Daily Current Affairs for IAS PCS (UPSC CSE)

Introduction India heavily depends on imported fertilizers like Urea, Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), and Muriate of Potash (MOP) to sustain agricultural productivity. However, this dependence has led to economic burdens, environmental degradation, and supply chain vulnerabilities . The Indian government is now strategizing ways to reduce fertilizer imports , promote alternative fertilizers , and encourage balanced fertilization to achieve sustainable agricultural growth. Current Status of Urea, DAP, and Potash in India Urea Production Capacity: India produced 31.4 million tonnes (MT) of Urea in 2023-24, compared to 22 MT in 2011-12 . Import Dependency: Imports declined from 9.8 MT (2020-21) to 7 MT (2023-24) due to increased domestic production. Government Initiative: Energy-efficient Urea plants have improved productivity (Economic Survey 2023-24). Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) Import Dependence: India imports finished DAP and raw materials from Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Jordan, and...

  Introduction The government-appointed Advisory Committee on Panchayati Raj has proposed significant reforms to strengthen women’s representation in local governance . The recommendations aim to curb proxy representation by male relatives and enhance women’s autonomy in decision-making . These measures align with India’s constitutional commitment to gender equality and democratic decentralization. Key Recommendations of the Advisory Committee 1. Exemplary Penalties for Proxy Representation Strict punitive actions against male relatives usurping positions meant for elected women representatives. Legal measures to ensure that women exercise real decision-making power . 2. Structural & Policy Reforms Kerala-style gender-exclusive quotas in panchayat subject committees to increase women’s active participation. Public swearing-in ceremonies to affirm women's authority and discourage male interference. Enhanced provisions for political awareness programs at the grassroots le...

The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 has sparked debates among disability rights activists due to its provisions regarding data consent for Persons with Disabilities ( PwDs ). The major concern lies in Section 9(1) , which mandates that PwDs with legal guardians must obtain consent from their guardian before data processing. This raises questions about digital autonomy, privacy rights, and accessibility . Understanding Guardianship and PwD Concerns in the DPDP Act, 2023 What is Guardianship? Guardianship for PwDs is regulated under two primary laws in India: Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016: Advocates for limited guardianship , allowing PwDs to make decisions with support. Recognizes their autonomy and provides decision-making rights. National Trust Act (NT Act), 1999: Provides for full guardianship in cases of autism, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities . Guardians make all decisions on behalf of the PwD. Issue: The DPDP Act does not ...

Introduction India and the United Kingdom (UK) have resumed negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) after an eight-month pause. With 14 rounds of discussions completed since January 2022, the agreement aims to strengthen trade, investment, and economic collaboration between the two nations. Given India's increasing focus on expanding trade partnerships with western economies, the India-UK FTA holds significant importance in boosting exports, attracting investments, and enhancing bilateral economic relations. Understanding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) What is a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)? A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is a trade pact between two or more nations aimed at reducing or eliminating import duties on a majority of traded goods. FTAs also work to minimize non-tariff barriers , facilitate trade in services , and boost bilateral investments . Benefits of Free Trade Agreements Boosts Exports & Market Access : Eliminates tariffs, making Indian goods more competitive...

  Introduction The Japan-India-Africa Forum is a trilateral platform focused on economic cooperation, strategic investments, and sustainable development in Africa. It combines India’s industrial strength, Japan’s technological expertise, and Africa’s growth potential to drive infrastructure development, trade expansion, and digital transformation. This forum is positioned as an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) , promoting transparent, non-debt-driven investments . However, geopolitical competition, private sector engagement, and policy constraints remain key challenges. What is the Japan-India-Africa Forum? The Japan-India-Africa Forum (JIAF) is a collaborative initiative aimed at economic growth, trade expansion, and infrastructure development in Africa. It facilitates partnerships between India, Japan, and African nations, ensuring a sustainable, long-term growth strategy . Objectives of JIAF Promote Infrastructure & Connectivity – Investments in ra...

Introduction In July 2024, the Indian government, through the Union Budget FY 2024-25, unveiled a strategic roadmap for nuclear energy expansion. Aiming for clean and reliable power generation, India plans to collaborate with private players for the development of Bharat Small Reactors (BSR) and Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR). This initiative aligns with India’s commitment at COP26 to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030. Nuclear power plays a crucial role in India’s decarbonization strategy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels while ensuring energy security. Existing Legal Framework for Nuclear Energy in India Atomic Energy Act (AEA), 1962 The Atomic Energy Act (AEA), 1962 , governs India's nuclear sector. Amended in 1987, it gives the central government exclusive control over nuclear energy development, production, and disposal under Section 3(a) . Constraints on Private Sector Participation Private sector involvement in nuclear research and development (R...