3rd April 2025-Current Affairs

1. Why India Must Prioritize Air Quality in Its Development Agenda – Environment

Why in the News?

Air pollution in India has evolved from a seasonal concern to a chronic public health emergency. Frequent smog episodes, rising respiratory illnesses, and school closures highlight the urgent need for sustained action. With multiple Indian cities ranking among the world’s most polluted, air quality has become a developmental, health, and economic issue—not just an environmental one.

The Scope of the Crisis

• Consistently high PM2.5 and PM10 levels across major metros like Delhi, Kanpur, Varanasi, and Lucknow.
• According to Lancet estimates, air pollution caused 1.67 million premature deaths in India in 2019.
• Economic burden: ~1.4% of GDP lost annually due to air pollution-related health impacts.

Key Government Initiatives

1. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) – 2019

• Aim: Reduce PM2.5 and PM10 levels by 20–30% in 132 non-attainment cities by 2026 (baseline: 2017).
• Strategy includes:
  • City-specific action plans
  • Air quality monitoring expansion
  • Public awareness and data transparency

2. Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) Vehicular Norms – 2020

• Leapfrogged from BS-IV to BS-VI (equivalent to Euro VI)
• Introduced low-sulphur fuels, improved emission control in vehicles

3. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)

• Focus: Replace biomass and solid fuels in rural kitchens with LPG connections
• Reduces indoor air pollution, especially among women and children

4. FAME II Scheme (2019–24)

• Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
• Incentivizes EVs, reduces tailpipe emissions in urban transport

5. Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban

• Targets waste segregation and management
• Prevents open burning of municipal waste, a major contributor to urban air pollution

Key Challenges in Implementation

Why Air Quality is a Developmental Priority

1. Public Health

• Chronic exposure to poor air leads to:
  • Asthma, COPD, cardiovascular diseases
  • Adverse effects on children and elderly

2. Labour Productivity

• Pollution-linked illnesses reduce workforce efficiency and attendance

3. Education Impact

• School closures due to air pollution affect learning outcomes and continuity

4. Urban Livability and Investment

• Polluted cities are less attractive to global investors, tourists, and residents

5. Rural-Urban Link

• Agricultural practices (e.g., stubble burning) affect urban air; pollution is not just an urban problem

Way Forward: A Strategic, Phased Approach

Conclusion

Air pollution is no longer just an environmental issue—it is a national development challenge that affects health, economy, education, and social equity. While India has launched multiple progressive policies, the success of these efforts hinges on inter-agency coordination, local governance capacity, and sustained public engagement. Clean air must become central to India’s developmental agenda, not a seasonal scramble.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

1. Which of the following initiatives is specifically aimed at reducing ambient air pollution in Indian cities?

A) FAME II
B) NCAP
C) PMUY
D) Swachh Bharat Mission

Correct Answer: B) NCAP

2. Bharat Stage VI norms are primarily related to:

A) Air travel emissions
B) Fuel efficiency for electric vehicles
C) Vehicular emission standards
D) Air quality monitoring

Correct Answer: C) Vehicular emission standards

3. Which of the following contributes directly to indoor air pollution in rural India?

1. Use of firewood and dung cakes
2. Poor ventilation
3. Use of LPG as a fuel
4. Use of coal for cooking

A) 1, 2 and 4 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 4 only
D) All of the above

Correct Answer: A) 1, 2 and 4 only

Mains:

1. “Air quality is a public health issue that demands integrated policy responses.” Examine with reference to recent government interventions.

2. Discuss the effectiveness of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in addressing the air pollution crisis in India. What reforms are needed?

3. “Air pollution in India is more than an environmental hazard—it is a development barrier.” Discuss.

2. NNITI–NCAER States Economic Forum: Strengthening Data-Driven Federalism – Economy

Why in News?

The Finance Minister is set to launch the “NITI–NCAER States Economic Forum” portal, developed by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER). This initiative aims to foster data transparency, improve access to long-term state-level economic and social data, and promote evidence-based policymaking across Indian states.

Purpose of the Forum

• Bridge the data gap between the Centre and States
• Enable benchmarking of state performance
• Facilitate cooperative and competitive federalism
• Support research, governance, and academic policy design

Key Features of the Portal

1. State Reports

• Provides macroeconomic and fiscal summaries for 28 Indian states
• Covers:
  • Demographic trends
  • Economic structure
  • Social sector indicators (e.g., health, education)
  • Public finance trends

2. Data Repository

• Offers open access to a comprehensive dataset (1990–91 to 2022–23)
• Divided into five verticals:
  1. Demography
  2. Economic Structure
  3. Fiscal Data
  4. Health
  5. Education

3. State Fiscal and Economic Dashboard

• Visual tools for:
  • Time-series graphs
  • Summary tables
  • Appendices with raw data
• Makes complex fiscal data easy to interpret

4. Research and Commentary

• Collection of expert analyses and research papers on:
  • Fiscal decentralization
  • State budgets
  • Public financial management
• Helps track reform outcomes and evaluate policy effectiveness

Why This Matters: Governance & Federalism

Use for Exam

• Prelims: Questions on digital governance tools, fiscal policy, and institutions like NITI Aayog, NCAER
• Mains GS II: Cooperative federalism, governance reforms
• Mains GS III: Fiscal policy, data-driven policy, and economic planning

Conclusion

The NITI–NCAER States Economic Forum is a significant step toward data democratization and fiscal transparency in India. By integrating macroeconomic, fiscal, and social indicators in one platform, it empowers stakeholders at all levels to design targeted, evidence-based policies. This initiative also strengthens India’s commitment to cooperative federalism and bottom-up development planning.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q1. The recently launched NITI–NCAER States Economic Forum aims to:

A) Provide training to state civil servants on fiscal management
B) Replace the annual Economic Survey of India
C) Create a centralized repository of state-level economic and social data
D) Monitor implementation of centrally sponsored schemes at the state level

Correct Answer: C) Create a centralized repository of state-level economic and social data

Q2. The NCAER is best known for its work in:

A) Rural education reform
B) Economic research and policy analysis
C) Agricultural credit regulation
D) Industrial licensing and regulatory enforcement

Correct Answer: B) Economic research and policy analysis

Q3. Which of the following verticals are included in the NITI–NCAER States Economic Forum portal’s data repository?

1. Demography
2. Economic Structure
3. Climate Change
4. Health
5. Education
6. Fiscal Data

Select the correct option:

A) 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 only
B) 1, 2 and 3 only
C) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
D) All of the above

Correct Answer: A) 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 only

Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the NITI–NCAER States Economic Forum:

1. It provides time-series data on state finances from 1951 onwards.
2. It allows benchmarking of state performance against national averages.
3. It is developed by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: B) 2 only
(Explanation: The portal provides data from 1990-91 to 2022-23, not 1951. It is developed by NITI Aayog and NCAER, not MoSPI.)

Mains:

1. “Data-driven governance is the cornerstone of cooperative federalism.” Examine this statement in the context of the NITI–NCAER States Economic Forum portal.

2. Discuss the role of centralized economic data platforms in improving fiscal transparency and evidence-based policymaking at the state level.

3. “The NITI–NCAER States Economic Forum portal can empower state governments to better understand and reform their economic and fiscal priorities.” Critically evaluate.

4. Highlight the challenges associated with fiscal decentralization in India. How can digital tools like the NITI–NCAER portal help address these challenges?

UPSC-Style MCQ Analysis

Question:

Consider the following statements:

1. The Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Review Committee Report has recommended a debt-to-GDP ratio of 60% for the general (combined) government by 2023, comprising 40% for the Central Government and 20% for the State Governments.
2. The Central Government has domestic liabilities of 21% of GDP as compared to that of 49% of GDP of the State Governments.
3. As per the Constitution of India, it is mandatory for a State to take the Central Government’s consent for raising any loan if the former owes any outstanding liabilities to the latter.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Statement Analysis:

• Statement 1 – Correct
  The FRBM Review Committee (2017) led by N.K. Singh recommended a combined (Centre + States) debt-to-GDP ratio of 60% by 2023, split as:
  • 40% for the Centre
  • 20% for States
• Statement 2 – Incorrect
  The reverse is true: the Centre has higher debt (~50%) of GDP, while states have lower debt (~25-30%), not 49%. So this is factually wrong.
• Statement 3 – Correct
  As per Article 293(3) of the Indian Constitution: “A State may not, without the consent of the Government of India, raise any loan if there is still outstanding any part of a loan made to the State by the Government of India.”

Correct Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only

3. The Indian Diaspora and the Case for Dual Citizenship – Polity

Why in News?

India, with over 3.5 crore nationals living abroad, hosts the largest diaspora in the world, accounting for nearly 4% of the global population. Amid increasing global migration and changing citizenship policies in host countries, there is growing advocacy for dual citizenship to maintain strong ties with the diaspora and enhance India’s global influence.

India’s Diaspora: A Global Force

Key Facts:

• Over 35 million Indians live in more than 110 countries
• $130 billion in annual remittances – highest in the world
• Represented in every sphere: politics (e.g., Rishi Sunak), academia, tech, business

Economic Contributions of the Diaspora

India’s Diaspora Engagement Framework

1. 🇮🇳 Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) – Introduced in 2005

• Provides lifelong visa to foreign citizens of Indian origin
• Exempts holders from registration with FRRO
• Allows education, employment, and business rights

But Not Dual Citizenship:

• No voting rights, contest in elections, or hold constitutional posts
• Restricted from owning agricultural land

2. High-Level Committee on Indian Diaspora (2001)

• Recommended exploring dual citizenship
• Focused on non-resident Indians (NRIs) and persons of Indian origin (PIOs) in developed nations
• Led to OCI framework, but did not fulfill dual citizenship demands

Global Context: What Other Countries Do

India’s restrictive stance contrasts with most Western democracies that allow dual allegiance to attract talent and capital.

Legal Hurdles in India

• Article 9 of the Indian Constitution: If an Indian voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship, they automatically cease to be Indian citizens
• No provision for holding Indian and foreign citizenship simultaneously
• A constitutional amendment would be required to introduce true dual citizenship

Why the Case for Dual Citizenship Is Gaining Strength

Pros:

• Strengthens India’s soft power and diplomacy
• Encourages brain circulation (vs. brain drain)
• Builds a global network of Indian-origin influencers
• Enhances FDI, innovation, and philanthropy
• Recognizes emotional and cultural ties of the diaspora

Cons / Concerns:

• Security risks: Allegiance to two countries may complicate national security
• Voting rights misuse
• Political sensitivities around migration and citizenship

Way Forward

Conclusion

India’s diaspora is a global strategic asset—contributing to economic growth, enhancing India’s international standing, and acting as cultural ambassadors. However, the current OCI framework falls short of addressing their aspirations. As global migration patterns evolve and countries court their diasporas through progressive policies, India too must revisit its citizenship framework. A carefully designed dual citizenship model, balancing rights with responsibilities, can foster stronger ties with Indian-origin communities while protecting national interests.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

1. Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) allows which of the following rights?

1. Voting in Indian elections
2. Ownership of agricultural land
3. Entry into India without a visa
4. Employment and education in India

Choose the correct option:

A) 1, 2 and 3 only
B) 3 and 4 only
C) 1, 3 and 4 only
D) All of the above

Correct Answer: B) 3 and 4 only

2. Which Article of the Indian Constitution bars dual citizenship for Indian nationals?

A) Article 7
B) Article 8
C) Article 9
D) Article 10

Correct Answer: C) Article 9

3. The High-Level Committee Report on the Indian Diaspora was submitted in the year:

A) 1991
B) 2001
C) 2005
D) 2011

Correct Answer: B) 2001

Mains:

1. “India’s diaspora is a strategic asset, but the current citizenship policy limits its engagement.” Examine in the context of the demand for dual citizenship.

2. Discuss the constitutional and political challenges involved in granting dual citizenship in India. Should India move towards this framework?

3. “The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card is a halfway solution to a full citizenship debate.” Critically evaluate.

4. India Finalises Terms for US Trade Deal: Strategic and Economic Implications – International Relations

Why in News?

India has formally agreed to a Terms of Reference (ToR) for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the United States, just ahead of the scheduled imposition of US reciprocal tariffs (April 2, 2025). The agreement paves the way for sector-specific trade negotiations, amid a backdrop of long-standing trade irritants and geopolitical shifts.

Current State of India–US Trade Relations

The US is India’s largest trading partner, while India remains one of the top 10 trading partners of the US.

Key Concerns Raised by the US Trade Representative (USTR)

• Slow patent processing
• Weak trade secret protection
• Delays in IP dispute resolution | | Medical Device Price Caps | India’s regulation of stent and implant prices affects US medical exports and market competitiveness |

India’s Trade Strategy: Points of Focus

Likely Indian Objectives:

• Lobbying for tariff exemptions and reduced trade barriers
• Safeguarding domestic interests (dairy, health, data, etc.)
• Expanding market access for Indian services, textiles, and generic drugs
• Leveraging Make in India and PLI schemes to attract manufacturing shifts

Strategic and Economic Significance of the BTA

For India:

• Potential for:
  • FDI growth
  • Supply chain diversification (esp. electronics, semiconductors)
  • Boost in exports to the US market
• Balance required between:
  • Protecting farmers, data privacy & local industries
  • Attracting US investment and avoiding sanctions/tariffs

For the US:

• Securing a reliable trade partner in South Asia
• Counterbalance to China in global trade routes
• Promoting US-origin tech, pharma, and agriculture exports
• Strategic partnership aligns with Indo-Pacific economic corridor goals

Challenges to Watch

Way Forward

Conclusion

The India–US trade engagement reflects a broader strategic partnership rooted in geopolitical alignment, supply chain resilience, and economic interdependence. The new Bilateral Trade Agreement framework is a positive step, but India must ensure that domestic development goals are not compromised. A pragmatic, phased negotiation strategy, backed by diplomatic tact, can yield a win-win outcome for both nations.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q1. Which of the following is true regarding the recent India–US Bilateral Trade Agreement Terms of Reference (ToR)?

A) It has replaced all WTO rules between India and the US.
B) It marks the formal beginning of sectoral trade negotiations.
C) It includes voting rights for Indian investors in US trade policy.
D) It eliminates all tariffs between India and the US.

Correct Answer: B) It marks the formal beginning of sectoral trade negotiations.

Q2. India’s 2018 data localization rule, which mandates that payment data must be stored only in India, was issued by:

A) Ministry of Commerce
B) Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
C) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
D) NITI Aayog

Correct Answer: C) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

Q3. India remains on the ‘Priority Watch List’ of the US due to concerns over:

1. Delays in patent approvals
2. Weak protection of trade secrets
3. Low tariff rates on US exports
4. Stringent dairy feed regulations

Select the correct option:

A) 1, 2 and 4 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 1, 2 and 3 only
D) All of the above

Correct Answer: B) 1 and 2 only

Mains:

1. “The India–US trade relationship is both strategic and contentious.” Discuss in light of recent negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement.

2. Critically analyze the role of data localization in India’s digital sovereignty and its impact on international trade relations.

3. “Balancing protectionism and openness is the key to India’s trade policy.” Examine this statement with reference to India’s ongoing trade negotiations with the United States

5. China-India Ties Across the Past and Into the Future – International Relations

Why in News?

The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and China. This occasion invites reflection on the historic evolution, ongoing tensions, and future prospects of one of the most complex bilateral relationships in Asia.

Historical Evolution of Ties

Current State of Relations

Cooperation

• Trade: China is India’s largest trading partner, with trade crossing $115 billion in 2023. However, the trade balance heavily favors China.
• Multilateral Engagement:
  • BRICS, SCO, RCEP (India withdrew), AIIB
  • Shared interests in climate change, WTO reforms, multilateralism
• People-to-people ties: Students, scholars, tourism, cultural festivals

Contention

• Border Disputes:
  • Ongoing Line of Actual Control (LAC) disputes in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh
  • 2020 Galwan Valley clash resulted in casualties on both sides
• Strategic Competition:
  • China’s growing presence in South Asia and Indian Ocean through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
  • India’s concerns over China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through PoK
• Technology and Security:
  • Bans on Chinese apps, restrictions on Chinese investment post-Galwan
  • India’s closer alignment with Quad (US, Japan, Australia) raises Chinese suspicions

Role of Leadership

China–India in Global Governance

• Both countries are critical players in global climate action, WTO negotiations, and development finance
• Support reform of international institutions to better reflect voices of Global South
• Cooperation in AIIB, New Development Bank, and UN peacekeeping

Way Forward: Balancing Competition and Cooperation

Conclusion

The India–China relationship is a blend of ancient ties, modern rivalry, and mutual potential. While border tensions and strategic mistrust persist, the 75th anniversary is a reminder of the need for sustained diplomatic engagement and forward-looking cooperation. Navigating this relationship wisely will be critical to peace, stability, and prosperity in Asia and the world.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q1. The Panchsheel Agreement of 1954 between India and China included which of the following principles?

1. Mutual non-aggression
2. Peaceful coexistence
3. Mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity
4. Formation of a military alliance

Choose the correct option:

A) 1, 2 and 3 only
B) 2 and 4 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) All of the above

Correct Answer: A) 1, 2 and 3 only

Q2. Which of the following is a multilateral organization in which both India and China are members?

A) APEC
B) ASEAN
C) BRICS
D) NAFTA

Correct Answer: C) BRICS

Q3. The Galwan Valley conflict in 2020 was primarily related to:

A) River water-sharing disputes
B) Cyber warfare attacks
C) Border tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)
D) Trade agreement violations

Correct Answer: C) Border tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)

Mains:

1. “The India–China relationship is marked by cooperation, competition, and conflict.” Discuss with reference to recent developments.

2. Evaluate the strategic significance of India–China relations in the context of changing geopolitical dynamics in Asia.

3. “China and India, despite their differences, must cooperate to lead Asia’s resurgence.” Do you agree? Justify your answer with historical and contemporary examples.

6. India and Chile Trade Agreement Discussions – International Relations

Why in News?

India and Chile have recently initiated discussions for a comprehensive trade agreement to deepen economic and strategic engagement. This move is part of India’s broader strategy to diversify trade partnerships, particularly with Latin American countries, and enhance cooperation in minerals, technology, and research.

Geopolitical Importance of Chile

• Location: Long, narrow country in South America, bordered by:
  • Peru (north), Bolivia (northeast), Argentina (east), and the Pacific Ocean (west)
• Sovereignty: Includes several Pacific islands like:
  • Easter Island and Juan Fernández Archipelago
• Capital: Santiago
• Government: Unitary presidential republic
• Official Language: Spanish

Geographical Highlights of Chile

Economic Significance of Chile

🇮🇳 India–Chile Bilateral Relations: Overview

• Diplomatic Ties: Established in 1956
• Trade Focus: India exports automobiles, pharmaceuticals, textiles; imports copper, chemicals, and pulp
• Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA): Signed in 2006, expanded in 2017 to include over 2,000 tariff lines
• Bilateral Trade (2023–24): ~$3 billion (approx.)

Recent Initiatives

Trade Agreement Negotiations

• Comprehensive trade agreement under discussion
• Goal: Expand beyond PTA to include:
  • Goods
  • Services
  • Investment
  • Technology transfer

Strategic Cooperation

Why This Relationship Matters for India

Conclusion

India–Chile relations are entering a new phase of strategic and economic cooperation. From minerals to Antarctic research, both countries are exploring innovative ways to align their interests. As India expands its global trade architecture and seeks sustainable access to critical resources, partnerships with nations like Chile will be crucial in shaping a balanced, resilient, and forward-looking foreign policy.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q1. Chile shares its borders with which of the following countries?

1. Brazil
2. Argentina
3. Peru
4. Bolivia

Choose the correct option:

A) 1, 2 and 3 only
B) 2, 3 and 4 only
C) 1, 2 and 4 only
D) All of the above

Correct Answer: B) 2, 3 and 4 only
(Chile does not share a border with Brazil)

Q2. The Atacama Desert, known as the driest non-polar desert in the world, is located in:

A) Peru
B) Namibia
C) Chile
D) Mongolia

Correct Answer: C) Chile

Q3. Which of the following are true about the India–Chile bilateral relationship?

1. Chile is the largest producer of lithium in the world.
2. India and Chile have a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).
3. India and Chile have signed a pact for joint research in Antarctica.

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
(Chile is a top lithium producer but not the largest; Australia holds that position.)

Mains:

1. “India’s engagement with Latin America is strategic, not symbolic.” Examine in the context of India–Chile relations.

2. Discuss the potential of India–Chile trade cooperation in securing critical minerals and advancing clean energy goals.

3. “Antarctica may become the next frontier for science diplomacy.” Comment with reference to India–Chile collaboration.