1. Civil Services in India: Challenges and the Need for Reform – Polity
Why in News?
- On Civil Services Day (April 21, 2025), Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan highlighted the indispensable role of India’s civil services while cautioning about growing threats like political interference and erosion of neutrality.
- With rising public expectations and complex governance demands, India’s civil service system is at a critical inflection point needing reform.
Evolution and Constitutional Context
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Indian Civil Service (ICS) established in 1858 during British rule |
| Post-1947 | Formation of UPSC under Article 315; ensured merit-based recruitment |
| Key Article | Article 311 – Protection of civil servants against arbitrary dismissal |
| Cadre Structure | All India Services (IAS, IPS, IFoS), Central Civil Services, State Services |
Role of Civil Services in Governance
| Function | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Policy Implementation | Roll out central and state schemes, disaster relief, rural development, etc. |
| Policy Advice | Inputs for economic planning, environmental regulation, and security |
| Election and Census Management | Conduct free and fair elections, census, and socio-economic surveys |
| Public Service Delivery | Oversee health, education, sanitation, and social welfare programs |
Key Challenges Facing Indian Civil Services
| Challenge | Details |
|---|---|
| Erosion of Neutrality | Rising trend of bureaucrats aligning with ruling parties undermines impartiality |
| Political Interference | Frequent transfers, punishment postings, and policy manipulation |
| Lack of Specialization | Generalist officers often lack domain knowledge in technical areas |
| Endemic Corruption | Delays in action, opacity in decision-making erode public trust |
| Accountability Deficit | Weak internal mechanisms to measure performance or redress grievances |
Reforms for a Future-Ready Civil Service
| Reform Area | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Political Insulation | Enforce fixed tenures (as per SC’s Prakash Singh case), and protect service rules |
| Outcome-Based Governance | Shift from input/output metrics to impact evaluation (e.g., health outcomes, school enrolment) |
| Lateral Entry | Institutionalize entry of domain experts into middle/senior roles (e.g., health, tech, finance) |
| Training & Capacity Building | Introduce mid-career training, digital governance modules, and exposure to global best practices |
| Strengthened Accountability | Independent vigilance systems, internal audits, and citizen charters with grievance redressal |
Summary
Civil servants are the backbone of Indian administration, but evolving challenges — from political manipulation to functional inefficiency — require urgent systemic reform. Balancing democratic accountability with administrative autonomy, and combining generalist skills with domain expertise, will determine whether India’s governance can remain effective, ethical, and future-ready.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following articles of the Indian Constitution provides safeguards to civil servants against arbitrary dismissal?
A. Article 309
B. Article 310
C. Article 311
D. Article 315
Answer: C
2. The concept of lateral entry into civil services primarily aims to:
A. Reduce corruption in recruitment
B. Encourage inter-state postings
C. Introduce domain expertise into policy-making
D. Facilitate early retirement
Answer: C
Mains
1. Civil services are vital to Indian democracy, yet they face serious structural and functional challenges. Examine these challenges and suggest reforms needed to make the civil services more effective and accountable. (250 words)
2. India–UK Free Trade Agreement (2025): A Strategic Economic Partnership – InternationaI Relations
Why in News?
- After nearly three years of negotiations, India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2025.
- This makes the UK the first Western country to conclude such an agreement with India.
- The FTA reduces tariffs on 90% of traded goods, boosts services and worker mobility, and strengthens post-Brexit UK trade positioning.
Key Features of the UK-India FTA
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Trade Volume (2024) | €42.6 billion (Exports to UK: €25.5B; UK exports: €17.1B) |
| Tariff Reductions | – 99% of Indian exports to UK to receive zero-duty access – Tariff cuts on UK exports: whisky, machinery, medical devices |
| Projected Growth | €25.5 billion annual trade growth projected by 2040 |
| Services Sector | Liberalization in IT, finance, healthcare, and legal services |
| Workforce Mobility | – Higher visa quotas for Indian professionals – 3-year exemption from UK social security contributions |
| Supply Chain Goals | Part of broader ‘China-plus one’ strategy for diversification |
| Geopolitical Context | – Boosts UK’s post-Brexit global trade identity – Helps India diversify strategic partners |
Strategic Significance
| For India | For the UK |
|---|---|
| Boost for MSMEs in textiles, auto, pharma | Trade diversification amid Brexit uncertainties |
| Strengthens India’s global FTA network | Strengthens political leadership amid UK’s cost-of-living crisis |
| Enhances services exports and mobility | Access to a large, growing market |
Challenges Ahead
| Challenge | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Non-Tariff Barriers | Compliance with UK product standards may still hinder Indian exports |
| Data Protection & IPR | Divergences in digital trade norms, data localization policies |
| Mobility Implementation | Bureaucratic hurdles in issuing work permits and recognition of qualifications |
| Political Sensitivities | Potential domestic opposition on both sides in sensitive sectors (e.g., dairy, labor) |
Summary
The India–UK FTA marks a major step toward reshaping bilateral economic relations by opening markets, facilitating services, and improving mobility. It complements India’s broader Act East and Look West strategy, enhances supply chain resilience post-COVID-19, and builds trust in multilateral economic cooperation. However, ensuring equity, standards alignment, and implementation remains essential.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which country is the first Western nation to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India?
A. France
B. United Kingdom
C. Germany
D. Australia
Answer: B
2. Under the 2025 India–UK FTA, which of the following sectors is likely to benefit from tariff reductions on Indian exports?
- Marine products
- Textiles
- Automobiles
- Petroleum
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Mains
1. India’s recent Free Trade Agreement with the United Kingdom is a landmark in its economic diplomacy. Discuss the significance of the agreement in the context of India’s trade policy, and highlight the challenges that need to be addressed for its successful implementation. (250 words)
3. Food vs Fuel: Surge in Ethanol Blending and Its Impacts on Agriculture and Energy Security – Economy
Why in News?
- India has advanced its 20% ethanol blending target (E20) ahead of the 2025 deadline and now aims to achieve 30% blending (E30) in the coming years.
- However, sugarcane production is under stress due to climate, disease, and soil issues.
- Government measures to maintain ethanol supply while balancing food production raise concerns about the classic “food vs fuel” trade-off.
What is Ethanol Blending?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Mixing ethanol (an alcohol) with petrol to reduce fossil fuel usage |
| Target | 20% by 2025 (achieved early); now 30% blending goal |
| Benefits | Reduces oil imports, supports farmers, and lowers carbon emissions |
| Feedstocks | Sugarcane (molasses, juice), maize, surplus rice, damaged grains |
Agricultural Concerns Affecting Sugarcane Supply
| Issue | Impact |
|---|---|
| Red-Rot Disease | Fungal disease → reduced productivity (notably in UP, Maharashtra) |
| Deficient Rainfall | Water stress in key states like Karnataka and Maharashtra |
| Flowering Issues | Affects cane maturity and sugar content, especially in southern India |
| Soil Depletion | Continuous monocropping → loss of soil nutrients (e.g., western UP) |
| Crop Diversion | Shift to pulses, cotton due to rising costs and uncertain profits |
Government Interventions
| Policy/Action | Description |
|---|---|
| FRP Hike for Sugarcane | Raised from ₹340 to ₹355/quintal → incentivize sugarcane cultivation |
| B-Heavy Molasses Diversion | Lifted restrictions → enables ethanol production without more cane |
| Cane Juice/Syrup Use | Allows diversion from sugar to ethanol for quicker conversion |
| Grain-Based Ethanol | Maize, rice being used, raising import dependence on corn |
| Molasses-Based Ethanol Price Hike | Procurement price raised by 3% → now ₹58/litre to stimulate supply |
| Food Priority Clause | Govt can restrict ethanol if sugar supply or food prices are impacted |
Food vs Fuel Dilemma
| Dimension | Concern |
|---|---|
| Sugar Supply | Sugar diversion → potential domestic shortage, rising prices |
| Grain Usage | Ethanol from maize/rice → may affect food security or raise imports |
| Input Costs | Higher input costs + climatic stress reduce farmer enthusiasm |
| Policy Tug-of-War | Balancing energy transition with affordability of food staples |
Way Forward
| Solution | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Crop Diversification | Encourage short-duration, drought-tolerant crops to reduce cane dependency |
| Sustainable Sugarcane Practices | Promote intercropping, crop rotation, and water-efficient methods |
| Infrastructure for Other Feedstocks | Boost ethanol from waste biomass, grains, and food processing residues |
| Dynamic Blending Targets | Adjust ethanol targets based on sugar and food price trends |
| Import Management | Strategic corn imports to avoid compromising domestic grain availability |
Summary
India’s ethanol blending drive is central to its energy security and climate goals, but it has reignited the food vs fuel debate. As sugarcane productivity suffers and grains are diverted, policymakers must ensure that biofuel expansion doesn’t come at the cost of food availability, farmer resilience, and rural equity. Balancing agricultural sustainability with renewable energy targets is now a national priority.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Red-rot disease, often reported in Indian states, affects which of the following crops?
A. Cotton
B. Sugarcane
C. Rice
D. Wheat
Answer: B
2. Which of the following are feedstocks approved for ethanol production in India?
- B-heavy molasses
- Cane juice
- Maize
- Spent wash from paper mills
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 3 and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B
Mains
1. India’s ambitious ethanol blending targets raise serious concerns over agricultural sustainability and food security. Discuss the ‘food vs fuel’ dilemma in this context and suggest a balanced way forward. (250 words)
4. Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme – Polity
Why in News?
- The Government of India has launched the Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme (2025) to provide emergency medical treatment without upfront payment.
- Aims to address the critical first-hour response gap and reduce mortality due to delays in accessing trauma care.
Key Features of the Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage | All road accident victims (irrespective of income or identity) on public roads involving motor vehicles |
| Treatment Modality | Cashless treatment at empanelled public and private hospitals |
| Time Window | Valid for 7 days post-accident |
| Financial Cap | ₹1.5 lakh per victim |
| Scope | National — applicable across all Indian states and UTs |
Institutional Mechanis
| Stakeholder | Role |
|---|---|
| National Health Authority (NHA) | Central coordinating agency for scheme rollout |
| State Road Safety Councils | Implementation at state/UT level, onboarding hospitals |
| Steering Committee | 17-member body headed by Road Transport Secretary for oversight |
| Police & Hospitals | Real-time coordination for verification and prompt care delivery |
Why This Scheme Is Important
| Issue | How the Scheme Addresses It |
|---|---|
| High Road Fatality Rate | Enables immediate medical care, especially within the ‘Golden Hour’ |
| Delayed Treatment | Removes financial and procedural delays at hospitals |
| Out-of-Pocket Burden | Prevents emergency families from incurring sudden medical costs |
| Poor Inter-agency Coordination | Establishes structured linkages between police, hospitals, and NHA |
India reports over 4 lakh road accidents annually, with ~1.5 lakh deaths — the highest in the world.
Challenges in Implementation
| Challenge | Potential Mitigation Strategy |
|---|---|
| Hospital Reluctance | Timely reimbursement, streamlined claims system, and monitoring |
| Awareness Deficit | Public outreach campaigns, mandatory signages on highways |
| Verification Delays | Integration with digital police FIR and e-health records |
| Funding Limitations | Periodic revision of cost cap based on inflation and healthcare costs |
Summary
The Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme (2025) is a milestone in citizen-centric governance, tackling a major cause of preventable deaths in India. It also strengthens India’s commitment under SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Brasília Declaration on Road Safety (2015). However, effective inter-agency coordination, public awareness, and robust monitoring will determine its long-term success.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme (2025) is implemented by:
A. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
B. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
C. National Health Authority
D. NITI Aayog
Answer: C
2. Under the Cashless Road Accident Scheme, what is the maximum treatment period covered post-accident?
A. 3 days
B. 7 days
C. 10 days
D. 14 days
Answer: B
Mains
India has one of the highest road fatality rates in the world. Critically examine how the 2025 Cashless Treatment Scheme for road accident victims addresses the challenges of emergency healthcare access. What further reforms are needed to strengthen road safety governance? (250 words)
5. Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP): A Lifeline Under Stress – Environment
Why in News?
- The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) has flagged “irreparable damage” to three barrages in Telangana’s Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP).
- KLIP is the world’s largest multi-stage lift irrigation project, critical to Telangana’s irrigation and drinking water security.
Key Parameters
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| River System | Godavari River, at Kaleshwaram (Bhupalpally district, Telangana) |
| Purpose | Multi-use: Irrigation, drinking water, industrial supply |
| Irrigation Target | ~45 lakh acres across 20 of Telangana’s 31 districts |
| City Served | Hyderabad (drinking and industrial water supply) |
| Water Lift Mechanism | Water lifted in multiple stages to higher elevations |
| Total Water Capacity | 240 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic Feet) |
| Reach | Includes Pranhita–Godavari confluence zone; tributaries: Wardha, Painganga, Wainganga |
| Project Components | – 7 links – 28 packages – 1,800+ km canal network – 500 km main pipeline |
Recent Concerns: NDSA Report
| Barrage Safety Issue | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Irreparable Damage | Structural damage reported in 3 barrages → threatens project viability |
| Dam Safety Oversight | Faulty construction, design lapses, and flood mismanagement suspected |
| Operational Risk | Threat to water lifting stations and flood mitigation capacity |
Significance of KLIP
| Domain | Impact |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Boosts irrigation in water-deficient districts like Medak, Nalgonda |
| Drinking Water | Provides municipal supply to Hyderabad and rural villages |
| Industry | Ensures steady water supply to pharmaceutical and IT sectors |
| Regional Equity | Addresses historic water access disparity in north Telangana |
Environmental and Governance Concerns
| Issue | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Over-engineering | Heavy lifting of water → high energy consumption, low ecological flow |
| Ecological Disruption | Disrupts natural river flow, aquatic biodiversity in Godavari Basin |
| Flood Risk | Barrage failure may lead to inundation or collapse of irrigation network |
| Cost Escalation | Original estimates (₹80,000+ crore) have spiraled with poor financial audits |
| Transparency Deficit | Reports of irregular tendering and lack of 3rd-party technical review |
Way Forward
| Strategy | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Structural Audit | Independent review of all major components by neutral engineering bodies |
| Ecological Flow Regulation | Maintain minimum flow in Godavari to protect downstream biodiversity |
| Energy-Efficient Operation | Use of solar-powered pumps and gravity flow wherever feasible |
| Phased Maintenance | Repair barrages through phased isolation and reconstruction |
| Inter-State Dialogue | Work with Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh on shared water impacts |
Summary
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) is a monumental attempt at inter-basin water transfer and lift irrigation for Telangana, but engineering stress, environmental fragility, and regulatory lapses threaten its sustainability. The NDSA report highlights the need for scientific planning, institutional transparency, and resilient water governance for large-scale infrastructure projects in India.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is located on which river?
A. Krishna
B. Godavari
C. Mahanadi
D. Narmada
Answer: B
2. The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) was constituted under which of the following Acts?
A. Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
B. Dam Safety Act, 2021
C. Environment Protection Act, 1986
D. River Boards Act, 1956
Answer: B
Mains
1. The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project represents a technological feat but also exposes critical vulnerabilities in India’s water infrastructure governance. Discuss the ecological, technical, and institutional challenges associated with KLIP and suggest reforms for sustainable water infrastructure. (250 words)
6. India Tightens Security Rules for Satellite Communication Service Providers – Polity
Why in News?
- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has released comprehensive security and operational guidelines for satellite communication providers like Starlink, Bharti-backed OneWeb, and Amazon’s Kuiper.
- Aimed at bolstering national security, digital sovereignty, and promoting indigenous technologies such as NavIC.
Key Features of the Guidelines
| Area | Mandate |
|---|---|
| Data Localization | All satcom data must be stored in India; no mirroring or routing through foreign gateways |
| Indigenous Integration | Mandatory integration of NavIC in all user terminals by 2029 |
| Ground Infrastructure | 20% of infrastructure must be locally manufactured within 5 years |
| Website Blocking | Mandatory mechanisms to block government-listed websites |
| Law Enforcement Access | Collection and on-demand sharing of metadata with security agencies |
| Real-Time Tracking | Satcom providers must enable real-time tracking of terminals |
| Voice/Data Service Launch | Requires separate security clearance |
| Special Monitoring Zones (SMZs) | Extra monitoring in areas 50 km from borders or up to EEZ |
| Decryption Restrictions | No decryption or data processing outside Indian territory |
Strategic and Policy Rationale
| Objective | Explanation |
|---|---|
| National Security | Prevents foreign interception and surveillance risks in sensitive regions |
| Digital Sovereignty | Aligns with India’s push for data sovereignty and cyber resilience |
| Boost to NavIC | Reduces reliance on GPS (US-owned), promotes self-reliance in navigation |
| Self-Reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) | Encourages domestic satcom ecosystem through Make in India |
| Emergency Preparedness | Satcom services can be regulated in wartime or disaster scenarios |
Potential Challenges
| Challenge | Description |
|---|---|
| Foreign Player Compliance | Companies like Starlink must adapt business models to data localization laws |
| Cost and Infrastructure | High costs for setting up India-based data centers and ground segments |
| Privacy Concerns | Real-time tracking and metadata sharing raise questions about user rights |
| Regulatory Uncertainty | Pending clarity on satellite spectrum allocation from TRAI |
Global Context and Comparisons
| Country | Policy Element | Comparison with India |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Strong encryption, liberal satellite licensing | India is more restrictive on data routing and storage |
| EU (GDPR) | Strong data protection, localization optional | India enforces compulsory localization for national security |
| China | Fully state-controlled satcom and data laws | India allows private operation with strict state oversight |
Summary
India’s new satellite communication security rules reflect a significant policy shift toward data localization, national security preparedness, and technological self-reliance. As foreign satcom providers like Starlink enter the Indian market, these norms ensure that India’s strategic and digital sovereignty is not compromised, especially in border and maritime zones.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system is:
A. A satellite-based irrigation advisory system
B. An indigenous air traffic control protocol
C. India’s regional satellite-based navigation system
D. A cloud computing initiative under Digital India
Answer: C
2. Which of the following is not a part of India’s recent satellite communication security regulations?
- Mandatory NavIC integration by 2029
- Decryption of Indian data allowed abroad
- Real-time user terminal tracking
- Data localization within Indian territory
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B
Mains
1. India’s new security guidelines for satellite communication providers reflect the growing importance of digital sovereignty and national security. Critically examine the strategic, technological, and governance implications of these measures. (250 words)
7. Human Development Report (HDR) 2025: India’s Progress and the AI Paradox – Economy
Why in News?
- The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has released the 2025 Human Development Report, titled:
“A Matter of Choice: People and Possibilities in the Age of AI.” - India ranks 130th out of 193 countries on the Human Development Index (HDI).
Key Highlights of HDR 2025
| Indicator | Data / Trend |
|---|---|
| India’s Rank | 130 (out of 193 countries) |
| HDI Score (India) | Improved from 0.676 (2022) to 0.685 (2023) |
| Top-Ranked Country | Iceland |
| Lowest-Ranked Country | South Sudan |
| India’s Life Expectancy | Increased to 72 years |
| Expected Years of Schooling | Increased to 13 years |
| AI Development | India retained 20% of its AI researchers domestically in 2023 |
What Is the Human Development Index (HDI)?
| Dimension | Indicator |
|---|---|
| Health | Life expectancy at birth |
| Education | Mean years & expected years of schooling |
| Standard of Living | Gross National Income (GNI) per capita (PPP) |
HDI reflects quality of life, not just economic output.
Theme of HDR 2025: “People and Possibilities in the Age of AI”
| Global Message | Implications |
|---|---|
| Stalled HDI Progress | Trade tensions, climate change, and debt crises hampering development |
| AI Divide | High-income countries dominate AI advances; risk of technological inequality |
| India’s AI Standing | India is improving in AI research and innovation, but brain drain remains a concern |
| Policy Focus | Need to align AI regulation and innovation with inclusive development |
India: Areas of Improvement & Concern
| Area | Trend |
|---|---|
| Life Expectancy | Rose to 72 years (positive health outcome) |
| Education Access | Schooling years improved; literacy expanding |
| Gender Inequality | Female labor force participation still low |
| Income Inequality | Growth uneven across states and income groups |
| Digital Access Divide | Urban-rural and gender gaps in tech access persist |
Global Context & Lessons
- AI and automation are reshaping labor markets — requiring upskilling and inclusive digital policies.
- Debt distress in low-income nations may reverse decades of human development progress.
- Calls for new HDI+ indicators like environmental sustainability and digital inclusion.
Summary
The HDR 2025 affirms India’s gradual progress in health, education, and tech, but warns of inequalities in digital access and AI benefits. As human development shifts beyond GDP, India must focus on quality public services, social protection, and equitable technology integration to achieve long-term HDI growth.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following indicators are included in the Human Development Index (HDI)?
- Life expectancy at birth
- GNI per capita
- Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
- Mean years of schooling
A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 1, 3 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
2. What is the theme of the UNDP Human Development Report 2025?
A. Redefining Global Development
B. A Matter of Choice: People and Possibilities in the Age of AI
C. Accelerating Development in a Warming World
D. Beyond GDP: Measuring Well-being
Answer: B
Mains
1. The 2025 Human Development Report highlights both progress and disparity in India’s development journey. Critically assess the challenges India faces in achieving high human development and suggest policy interventions in the context of rising technological transformation. (250 words)