Daily Current Affairs for IAS PCS (UPSC CSE)

Stay updated with the latest Daily current affairs for IAS PCS (UPSC CSE) preparation. Our blog covers detailed analyses of national and international events, government schemes, economic policies, environmental issues, cultural heritage, and global relations. We provide crisp insights, MCQs, and mains practice questions to enhance your preparation strategy. Whether it’s daily news, PIB summaries, or editorial breakdowns, our content is designed for effective learning.

Friday, March 7, 2025

Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in India: Significance & Governance

Introduction

The Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) play a crucial role in governing tribal areas in India, ensuring self-rule, cultural preservation, and resource management. Recently, the Assam Assembly passed amendments allowing the Governor to assume control over seven ADCs if elections are not conducted within the mandated extension period. This move has raised concerns about tribal autonomy and self-governance.

What are Autonomous District Councils (ADCs)?

ADCs are self-governing tribal administrative bodies established under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. They grant legislative, executive, and judicial powers to tribal communities in designated regions, ensuring local governance and cultural protection.

States with ADCs

Assam
Meghalaya
Mizoram
Tripura

Key Features of ADCs

1. Legislative Powers

ADCs can frame laws on land management, forests, agriculture, water resources, public health, sanitation, and social customs.
Have judicial powers to settle tribal disputes.

2. Executive Powers

Administer village councils, traditional leadership, local policing, and inheritance laws.
Oversee local governance and infrastructure development.

3. Judicial Powers

Can establish tribal courts for handling disputes within Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Can issue sentences up to five years of imprisonment.

Recent Amendments in Assam’s ADCs

The Assam Assembly has passed amendments granting the Governor control over seven ADCs if elections remain unfeasible beyond the extension period. The affected councils include:

Mising Autonomous Council
Bodo Kachari Autonomous Council
Thengal Kachari Autonomous Council
Deori Autonomous Council
Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council
Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council
Tiwa Autonomous Council

This amendment has sparked concerns over the dilution of tribal self-governance and potential political interference.

Functions of ADCs

Govern tribal areas while preserving traditional customs and heritage.
Manage natural resources like forests, water bodies, and minerals.
Develop local infrastructure, including education, healthcare, and rural roads.
Strengthen village councils and decentralized governance.

Revenue Sources of ADCs

ADCs have the power to levy taxes, fees, and tolls on:

Land, buildings, vehicles, boats, and animals.
Goods entering the district.
Ferries, roads, and employment-based income.
General taxation for local administration and development.

Challenges Facing ADCs

1. Political & Administrative Interference

Governor’s control over ADCs may weaken tribal self-rule.
Political influence may disrupt traditional governance structures.

2. Resource Constraints

Lack of funding and financial autonomy affects development projects.
Dependency on state and central grants limits self-sufficiency.

3. Weak Law Enforcement

ADCs lack strong enforcement mechanisms, making them dependent on state authorities.

4. Delayed Elections & Representation Issues

Frequent delays in elections undermine democratic governance in tribal regions.

Way Forward for Strengthening ADCs

1. Ensuring Democratic Elections

Conduct timely ADC elections to uphold tribal representation.

2. Enhancing Financial Autonomy

Increase financial grants and taxation powers for ADCs.

3. Strengthening Administrative Powers

Reduce state intervention to allow greater autonomy.
Implement better coordination between ADCs and state governments.

4. Expanding Development Initiatives

Improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare in tribal regions.
Promote sustainable resource management for economic growth.

Conclusion

ADCs play a vital role in tribal governance and cultural preservation. However, recent amendments in Assam highlight growing concerns over political interference and administrative control. Strengthening ADCs with timely elections, financial independence, and better infrastructure support is essential to empower tribal communities and preserve their autonomy.

MCQs on ADCs for UPSC CSE

Which Schedule of the Indian Constitution provides for ADCs? a) Fifth Schedule
b) Sixth Schedule
c) Seventh Schedule
d) Ninth Schedule
Answer: (b) Sixth Schedule
Which of the following states has ADCs? a) Tamil Nadu
b) Assam
c) Rajasthan
d) Uttar Pradesh
Answer: (b) Assam
What is the primary legislative power of ADCs? a) National defense policies
b) Framing laws on land, forests, and public health
c) Regulating national highways
d) Overseeing corporate governance
Answer: (b) Framing laws on land, forests, and public health
Which ADC in Assam was affected by the recent amendments? a) Khasi Hills Autonomous Council
b) Mising Autonomous Council
c) Zoramthanga Autonomous Council
d) Lushai Autonomous Council
Answer: (b) Mising Autonomous Council
What is a major financial challenge faced by ADCs? a) Over-dependence on tourism revenue
b) Lack of financial autonomy and funding constraints
c) Excessive taxation powers
d) No administrative responsibilities
Answer: (b) Lack of financial autonomy and funding constraints

Mains Question for UPSC CSE

Q. Discuss the significance of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in promoting tribal self-governance. How can India ensure their financial and administrative independence? (250 words).

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AI Kosha: India’s Secure AI Dataset & Innovation Hub

AI Kosha: India’s Secure AI Dataset & Innovation Hub

Introduction

The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has launched AI Kosha, a secured AI dataset platform, under the IndiaAI Mission. This initiative aims to accelerate AI research, enhance AI-driven governance, and support AI startups and innovation in India. Announced on the anniversary of the IndiaAI Mission, AI Kosha is set to revolutionize AI accessibility, competency, and security.

What is AI Kosha?

AI Kosha is a centralized AI innovation platform designed to provide seamless access to high-quality datasets, AI models, and AI development tools. This initiative supports researchers, startups, and government bodies in developing AI-driven solutions across various sectors.

Developed By:

Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) under the IndiaAI Mission.
Part of India’s effort to strengthen AI innovation and technological self-reliance.

Key Features of AI Kosha

1. AI Dataset Repository

Hosts over 300 datasets and 80+ AI models for research and development.
Covers healthcare, governance, education, security, and environmental AI applications.

2. AI Sandbox Environment

Provides an integrated development environment (IDE) for AI model training and testing.
Includes pre-built AI frameworks, tools, and tutorials.

3. Content Discoverability & AI Readiness Scoring

Uses AI-readiness scoring to help researchers find the most relevant datasets.
Enables faster identification of high-quality, structured AI data.

4. Security & Access Control

Advanced encryption (at rest & in motion) ensures data security.
API-based secure access with real-time malicious traffic filtering.

5. Permission-Based Access

Tiered access levels for researchers, AI startups, government agencies, and enterprises.
Allows controlled data sharing while maintaining data integrity and privacy.

Benefits of AI Kosha

1. Accelerates AI Research & Development

Provides high-quality, pre-trained AI models, reducing development time.
Facilitates collaborative AI research with seamless access to standardized datasets.

2. Enhances AI Innovation for Startups & Enterprises

Supports AI-driven product development in healthcare, fintech, cybersecurity, and smart governance.
Enables startups to experiment, test, and deploy AI models quickly.

3. Strengthens AI Security & Ethical AI Practices

Encourages the use of ethically sourced, consent-based datasets.
Promotes responsible AI development, preventing data misuse.

4. Boosts AI Adoption in Public Sector & Governance

Assists government departments in deploying AI-based governance solutions.
Improves public service delivery through AI-driven predictive analytics and automation.

Challenges & Limitations of AI Kosha

1. Limited Dataset Variety

Initial datasets are primarily sourced from government and research institutions.
Lack of real-world commercial data limits broader AI applications.

2. Access Restrictions for Private Sector Innovators

Strict security protocols and controlled access may limit ease of dataset retrieval.
Requires authorization and compliance with regulatory frameworks.

3. Early-Stage Development

AI Kosha is still evolving, requiring greater industry participation.
Needs continuous updates, diverse datasets, and more AI model integrations.

Way Forward for AI Kosha

1. Expansion of Dataset Repository

Collaborate with private enterprises, universities, and international AI research labs.
Incorporate real-world commercial datasets to improve AI model accuracy.

2. Enhancing Public-Private Partnerships

Encourage corporate involvement and investments in AI Kosha.
Build stronger collaborations with AI-driven companies for better dataset diversity.

3. Strengthening AI Regulations & Ethical Frameworks

Implement clear ethical guidelines for AI dataset usage.
Ensure bias-free, transparent, and responsible AI development.

4. Boosting AI Infrastructure & Compute Power

Integrate AI Kosha with high-performance computing resources.
Provide cloud-based AI compute power to startups and researchers.

Conclusion

AI Kosha is a game-changer for AI innovation in India, providing secured access to AI datasets and tools. While it has limitations, strategic improvements, public-private collaborations, and regulatory enhancements can make AI Kosha a global AI research hub. Its success will strengthen India’s AI ecosystem, drive technological self-reliance, and support AI-driven governance.

MCQs on AI Kosha for UPSC CSE

Which ministry launched AI Kosha? a) Ministry of Science & Technology
b) Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY)
c) Ministry of Home Affairs
d) NITI Aayog
Answer: (b) Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY)
What is the primary function of AI Kosha? a) AI regulation enforcement
b) Providing secured AI datasets & development tools
c) AI surveillance monitoring
d) Replacing human decision-making
Answer: (b) Providing secured AI datasets & development tools
Which key feature of AI Kosha ensures data security? a) AI-readiness scoring
b) API-based secure access with encryption
c) Open-source AI model access
d) Blockchain-based storage
Answer: (b) API-based secure access with encryption
What is a major challenge of AI Kosha? a) Lack of AI models
b) Limited dataset variety from commercial sources
c) No government participation
d) No funding support
Answer: (b) Limited dataset variety from commercial sources
AI Kosha is a part of which national initiative? a) Digital India
b) IndiaAI Mission
c) Atmanirbhar Bharat
d) Startup India
Answer: (b) IndiaAI Mission

Mains Question for UPSC CSE

Q. Discuss the role of AI Kosha in enhancing India’s AI research and innovation. What are the key challenges, and how can India overcome them to create a globally competitive AI ecosystem? (250 words).

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USAID Funding Cuts: Impact on India & Future Strategy

Introduction

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has played a crucial role in India’s health, environmental, and technological advancements. Since 2001, India has received over $2.8 billion in aid from USAID. However, a recent executive order on January 20, 2025, by the U.S. administration aims to halt foreign aid, affecting numerous USAID-funded programs. The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on March 5, 2025, upholding this decision has raised concerns over the future of India’s public health, environmental sustainability, and digital infrastructure.

Understanding USAID’s Contribution to India

1. Financial Contributions

$228 million in aid in 2022, making USAID the fourth-largest global donor to India.
$180 million allocated to public health programs, including TB, HIV/AIDS, maternal health, and COVID-19 response.
$17.12 million invested in environmental and technological projects in 2024.

2. Key Areas of USAID Funding in India

Public Health Support

TB control and polio eradication programs received substantial funding.
HIV/AIDS prevention efforts under PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief).
COVID-19 response was strengthened with $120 million in 2022 for vaccine distribution and medical infrastructure.

Environmental Sustainability

Funding for air pollution control, clean water initiatives, and climate resilience projects.
Support for India’s commitment to sustainable development and ecological security.

Technological and Digital Infrastructure

Aid for secure 5G Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) development.
Investments in digital sovereignty and telecom security.

Reasons Behind USAID Funding Cuts

1. Executive Order on Aid Reduction

The U.S. government reassessed 5,800 foreign aid projects, retaining only 500.
Aim: Reduce spending and prioritize domestic economic stability.

2. Legal Battles and Supreme Court Ruling

A U.S. Federal Court stay on February 13, 2025, temporarily halted funding cuts.
The U.S. Supreme Court overturned the stay on March 5, 2025, leading to immediate aid withdrawal.

Challenges India Faces Due to USAID Funding Cuts

1. Public Health Crisis

$180 million loss in 2022 directly impacts TB, HIV/AIDS, and maternal health programs.
Discontinuation of programs like Breaking the Barriers (TB awareness initiative).
Loss of $12.13 million in HIV/AIDS prevention funds could increase infection rates.

2. Impact on NGOs and Community Health Programs

Karnataka Health Promotion Trust (KHPT) and other NGOs face funding shortages and potential layoffs.
Several community-driven health initiatives risk being discontinued.

3. Environmental Setbacks

Halt in pollution control and clean energy programs affecting India’s fight against climate change.
Disruptions in projects aimed at water conservation and renewable energy development.

4. Strategic Influence Shift

China may step in to fill the financial gap, increasing its influence in South Asia.
India’s geopolitical stance and alliances could be affected by the funding withdrawal.

5. Legal and Policy Uncertainty

The March 5, 2025, Supreme Court ruling creates instability in international aid agreements.
Future negotiations on foreign aid and development partnerships may face delays.

Way Forward for India

1. Diversify Global Funding Sources

Strengthen partnerships with Japan ($2.97B), European Union ($383.5M), and Germany ($235M).
Engage with multilateral organizations like the World Bank and IMF.

2. Enhance Domestic Investment

Increase government funding for public health and infrastructure.
Expand budgetary allocations for environmental and digital transformation projects.

3. Strengthen NGO and Private Sector Collaboration

Encourage corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to fund healthcare and sustainability efforts.
Develop public-private partnerships (PPP) to maintain essential services.

4. Develop Indigenous Technological Capabilities

Invest in R&D for public health innovations, digital infrastructure, and clean energy.
Reduce reliance on external funding for technological advancements.

5. Diplomatic Engagement with the U.S.

Bilateral discussions to restore funding for critical health and development programs.
Explore alternate diplomatic channels to ensure aid sustainability.

Conclusion

The withdrawal of USAID funding presents a major challenge for India’s healthcare system, environmental initiatives, and technological progress. To mitigate the impact, India must adopt a multi-pronged strategy by expanding global partnerships, boosting domestic investments, and fostering self-reliance. A proactive approach will ensure continued progress in public health, ecological sustainability, and digital innovation, despite the loss of U.S. aid.

MCQs on USAID Funding Cuts (UPSC CSE)

What was USAID’s total contribution to India between 2001 and 2025?
a) $1.5 billion
b) $2.8 billion
c) $5.2 billion
d) $3.6 billion
Answer: (b) $2.8 billion
Which sector received the largest share of USAID funding in India?
a) Education
b) Public health
c) Defense
d) Infrastructure
Answer: (b) Public health
Which year did the U.S. administration issue the executive order to halt foreign aid?
a) 2023
b) 2024
c) 2025
d) 2022
Answer: (c) 2025
What was the impact of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on March 5, 2025?
a) Restored all USAID funding
b) Allowed continued funding for TB programs
c) Upheld the decision to cut foreign aid
d) Increased aid to India
Answer: (c) Upheld the decision to cut foreign aid
Which alternative donor provides the highest funding to India?
a) European Union
b) Japan
c) Germany
d) World Bank
Answer: (b) Japan

Mains Question for UPSC CSE

Q. How will USAID funding cuts impact India’s public health and development initiatives? Discuss alternative strategies India can adopt to mitigate these effects. (250 words).

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Forced Urbanization in India: Challenges & Solutions

Introduction

Urbanization is a key driver of economic growth and infrastructure development. However, in India, forced urbanization is creating significant challenges for rural communities. Many villages are being converted into towns without the consent of their residents, leading to economic insecurity, loss of agricultural rights, and weakening of local governance structures. Protests, such as those in Rajasthan’s Hanumangarh district, highlight the growing resistance against unplanned urban expansion.

Understanding the Issue

1. Forced Urbanization Without Consent

Many rural areas are being reclassified as urban without consulting the affected communities. This disrupts traditional livelihoods and undermines rural economies.

2. Loss of Welfare Benefits

Key rural welfare programs such as MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act), which ensures 100 days of employment to rural households, become inaccessible after urban reclassification.

3. Threat to Agricultural Livelihoods

Land-use policies change post-urbanization, leading to farmland conversions into commercial or residential spaces.
Farmers lose their rights over agricultural land, reducing their income sources.

4. Weakening of Local Governance

Panchayats dissolve, shifting decision-making power to municipal councils, which often lack grassroots connectivity.
Bureaucratic detachment increases, reducing local representation and community engagement.

5. Higher Cost of Living

Urban areas impose additional property taxes, water charges, and waste management fees, increasing financial stress on residents.

Why is Urbanization Considered Necessary?

1. Rising Population Density

With growing populations, many villages require better planning, infrastructure, and resource allocation.

2. Infrastructure Development

Urban areas receive better roads, sanitation facilities, healthcare, and educational institutions compared to rural regions.

3. Economic Growth and Job Creation

Cities attract investments, leading to industrialization, commercial expansion, and employment opportunities.

4. Streamlined Administration

Larger municipal bodies help standardize governance, enhance public service delivery, and improve urban planning.

5. National Urbanization Goals

India’s urban population is projected to reach 38.2% by 2036, necessitating strategic urban expansion.

Challenges of Forced Urbanization

1. Economic Insecurity

Over 3,100 families in Rajasthan lost access to MGNREGA benefits, leading to unemployment and financial instability.

2. Declining Agricultural Economy

Farmers face land acquisition pressures and are unable to sustain their traditional agricultural practices.

3. Bureaucratic Alienation

Rural residents struggle with complex municipal governance, facing delays in receiving essential services.

4. Increased Financial Burden

Newly urbanized areas introduce high taxation policies, making survival difficult for low-income families.

5. Unplanned Urban Growth

Lack of proper master plans leads to haphazard development, congestion, and poor infrastructure management.

Solutions for Sustainable Urban Expansion

1. Community Participation in Planning

Policy frameworks should mandate local consultations before reclassifying rural areas.

2. Hybrid Governance Models

Retain Gram Panchayats for local decision-making while integrating urban infrastructure improvements.

3. Legal Protections Against Forced Urbanization

Strengthen Article 243Q(2) to prevent arbitrary urban reclassification without proper justification.

4. Urban Employment Schemes

Introduce structured urban employment programs offering benefits similar to MGNREGA.

5. Planned and Inclusive Urban Growth

Ensure transparent and strategic urban expansion, considering rural economic realities and social structures.

Conclusion

While urbanization is essential for economic progress, forced urbanization without inclusive planning leads to disruptions in livelihoods and governance. A balanced approach that integrates community participation, structured economic transitions, and sustainable urban planning is necessary to protect rural communities while advancing urban expansion. Only then can India achieve equitable and sustainable urbanization.

MCQs on Urbanization for UPSC CSE

What is a major consequence of forced urbanization in rural India? a) Increase in agricultural productivity
b) Strengthening of Panchayati Raj system
c) Loss of welfare benefits like MGNREGA
d) Decrease in infrastructure development
Answer: (c) Loss of welfare benefits like MGNREGA
Which constitutional provision can help regulate urban expansion? a) Article 243Q(2)
b) Article 370
c) Article 356
d) Article 51A
Answer: (a) Article 243Q(2)
Why is urbanization considered essential for economic growth? a) It decreases population density
b) It eliminates the need for rural employment schemes
c) It attracts investment and creates jobs
d) It reduces bureaucratic intervention
Answer: (c) It attracts investment and creates jobs
Which Indian district recently witnessed protests against forced urbanization? a) Hanumangarh (Rajasthan)
b) Champaran (Bihar)
c) Kolar (Karnataka)
d) Narmada (Gujarat)
Answer: (a) Hanumangarh (Rajasthan)
Which of the following is NOT a challenge of forced urbanization? a) Increased taxation
b) Strengthening of rural governance
c) Loss of agricultural livelihoods
d) Bureaucratic detachment
Answer: (b) Strengthening of rural governance

Mains Question for UPSC CSE

Q. Does urbanization lead to greater segregation and marginalization of the poor in Indian cities? Critically examine. (250 words).

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