UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 16th July 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/International Relations

The U.S. Established and Extinguished Multilateralism

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The shift of the United States towards unilateralism, particularly under Donald Trump, marks a significant transformation in global politics. This change has led to sidelining multilateral institutions like the United Nations and has weakened the collective power of the Global South.

Key Takeaways

• The U.S. is prioritizing national self-sufficiency and bilateral agreements over multilateral cooperation.
• India has an opportunity to assert its influence by focusing on national prosperity and South-South cooperation.
• The upcoming BRICS Summit in 2026 in India aims to realign the Global South's priorities.

Additional Details

• Unilateralism: The U.S. has increasingly used unilateral tariffs as tools for negotiation, sidelining efforts to build global consensus.
• India's Strategic Autonomy: India must balance its relations with major powers while standing firm on its core interests, especially in the context of recent diplomatic setbacks.
• Trade Focus: India's trade strategies should shift towards the East, particularly with ASEAN, to mitigate the impact of reduced exports to the U.S.
• Fourth Industrial Revolution: India is emerging as a leader in generative AI, showcasing its innovation potential and self-driven growth.
• Military Modernization: India is adapting its military strategies to focus on advanced technologies, enhancing its global leadership in defense.
• Diplomatic Engagement: India is rethinking its approach to historical border disputes, recognizing that long-term solutions require diplomatic efforts.

In conclusion, as multilateralism fades, India must navigate its path strategically, leveraging its strengths in economics, technology, and diplomacy to assert its role in the evolving global landscape.

GS2/Polity

Preserving India’s Linguistic Secularism: Constitutional Values and Cultural Unity

Source: The Week

Why in News?

Amid increasing instances of language-based tensions and cultural exclusion, there is a pressing need to reaffirm India’s constitutional commitment to linguistic secularism. This is essential for safeguarding national unity and celebrating cultural diversity.

Key Takeaways

• India's linguistic diversity is protected under the framework of secularism.
• The Constitution provides several safeguards for linguistic plurality.
• Language politics can lead to social fragmentation if not addressed properly.

Additional Details

• Linguistic Secularism: In the Indian context, secularism extends beyond religion to include language as a critical aspect of cultural identity and democratic coexistence. Unlike Western secularism, which focuses on separating religion from the state, Indian secularism advocates for inclusive pluralism.
• Constitutional Provisions:The Indian Constitution has several articles that uphold linguistic diversity:
  • Article 343: Establishes Hindi in Devanagari as the official language of the Union while allowing states to adopt their own languages.
  • Eighth Schedule: Contains 22 scheduled languages that receive recognition and development support from the government.
  • Article 29: Empowers citizens to preserve their distinct language, script, or culture, ensuring that language does not become a basis for discrimination.
• Official Language vs. National Language: Contrary to common belief, India does not have a designated national language. Hindi is the official language at the central level, but states can operate in their own official languages, fostering a decentralized approach that maintains harmony while sometimes sparking regional tensions.
• Language Politics: Recent incidents of violence against non-local speakers highlight the tensions arising from language-based identity politics, which can undermine societal unity and the inclusive ethos of India's Constitution.
• Role of Institutions: Preserving linguistic secularism is both a constitutional and political obligation. Political parties, civil society, and educational institutions must promote tolerance and inter-lingual understanding to enhance national unity.
• Call for Respect: Respecting all languages, including dialects and mother tongues, is essential for fostering social harmony and inclusive development in India.

In conclusion, protecting India’s linguistic secularism is vital for maintaining social cohesion and promoting a flourishing democratic society. Respecting linguistic diversity is not only a constitutional requirement but also a moral commitment that strengthens the fabric of Indian identity.

GS3/Environment

Rhino DNA Index System (RhODIS)

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Assam Forest Department is actively engaged in DNA profiling of 2,500 rhino horns utilizing the Rhino DNA Index System (RhODIS). This initiative aims to enhance wildlife forensics and combat illegal trade in rhino horns.

Key Takeaways

• RhODIS is a specialized wildlife forensic tool focused on preventing rhino poaching.
• The system was originally developed in South Africa and adapted for implementation in India.
• It creates a genetic database using DNA from various sources such as horns, tissues, dung, or blood samples.
• Rhinos possess unique DNA profiles, allowing for the identification of confiscated horns linked to specific animals or poaching sites.

Additional Details

• Implementing Agency: In India, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) oversees the genetic analysis under the RhODIS India program.
• Applications of RhODIS:The system is crucial for:
  • Connecting seized rhino horns to poaching incidents.
  • Providing admissible forensic evidence in legal cases.
  • Tracking illegal wildlife trade routes and criminal networks.
  • Monitoring genetic diversity and population health of rhinos over time.
• About One-Horned Rhinoceros: The Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) is a herbivorous megafauna species native to the Indian subcontinent.
• Distinctive Features: Commonly referred to as the Indian rhinoceros, it is noted for its single black horn and thick, armor-like skin.
• Conservation Status: The species is categorized as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and is included in Appendix I of CITES and Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India).
• Major Habitats in India:Key habitats for this species include:
  • Kaziranga, Pobitora, Manas, and Orang National Parks
  • Jaldapara and Gorumara National Parks in West Bengal
  • Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh
• Population Growth: The population of Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros has seen significant recovery, increasing from approximately 1,500 in the 1980s to over 4,000 in 2024, with Assam housing around 80% of the global population.
• Kaziranga National Park is home to the largest number, with 2,613 rhinos recorded as of 2022.
• Primary Threats:The species faces numerous threats, including:
  • Poaching for horns, driven by the illegal wildlife trade and misconceptions about their medicinal value.
  • Habitat degradation caused by floods, encroachment, and climate change.
• Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (Project Rhino): Launched in 2005, this initiative aims to expand the rhino population across seven protected areas.

In summary, the Rhino DNA Index System (RhODIS) represents a significant step towards safeguarding the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros by linking genetic data to poaching incidents, thereby enhancing conservation efforts and legal action against wildlife crimes.

Consider the following statements:

• 1. Asiatic lion is naturally found in India only.
• 2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.
• 3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

GS1/Indian Society

10 Years of Skill India Mission

Source: Hindustan Times

Why in News?

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has initiated a week-long celebration to mark the completion of 10 years of the Skill India Mission.

Key Takeaways

• The Skill India Mission was launched in 2015 to empower India's youth with employable skills.
• The mission aims to train 40 crore individuals by 2022 across various economic sectors.
• Over 2.27 crore people have been trained under the program, focusing on rural youth, women, and marginalized communities.
• Training and certifications are aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) for quality assurance.
• The courses are digitally integrated with DigiLocker and the National Credit Framework (NCrF).

Components of Skill India Mission

• Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0): Focuses on short-term training, reskilling, and upskilling for youth aged 15 to 59 years, offering over 400 new courses in emerging technologies.
• Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS): Aims to promote apprenticeship training with financial support, targeting individuals aged 14 to 35 years.
• Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme: A community-based vocational training initiative that empowers women, rural youth, and economically weaker sections through flexible skilling programs.

Additional Details

• Progress Achieved: The mission has successfully trained over 2.27 crore individuals, enhancing employability among various demographics.
• Digital Integration: Courses are integrated with digital platforms for secure storage and easier academic progression.
• Recognition of Skills: The program promotes the formal recognition of skills, ensuring better job alignments and educational opportunities.

The Skill India Mission stands as a crucial initiative in transforming the skill landscape of India, aiming to link education with employment and enhance the overall economic growth of the nation.

GS2/Polity

The Issue with Criminalising All Adolescent Relationships

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India’s 2025 sentencing judgment in Re: Right to Privacy of Adolescents represents a significant moment in Indian jurisprudence, where the judiciary addresses the limitations of a rigid legal framework in the context of adolescent relationships.

Key Takeaways

• The case involved a 14-year-old girl and her 25-year-old partner, highlighting the tension between the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the realities of adolescent sexuality.
• The Supreme Court used Article 142 of the Constitution to seek justice beyond the confines of the law, initiating a broader conversation about adolescent rights and the need for legal reform.

Additional Details

• Background of the Case: The girl's mother initiated the criminal case, leading to the girl being institutionalised and later fleeing due to stigma. The couple married and had a child before the girl turned 18, resulting in the man's arrest under POCSO.
• Calcutta High Court's Ruling: The High Court reversed the conviction in 2022, citing socio-economic context but faced criticism for its language regarding adolescent sexuality.
• Supreme Court's Intervention: Following public outcry, the Supreme Court restored the conviction but refrained from imposing a sentence, constituting an expert committee to assess the woman’s well-being.
• The Court concluded that true justice lay in not sentencing the man, as the burden of punishment would primarily affect the young woman.

This case highlights the ongoing debate about the appropriateness of the POCSO Act in addressing consensual adolescent relationships. It raises questions about whether the law adequately captures the complexities of adolescent agency and consent, especially in patriarchal and economically constrained environments. The Supreme Court's decision serves as a reminder that laws meant to protect can sometimes inflict harm when they do not consider the intricacies of human relationships and adolescent development.

GS3/Environment

New Butterfly Species Zographetus mathewi Discovered in the Western Ghats

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

A team of Indian conservationists has identified a new species of butterfly, Zographetus mathewi, in the biologically rich Western Ghats, highlighting the region's biodiversity.

Key Takeaways

• Zographetus mathewi is a newly identified species of skipper butterfly.
• It is endemic to the low-elevation forests of Kerala, Western Ghats.
• This species is the 15th in the Zographetus genus and the 5th recorded in India.
• The butterfly was named in honor of George Mathew, a noted Indian entomologist.

Additional Details

• Taxonomic Classification: Zographetus mathewi belongs to the family Hesperiidae and the genus Zographetus (Watson, 1893).
• Key Features: This new species closely resembles Zographetus ogygia but can be distinguished by differences in wing venation patterns and genitalia structure in both male and female butterflies.
• The species is part of the Zographetus satwa species-group, characterized by swollen forewing veins in males as a secondary sexual trait, a distinct basal hair tuft on the underside of the forewing, and yellow-ochre scaling on the hindwing underside.

The discovery of Zographetus mathewi adds to the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats and underscores the importance of conservation efforts in these ecologically significant areas.

GS2/Governance

Gurugram’s Urban Crisis - Flooded Streets and the Collapse of Publicness

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

The urban crisis in Gurugram, characterized by recurrent flooding and inadequate civic infrastructure, highlights significant socio-psychological and governance failures that impact public welfare and inclusive urban planning.

Key Takeaways

• Gurugram experiences annual urban flooding and infrastructural failures despite being a hub for Fortune 500 companies.
• The city's urban planning reflects persistent rural attitudes that prioritize private gains over public benefit.
• Privatization has historically excluded public welfare considerations in urban development.
• Modern urban developments often replicate rural exclusivity, undermining civic life.

Additional Details

• Recurring Urban Flooding: Gurugram, known as the "Millennium City," faces significant issues during the monsoon season, revealing a stark contradiction between high real estate expectations and the failure of basic civic amenities.
• Persistence of Ruralism: The planning in Gurugram continues to reflect village-level caste-centric attitudes, where the concept of public good is often neglected in favor of private interests.
• Historical Context: The privatization of urban development began with the Delhi Land and Finance (DLF) corporation in 1981, establishing a pattern of exclusionary practices that persist today.
• Technological Misuse: While digital tools are intended to enhance transparency, they are often manipulated to serve private interests, further complicating the governance landscape.

To address Gurugram's crisis, a shift towards collective responsibility and civic participation is essential. True urban development requires a commitment to public welfare over individualistic attitudes, fostering a sense of shared urban identity.

GS3/Science and Technology

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Celebrates 97 Years

Source: PIB

Why in News?

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) recently celebrated its 97th Foundation Day, highlighting its nearly century-long contributions to the field of agriculture in India.

Key Takeaways

• Established on July 16, 1929, ICAR has evolved into a premier organization for agricultural research and education in India.
• ICAR oversees a vast network including 113 research institutes and 74 agricultural universities.
• India achieved record foodgrain production under ICAR’s guidance, becoming the largest global producer and exporter of rice.

Additional Details

• Overview: ICAR operates as an autonomous body under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.
• Major Achievements:
  • In 2024-25, India recorded foodgrain production of 353.95 million tonnes, ranking first in rice and second in wheat production.
  • ICAR launched initiatives like "One Scientist One Product" and "Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan," impacting over 1.35 crore farmers.
• Research Contributions:
  • Developed 679 field crop varieties, including bio-fortified options.
  • Released 83 new horticultural varieties and established 9 Clean Plant Centres for disease-free germplasm.
• Natural Resource Management: Initiatives include the creation of a National Soil Spectral Library and promotion of climate-resilient practices.
• Livestock Sector Contributions: Registered 10 indigenous breeds and developed vaccines and diagnostic kits.
• Major National Programmes: Initiated global excellence centers and national missions on key agricultural commodities.

In summary, ICAR's ongoing efforts in agricultural research and education are pivotal in enhancing India's food security and agricultural productivity.

GS2/Polity

Untouchability Cases Drop, Pendency Rises

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The 2022 Annual Report on the Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955, highlights a significant decrease in the registration of untouchability-related offences and reveals systemic inefficiencies in law enforcement.

Key Takeaways

• Only 13 cases were registered under the PCR Act in 2022, marking a decline compared to previous years.
• No state or Union Territory declared any area as “untouchability-prone.”
• There were 1,242 cases pending in courts, with only 1 conviction out of 31 disposed cases.
• In contrast, 62,501 cases were filed under the SC/ST Act, indicating its increasing application.
• 18,936 inter-caste marriage couples received financial incentives, although data from several major states was missing.

Additional Details

• Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955: Enacted under Article 35 to implement Article 17, this act criminalizes untouchability. Originally titled the Untouchability Offences Act, 1955, it was renamed and strengthened in 1976.
• Key Provisions:
  • No provision for pardon; any conviction results in disqualification from elections.
  • Penalties include up to 2 years imprisonment, a fine of ₹20,000, or both.
  • Any right denied due to untouchability is regarded as a civil right under the Act.
• SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989: This act aims to curb atrocities and provide victim protection and rehabilitation, establishing special courts and police cells, and allowing firearms for self-defense for vulnerable SC/ST individuals.

Understanding ‘Untouchability’ and Its Abolition

• Definition: Untouchability refers to social discrimination based on caste, historically excluding certain communities from public, religious, and social spaces.
• Constitutional Safeguard: Article 17 of the Constitution of India abolishes untouchability and prohibits its practice in any form.
• Legal Status: Any disability arising from untouchability is a punishable offence under Article 17.
• Nature of the Right: Article 17 is an absolute fundamental right with no exceptions, applicable to both state and private actors.
• Lack of Definition: The term “untouchability” is not explicitly defined in the Constitution or related legislation but is understood as caste-based social discrimination.
• Scope of Discrimination: Untouchability includes denial of access to public utilities, places of worship, public services, education, and market services.

Various Judgments Related to Untouchability

• Devarajiah v. Padmanna (1961): Reaffirmed that Article 17 aims to eliminate inhuman treatment based on caste distinctions.
• State of Karnataka v. Appa Balu Ingale (1993): The court equated untouchability to slavery, emphasizing the need to eradicate the caste system for democracy and the rule of law.
• Union of India v. People’s Union for Democratic Rights (1982): The court stated that violations of Article 17 by private individuals require state intervention.
• Union of India v. Safai Karamchari Andolan (2014): The court mandated the implementation of the Manual Scavengers and Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act, 1993, directing rehabilitation, skill training, and compensation for families of victims of sewer deaths.

UPSC 2020 Question:

Which one of the following categories of ‘Fundamental Rights’ incorporates against untouchability as a form of discrimination?

• (a) Right against Exploitation
• (b) Right to Freedom
• (c) Right to Constitutional Remedies
• (d) Right to Equality* (Correct Answer)

This report highlights the pressing need for better implementation of laws to protect civil rights and address the ongoing issue of untouchability in society.

GS2/Polity

PM Professorships to Bolster Research in State Universities

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has introduced the Prime Minister Professorships program to leverage the knowledge of retired scientists. This initiative aims to enhance the mentoring capabilities of state universities that are developing their research ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

• The program utilizes the expertise of retired scientists and industry professionals to mentor state universities.
• It aims to strengthen India's R&D ecosystem through the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) programme.
• The hub and spoke model connects top-tier institutions with emerging universities to enhance collaborative research.

Additional Details

• Hub and Spoke Model: This model consists of hubs, which are top-ranking institutions (within the top 25 of the NIRF), and spokes, which include public universities and selected NITs/IIITs. One hub can mentor up to seven spokes.
• Goals of the Program:The initiative aims to:
  • Strengthen research and innovation in emerging institutions.
  • Improve access to advanced infrastructure and best practices.
  • Facilitate impactful research that is internationally competitive.
  • Establish collaborative networks among institutions.
• The program addresses the need for structured mentoring in state universities to develop world-class research and innovation capabilities.
• Eligibility Criteria: Eligible candidates include superannuated faculty/scientists and active professionals with a proven track record in research and innovation. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) can also apply, provided they are willing to relocate full-time to the host university.

The PM Professorships program aims to cultivate a robust research culture in state universities by connecting them with experienced mentors and resources, ultimately enhancing India's overall research and development landscape.

GS3/Environment

Decarbonising Global Shipping: Pathways and Challenges

Source: Frontiers

Why in News?

Global shipping is targeting decarbonisation by 2040-2050, moving from traditional fuels such as Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), diesel, and LNG to greener alternatives like green ammonia, e-methanol, and biofuels. This transition not only addresses environmental concerns but also presents significant opportunities for India.

Key Takeaways

• The shift to green fuels is crucial for reducing carbon emissions in the shipping sector.
• India is aiming to establish itself as a key player in the production and export of green marine fuels.
• Challenges such as high production costs and dependence on imported technologies must be addressed.

Additional Details

• Production of Green Fuels: Green hydrogen, produced through water electrolysis using renewable energy, serves as the foundation for developing stable alternatives like green methanol and green ammonia for shipping.
• Green Methanol: This fuel is becoming the preferred choice for decarbonising shipping, offering about a 10% reduction in emissions compared to conventional fuels and compatibility with existing ships without major modifications.
• Despite being more environmentally friendly, green e-methanol is significantly more expensive—costing around $1,950 per tonne compared to $560 per tonne for VLSFO, primarily due to high renewable electricity needs.
• India's strategy includes promoting green fuels for domestic shipping and establishing bunkering hubs at major ports like Tuticorin and Kandla.
• The government's goal is to leverage its solar power capabilities to emerge as a global supplier of green fuels.
• Innovative financial tools and incentives, such as Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) for electrolysers and support for carbon capture technologies, are vital for scaling up green methanol production.
• To enhance shipbuilding capabilities, India is investing in demand-side support and partnerships with foreign shipbuilders, with a commitment to ensuring that a significant portion of new vessels are capable of using green fuels.

In summary, while India faces challenges in its journey towards decarbonising its shipping sector, strategic initiatives and investments in green fuel technology and infrastructure are crucial to achieving its goals in alignment with global sustainability efforts.