4th May 2025-Current Affairs

1. Vizhinjam Port Inauguration: Boosting India’s Maritime Economy & Global Trade Presence – Economy

Why in News?

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ₹8,800 crore Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
• Marks India’s entry into the global container transhipment arena.
• First of its kind: India’s deepest natural draft port and the first deepwater transhipment port.

Key Features of Vizhinjam Port

Strategic Importance

1. Enhancing Maritime Capability

• Ports like Vizhinjam enable India to onshore transhipment, currently handled by Colombo, Singapore, and Dubai.
• Enables docking of ULCVs, which cannot access most Indian ports.

2. Reducing External Dependency

• Saves approx. $220 million/year in transhipment costs.
• Improves logistics efficiency and supply chain independence.

3. Supporting Trade and Connectivity

• Key node in India’s Sagarmala Programme.
• Reduces turnaround time for cargo, aiding export competitiveness.

4. Resilience Amid Geopolitical Shifts

• Strengthens India’s maritime security and supply chain resilience during international disruptions.

5. Economic Growth and Employment

• Boosts coastal economy of Kerala and nearby states.
• Generates employment and fosters growth in logistics, warehousing, and allied sectors.

Development Model: Cooperative Federalism

• PPP Model:
  • Private player: Adani Group brings in investment, technology, and expertise.
  • State role: Kerala facilitated land, clearances, and infrastructure.
• A successful example of Centre–State–Private collaboration for infrastructure development.

Challenges Faced

• Delayed since 1991 due to:
  • Environmental protests
  • Land acquisition issues
  • Administrative and legal hurdles

Broader Implications

Summary

• Vizhinjam Port is India’s first deepwater transhipment port, located in Kerala, developed via PPP.
• It allows ULCVs to dock, reducing India’s dependency on foreign ports like Colombo and saving $220 million annually.
• Strategically located near global shipping routes, it will improve India’s logistics efficiency and global trade standing.
• It is a model of cooperative federalism and is expected to be operational in 2025.
• Long delayed since 1991, it is now seen as a cornerstone of India’s maritime policy and a key to boosting India’s economy in the Indo-Pacific.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Consider the following statements regarding Vizhinjam Port:

1. It is India’s first port to be developed entirely by the Central Government.
2. It has a natural draft deep enough to accommodate Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs).
3. The port is located in Tamil Nadu.

Which of the statements is/are correct?
a. 1 only
b. 2 only
c. 2 and 3 only
d. 1 and 3 only
Answer: b. 2 only

2. Which of the following best describes “transhipment” in the context of international trade?
a. Shipping goods directly to a customer
b. Importing goods through a bonded warehouse
c. Transferring cargo from one ship to another at an intermediate port
d. Shipping goods by rail from port to inland areas
Answer: c. Transferring cargo from one ship to another at an intermediate port

Mains :

1. The development of Vizhinjam Port marks a strategic shift in India’s maritime policy.
Discuss its economic and geopolitical significance in the context of India’s aspirations to become a global logistics hub.
(GS Paper 3 – Economy / Infrastructure)

2. Explain how the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model and cooperative federalism have played a role in the development of the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Port. What lessons can be drawn for future infrastructure projects?
(GS Paper 2 – Governance / Federalism & GS Paper 3 – Infrastructure)

3. With the inauguration of Vizhinjam Port, evaluate how India can reduce its dependency on foreign ports for transhipment and strengthen its maritime economy.
(GS Paper 3 – Economy / International Trade)

2. 🇮🇳🇵🇰 Ceasefire Violations Along the LoC – India-Pakistan Relations – InternationaI Relations

Why in News?

• For eight consecutive nights, Pakistani troops have violated the ceasefire along the LoC and International Border, following the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, which killed 26 civilians.
• The Indian Army’s response has been calibrated and proportionate.
• This marks the most serious breach of the 2021 DGMO-level ceasefire agreement.

Background: Evolution of the Ceasefire Line

Note: The LoC is not a legally recognized international border, and India and Pakistan interpret it differently, leading to varied military strategies.

Causes of Ceasefire Violations

1. Post-Terror Incident Escalation
   • Violations often follow terrorist attacks in India (e.g., Pahalgam, Uri 2016).
   • Used by Pakistan to create diversions or support infiltration.
2. Strategic Signaling
   • Aimed at testing India’s response or drawing international attention.
   • Can signal displeasure or strategic pressure during diplomatic deadlocks.
3. Support for Infiltration
   • Firing often coincides with attempts to push terrorists across the border.
4. Internal Political/Military Pressures
   • Pakistan’s military establishment may escalate tensions to retain influence.
5. Seasonal & Tactical Dynamics
   • Snowmelt or terrain shifts change positions, often sparking new violations.

Consequences of Ceasefire Violations

2021 Ceasefire Agreement – Significance

• Reached at DGMO-level talks, reaffirmed earlier ceasefire commitments.
• Aimed at:
  • Reducing cross-border firing
  • Ensuring civilian safety
  • Focusing on geopolitical and internal priorities (e.g., COVID-19, Afghanistan situation)

Result: Drastic decline in ceasefire violations until recent flare-ups.

Strategic Dynamics of India-Pakistan Border Management

1. Troop Deployment
   • Dense military presence on both sides.
   • Bunkers, surveillance, and seasonal adjustments dominate border control.
2. Response Doctrine
   • India adopts measured retaliation, avoiding escalation.
   • Post-Uri (2016) and Pulwama (2019), India employed surgical strikes and air raids as calibrated deterrence.
3. International Perception
   • Ceasefire violations are watched closely by global actors (e.g., UN, US).
   • Pakistan often attempts to internationalize Kashmir, while India resists third-party mediation.
4. Use of Fire as Leverage
   • Pakistan may use cross-border firing to influence domestic insurgency dynamics or negotiate from a perceived position of strength.

Key Terms Explained

Summary

• Ceasefire violations have escalated along the LoC post the Pahalgam terror attack, with India responding proportionately.
• This is the worst breach since the 2021 DGMO agreement, which earlier led to reduced firing and improved civilian safety.
• Historical roots lie in the 1949 Karachi and 1972 Simla Agreements, but the LoC is still a military control line, not a legal boundary.
• Violations arise from strategic, tactical, and political motivations, with serious implications for security, diplomacy, and human safety.
• Long-term peace requires political will, diplomatic engagement, and confidence-building measures.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Consider the following statements about the Line of Control (LoC):

1. It was first established under the Simla Agreement of 1972.
2. It serves as the internationally recognized boundary between India and Pakistan.
3. It runs from Sangam in Kashmir to Point NJ-9842 near the Siachen Glacier.

Which of the statements is/are correct?
a. 1 and 2 only
b. 2 and 3 only
c. 3 only
d. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: c. 3 only

Statement 1 is incorrect — it was established under the Karachi Agreement (1949) and renamed LoC after Simla.
Statement 2 is incorrect — LoC is not an international boundary.

2. The 2021 DGMO-level ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan aimed primarily to:
a. End all military exercises near the LoC
b. Reaffirm the 1972 Simla Agreement
c. Cease cross-border firing and ensure civilian safety
d. Establish a demilitarized zone along the LoC

Answer: c. Cease cross-border firing and ensure civilian safety

Mains :

1. Ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) reflect deeper structural issues in India-Pakistan relations.
Critically examine the causes and suggest a way forward for sustainable peace.
(GS Paper 2 – International Relations)

2. Despite military-level ceasefire agreements, violations along the LoC remain frequent.
“Discuss the role of political will, diplomacy, and confidence-building measures (CBMs) in preventing escalation”.
(GS Paper 2 – India and its Neighbourhood)

3. “Measured retaliation” has become a key feature of India’s border response strategy.
“Evaluate its effectiveness in deterring cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations”.
(GS Paper 2 – Security Challenges & Border Management)

3. Inter-State Water Sharing Dispute: Punjab vs Haryana over Bhakra-Nangal Waters – Polity

Why in News?

• A fresh inter-state water dispute has emerged after the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) approved Haryana’s request to release an additional 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra-Nangal Project.
• Punjab opposed the decision, sparking legal and political confrontation.

Key Takeaways

Legal and Institutional Framework

Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB)

• Established after the 1966 reorganization of Punjab.
• Administers and regulates water releases among:
  • Punjab
  • Haryana
  • Rajasthan
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • Delhi
• Uses monsoon-based forecasting to decide allocations.

Article 262 of the Constitution

• Empowers Parliament to adjudicate inter-state river disputes.
• Prohibits Supreme Court intervention if a tribunal is set up under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956, but in this case, no tribunal has been created yet.

Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966

• Transferred some territories to Haryana; water-sharing arrangements were also restructured, but no clear water-sharing formula was permanently institutionalized.

Core Issues in the Dispute

Wider Implications

• Federal Tensions: Reflects deeper issues in Centre-State and Inter-State coordination.
• Drought Vulnerability: Stresses the need for a national framework on drought-time water governance.
• Legal Reforms: Highlights the inefficiency of current laws governing inter-state water disputes.
• Sustainable Water Management: Expert calls for short-term relief but preservation of long-term state quotas.

Key Concepts and Terms

Summary

• Haryana demanded a 4,500 cusec increase from the Bhakra-Nangal Project.
• The BBMB approved the release; Punjab opposed, refused to comply, and may challenge the decision legally.
• This has revived historical inter-state water-sharing tensions, rooted in the 1966 reorganization and managed by the BBMB.
• The crisis is compounded by falling dam levels and lack of a legally binding water-sharing mechanism.
• Calls are growing for a national, cooperative framework on inter-state water disputes, especially during ecological stress.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which of the following statements about the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) is correct?

a. It was constituted under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956
b. It manages the sharing of water between Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir
c. It was set up after the 1966 reorganization of Punjab
d. It is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Agriculture

Answer: c. It was set up after the 1966 reorganization of Punjab

2. What is the unit “MAF” used for in the context of water management?

a. A measure of water pressure
b. A measure of daily water inflow
c. A volume unit used in irrigation and reservoir planning
d. A unit used in meteorological predictions

Answer: c. A volume unit used in irrigation and reservoir planning

Mains :

1. Discuss the constitutional, legal, and institutional mechanisms available for resolving inter-state river water disputes in India. In this context, examine the recent Punjab-Haryana conflict over Bhakra water allocation.
(GS Paper 2 – Polity / Federalism)

2. The recurring water disputes between Punjab and Haryana highlight structural deficiencies in India’s inter-state water-sharing frameworks.
“Critically analyse the role of institutions like the BBMB and suggest measures to promote cooperative federalism in water governance.“

3. Low water levels in Himalayan reservoirs due to climatic factors have added stress to India’s water-sharing mechanisms.
“Discuss the need for climate-adaptive water-sharing frameworks with reference to the ongoing Punjab-Haryana dispute.“

4. Strengthening Parliamentary Oversight in India – Polity

Why in News?

• The framing of the Indian Constitution, especially the debates in the Constituent Assembly, emphasized a parliamentary system to ensure accountability and democratic stability.
• Despite this robust design, Parliamentary oversight mechanisms are increasingly facing practical challenges in fulfilling their intended role.

Parliamentary Oversight – Constitutional & Institutional Basis

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar viewed Parliamentary scrutiny as essential to keeping the Executive in check within a representative democracy.

Current Challenges in Parliamentary Oversight

Successful Oversight Instances

Key Reforms Suggested

1. Post-Legislative Scrutiny (PLS)
   • Periodic review of laws after enactment to evaluate performance.
   • Practiced in countries like the UK and Australia.
2. Empowering Committees
   • Make committee reports binding or at least reviewable by the full house.
   • Ensure regular tracking of implementation of committee recommendations.
3. Use of Technology
   • Employ Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics for policy analysis.
   • Create digital dashboards for legislative tracking.
4. Reducing Disruptions
   • Strict enforcement of rules of procedure and code of conduct for MPs.
5. Greater Transparency
   • Increase public access to committee proceedings and reports.

Key Concepts Explained

Summary

• Though Parliamentary oversight is constitutionally guaranteed, its practical implementation faces frequent disruptions, underutilization of tools like Question Hour, and weak impact of committee recommendations.
• Despite this, successful cases like the PAC’s investigations and Standing Committee reports show that effective oversight is possible.
• Key reforms such as post-legislative scrutiny, committee empowerment, and technological integration are needed to rejuvenate parliamentary accountability.
• Strengthening oversight will ensure that the Executive remains accountable, policies are better informed, and democracy functions more effectively.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Which of the following is/are tools of Parliamentary oversight in India?

1. Zero Hour
2. Question Hour
3. Adjournment Motion
4. Presidential Address

a. 1 and 2 only
b. 1, 2 and 3 only
c. 2 and 4 only
d. All of the above

Answer: b. 1, 2 and 3 only

2. Consider the following statements about Parliamentary Committees:

1. Recommendations made by these committees are legally binding on the government.
2. Department-related Standing Committees are part of the financial committees in Parliament.

Which of the statements is/are correct?

a. 1 only
b. 2 only
c. Both 1 and 2
d. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: d. Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation: Committee recommendations are not binding; Department-related committees are distinct from financial committees.

Mains :

1. Despite having constitutionally mandated mechanisms, the Indian Parliament often fails to ensure effective oversight over the executive.
Discuss the causes and suggest reforms to strengthen parliamentary accountability.
(GS Paper 2 – Polity / Governance)

2. Parliamentary Committees are essential for detailed legislative scrutiny, but they often lack impact in India.
“Critically examine their effectiveness and suggest measures to enhance their role.“

3. Technology can act as a force multiplier in improving legislative oversight.
“Discuss how innovations such as AI and data analytics can empower Indian MPs to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities more effectively.“

5. Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCS) – Environment

Why in News?

• The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCS) as part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• The aim is to certify hydrogen as “green” based on verified greenhouse gas emissions data, enhancing India’s credibility as a global green hydrogen hub.

What is Green Hydrogen?

• Green Hydrogen is hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind) through electrolysis, resulting in low or zero greenhouse gas emissions.
• It differs from:
  • Grey Hydrogen (from natural gas; emits CO₂)
  • Blue Hydrogen (from fossil fuels + carbon capture)

Key Features of GHCS

Four-Stage Certification Process

Mandatory for:

• Accessing government incentives
• Selling hydrogen in the domestic market

Significance of GHCS

1. Domestic Benefits

• Enables policy support and carbon credit access under Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS)
• Encourages adoption of clean energy technologies
• Strengthens supply chain traceability and industry confidence

2. Global Relevance

• Supports India’s goal of becoming a global export hub for green hydrogen
• Builds credibility in international carbon markets
• Aligns with EU, US, and Japan green hydrogen norms

3. Climate Commitments

• Helps achieve India’s Net Zero by 2070 target
• Supports India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement

Challenges Ahead

Key Concepts Explained

Summary

• The Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCS) launched by the MNRE certifies hydrogen as “green” if its emissions are ≤ 2 kg CO₂ per kg of hydrogen.
• Certification is multi-stage, mandatory for accessing incentives and trading, and aligned with ISO standards for global recognition.
• The BEE oversees implementation with support from ACV agencies.
• It boosts climate action, supports India’s green economy, and lays the foundation for carbon market participation.
• Despite infrastructure and cost barriers, GHCS is a strategic policy innovation in India’s green energy transition.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements:

1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion.
2. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation.
3. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles.

How many of the above statements are correct?
a. Only one
b. Only two
c. All three
d. None

Answer: c. All three

Explanation:

1. Green hydrogen can be used in internal combustion engines.
2. It can be blended with natural gas.
3. It powers fuel cells in hydrogen vehicles (e.g., buses, cars).

2. Which of the following agencies is the nodal body for the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCS) in India?

a. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
b. Bureau of Indian Standards
c. NITI Aayog
d. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

Answer: d. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

Mains :

1. Discuss the significance of the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme (GHCS) in promoting India’s climate goals and green energy exports.
(GS3 – Environment / Climate Change / Renewable Energy)

2. What are the key challenges in implementing green hydrogen initiatives in India? Suggest a roadmap to scale up production, infrastructure, and market access.
(GS3 – Infrastructure / Environment)

3. How can certification mechanisms like GHCS support India’s ambition to become a global green hydrogen hub? Also, examine the role of technology and international standards in this process.

6. Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle Returns to the Ganga After 3 Decades – Environment

Why in News?

• The Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle (Batagur kachuga) has reappeared in the Ganga River after nearly 30 years, marking a milestone in conservation efforts.
• This reflects the success of targeted species recovery programs under the Namami Gange Mission and other initiatives.

Key Facts about the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle

Legal Protection

Conservation Efforts

Namami Gange Mission

• Integrated river rejuvenation program, launched in 2014.
• Focuses on biodiversity restoration, water quality, and public awareness.
• Includes turtle conservation as a key biodiversity goal.

Turtle Survival Alliance India (TSAI)

• NGO working with forest departments and local communities.
• Involved in breeding and reintroduction programs.

Recent Release

• 20 turtles (10 males and 10 females) released into the Haiderpur Wetland, located in Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh.
• Part of a controlled species recovery initiative.

Ecological Importance

Challenges to Turtle Survival

• Poaching and Illegal Trade (for meat and pet markets)
• River Pollution and industrial effluents
• Sand Mining destroying nesting sites
• Hydrological Changes from dams and embankments
• Human-wildlife conflict and lack of awareness

Significance of the Return

• Indicates ecological revival of the Ganga.
• Boosts credibility of flagship programs like Namami Gange.
• Sets a precedent for reintroducing other endangered riverine species.
• Enhances India’s global conservation image under international conventions.

Summary

• The Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle (Batagur kachuga), Critically Endangered and protected under Schedule I, has returned to the Ganga after 30 years.
• The species is native to South Asia, but its population had shrunk to the Chambal River with less than 300 individuals.
• Under the Namami Gange Mission and Turtle Survival Alliance India, 20 turtles were reintroduced into the Haiderpur Wetland.
• This reflects success in conservation, river restoration, and legal enforcement—while also emphasizing the need for sustained ecological efforts.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. With reference to the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle (Batagur kachuga), consider the following statements:

1. It is listed as Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red List.
2. It is protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
3. It is endemic to India and found only in the Chambal River.

Which of the statements is/are correct?

a. 1 only
b. 1 and 2 only
c. 1 and 3 only
d. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: a. 1 only

Explanation: Statement 2 is incorrect – it is protected under Schedule I, not II. Statement 3 is incorrect – it’s found in South Asia, not just Chambal.

2. The Haiderpur Wetland, recently in the news for turtle conservation, is located in:

a. Uttarakhand
b. Bihar
c. Uttar Pradesh
d. Madhya Pradesh

Answer: c. Uttar Pradesh

Mains :

1. The reappearance of the red-crowned roofed turtle in the Ganga after three decades signals the success of India’s river conservation efforts.
Discuss the role of biodiversity conservation in rejuvenating river ecosystems, with reference to the Namami Gange Mission.
(GS3 – Environment / Biodiversity)

2. Critically examine the challenges faced by freshwater turtle species in India. What legal and policy interventions can ensure their survival?
(GS3 – Environmental Conservation / Wildlife Protection)

3. How can wetlands like the Haiderpur Wetland act as biodiversity hotspots and climate buffers? Illustrate with examples.
(GS3 – Biodiversity and Wetland Conservation)

7. Changing Patterns of Western Disturbances – Geography

Why in News?

• Heavy rainfall and strong winds recently disrupted normal life in Delhi and parts of North India.
• These events were attributed to a fresh spell of Western Disturbances (WDs)—highlighting a shift in their seasonal behavior and geographic spread.

What are Western Disturbances?

Importance of WDs for India

• Crucial for winter precipitation in North and Northwest India.
• Essential for rabi crops such as wheat, mustard, and barley.
• Recharge groundwater and reservoirs during dry seasons.
• Maintain climatic balance in the Himalayan region.

Recent Changes in Western Disturbances

1. Shift in Timing

• Previously dominant only in winter months.
• Now increasingly observed in May, June, and July—unusual for extra-tropical systems.

2. Increased Frequency

• More disturbances reported post-January.
• Indicates a temporal shift and persistence into warmer months.

3. Geographic Expansion

• Affecting a broader swath of North and Northwest India, even touching Central India at times.

Causes Behind the Changing Patterns

Implications of Changing WDs

Key Concepts Explained

Summary

• Western Disturbances (WDs) are Mediterranean-origin cyclones that bring winter rainfall to North India.
• They’re driven by Subtropical Westerly Jet Streams and are critical for rabi agriculture.
• Recent trends show WDs appearing during unseasonal months (May–July), with increased frequency and geographic reach.
• Changes are linked to climate change, Arabian Sea warming, and jet stream anomalies.
• This shift demands adaptive agricultural practices, urban planning, and climate-resilient forecasting models.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Consider the following statements:

1. The winds which blow between 30° N and 60° S latitudes throughout the year are known as westerlies.
2. The moist air masses that cause winter rains in the North-Western region of India are part of westerlies.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a. 1 only
b. 2 only
c. Both 1 and 2
d. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: b. 2 only

Statement 1 is incorrect because westerlies blow between 30° and 60° N and S—not 60°S alone.
Statement 2 is correct—Western Disturbances ride on westerlies to India.

2. Western Disturbances are important for which of the following?

1. Winter rainfall in Punjab
2. Snowfall in Western Himalayas
3. Irrigation of rabi crops
4. Monsoon onset over Kerala

Select the correct answer using the code below:
a. 1 and 4 only
b. 2 and 3 only
c. 1, 2 and 3 only
d. All four

Answer: c. 1, 2 and 3 only

WD has no role in monsoon onset, which is governed by southwest monsoon winds.

Mains :

1. Western Disturbances are critical for India’s winter agriculture but are undergoing significant shifts due to climate change.
*Examine the causes of changing patterns of Western Disturbances and their impact on Indian agriculture and weather systems.
(GS1 – Geography / Climate)

2. Discuss the influence of jet streams and extra-tropical cyclones on India’s weather patterns, with a focus on Western Disturbances.
(GS1 – Climatology)

3. How is the warming of oceans, especially the Arabian Sea, altering India’s precipitation patterns? Illustrate with recent examples.
(GS1 – Climate Change and Indian Geography)