Daily Current Affairs for IAS PCS (UPSC CSE)

  Introduction The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Scheme is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme designed to provide financial security to workers in the unorganised sector . Launched in 2019 , this social security initiative aims to offer a fixed monthly pension post-retirement, ensuring economic stability for informal sector workers . Recently, the government introduced new updates , including an extended revival period, flexible exit provisions, and improved integration with the e-Shram portal to enhance accessibility and efficiency. What is PM-SYM? The PM-SYM Scheme is a pension scheme offering social security benefits to unorganised sector workers. The government contributes an equal matching amount towards the pension fund, ensuring financial support during old age . Objectives of PM-SYM To provide a fixed monthly pension of ₹3,000 after the age of 60. To offer financial protection for unorganised sector workers post-retirement. To encourage lon...

Introduction The Income-Tax Bill, 2025 has been introduced in Parliament to replace the Income-Tax Act, 1961 , aiming to simplify tax laws, enhance compliance, and align tax policies with modern economic needs. The bill introduces a ‘tax year’ concept , removes outdated exemptions, and consolidates compliance provisions. However, it lacks substantial structural changes, leaving room for further reforms. This article explores the key provisions, benefits, challenges, and way forward regarding the new tax legislation. Key Provisions of the Income-Tax Bill, 2025 1. Introduction of the ‘Tax Year’ Concept The traditional ‘assessment year’ system has been removed. The ‘tax year’ now aligns with the financial year (April 1 – March 31) . Businesses and newly established professions will have their tax year starting from the date of establishment. 2. Expanded Definition of Income Virtual Digital Assets ( VDAs ) like cryptocurrency and NFTs are now capital assets , similar to stocks, bullion,...

Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing governance and justice delivery worldwide. Major economies like the US and China are making massive AI-driven investments, such as the US government’s $100 billion Stargate AI Initiative and China’s advancements in Large Language Models (LLMs) like QWQ and DeepSeek. India, grappling with a backlog of over 50 million cases, must also embrace AI to modernize law enforcement and judicial processes efficiently. AI in Law Enforcement and Crime Prevention 1. Enhancing Police Operations with AI AI in SMART Policing: India’s SMART policing initiative (Strategic, Meticulous, Adaptable, Reliable, Transparent) can benefit significantly from AI-enabled crime detection and predictive policing tools. Automated FIR Registration: AI chatbots, like the Mumbai Police’s AI-assisted e-FIR system, help in reducing paperwork and accelerating case registration. Predictive Policing: AI-driven Crime Mapping tools, such as those used by Delhi Polic...