9th April 2025-Current Affairs

1. 10 Years of the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY)(2015–2025) – Economy

Why in News?

• April 8, 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY), launched in 2015 to provide financial support to non-corporate, non-farm small/micro enterprises.

What is PMMY?

Loan Categories (and Purpose)

MUDRA 2.0 (Launched in Budget 2024)

Performance Highlights (2015–2025)

• Loan Disbursement: Over ₹25 lakh crore disbursed in 10 years
• Women Beneficiaries: ~68% of total loans
• SC/ST/OBC Beneficiaries: ~55%
• Employment Generation: Estimated over 1.2 crore jobs created directly/indirectly
• Inclusivity: Formalized the informal economy by integrating micro-entrepreneurs
• Global Recognition: Noted by World Bank and UNDP for financial inclusion

Challenges

Conclusion

The PM MUDRA Yojana stands as a cornerstone of financial inclusion in India. While it has empowered millions of entrepreneurs—particularly women and marginalized communities—sustaining this momentum requires:

• Stronger risk management
• Improved digital delivery systems
• Mentorship and skill-building
• Stricter fraud control

With MUDRA 2.0 and schemes like ECGS, India aims to build a resilient micro-enterprise ecosystem aligned with its Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q1. With reference to the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY), consider the following statements:

1. It provides collateral-free loans to only farm-related businesses.
2. The scheme is implemented through a dedicated agency called MUDRA Ltd.
3. The Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units (CGFMU) supports financial institutions under this scheme.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: (b)
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect as it covers non-farm enterprises. Statements 2 and 3 are correct.

Q2. Which of the following is NOT a loan category under PMMY?

(a) Shishu
(b) Kishore
(c) Tarun
(d) Vikas

Answer: (d)
Explanation: Vikas is not a PMMY category.

Mains:

1. “Financial inclusion is a prerequisite for inclusive growth.” In this context, critically analyze the role of PM MUDRA Yojana in transforming the micro-enterprise ecosystem in India. (250 words)

2. Discuss the structural and operational challenges faced by PMMY in ensuring equitable credit access for micro-entrepreneurs, especially in rural India. Suggest reforms to enhance its outreach and impact. (250 words)

2. The Crisis in India’s Cotton Production and Potential Solutions – Economy

Why in News?

India, once a global cotton leader, is witnessing a 25% decline in production over the past decade. The major factor: pink bollworm (PBW) resistance to Bt cotton, compounded by delays in GM crop approvals, pushing India toward net cotton imports.

Key Facts at a Glance

Core Issues

Pest Resistance

• PBW has adapted to existing Bt genes (cry1Ac, cry2Ab).
• Fast reproduction cycle (25–35 days) allows multiple generations per season, accelerating resistance.

Regulatory Bottlenecks

• No GM cotton hybrids approved since 2006.
• Field trial delays, political interference, and activist opposition hinder innovation.

Yield and Export Impact

• Productivity decline → increase in cotton imports → weakening of farmer income and textile sector.
• India is now a net importer, despite earlier dominance in global markets.

Solutions Being Explored

Conclusion

India’s cotton sector holds strategic value for agriculture, textiles, and exports. However, to retain competitiveness:

• Regulatory reforms are needed to fast-track GM approvals.
• Biotech innovation must be encouraged.
• Pest management education should be mainstreamed among farmers.

With prompt action, India can revive its cotton production and regain its global leadership position.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q1. With reference to India’s cotton production, consider the following statements:

1. Pink Bollworm has developed resistance to Bt cotton hybrids in India.
2. India is currently a net exporter of cotton.
3. Synthetic and chimeric Bt genes are being explored to address pest resistance.

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

Answer: (b)
Explanation: India is a net importer now, not exporter.

Q2. What is the primary reason behind the stagnation of cotton yields in India in the past decade?
(a) Decline in global cotton prices
(b) Soil infertility
(c) Resistance of pink bollworm to Bt cotton
(d) Reduction in cotton cultivation area

Answer: (c)
Explanation: Pest resistance is the key factor causing yield drop.

Mains:

Q1. “India’s cotton sector is facing both biological and regulatory bottlenecks.” Analyze the causes of declining cotton yields in India and suggest sustainable solutions. (250 words)

Q2. Examine the role of biotechnology in revitalizing India’s cotton production. What reforms are needed in India’s regulatory framework for genetically modified crops? (250 words)

3. Reimagining Parliamentary Equity: The Case for Fair Lok Sabha Seat Allocation – Polity

Why in News?

India is preparing for a readjustment of Lok Sabha seat allocation based on the next Census (expected post-2031), sparking debate over population-based representation versus equity-based governance. The existing freeze on seats is based on the 1971 Census, leading to representational disparities between high-growth and low-growth states.

Constitutional & Legal Background

The Core Issue: Disparity in Representation

• Northern states (UP, Bihar, MP) would gain disproportionate power if seats are increased strictly by population.
• Southern states, which have successfully reduced population growth, would lose relative influence.

Key Concerns

1. Equity vs. Population

• States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh practiced successful population control, which may now be penalized if seat allocation follows raw numbers.

2. Cooperative Federalism at Risk

• Representation that ignores development performance could strain North-South unity and political balance.

3. Potential Solutions

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q1. With reference to the readjustment of Lok Sabha seats, consider the following statements:

1. The number of Lok Sabha seats is fixed under the Constitution and cannot be increased.
2. The 84th Constitutional Amendment froze delimitation of constituencies until 2026.
3. Lok Sabha seat allocation is currently based on the 2001 Census.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: (a)
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect (seats can be increased via constitutional amendment); Statement 3 is incorrect (based on 1971 Census); Statement 2 is correct.

Mains:

Q1. “The forthcoming delimitation exercise poses a serious challenge to India’s federal structure.” Examine this statement in the context of demographic changes and regional disparities. (250 words)

Q2. Discuss the rationale and challenges behind the freeze on Lok Sabha seat allocation based on the 1971 Census. Suggest alternatives that promote both representational equity and cooperative federalism. (250 words)

Conclusion

As India nears the 2026 deadline for delimitation, it must balance demographic reality with developmental equity. A population-only approach risks deepening regional divides, while an equity-based model rooted in cooperative federalism can ensure fair representation and national unity. Reimagining seat allocation is not just a technical issue—it’s a constitutional and democratic imperative.

4. How the Police View Custodial Torture in India – Governance

Why in News?

Recent studies reveal that a majority of Indian police officers condone the use of coercive methods—ranging from verbal threats to physical violence—even in cases involving minor crimes. This has triggered alarm regarding human rights violations, police reform, and the erosion of constitutional values.

Key Findings

Constitutional and Legal Concerns

Supreme Court’s Landmark Judgement

D.K. Basu v. State of West Bengal (1996)

This case led to the laying down of binding guidelines to prevent custodial torture:

• Arrest memo must be prepared and signed.
• Relatives must be informed immediately.
• Medical examination every 48 hours.
• Right to meet a lawyer during interrogation.
• Arrest details must be recorded in a register.

📝 Despite these guidelines, custodial deaths and torture remain persistent due to weak enforcement and lack of accountability.

Institutional Safeguards

• National Human Rights Commission (NHRC): Monitors human rights violations, including custodial abuse.
• State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs): Function at the state level.
• Police Complaints Authorities (PCAs): Set up under Supreme Court directives (Prakash Singh case), but under-implemented.

Real-World Impacts

• Undermines Rule of Law: Accepting torture weakens the criminal justice system.
• Wrongful Convictions: Leads to false confessions and miscarriages of justice.
• Public Distrust: Damages the credibility of police forces.
• Human Rights Violations: International treaties like UN Convention Against Torture (UNCAT) remain unratified by India.

Reasons Behind the Culture of Violence

• Lack of training in scientific investigation
• Institutional impunity and weak internal accountability
• Judicial delays, pushing police to extract quick confessions
• Political pressure for fast results in high-profile cases
• Resource constraints – high workload and staff shortages

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q. Which of the following constitutional provisions are violated by custodial torture in India?

1. Article 14
2. Article 20(3)
3. Article 21
4. Article 19(1)(a)

Select the correct option:

(a) 1 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (c)
Explanation: Article 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech) is not directly violated by torture. The other three are relevant.

Mains:

1. “Custodial torture reflects a deep crisis in India’s law enforcement system.” Examine in light of recent reports and constitutional safeguards. (250 words)
2. Suggest institutional reforms required to eliminate the use of custodial violence by the Indian police. (150 words)

Way Forward

Conclusion

The acceptance of custodial torture among India’s law enforcement is a serious constitutional and ethical failure. Reforming this culture demands strong institutional will, legal safeguards, public accountability, and a rights-based approach to policing. Without addressing this issue, India’s democratic foundations and justice system remain at risk.

5. Technology and Innovation Report 2025 (UNCTAD) – Science and Technology

Why in News?

UNCTAD has released the 2025 edition of its biennial Technology and Innovation Report, emphasizing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), especially in the Global South, and the need to bridge global AI governance and investment gaps.

Key Global Highlights

India-Specific Highlights

What is “Inclusive AI for Development”?

• Ensures equitable access to AI technologies for developing nations.
• Prioritizes human-centric and ethical AI models.
• Encourages open-source AI and affordable tools for lower-income countries.
• Focuses on capacity building, education, and digital inclusion.

Challenges Highlighted

Global Level:

• AI Monopoly: Dominance by a few tech giants limits equitable access.
• Digital Divide: Lack of infrastructure, education, and policy support in developing countries.
• Regulatory Lag: AI is evolving faster than international governance frameworks.

India-Specific:

• Low Investment in Deep Tech compared to China/U.S.
• Regional Imbalances: AI innovation clustered in metro cities.
• Ethical Frameworks and Regulation still evolving.

Policy Recommendations

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q. Which of the following statements about the UNCTAD Technology and Innovation Report 2025 is/are correct?

1. It focuses on inclusive Artificial Intelligence for Development.
2. India ranked first globally in AI investments in 2024.
3. The report highlights that 40% of jobs globally may be impacted by AI.

Select the correct option:

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

Answer: (b)

Mains:

GS Paper III – Science & Technology

1. “Artificial Intelligence holds immense potential for development, but it must be inclusive to be transformative.” Critically examine in the context of the UNCTAD 2025 Report. (250 words)
2. Discuss India’s positioning in the global AI ecosystem. Highlight the challenges and opportunities of leveraging AI for inclusive growth. (250 words)

Conclusion

India’s AI ecosystem is gaining momentum, but must be inclusive, ethical, and globally integrated. The Technology and Innovation Report 2025 is a timely reminder for India to align domestic innovation with global norms while ensuring that AI benefits all segments of society, especially the underserved.

6. Shaping India’s Future – Ready Workforce – Economy

Why in News?

India stands at a crucial juncture in aligning its workforce capabilities with technological transformation and global economic shifts. Reports by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and QS World Future Skills Index highlight urgent reforms needed in education, skilling, and employment ecosystems.

Key Highlights

• By 2030, 170 million new jobs are expected to be created.
• Simultaneously, 92 million jobs could be displaced due to automation and evolving work processes.
• India ranks 2nd globally in AI and green skills readiness, but lags in innovation and sustainability preparedness.

Key Drivers of Labour Market Transformation (WEF Report)

Workforce Preparedness: Key Issues

In-Demand Future Skills

1. Analytical thinking and problem-solving
2. Tech literacy (AI, data analytics, cloud computing)
3. Creativity and innovation
4. Emotional intelligence and adaptability
5. Leadership and social influence
6. Green skills (sustainable energy, climate resilience)

Government Initiatives to Build a Future-Ready Workforce

Recommendations for a Future-Ready Workforce

Education-System Reforms

• Curriculum aligned with 21st-century skills.
• Industry-academia partnerships for real-time skill application.
• Mandatory internships and practical modules in universities.

Skilling Ecosystem Strengthening

• Large-scale apprenticeship programs with public-private collaboration.
• Incentives for MSMEs to invest in employee skilling.
• Introduce micro-credentialing and lifelong learning models.

Green and Digital Jobs

• Investment in green jobs, especially in rural India.
• Promote digital inclusion to equip semi-urban and rural youth.

Youth Engagement

• Empower India’s demographic dividend with career counseling, gig economy support, and entrepreneurship incubation.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q. Which of the following are considered “future-ready skills” as per the World Economic Forum?

1. Emotional Intelligence
2. AI and Tech Literacy
3. Data Entry Skills
4. Analytical Thinking

Select the correct option:

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

Answer: (a)

Mains:

GS Paper II / III – Education, Employment, and Innovation

1. “A future-ready workforce is the cornerstone of India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.” Examine the key challenges and reforms required in India’s skill development ecosystem. (250 words)
2. Discuss the role of technology and demographic advantage in shaping India’s future workforce. Highlight key government interventions. (250 words)

Conclusion

India has the demographic potential to become the world’s skill capital, but without urgent reforms, this dividend may become a liability. Bridging the education-employment gap, encouraging innovation, and developing AI and green skills must form the core of India’s workforce strategy to remain competitive in the global economy.

7. Clean Voter Lists or the Choice of Aadhaar Linkage – Governance

Why in News?

A March 2025 Economist article sparked debate on India’s obsession with assigning unique identifiers. Central to the issue is the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) push to link Voter IDs with Aadhaar, intended to clean electoral rolls—but raising concerns over privacy, exclusion, and constitutionality.

Key Concepts and Distinctions

What’s the Difference Between an ID and a Unique ID?

• Voter ID: Designed to prove eligibility to vote.
• Aadhaar: Biometric-based identity that uniquely identifies an individual, used for authentication across systems.

Concerns Raised in the Maharashtra Elections (2024)

• Reports of voter duplication, where individuals were registered in multiple constituencies.
• Some “ghost voters” or invalid entries remained on electoral rolls.
• The ECI’s solution: Link Aadhaar to Voter ID to eliminate duplicates.

Legal and Constitutional Issues

Supreme Court on Aadhaar and Voting

• Aadhaar is not mandatory for voting – as voting is a constitutional right under Article 326.
• Making Aadhaar linkage compulsory could disenfranchise those without it, violating universal suffrage.

Data Privacy and Risks

Policy and Implementation Challenges

• No statutory framework clearly authorizes Aadhaar-Voter ID linkage.
• ECI’s push for linkage via Form 6B (introduced in 2022) was voluntary, but citizens reported coercion.
• Lack of data protection law makes the initiative risky in the current legal landscape.

Arguments in Favour of Aadhaar-Voter ID Linkage

Arguments Against Linkage

• Violates privacy and leads to potential misuse of voter data.
• Could exclude genuine voters due to mismatches or absence of Aadhaar.
• No legal obligation for Aadhaar in elections; voter authentication should not be biometric-driven.

Global Comparison

India’s proposed system lacks a robust legal data protection framework, unlike countries with successful digital voting systems.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims:

Q. Consider the following statements regarding Aadhaar and Voter ID linkage:

1. The Supreme Court has made it mandatory to link Aadhaar with Voter ID.
2. Voter ID is a biometric-based unique identifier.
3. Aadhaar linkage with Voter ID is legally voluntary but operationally challenged.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: (c)

Mains:

1. “While the Aadhaar-Voter ID linkage seeks to enhance electoral integrity, it also raises critical issues around privacy and exclusion.” Critically evaluate. (250 words)
2. Discuss the need for balancing voter roll accuracy with individual rights in India’s democratic process. (150 words)

Way Forward

1. Clarity in Law: Introduce a legal framework defining voluntary Aadhaar linkage, with privacy safeguards.
2. Data Protection Legislation: Implement comprehensive data protection law before integrating sensitive databases.
3. Technological Alternatives: Explore non-biometric voter verification methods, such as blockchain-based electoral rolls.
4. Public Awareness: Educate voters on their rights and ensure opt-in mechanisms for any data linkage.