Daily Current Affairs for IAS PCS (UPSC CSE)

  Introduction The F-35 Lightning II fighter jet , a cutting-edge fifth-generation stealth aircraft , has gained global attention due to its advanced combat capabilities and strategic importance . At Aero India 2025 , the jet became a focal point after former U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at a possible offer to India , sparking discussions on its role in India’s defense strategy. What is the F-35 Lightning II Fighter Jet? The F-35 Lightning II , also known as the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) , is a multi-role stealth fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin under a U.S.-led multinational program . It is designed to provide air superiority, intelligence gathering, precision strikes, and networked warfare capabilities . Development and Manufacturing Developed by: Lockheed Martin , under a U.S.-led Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program . First Flight: 2006 , with operational deployment across multiple U.S. and allied forces. Operators: U.S., U.K., Australia, Israel, Japan, Sout...

Introduction The Indian mining sector is undergoing significant transformation, with the Ministry of Mines reclassifying key minerals like Barytes, Feldspar, Mica, and Quartz as major minerals . This shift is expected to enhance mineral exploration, attract investment, and boost India's self-reliance in critical industries. In this article, we will explore the importance of mineral reclassification , its economic and industrial impact , and how it aligns with India’s long-term mining policies. Understanding the Reclassification of Major Minerals What are Major Minerals? Major minerals are those minerals that are regulated by the Central Government under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act, 1957) . These minerals are crucial due to their economic, industrial, and strategic significance . Examples of Major Minerals: Iron Ore – Used in steel production Coal – Essential for energy generation Bauxite – Required for aluminum manufacturing Gold ...

Introduction The concept of servicification of manufacturing is reshaping the industrial sector worldwide. As manufacturers increasingly integrate specialized service components into their operations, traditional wage structures, employment trends, and industrial policies are evolving. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has highlighted this shift, emphasizing that rising wages are now harder to compare due to the increasing servicification of manufacturing. What is Servicification of Manufacturing? Servicification of manufacturing refers to the growing dependence on service-oriented solutions within industrial production. Instead of handling all functions in-house, manufacturers are outsourcing non-core activities to service providers . This shift enables industries to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and focus on core competencies . Key Drivers of Servicification in Manufacturing Outsourcing Utility Management – Industries hire specialized firms to manage essential uti...

  Introduction A recent study by FICCI-KPMG, titled Global Mobility of Indian Workforce , has highlighted a major global concern: the growing talent shortage. By 2030, the demand for skilled workers will surpass supply, leading to an estimated shortfall of over 85.2 million workers worldwide. This shortage could result in $8.45 trillion in unrealized annual revenue , equivalent to the combined GDPs of Germany and Japan. For India, this presents both challenges and opportunities . With the right policies and training programs, India can leverage its young workforce to fill skill gaps across the globe while driving domestic economic growth. Understanding the Global Talent Shortage Key Data from the FICCI-KPMG Report The world will face a shortfall of 85.2 million skilled workers by 2030. The economic impact of this shortage could reach $8.45 trillion annually . India’s GDP is projected to grow to between $6.5 trillion and $9 trillion by 2030, contingent on tapping into global empl...

  Introduction The Three-Language Formula has been a topic of debate in India for decades. Recently, the Central Government withheld ₹2,152 crore under the Samagra Shiksha scheme from Tamil Nadu due to its refusal to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s language formula . Tamil Nadu has consistently followed a two-language policy (Tamil and English) and sees the new policy as an attempt to impose Hindi. This article explores the history, objectives, and challenges of the Three-Language Formula , its impact on India’s multilingual education system, and the ongoing conflict between the Centre and Tamil Nadu over language policies. What is the Three-Language Formula? Definition The Three-Language Formula was first introduced in the National Education Policy (NEP) 1968 to promote linguistic diversity and standardize language education across India . Objective The key aims of this policy are: Encouraging multilingualism for better communication and cultural unders...

General Studies-2; Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. Introduction The recent deportation of over 100 illegal Indian immigrants from the United States underscores the strict enforcement of immigration laws by the US administration. It also highlights the socio-economic conditions in India that push individuals to seek better opportunities abroad through unauthorized means. This issue raises concerns about the illegal migration networks operating in India and the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of this phenomenon. Factors Driving Illegal Migration from India 1. Economic Hardship and Unemployment High levels of unemployment and lack of economic opportunities in India drive migration. States like Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat see large-scale illegal migration due to rural distress and lack of skilled employment. 2. Desire for a Better Standard of Living Many aspire to higher wages,...

  Introduction The recent farmers’ agitation at the Khanauri border between Punjab and Haryana has reignited the debate on the necessity of a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Prices (MSP) . Farmers argue that without legal backing, MSP leaves them vulnerable to market fluctuations, exploitative middlemen, and agribusiness firms . Successive governments have hesitated to provide a legal framework, citing fiscal burdens, WTO compliance, and market distortions . This article explores the demand for legalizing MSP, its challenges, and possible solutions. Understanding Minimum Support Price (MSP) What is MSP? MSP is the price set by the government at which it procures certain crops from farmers, ensuring a minimum income regardless of market price variations . The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) recommends MSP based on cost of production, market trends, and demand-supply dynamics . Current Status of MSP in India MSP is announced for 22 crops , but procurement is...