3rd June 2025 – Current Affairs

1. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) – InternationaI Relations

Why in News?

As of May 17, 2025, Iran possesses 408.6 kg of enriched uranium, nearing weapons-grade levels at 60%. This marks an increase from 274.8 kg in February 2024, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This development raises global concerns regarding nuclear proliferation and Iran’s nuclear intentions.

About the IAEA

Establishment and Background

• The IAEA was established in 1957 as part of President Dwight Eisenhower’s “Atoms for Peace” initiative, which aimed to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy while preventing nuclear weapons development.
• Headquarters: Vienna, Austria.
• Member countries: 178.

Mission and Objectives

• The IAEA promotes the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear energy worldwide.
• It ensures that nuclear energy is not used for military purposes, particularly nuclear weapons.
• It sets international safety standards for nuclear facilities and activities.
• It provides training, technical assistance, and emergency support in case of nuclear accidents.

Key Functions

• Monitoring compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to prevent misuse of nuclear materials.
• Conducting inspections and audits of nuclear facilities.
• Providing safeguards to ensure that civilian nuclear programs are not diverted for military use.

Recognition

• The IAEA was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005 for its efforts in preventing nuclear proliferation and promoting safe nuclear energy use.

India and the IAEA

India’s Engagement

• India is a founding member of the IAEA.
• Under the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008), India agreed to place 14 out of its 22 nuclear reactors under IAEA safeguards to ensure transparency.
• IAEA Safeguards in India:
  • Reactors under Safeguards: Those using imported uranium.
  • Reactors not under Safeguards: Those relying on domestic uranium sources.

Significance of the IAEA

• Global Nuclear Safety: By ensuring compliance with international standards, the IAEA helps prevent nuclear accidents and misuse of nuclear materials.
• Nuclear Non-Proliferation: Through its inspections and monitoring mechanisms, the IAEA curbs the spread of nuclear weapons, thereby contributing to global peace and security.
• Technical Support: The IAEA assists countries in developing safe nuclear programs, particularly in fields like energy, medicine, and agriculture.

Summary

The IAEA, established in 1957 under the Atoms for Peace initiative, plays a crucial role in promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy and preventing nuclear weapons proliferation. With 178 member countries and headquarters in Vienna, the agency sets global safety standards, monitors compliance with the NPT, and conducts inspections. India, a founding member, has partially opened its nuclear reactors to IAEA safeguards following the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement of 2008. The IAEA’s efforts were globally recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005. Recent concerns, such as Iran’s accumulation of enriched uranium nearing weapons-grade levels, highlight the agency’s continued relevance in global nuclear governance.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was established under which of the following initiatives?
   A. Atoms for Peace
   B. Global Peace Accord
   C. Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)
   D. Nuclear Safety Initiative
   Answer: A. Atoms for Peace
   
   
2. Where is the headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) located?
   A. Geneva
   B. New York
   C. Vienna
   D. Paris
   Answer: C. Vienna
   
   
3. India agreed to place some of its nuclear reactors under IAEA safeguards under which agreement?
   A. Indo-Russia Nuclear Agreement
   B. Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement
   C. Indo-France Nuclear Agreement
   D. Global Nuclear Safety Accord
   Answer: B. Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement
   
   
4. The IAEA was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in which year?
   A.2000
   B. 2005
   C. 2010
   D. 2015
   Answer: B. 2005
   

Mains

1. Discuss the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in promoting nuclear safety and preventing nuclear weapons proliferation globally. Illustrate with examples.
   
   
2. Evaluate the implications of the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement on India’s nuclear program and its relationship with the IAEA.
   
   
3. With reference to the recent reports on Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, critically examine the challenges faced by the IAEA in enforcing global nuclear non-proliferation norms.
   

2. NDA Opens Route for Women to Lead Armed Forces – Defence & Security

Why in News?

Seventeen women cadets graduated from the 148th NDA batch, marking a historic milestone. This development opens pathways for women to ascend to top leadership positions in the Indian Armed Forces. It signifies a transformative shift in India’s military, enabling women to undergo foundational leadership training and access career opportunities that were traditionally reserved for men. However, the inclusion of women also highlights the need for cultural and structural reforms within the armed forces.

Historical Background of Women in the Indian Military

• 1888: Women’s entry into the military began with the British-era Military Nursing Service.
• 1958: The Indian Army Medical Corps started commissioning women doctors.
• 1992-2008: The Women Special Entry Scheme (WSES) allowed women to join select non-combat branches as Short Service Commission (SSC) officers.
  • By 2008, women in the Judge Advocate General (JAG) and Army Education Corps (AEC) became eligible for Permanent Commission (PC).
• 2019-2020:
  • In 2019, PC opportunities were expanded to eight more non-combat streams.
  • In 2020, a landmark Supreme Court verdict affirmed women’s rights to PC and command roles, challenging gender discrimination within the military.
• 2021-2024:
  • Following a Supreme Court directive, the NDA opened its doors to women.
  • The first women cadets graduated from the NDA in 2022, symbolizing a new era in gender inclusion within the armed forces.

Key Features of Gender Inclusion at the NDA

• Gender-Neutral Training:
  Women cadets at the NDA undergo the same rigorous training regimen as male cadets, promoting equality and competence.
• Integration into Squadrons:
  Women cadets are fully integrated into the NDA’s squadrons, fostering camaraderie, discipline, and team spirit.
• Path to Leadership:
  Women NDA graduates are now eligible to serve 35–40 years, a prerequisite for reaching the highest ranks, including Service Chiefs.
  • This includes preparation for combat command roles across various branches of the military.

Challenges and Need for Reforms

While the opening of the NDA to women is a significant step, challenges remain:

• Cultural Shift: A change in mindsets across ranks is essential to accept women as equals in command roles.
• Structural Reforms:
  • Revision of promotion criteria and command opportunities.
  • Clear policies on maternity leave, career breaks, and re-entry.
  • Addressing potential gender biases in assessments and postings.
• Combat Roles: Ongoing debates about the suitability of women in certain combat-intensive roles require resolution through research, pilot programs, and policy clarity.

Significance of the Development

• Symbol of Equality: The inclusion of women in the NDA breaks gender barriers in India’s military and sets a global example for diversity and inclusion.
• Long-Term Impact: With the pathway now open for women to serve full careers, there is potential for women to become Service Chiefs and shape the future of India’s armed forces.
• Broader Social Change: The decision reflects India’s commitment to gender equality and empowers women to contribute meaningfully to national security.

Summary

The graduation of the first women cadets from the NDA marks a historic step towards gender equality in the Indian military. From the British-era Military Nursing Service in 1888 to the 2024 NDA graduation, women’s roles have expanded significantly. Women can now aspire to the highest leadership positions in the armed forces, including the rank of Service Chief, through gender-neutral training and equal opportunities. However, this milestone also underscores the need for sustained cultural and structural reforms, such as revising policies on combat roles, promotions, and maternity to ensure true equality in India’s defence services.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. When did the first women cadets graduate from the National Defence Academy (NDA)?
   A. 2021
   B. 2022
   C. 2024
   D. 2025
   Answer: C. 2024
   
   
2. The Women Special Entry Scheme (WSES), introduced in 1992, allowed women to join which branches of the Indian Army?
   A. Combat roles
   B. Select non-combat branches as Short Service Commission officers
   C. All branches with Permanent Commission
   D.None of the above
   Answer: B. Select non-combat branches as Short Service Commission officers
   
   
3. Which Supreme Court verdict affirmed women’s rights to Permanent Commission (PC) and command roles in the Indian Army?
   A. 2018
   B. 2019
   C. 2020
   D. 2022
   Answer: C. 2020
   
   
4. The National Defence Academy (NDA) is located in which of the following places?
   A. Dehradun
   B. Pune
   C. Chennai
   D. Hyderabad
   Answer: B. Pune
   

Mains

1. Critically evaluate the significance of opening the National Defence Academy (NDA) to women cadets in the context of gender equality and military leadership in India.
   
   
2. Discuss the historical evolution of women’s roles in the Indian armed forces and the challenges that remain in achieving full gender parity.
   
   
3. The opening of the NDA to women is a landmark reform, but true equality requires deeper structural changes. Discuss these required reforms, including issues related to combat roles, promotion policies, and cultural transformation within the armed forces.
   

3. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary – Environment

Why in News?

A rare Arctic seabird, the Sabine’s Gull, was recently spotted at Gujarat’s Nalsarovar Wildlife Sanctuary. This is the first recorded sighting of the species in India since 2013, when it was observed in Kerala. The sighting highlights the sanctuary’s significance as a vital habitat for migratory birds and global avian biodiversity.

About Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary

Location and Geography

• Situated 64 km west of Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• Spans an area of 120.82 sq km, comprising shallow waters, muddy lagoons, and around 360 small islets.
• Recognized as a bird sanctuary in 1969 for its ecological importance.

Historical Background

• The Nalsarovar Lake was created in the 15th century by constructing a check dam across the Sabarmati River.
• Initially used for irrigation and drinking water, it later gained recognition for its ecological and conservation value.
• Protected by the British colonial administration in the early 20th century.
• Designated as a Ramsar site in 2012, acknowledging its global importance as a wetland habitat.

Ecological Significance

Flora

• Home to 48 species of algae and 72 species of flowering plants.
• Common aquatic plants include:
  • Cyperus sp.
  • Scirpus sp.
  • Typha angustata.

Fauna

• Supports around 250 bird species, including:
  • Flamingoes
  • Pelicans
  • Cranes
• Also home to various mammals such as:
  • Wild ass
  • Jungle cats

Recent Sighting

• The Sabine’s Gull, a rare Arctic seabird, was spotted after more than a decade, underscoring the sanctuary’s role as a haven for both resident and migratory birds.

Conservation Importance

• Ecological Hub: Nalsarovar serves as a critical stopover and breeding ground for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: The diversity of birds and aquatic flora makes it a key habitat for global conservation efforts.
• Ramsar Recognition: Reinforces its importance under the international framework for wetland conservation.

Summary

Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, located near Ahmedabad, is a significant wetland ecosystem established in 1969. Spread across 120.82 sq km with shallow waters, mudflats, and islets, it serves as a vital habitat for over 250 bird species and diverse aquatic plants. Historically, the lake was created in the 15th century for irrigation, later gaining ecological recognition and Ramsar status in 2012. The recent sighting of the Sabine’s Gull, an Arctic seabird, highlights the sanctuary’s importance for migratory birds. Nalsarovar continues to attract bird watchers and plays a key role in conservation, but its long-term sustainability requires ongoing protection and awareness.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is located in which Indian state?
   A. Rajasthan
   B. Gujarat
   C. Kerala
   D.Maharashtra
   Answer: B. Gujarat
   
   
2. Which rare Arctic seabird was recently sighted at Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary?
   A. Black-necked Crane
   B. Sabine’s Gull
   C. Greater Flamingo
   D. Ruddy Shelduck
   Answer: B. Sabine’s Gull
   
   
3. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary was designated as a Ramsar site in which year?
   A. 2008
   B. 2010
   C. 2012
   D. 2014
   Answer: C. 2012
   
   
4. Nalsarovar Lake was formed due to the construction of a check dam across which river?
   A. Sabarmati
   B. Tapi
   C. Mahi
   D. Narmada
   Answer: A. Sabarmati

Mains

1. Discuss the ecological importance of Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary and its role in conserving migratory bird species in India.
   
   
2. Examine the challenges faced by wetland ecosystems like Nalsarovar in balancing conservation with local human activities. Suggest measures to strengthen wetland protection in India.
   
   
3. The sighting of rare bird species such as the Sabine’s Gull highlights the importance of wetland conservation. Discuss the significance of Ramsar sites in India and how they contribute to biodiversity conservation.
   

4. Krishi Nivesh Portal – Governance

Why in News?

The Krishi Nivesh Portal has been launched as a key initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to promote and streamline investments in the agriculture sector. By integrating schemes from various ministries and state governments into a single digital platform, it aims to simplify access to information and benefits for farmers, investors, and stakeholders in the agricultural ecosystem.

What is the Krishi Nivesh Portal?

Overview

• A centralized digital platform designed to facilitate agricultural investments.
• Developed by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• Provides a one-stop solution for accessing information, benefits, and opportunities in the agriculture sector.

Key Features

1. Integration of Schemes:
   • Combines 17 flagship schemes across seven ministries such as:
     • Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
     • Ministry of Food Processing Industries
     • Ministry of Rural Development
     • Others
   • This enables users to explore a wide range of opportunities related to agriculture, food processing, rural livelihoods, and allied sectors.
2. User-Friendly Tools:
   • Chatbot Assistance: Real-time support to help users navigate the platform.
   • Interactive Dashboards: Provide visual data and insights for data-driven decision-making.
3. Accessibility for Multiple Stakeholders:
   • Farmers: Access subsidies, scheme benefits, and guidance for agri-business ventures.
   • Investors: Explore and invest in agricultural projects with ease.
   • Policy Makers & Administrators: Track applications, monitor schemes, and analyze sectoral trends.
4. Investment Benefits:
   • Helps investors access subsidized benefits designed for farmers across different government departments.
   • Aims to increase agribusiness opportunities and boost farmers’ incomes.

Significance of the Krishi Nivesh Portal

Summary

The Krishi Nivesh Portal is a government-backed digital platform launched by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to boost investments in India’s agricultural sector. It integrates 17 flagship schemes from seven ministries, offering a single-window interface for farmers, investors, and stakeholders. The portal streamlines access to subsidies, investment opportunities, and scheme benefits, fostering transparency and efficiency. With features like chatbots and dashboards, it modernizes agricultural investments, ultimately supporting increased farmer incomes and sectoral growth.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The Krishi Nivesh Portal is primarily aimed at:
   A. Facilitating agricultural exports
   B. Promoting organic farming
   C. Enhancing investments in agriculture through an integrated digital platform
   D.Monitoring climate change impacts on farming
   Answer: C. Enhancing investments in agriculture through an integrated digital platform
   
   
2. The Krishi Nivesh Portal is developed by which ministry?
   A. Ministry of Food Processing Industries
   B. Ministry of Rural Development
   C. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
   D. Ministry of Commerce and Industry
   Answer: C. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
   
   
3. The Krishi Nivesh Portal integrates schemes from how many ministries?
   A. Three
   B. Five
   C. Seven
   D. Ten
   Answer: C. Seven
   
   
4. The Krishi Nivesh Portal currently features how many flagship schemes?
   A. 10
   B. 15
   C. 17
   D. 20
   Answer: C. 17
   

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of the Krishi Nivesh Portal in promoting investments and improving transparency in India’s agricultural sector.
   
   
2. The success of agricultural reforms in India depends on the effective implementation of digital platforms like the Krishi Nivesh Portal. Examine the challenges and suggest measures to enhance its impact.
   
   
3. How can the Krishi Nivesh Portal help in transforming Indian agriculture into a more profitable and investment-friendly sector? Illustrate with examples.
   

5. Valley of Flowers National Park – Environment

Why in News?

The Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand has reopened to tourists from June 1 for its annual four-month visitation period. Known for its breathtaking alpine meadows and rich biodiversity, the park is a major attraction for nature lovers, trekkers, and researchers.

About Valley of Flowers National Park

Location and Geography

• Situated in the Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
• Area: 87 square kilometers.
• Elevation: Ranges from 3,352 to 3,658 meters above sea level.
• Mountain Ranges: Located in the transitional zone between the Zanskar and Great Himalaya ranges.
• River System:
  • The Pushpawati River flows through the valley, originating from the Tipra Glacier and merging into the Alaknanda River.

Protected Status and Recognition

Natural Features and Ecosystem

• Scenic Landscape: Vibrant meadows, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and majestic snow-capped peaks.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: Part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, it represents a unique high-altitude Himalayan ecosystem.

Flora of the Valley

Plant Diversity

• Over 520 to 650 species of flowering plants.
• Notable species:
  • Orchids, primulas, poppies, daisies, and the sacred brahmakamal.

Flora by Altitude Zones

Fauna of the Valley

The park is home to several rare and endangered species, including:

• Asiatic black bear
• Snow leopard
• Musk deer
• Brown bear
• Red fox
• Himalayan monal (state bird of Uttarakhand)

Significance of the Valley of Flowers

Summary

The Valley of Flowers National Park is a globally recognized conservation site, known for its spectacular alpine meadows, rare flora, and unique Himalayan fauna. Located in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, the park lies within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and Man and Biosphere networks. Spanning 87 sq km at altitudes above 3,300 m, it is home to over 500 species of flowering plants, including rare orchids and the brahmakamal, as well as endangered animals like the snow leopard and musk deer. The annual reopening of the park offers a window into its fragile and diverse ecosystem, underscoring the importance of conservation in high-altitude regions.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The Valley of Flowers National Park is located in which Indian state?
   A. Himachal Pradesh
   B. Uttarakhand
   C. Sikkim
   D. Arunachal Pradesh
   Answer: B. Uttarakhand
   
   
2. The Valley of Flowers National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in which year?
   A. 1980
   B. 1988
   C. 2004
   D. 2010
   Answer: B. 1988
   
   
3. The Pushpawati River, which flows through the Valley of Flowers, originates from which glacier?
   A. Gangotri Glacier
   B. Pindari Glacier
   C. Tipra Glacier
   D. Milam Glacier
   Answer: C. Tipra Glacier
   
   
4. Which of the following species is NOT commonly found in the Valley of Flowers National Park?
   A.Snow leopard
   B. Brahmakamal
   C. Olive ridley turtle
   D. Himalayan monal
   Answer: C. Olive ridley turtle
   

Mains

1. Discuss the ecological and conservation significance of the Valley of Flowers National Park. How does it contribute to India’s biodiversity conservation efforts?
   
   
2. The Valley of Flowers is a unique Himalayan ecosystem facing multiple conservation challenges. Identify these challenges and suggest sustainable strategies for preserving the park’s biodiversity.
   
   
3. How do high-altitude ecosystems like the Valley of Flowers play a role in maintaining ecological balance in the Himalayas? Discuss with examples.
   

6. Growing Pains: On Economic Performance and Viksit Bharat – Economy

Why in News?

India’s 2024–25 economic data presents a mixed picture. While the economy grew by 7.4% in the last quarter, better than expected, the overall annual growth fell to 6.5%, marking the lowest growth in four years since the pandemic. This slowdown raises concerns over India’s ambitious ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ goal, as current growth rates are insufficient to meet the demands of job creation and rising aspirations.

Key Highlights of Economic Performance

1. Sectoral Performance

2. Role of Net Taxes

• GDP growth inflated by higher net tax collections:
  • Net taxes grew by 12.7%, boosting overall GDP figures.
  • Without this statistical boost, real growth would have been around 6.8%.
• This raises concerns about the true strength of the core economy, especially manufacturing, which remains sluggish.

3. Annual Growth: A Cause for Concern

• 6.5% growth rate (annual) is insufficient for India’s developmental needs.
• Viksit Bharat 2047 targets require at least 8% annual growth.
• A 6.5% growth rate may:
  • Be stable, but not generate enough jobs.
  • Limit income growth and widen inequality.
  • Fail to meet aspirations of a youthful and growing population.

4. Challenges of Stable Growth

Challenges to Achieving Viksit Bharat 2047

Way Forward

To realize Viksit Bharat 2047, India must address structural issues and catalyze higher, more sustainable growth:

• Boost Productivity: Invest in infrastructure, manufacturing, and digitalization.
• Enhance Rural Demand: Focus on agricultural reforms, rural employment schemes, and support for MSMEs.
• Simplify Regulations: Encourage ease of doing business, particularly for small enterprises.
• Sustain Service Sector Momentum: Leverage IT, finance, and tourism as engines of growth.
• Reform Taxation: Avoid over-reliance on net taxes for growth, ensure balanced sectoral development.

Summary

India’s 2024–25 economic performance reveals a mixed scenario: while quarterly growth surged to 7.4%, the overall annual growth moderated to 6.5%—the slowest in four years. Key sectors like construction and agriculture performed well, but manufacturing lags behind. The statistical boost from higher net taxes inflates GDP, raising concerns about underlying weaknesses. For India to achieve the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, a higher growth trajectory (8%+) is essential, driven by investments in infrastructure, manufacturing, and digital transformation, alongside structural reforms to promote inclusive and sustainable growth.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The term “Viksit Bharat 2047” refers to:
   A. India’s goal of becoming a global manufacturing hub by 2047
   B. India’s vision to become a developed country by 2047
   C. A special investment scheme for agriculture
   D. A tax reform initiative for boosting rural development
   Answer: B. India’s vision to become a developed country by 2047
   
   
2. What was India’s overall annual GDP growth rate in 2024–25?
   A. 5.8%
   B. 6.5%
   C. 7.4%
   D. 8.2%
   Answer: B. 6.5%
   
   
3. The term “net taxes” in GDP refers to:
   A. Taxes collected before subsidies are accounted for
   B. The sum of direct and indirect taxes without deductions
   C. Taxes collected minus subsidies paid
   D. Taxes paid by foreign investors in India
   Answer: C. Taxes collected minus subsidies paid
   
   
4. Which of the following sectors showed double-digit growth in 2024–25 according to the data?
   A. Manufacturing
   B. Agriculture
   C. Construction
   D. Mining
   Answer: C. Construction
   

Mains

1. Analyze the challenges posed by a 6.5% GDP growth rate for India’s vision of achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047. Suggest policy measures to overcome these challenges.
   
   
2. Discuss the implications of high net tax collections inflating GDP figures. How does this affect the assessment of core sector performance in India’s economy?
   
   
3. Evaluate the performance of India’s key sectors in 2024–25 and recommend strategies for achieving inclusive and sustainable growth.
   

7. Balancing National Pride and Indigenous Rights – The Khangchendzonga Controversy – Governance

Why in News?

The recent ascent of Mt. Khangchendzonga by a team from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS) has sparked protests from Sikkim’s civil society and its Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang. The controversy arises because Khangchendzonga is a sacred mountain for the indigenous Sikkimese people, and climbing it from the Indian side is prohibited by the Sikkim government. The NIMAS team’s climb from the Nepal side has caused widespread unrest among the local communities, raising questions about balancing national pride with indigenous rights.

Understanding the Issue: National Pride vs. Indigenous Rights

Legal and Ethical Frameworks

International Standards

• UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP): Emphasizes free, prior, and informed consent for any activity on indigenous lands.
• ILO Convention 169: Requires consultation with indigenous peoples before development projects.

Indian Context

• While India is not a signatory to ILO 169, its constitutional provisions (Article 29) and tribal rights protections (like the Forest Rights Act) highlight the need to respect indigenous cultures and beliefs.
• Past controversies (e.g., India-based Neutrino Observatory) illustrate tensions between scientific/national goals and indigenous/spiritual concerns.

The Khangchendzonga Controversy: A Case Study

Key Issues in Balancing Development and Indigenous Rights

1. Respect for Sacred Sites
   • For many indigenous communities, landscapes are sacred. National projects must not reduce them to mere resources or challenges to conquer.
2. Consultation and Consent
   • Indigenous communities must be consulted before any activity affecting their lands and cultural heritage.
3. Environmental Sensitivity
   • High-altitude regions like Khangchendzonga are ecologically fragile. Development or adventure activities risk environmental degradation.
4. National Goals vs. Cultural Preservation
   • While national achievements in adventure sports or science are important, they must not come at the cost of erasing cultural identities.

Way Forward

Summary

The Khangchendzonga controversy illustrates the complex tension between national pride—expressed through mountaineering achievements—and indigenous rights tied to cultural and spiritual beliefs. While the NIMAS ascent showcases India’s mountaineering prowess, it also reveals the lack of consultation and sensitivity towards the Sikkimese people’s reverence for the mountain. This incident underscores the urgent need for inclusive, respectful governance that harmonizes development goals with indigenous wisdom and environmental stewardship.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The Khangchendzonga peak is considered sacred by which community in India?
   A. Ladakhis
   B. Sikkimese
   C. Garhwalis
   D. Arunachalis
   Answer: B. Sikkimese
   
   
2. The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) emphasizes:
   A. Prior consent of national governments before industrial projects
   B. Free, prior, and informed consent of indigenous peoples before projects on their lands
   C. Recognition of indigenous languages as official languages
   D. Compulsory employment of indigenous people in all development projects
   Answer: B. Free, prior, and informed consent of indigenous peoples before projects on their lands
   
   
3. The Khangchendzonga mountain is located at the intersection of which two Himalayan ranges?
   A. Zanskar and Great Himalaya
   B. Pir Panjal and Great Himalaya
   C. Karakoram and Ladakh
   D. Siwalik and Dhauladhar
   Answer: A. Zanskar and Great Himalaya
   

Mains

1. The Khangchendzonga controversy highlights the tension between nationalistic aspirations and indigenous rights. Discuss the challenges of balancing these objectives in a diverse country like India.
   
   
2. Critically analyze the importance of free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) in the context of development projects affecting indigenous communities in India.
   
   
3. What are the lessons from the Khangchendzonga controversy for inclusive governance and environmental sustainability in India’s policy-making processes?