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.

Monday, March 17, 2025

Battling India’s Infodemic: Fake News & Misinformation

Introduction

India, with over 95.04 crore internet users, is experiencing an alarming surge in fake news and disinformation. The rapid spread of misinformation, deepfakes, and politically motivated narratives threatens social harmony, democracy, and national security. Understanding the root causes and implementing robust countermeasures is crucial to mitigating the infodemic.

Understanding India’s Infodemic: Data & Statistics

214% rise in misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic, with India accounting for 1 in 6 fake news pieces globally.
Over 85% of urban Indians report encountering online hate speech, with 64% blaming social media platforms (UNESCO-Ipsos survey).
38% of fake news originates from verified pages, while 70% spreads through at least one verified handle (NewsChecker report).
Deepfakes influenced the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, reinforcing biases and manipulating voter sentiment.

Reasons Behind the Rise of Infodemic in India

1. Unregulated Social Media Platforms

Platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube, and X serve as primary sources of misinformation due to the lack of strict regulations.

Example: False COVID-19 cures spread on WhatsApp, leading to public panic and misinformation-driven behaviors.

2. AI-Driven Disinformation

The rise of deepfake videos, AI-generated propaganda, and manipulated audio has made fake news more convincing.

Example: A deepfake of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy misled viewers about his stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.

3. Political Manipulation & Election Misinformation

Fake news is weaponized during elections to sway voter sentiment and create polarization.

Example: The 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw AI-driven fake speeches targeting political opponents and creating division.

4. Algorithmic Echo Chambers

Social media algorithms create echo chambers, reinforcing biases by repeatedly exposing users to similar viewpoints.

Example: Users engaging with misogynistic content (e.g., Andrew Tate’s videos) receive more of the same, amplifying stereotypes and prejudices.

5. Weak Fact-Checking & Legal Loopholes

India lacks a comprehensive anti-misinformation law, and fact-checking bodies lack adequate resources.

Example: The Election Commission of India (ECI) is under-resourced to counter election-related fake news effectively.

Challenges in Countering the Infodemic

1. Lack of a Comprehensive Law

Current laws like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), IT Act 2000, and DPDP Act 2023 provide only partial solutions to the disinformation crisis.

Example: Singapore’s Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) is a robust model missing in India.

2. Delayed Action by Tech Companies

Social media platforms like Meta, X, and YouTube respond slowly to disinformation, allowing its widespread dissemination.

Example: X’s Community Notes failed to counter fake news during global elections effectively.

3. Legal vs. Free Speech Dilemma

Striking a balance between regulating fake news and preserving free speech is challenging.

Example: France and Germany mandate fake news removal within 24 hours, but critics view this as censorship.

4. Lack of Awareness & Digital Literacy

Most users struggle to differentiate between misinformation and credible news, leading to unintended spread.

Example: Fake WhatsApp forwards have triggered mob lynchings in India, highlighting the danger of unchecked fake news.

Way Forward: Strategies to Combat India’s Infodemic

1. Enacting a Comprehensive Fake News Law

Introduce strict penalties for deliberate disinformation, similar to Singapore’s model.
Establish an independent regulatory body for fact-checking and oversight.

2. Holding Social Media Platforms Accountable

Mandate 24-hour removal of fake content, with heavy fines for non-compliance.
Example: Germany’s NetzDG law holds platforms legally accountable for fake news.

3. AI & Deepfake Regulation

Enforce mandatory labeling of AI-generated content.
Example: The EU’s AI Act mandates watermarks for AI-created media to prevent deception.

4. Boosting Digital Literacy Programs

Launch nationwide media literacy campaigns to help users identify fake news.
Example: Finland’s digital literacy program is a global success in fighting misinformation.

5. Strengthening Election Monitoring

Enhance Election Commission resources to tackle AI-driven election propaganda.
Example: The US 2024 elections saw AI-powered misinformation campaigns fueling division.

Conclusion

India’s growing fake news crisis demands urgent legal intervention to protect democracy, public trust, and social harmony. A strong, transparent, and well-regulated framework must balance countering disinformation while preserving free speech. Without decisive action, deepfakes and AI-driven misinformation will continue to threaten public discourse and national security.

UPSC CSE MCQs Based on the Topic

1. Which of the following factors contributes the most to the rise of misinformation in India?
(a) Strict social media laws
(b) High internet penetration and unregulated platforms
(c) Government censorship
(d) Decrease in AI usage
Answer: (b) High internet penetration and unregulated platforms

2. What is the primary challenge in regulating fake news without harming free speech?
(a) Increasing internet speed
(b) Lack of digital literacy
(c) Balancing regulation with freedom of expression
(d) Decreasing internet users
Answer: (c) Balancing regulation with freedom of expression

3. Which country has implemented the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) to tackle misinformation?
(a) Germany
(b) France
(c) Singapore
(d) India
Answer: (c) Singapore

4. The NetzDG law, which holds social media platforms accountable for fake news, belongs to which country?
(a) USA
(b) Germany
(c) China
(d) Russia
Answer: (b) Germany

UPSC Mains Question

Q. In the fight against fake news, how can a balance be achieved between combating misinformation and safeguarding the fundamental right to free speech and expression? (250 words).

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Global Governance Reform: A New Model for Global C...

Global Governance Reform: A New Model for Global Crises

Introduction

In an era of unprecedented global challenges—ranging from climate change and pandemics to economic instability and geopolitical conflicts—the existing global governance model is proving ineffective. The United Nations (UN) and other international institutions struggle with enforcement, transparency, and inclusivity. To address 21st-century crises, urgent reforms are needed in global governance mechanisms.

Existing Global Governance System: Strengths and Weaknesses

1. United Nations (UN)

Established in 1945, the UN's primary objectives include peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and international cooperation.
Weakness: The UN often lacks enforcement power due to veto politics in the Security Council (UNSC).
Example: UN’s failure to prevent the Russia-Ukraine War due to Russia’s UNSC veto.

2. Bretton Woods Institutions: World Bank & IMF

Created for global economic stability and financial assistance.
Weakness: Decision-making is skewed in favor of developed nations.
Example: IMF voting power is dominated by the US and European nations, sidelining the Global South.

3. World Trade Organization (WTO)

Regulates global trade agreements and disputes.
Weakness: WTO has been slow to adapt to modern trade issues like digital trade and supply chain disruptions.
Example: WTO’s inefficiency in resolving the US-China trade war.

4. Regional Alliances (EU, ASEAN, BRICS, G20)

Strengthen regional economic and political cooperation.
Weakness: Lack a unified global framework.
Example: The G20’s fragmented approach to pandemic relief efforts.

Why Global Governance Needs Reform

1. Borderless Challenges Require Supranational Solutions

Example: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed WHO’s inefficiency in ensuring fair vaccine distribution.
Solution: A Global Pandemic Treaty to enforce fair healthcare policies worldwide.

2. Outdated Structures

UNSC’s structure does not reflect modern geopolitical realities.
Example: India, Africa, and Latin America contribute significantly to global peacekeeping and trade but lack permanent UNSC representation.
Solution: Expand the UNSC to include India, South Africa, and Brazil.

3. Inefficiency and Bureaucratic Hurdles

Example: The UN’s failure in the Rohingya refugee crisis due to slow decision-making.
Solution: Implement a fast-track response mechanism in humanitarian crises.

4. Marginalization of the Global South

Example: The World Bank and IMF favor Western countries, where the US holds veto power over major financial decisions.
Solution: Restructure financial institutions to give developing nations more say.

5. Lack of Local-Global Integration

Example: Many global agreements fail at local implementation, leading to policy failures.
Solution: Strengthen national-level policy alignment with global governance frameworks.

Challenges to Global Governance Reforms

1. National Sovereignty Conflicts

Countries resist supranational authority over domestic policies.
Example: China and Russia oppose stronger UN intervention in issues like Hong Kong and Ukraine.

2. Geopolitical Rivalries

Power struggles between the US, China, and Russia hinder cooperation.
Example: US-China trade war disrupts global economic stability.

3. Weak Enforcement Mechanisms

The UN lacks authority to enforce resolutions.
Example: UN sanctions against North Korea’s nuclear program have failed.

4. Economic and Political Inequality

Developing countries lack decision-making power in major global institutions.
Example: Africa has minimal influence over global financial policies despite being resource-rich.

5. Public Distrust in Global Institutions

Rise of nationalism and populism weakens support for multilateral governance.
Example: Brexit reflects growing distrust in international organizations.

Way Forward: Steps for an Effective Global Governance Model

1. Security Council Reform

Expand UNSC permanent membership to include India, South Africa, and Brazil.
Example: G4 nations (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil) advocate for a more representative UNSC.

2. Strengthening Multilateral Institutions

Increase transparency and accountability in global decision-making.
Example: G20’s role in coordinating pandemic economic relief packages.

3. Adopting a Planetary Governance Model

Shift from nation-centric policies to a global governance framework.
Example: Citizen-led movements like Fridays for Future influence global climate policies.

4. Increasing Public Participation

Strengthen civil society’s role in decision-making.

5. Technology-Driven Solutions

Use AI, blockchain, and big data for efficient governance.
Example: WHO’s AI-driven pandemic tracking system can improve crisis response.

Conclusion

The 21st-century global challenges demand an innovative governance model that balances national sovereignty with global cooperation. Expanding the UN Security Council, democratizing international financial institutions, and embracing technology-driven governance can make global governance more inclusive, transparent, and effective. Without urgent reforms, global institutions risk losing relevance, leaving the world vulnerable to unaddressed crises.

MCQs for UPSC CSE

1. Which of the following institutions were established under the Bretton Woods system? a) United Nations (UN) b) World Trade Organization (WTO) c) International Monetary Fund (IMF) d) BRICS Bank
Answer: c) International Monetary Fund (IMF)

2. What is the primary criticism of the UN Security Council (UNSC)? a) Lack of funding for operations b) Overrepresentation of developing nations c) Dominance of P5 countries with veto power d) Excessive UN peacekeeping operations Answer: c) Dominance of P5 countries with veto power

3. Which of the following is NOT a challenge in reforming global governance? a) National sovereignty conflicts b) Global climate change agreements c) Geopolitical rivalries d) Public distrust in institutions Answer: b) Global climate change agreements

4. What does ‘Global South’ refer to in international relations? a) Countries below the equator b) Developing nations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America c) Southern Hemisphere trade organizations d) A regional security alliance Answer: b) Developing nations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America

Mains Question for UPSC

Q: The existing global governance system is outdated and fails to address modern challenges. Discuss the need for a reformed governance model with suitable examples. (250 words).

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UN Peacekeeping: Success, Failures & Future Reforms

UN Peacekeeping: Success, Failures & Future Reforms

Introduction

The United Nations (UN) was established in 1945 with the primary goal of maintaining global peace and security. Over the decades, the UN has played a crucial role in conflict resolution through diplomatic negotiations, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian assistance. However, its track record has been a mix of successes and failures, with notable shortcomings in Rwanda, Bosnia, Ukraine, and West Asia. While some UN peacekeeping operations have helped stabilize war-torn regions, the organization's limitations have often made it a passive observer rather than an active enforcer of peace. This article critically examines the UN's effectiveness in conflict resolution and peacekeeping, exploring its legal framework, successes, failures, challenges, and necessary reforms.

Legal Framework for Conflict Resolution in the UN Charter

The UN Charter provides a legal foundation for conflict resolution, detailing mechanisms under three key chapters:

Chapter VI: Peaceful Settlement of Disputes

Encourages diplomacy, mediation, and negotiations to resolve conflicts before they escalate.
Tools include dialogue, good offices, arbitration, and international judicial mechanisms.

Chapter VII: Use of Force for Global Security

Authorizes the UN Security Council (UNSC) to take military action if peace is breached.
Member states contribute military or police forces to UN peacekeeping operations.

Chapter VIII: Regional Peace Enforcement

Supports regional organizations in peacekeeping efforts.
Requires Security Council approval for military interventions by regional groups like NATO and the African Union.

Success Stories: UN’s Role in Peacekeeping

Over the past 70 years, the UN has deployed peacekeeping forces to various conflict zones, successfully restoring stability in several regions. Key examples include:

Cambodia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Angola, Timor-Leste, Liberia, and Kosovo

In these nations, UN peacekeeping forces successfully brokered peace deals, supported post-war reconstruction, and protected civilians.
The UN's efforts in Kosovo (1999) helped prevent further ethnic violence and facilitated state-building efforts.
In Liberia (2003), UN peacekeepers played a vital role in disarming warring factions and overseeing democratic elections.

These examples highlight that when backed by international political will and adequate resources, the UN can be an effective force for peace.

Major Failures: UN as a Passive Observer

Despite its mandate, the UN has failed to prevent some of the worst humanitarian crises of the modern era.

Rwanda Genocide (1994)

Nearly 1 million Tutsi civilians were massacred within 100 days.
UN peacekeepers were present but lacked authorization to intervene, rendering them powerless.

Bosnia (1995) – Srebrenica Massacre

The UN declared Srebrenica a “safe zone” but failed to prevent the massacre of 8,000 Bosniak Muslims.
The Dutch peacekeeping forces stationed there were unable to stop the advancing Bosnian Serb forces.

Key Lesson:

Although the UN has a legal mandate to protect civilians, its failures in Rwanda and Bosnia exposed a lack of political will and operational authority.

Recent Conflicts: UN’s Bystander Status in Ukraine and West Asia

Russia-Ukraine War (2022-present)

Despite over 100,000 UN peacekeepers deployed worldwide, none were sent to Ukraine.
Russia's veto power in the UNSC blocked any meaningful intervention.

Israel-Gaza Conflict

Thousands of civilians have died, yet UN peacekeepers have not been deployed.
In past conflicts like Cyprus and Timor-Leste, small UN forces helped stabilize regions, but no such initiative has been taken in Gaza.

Missed Opportunity:

If the UN had deployed peacekeeping forces early in Ukraine or Gaza, large-scale humanitarian crises could have been mitigated.

Challenges in the UN Security Council

The Security Council is the most powerful organ of the UN but suffers from structural limitations that prevent decisive action.

Veto Power Problem

The five permanent members (P5) — U.S., U.K., France, Russia, and China — can veto any resolution.
Example: Russia blocked UN resolutions on Ukraine, while the U.S. has vetoed resolutions regarding Israel.

Lack of Global South Representation

Major contributors to UN peacekeeping, such as India and South Africa, lack permanent representation.

Proposed Reforms:

Expand the UNSC to P7 by including India and South Africa.
Introduce a majority-based voting system to reduce single-country veto power.
Establish emergency mechanisms to override vetoes in cases of genocide or humanitarian crises.

The Future of UN Peacekeeping: Reforms Needed

To maintain credibility, the UN must adopt structural and operational reforms:

1. Deploy Peacekeeping Forces Proactively

Peacekeeping missions should be deployed at early stages of conflict rather than after escalation.

2. Strengthen Mandates for Civilian Protection

Past missions like Kosovo and Timor-Leste proved that a small but decisive UN force can prevent mass atrocities.

3. Make the Security Council More Representative

Expand permanent membership and revise veto mechanisms to allow for more inclusive decision-making.

4. Increase Peacekeeping Fund Allocation

Adequate funding ensures that peacekeepers have the necessary resources for effective operations.

Conclusion

The UN remains a vital institution for global peace, but its structural limitations, particularly in the Security Council, often render it ineffective in preventing conflicts. The failures in Rwanda, Bosnia, Ukraine, and Gaza highlight the urgent need for reform. To transform from a bystander to an active peace enforcer, the UN must implement significant changes, including Security Council expansion, veto reform, and proactive peacekeeping deployments.

UPSC CSE Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)

Which UN Charter chapter authorizes military action for global security?
a) Chapter IV
b) Chapter VI
c) Chapter VII
d) Chapter IX
Answer: c) Chapter VII
What was the key reason for UN inaction during the Rwanda Genocide?
a) Lack of funding
b) Lack of Security Council approval for intervention
c) Opposition from African Union
d) Absence of peacekeepers
Answer: b) Lack of Security Council approval for intervention

UPSC CSE Mains Question

Q: “Despite having robust mechanisms for peaceful dispute settlement and armed intervention, the United Nations has often been accused of being a ‘bystander’ in critical conflicts.” Discuss with examples how the UN has succeeded and failed in its peacekeeping missions. (250 words).

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