender equality
• Clean water & sanitation
• Economic growth
• Climate action
• Peace & justice
• Partnership for goals

Summary

The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) Version 2.0 is a comprehensive tool to evaluate Panchayats’ performance in achieving localized Sustainable Development Goals. It uses 435 indicators across 9 themes to measure grassroots progress, promoting evidence-based planning and bottom-up governance. The categorization system (Achiever, Front Runner, etc.) helps identify development gaps and prioritize areas for improvement. PAI is a key part of India’s effort to localize the SDG 2030 Agenda and foster inclusive rural development.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following statements about the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) Version 2.0 are correct?
   1.It uses 435 unique indicators to assess Panchayat performance.
   2.The PAI is aligned with the National Indicator Framework (NIF) of the Ministry of Rural Development.
   3.The highest category under PAI is termed ‘Achiever.
   a) 1 and 2 only
   b) 1 and 3 only
   c) 2 and 3 only
   d) 1, 2, and 3
   Answer : b) 1 and 3 only
   
   
2. Arrange the following PAI categories in descending order of performance:
   1.Front Runner
   2.Achiever
   3.Aspirant
   4.Performer
   Options:
   a) Achiever > Front Runner > Performer > Aspirant
   b) Achiever > Front Runner > Aspirant > Performer
   c) Front Runner > Achiever > Performer > Aspirant
   d) Achiever > Performer > Front Runner > Aspirant
   Answer : a) Achiever > Front Runner > Performer > Aspirant

Mains

1. What is the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI)? How does it contribute to strengthening decentralized governance and achieving localized SDGs in India?
   
2. Discuss the significance of data-driven tools like the PAI for evidence-based planning at the Panchayat level. Highlight the challenges and suggest ways to improve their effectiveness.
   
3. Critically evaluate the categorization of Panchayats under the PAI. How can this framework be used to enhance rural development outcomes in India?
   

4. INS Brahmaputra: Current Status and Features – Defence & Security

Why in News?

• The Indian Navy’s guided missile frigate, INS Brahmaputra, is expected to regain seaworthiness by end-2025 and achieve full combat readiness by mid-2026 after undergoing repairs from a dockyard accident in 2023.
• INS Brahmaputra is the first indigenously built Brahmaputra-class frigate.

About INS Brahmaputra

Key Facts

Roles and Missions

• Coastal and Offshore Patrolling
• Monitoring Sea Routes (for trade and strategic security)
• Maritime Diplomacy (e.g., goodwill visits, joint exercises)
• Counter-Terrorism and Anti-Piracy Operations

Specifications and Features

• Anti-aircraft weapons
• Surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles
• Torpedo launchers |
  | Aviation Capabilities | Can operate Sea King and Chetak helicopters |
  | Sensors & Warfare | Equipped with advanced sensors for maritime warfare |

Current Status

• Sustained damage in a dockyard accident (2023).
• Undergoing repairs; expected to regain seaworthiness by end-2025 and full combat readiness by mid-2026.
• Will strengthen India’s maritime security upon return to service.

Significance of INS Brahmaputra

Symbol of indigenous defence manufacturing and self-reliance (Make in India).
Enhances multi-role operational capability of the Indian Navy.
Supports blue water navy objectives (extended maritime reach).
Reinforces India’s maritime security posture in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Summary

INS Brahmaputra, commissioned in 2000, is India’s first indigenously built Brahmaputra-class guided missile frigate, constructed by GRSE, Kolkata. Designed for multi-role operations, it plays a vital role in maritime security, anti-piracy, counter-terrorism, and diplomatic missions. After sustaining damage in a 2023 dockyard accident, it is expected to be fully operational by mid-2026. Equipped with advanced sensors, weapons systems, and helicopters, INS Brahmaputra is a key asset for India’s naval power projection.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims Questions

1. Which of the following statements about INS Brahmaputra is correct?
   1.It is India’s first indigenously built destroyer.
   2.It was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE).
   3.It is capable of operating Sea King and Chetak helicopters.
   a) 1 and 2 only
   b) 2 and 3 only
   c) 1 and 3 only
   d) 1, 2, and 3
   Answer : b) 2 and 3 only
   
   
2. INS Brahmaputra is part of which class of Indian Navy ships?
   a) Shivalik-class frigate
   b) Talwar-class frigate
   c) Brahmaputra-class frigate
   d) Kolkata-class destroyer
   Answer : c) Brahmaputra-class frigate
   
   
3. Which of the following is not a role of INS Brahmaputra?
   a) Coastal and offshore patrolling
   b) Counter-terrorism operations
   c) Submarine rescue missions
   d) Maritime diplomacy
   Answer : c) Submarine rescue missions

Mains Questions

1. Discuss the significance of indigenously built warships like INS Brahmaputra in India’s maritime security strategy.
2. Examine the role of multi-role frigates like INS Brahmaputra in supporting India’s blue water navy ambitions.
3. What challenges are faced in maintaining operational readiness of naval assets like INS Brahmaputra? Suggest measures to address these challenges.

5. Early Monsoon Onset in India (2023) – Geography

Why in News?

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala on May 24, 2023, eight days earlier than the usual date of June 1.
• The last early onset was recorded in 2009 (May 23).
• The southwest monsoon is crucial for India, contributing over 70% of annual rainfall and supporting agriculture, water resources, and the economy.

Monsoon Onset Criteria (IMD Guidelines)

The IMD declares the onset of the monsoon based on specific meteorological parameters:

Atmospheric and Oceanic Factors Supporting Early Monsoon Onset

Key Phenomena:

Significance of Southwest Monsoon

Contributes over 70% of India’s annual rainfall.
Supports 60% of agriculture, mainly rainfed crops like rice, pulses, and coarse cereals.
Essential for water resources: rivers, reservoirs, groundwater.
Impacts inflation, rural economy, and food security.

Summary

The early onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala on May 24, 2023, indicates favorable atmospheric and oceanic conditions such as the Madden-Julian Oscillation, Somali Jet, and Mascarene High. The monsoon onset follows IMD’s strict criteria, including rainfall distribution, wind patterns, and radiation measurements. The southwest monsoon, contributing over 70% of India’s rainfall, is vital for agriculture, economy, and overall development. An early onset suggests a potentially robust monsoon season, but its spatial and temporal distribution remains critical for long-term impacts.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims Questions

1. Which of the following criteria is not used by the IMD to declare the onset of the southwest monsoon?
   a) Rainfall over 60% of designated stations in southern India
   b) Sea surface temperature exceeding 30°C in the Bay of Bengal
   c) Dominance of westerly winds at 600 hPa
   d) Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) below 200 W/m²
   Answer : b) Sea surface temperature exceeding 30°C in the Bay of Bengal
   
   
2. Which of the following phenomena influences the Indian monsoon?
   1.Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)
   2.Mascarene High
   3.Somali Jet
   4.Siberian Anticyclone
   a) 1, 2, and 3 only
   b) 2, 3, and 4 only
   c) 1 and 3 only
   d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
   Answer : d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
   
   
3. Arrange the following in correct sequence for monsoon onset over India:
   1.Development of a heat low over northwest India
   2.Strengthening of the Somali Jet
   3.Establishment of low-pressure area over the Arabian Sea
   4.Arrival of westerly winds over Kerala
   Options:
   a) 1 → 2 → 3 → 4
   b) 1 → 3 → 2 → 4
   c) 2 → 1 → 3 → 4
   d) 3 → 1 → 2 → 4
   Answer : a) 1 → 2 → 3 → 4

Mains Questions

1. Explain the key criteria used by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to declare the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala. How do these parameters reflect the complex nature of monsoon dynamics in India?
2. Discuss the role of atmospheric and oceanic phenomena such as the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), Somali Jet, and Mascarene High in influencing the timing and intensity of the Indian monsoon.
3. While the early onset of the monsoon is a positive signal for agriculture, it does not guarantee uniform rainfall across India. Examine the factors that influence the spatio-temporal distribution of monsoon rainfall.

6. Mumbai’s Monsoon Arrives Early Amid Unusual May Weather – Environment

Why in News?

• Mumbai experienced an earliest-ever monsoon onset on May 27, 2023, arriving two weeks earlier than the usual date of June 11.
• This is the earliest recorded onset in the city since 1950, surpassing the previous record of May 29.
• The early monsoon has caused urban disruptions: waterlogging, traffic jams, and train delays.

Key Factors Behind the Early Monsoon in Mumbai

Understanding the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)

Impact of Early Monsoon on Mumbai and the Region

Urban Disruptions: Waterlogging, traffic delays, train service disruptions.
Agricultural Implications: Early sowing possible but may lead to crop damage if rainfall is erratic.
Cyclone Formation Potential: Early moisture surges can influence cyclone activity in the Arabian Sea.
Climate Variability Indicator: Highlights increasing unpredictability of the Indian monsoon system.

Comparison: Usual vs. 2023 Monsoon Onset in Mumbai

Summary

Mumbai witnessed its earliest-ever monsoon onset on May 27, 2023, driven by favorable atmospheric conditions, including an active Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and strong cross-equatorial winds. The rapid progression of the monsoon from Kerala to Mumbai in just 24 hours is a rare phenomenon. While the early rains offer opportunities for agriculture, they also highlight the growing unpredictability of monsoon patterns, with implications for urban infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and climate adaptation strategies.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims Questions

1. Which of the following correctly describes the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)?
   a) A permanent high-pressure system over the Indian Ocean.
   b) A moving system of alternating phases of enhanced and suppressed rainfall.
   c) A local convection cell responsible for cyclones in the Bay of Bengal.
   d) A jet stream located over the Himalayas during summer.
   Answer : b) A moving system of alternating phases of enhanced and suppressed rainfall.
   
   
2. Consider the following statements:
   1.The monsoon onset over Mumbai usually occurs in early June.
   2.The enhanced phase of the Madden-Julian Oscillation is associated with dry conditions.
   3.The Somali Jet is a cross-equatorial wind that strengthens the Indian monsoon.
   Which of the above statements is/are correct?
   a) 1 and 2 only
   b) 1 and 3 only
   c) 2 and 3 only
   d) 1, 2, and 3
   Answer : b) 1 and 3 only
   
   
3. The rapid advancement of the monsoon from Kerala to Mumbai in 24 hours can be attributed to which of the following factors?
   1. Active Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)
   2. Strong cross-equatorial flows
   3. High OLR (Outgoing Longwave Radiation) values
   Choose the correct option:
   a) 1 and 2 only
   b) 2 and 3 only
   c) 1 and 3 only
   d) 1, 2, and 3
   Answer : a) 1 and 2 only

Mains Questions

1. Discuss the impact of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) on the Indian monsoon. How did it contribute to the early onset of the monsoon in Mumbai in 2023?
2. Mumbai witnessed its earliest-ever monsoon onset in 2023. Examine the factors responsible for this phenomenon and its implications for urban management and agriculture.
3. “Early monsoon onset is not always a boon.” Discuss in the context of climate variability, crop cycles, and disaster preparedness in India.

7. Heat-Resilience Despite the Monsoon – Environment

Why in News?

• The national conference “India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future” emphasized that climate change is a current health crisis, not just a future risk.
• The conference highlighted the urgent need for heat-resilient public health systems, with interdisciplinary collaboration involving healthcare workers, climate scientists, and community leaders.

Key Issues: Heat and Public Health in India

Key Recommendations and Strategies

Strengthen Primary Healthcare as the First Line of Defence

• Equip community health workers (ASHAs, ANMs) with knowledge and resources for heat safety education.
• Early warning systems and hydration kits distributed during heatwaves.

Integrate Meteorological Data with Health Networks

• Use weather forecasts to trigger community-level actions:
  Issue heat alerts.
  Mobilize local health centers for rapid response.
  Coordinate water and shade provisions.

Update Clinical Protocols for Heat-Related Illnesses

• Develop standardized guidelines for:
  Diagnosing and treating heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion.
  Conduct summer readiness drills in hospitals.

Equity-Focused Climate Resilience

• Prioritize vulnerable groups:
  Outdoor workers (garment, construction, agriculture).
  Children, elderly, and people in slums.
• Design urban cooling solutions: shaded areas, green spaces, heat-reflective buildings.

Promote Cross-Sector Collaboration

• Climate action must integrate:
  Health systems.
  Urban planning (heat-resilient infrastructure).
  Workplace safety policies.
  Education on heat safety.

Why is Heat-Resilience Urgent for India?

• Rising Frequency of Heatwaves: 2023 saw record-breaking heat events.
• Narrowing Window for Action: Delays in adaptation could result in higher mortality and health crises.
• Monsoon is Not a Shield: Even during monsoon season, humid heat and post-monsoon heatwaves pose health risks.

Summary

India’s battle with extreme heat is no longer a future concern but a current and escalating health crisis. The India 2047 conference underscored the need for proactive, preventive healthcare systems, emphasizing primary care strengthening, meteorological-health data integration, clinical readiness, and equity-focused strategies. As climate extremes intensify, India must act swiftly to embed heat resilience into public health frameworks—prioritizing vulnerable communities and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration for a climate-resilient future.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims Questions

1. Which of the following groups is most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses in India?
   1.Outdoor workers in construction and agriculture
   2.Elderly Populations
   3.People living in urban slums
   4.Office workers in air-conditioned environments
   a) 1, 2, and 3 only
   b) 1 and 2 only
   c) 2 and 4 only
   d) All of the above
   Answer : a) 1, 2, and 3 only
   
   
2. The term ‘Madden-Julian Oscillation’ (MJO) is related to:
   a) Ocean acidification patterns in the Pacific
   b) Shifting wind systems in the polar regions
   c) Large-scale tropical atmospheric disturbances affecting rainfall patterns
   d) Sea surface temperature anomalies in the Indian Ocean
   Answer : c) Large-scale tropical atmospheric disturbances affecting rainfall patterns
   
   
3. Which of the following strategies is not typically part of a heat-resilience action plan?
   a) Distribution of hydration kits
   b) Community heat safety education
   c) Promotion of fossil fuel use for energy needs
   d) Summer readiness drills in hospitals
   Answer : c) Promotion of fossil fuel use for energy needs

Mains

1. Discuss the need for a proactive heat-resilience framework in India’s public health system. What are the key components of such a framework?
   
   
2. India’s battle with extreme heat is as much a social equity issue as it is a climate challenge. Explain.
   
   
3. While the monsoon brings much-needed rainfall, it does not eliminate the threat of heat-related health issues. Examine the challenges of managing heat stress during and after the monsoon season.