BETTER GLOBAL GOVERNANCE, LED BY CHINA AND INDIA
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China, both nations are being called upon to play a greater role in promoting Global Governance Initiative (GGI) proposed by China at the 2025 Tianjin SCO Summit.
Background
- India and China established diplomatic relations on April 1, 1950, marking 75 years of political, cultural, and economic exchanges.
- From 2014 to 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping met 18 times, demonstrating continuity in dialogue despite tensions.
- Their most recent meetings — during the 2023 Johannesburg BRICS Summit and the 2024 Kazan BRICS Summit — emphasized improving ties and coordination in multilateral platforms.
India-China Partnership
- Both nations are key pillars of Asia’s rise and share responsibilities in driving development among Global South countries.
- President Xi stressed four key points for cooperation:
- Deepen strategic trust and communication.
- Enhance economic and cultural exchanges for mutual benefit.
- Address each other’s concerns peacefully.
- Coordinate multilaterally to defend shared interests.
- PM Modi echoed similar views, noting that bilateral relations have stabilized, peace is being maintained at the borders, and direct flights are resuming — signalling normalization.
Global Governance Initiative (GGI) — China’s Proposal
The GGI, introduced at the 2025 Tianjin SCO Summit, is aimed at reforming and strengthening international governance through five guiding principles:
- Sovereign Equality – All nations, big or small, deserve equal respect and participation in decision-making.
- Rule of Law – Uphold the UN Charter and ensure uniform application of international law without double standards.
- Multilateralism – Strengthen the UN system and promote global decisions through cooperation, not domination.
- People-Centric Governance – Global institutions must prioritize the welfare, safety, and development of people worldwide.
- Focus on Real Outcomes – Tackle real-world issues effectively; developed nations must contribute resources while developing nations collaborate.
Significance for India and China
- Both countries, as major players in SCO and BRICS, are expected to lead efforts toward a fairer, multipolar global order.
- The initiative seeks not to replace the current system but to reform and strengthen existing institutions for more inclusive and equitable global governance.
- Joint leadership by India and China could reinforce multilateralism, South-South cooperation, and a balanced world order that serves the interests of all nations.
Conclusion:
India and China’s growing cooperation symbolizes a shift toward a more inclusive and multipolar global order. Their joint leadership in reforming global governance can help ensure peace, equity, and shared development for all nations.
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RBI GOVERNOR ADVOCATES CBDCS OVER STABLECOINS FOR SAFER GLOBAL PAYMENTS
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
At the IMF–World Bank annual meeting in Washington D.C., RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra urged global central banks to promote Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) over stablecoins for cross-border transactions.
What are Stablecoins
- Stablecoins are digital cryptocurrencies designed to maintain a fixed value by linking their worth to a stable asset like a fiat currency (e.g., U.S. dollar), gold, or a combination of assets.
- They aim to reduce the volatility seen in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum and enable quicker, cheaper international transactions.
- Types:
- Fiat-backed stablecoins (e.g., USDT, USDC) are supported by actual currency reserves.
- Crypto-backed stablecoins are collateralised by other digital assets like Ethereum.
- Algorithmic stablecoins rely on algorithms to control supply and maintain value.
- Concerns:
- Lack of consistent global regulation and transparency.
- Risk of insufficient reserves or liquidity crises.
- Possibility of “dollarisation” — where foreign currency-backed coins undermine domestic monetary control.
- Stablecoins = digital money with stable value (like digital dollars).
- Cryptocurrencies = digital assets with fluctuating value (like Bitcoin or Ethereum).
What is a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)?
- A CBDC is the digital form of a nation’s legal tender, issued and fully backed by the central bank. It holds the same value and legitimacy as physical money.
- In India:
- Retail CBDC (e₹-R): Used by individuals and businesses for everyday payments.
- Wholesale CBDC (e₹-W): Used by banks and financial institutions for interbank settlements.
- Objectives:
- Reduce cash dependency and operational costs.
- Strengthen financial inclusion and payment efficiency.
- Provide a sovereign alternative to private cryptocurrencies and stablecoins.
- Improve monetary policy transmission and secure cross-border payments.
RBI’s Stand and Rationale
- The RBI believes CBDCs combine the advantages of digital assets with the trust and stability of sovereign money.
- Private stablecoins, especially those backed by the U.S. dollar, could reduce the rupee’s role and limit the RBI’s control over monetary flows.
- India’s pilot projects for retail and wholesale CBDCs aim to test their role in domestic and international settlements.
Global Context and India’s Position
- While countries like the U.S., South Korea, and Hong Kong are framing laws to regulate stablecoins, India is prioritizing CBDCs to preserve monetary sovereignty and financial integrity.
Conclusion
By advocating CBDCs, India seeks a secure, transparent, and sovereign digital currency system that supports innovation without compromising financial stability. The RBI’s stance underscores its commitment to safe digital finance and resilient global payment systems.
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SC EXPRESSES ‘GRAVE CONCERN’ OVER RISING DIGITAL ARREST SCAMS
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
The Supreme Court of India has taken suo motu cognisance of the growing cases of digital arrest scams, where cybercriminals impersonate law enforcement and judicial officials to extort money.
What is a Digital Arrest?
- A digital arrest is a cyber scam in which fraudsters impersonate police, CBI, or court officials through phone calls, video calls, or fake documents to threaten victims with arrest or legal action.
- They often claim that the person is involved in money laundering, drug trafficking, or cybercrime, and demand money or personal data to “settle” the case — effectively extorting funds online.
Background of the Case
- The matter came to light after a senior citizen from Ambala, Haryana, wrote to the Court describing how she and her husband were cheated of ₹1.5 crore.
- The fraudsters posed as officials from the CBI, Enforcement Directorate, and the judiciary, using fake court orders and forged documents to threaten and extort the couple.
- The Court noted that such scams are not isolated incidents, but part of a widespread cybercrime network targeting vulnerable citizens.
Supreme Court’s Observations
- A Bench of Justices expressed deep alarm at the use of forged judicial papers and impersonation of government officers.
- It termed the issue a “matter of grave concern” and emphasized the need for a coordinated, nationwide crackdown on such criminal operations.
- The Court called for “stern, pan-India action” to uncover the scale of this organised cyber fraud.
Significance
- The move highlights the Supreme Court’s proactive stance on cyber safety and the misuse of digital platforms for criminal activity.
- It underscores the urgency for enhanced cyber law enforcement, public awareness, and robust verification mechanisms to prevent digital impersonation and protect citizens
Measures Taken by the Indian Government
- Cybercrime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in): The Ministry of Home Affairs operates a 24×7 National Cybercrime Helpline (1930) and online portal where victims can report scams quickly for immediate blocking of fraudulent transactions.
- Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C): Established under the MHA, it coordinates between police, banks, and telecom operators to track, investigate, and disrupt organized cybercrime networks across states.
- Digital Awareness Campaigns & KYC Safeguards: The government and RBI run initiatives like ‘Cyber Surakshit Bharat’ and ‘Stay Safe Online’ to educate citizens about online frauds
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s intervention aims to ensure stronger national coordination against digital arrest scams, reinforcing citizen trust and cyber accountability across India.
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CG HC UPHOLDS CANCELLATION OF FOREST RIGHTS OF VILLAGERS
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The Chhattisgarh High Court recently dismissed a petition challenging the cancellation of Community Forest Rights (CFRs) granted to villagers in Ghatbarra, Hasdeo Arand forest, an area earmarked for coal mining by Adani Enterprises.
Background of the Case
- Dispute Origin: The District-Level Committee (DLC) revoked CFR titles in 2016, noting that the area had already been cleared for mining by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in 2012.
- Petitioners’ Argument: Villagers, represented by Hasdeo Arand Bachao Sangharsh Samiti, contended that the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 has no provision for revocation, and they were not given a proper hearing.
- Court’s Decision: The High Court upheld the state’s action, describing the 2013 CFR grant as a “mistake” that was void ab initio and thus legally cancellable.
Key Judicial Findings
- Legality of Revocation: FRA does not explicitly allow cancellation, but erroneous grants can be rectified.
- Prior Environmental Clearance Prevails: 2012 mining approval supersedes later CFR grants.
- State Control Over Minerals: FRA does not interfere with the State’s ownership of subsurface minerals.
- Locus Standi: Petitioners lost standing after the Forest Rights Committee withdrew, leaving no authorised village representation.
- Suppression of Facts: Earlier land acquisition challenges were dismissed; non-disclosure of such facts affected credibility.
About the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006
- Purpose: Correct historical injustices against forest-dwelling communities deprived of land during colonial rule.
- Beneficiaries: Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (OTFDs) living in and depending on forests.
- Scope: Recognises individual and community rights over land, minor forest produce, habitation, and cultivation.
- Governance: Gram Sabhas are empowered as the primary authority for recognising and managing forest rights, ensuring local self-rule.
- Integration: Complements the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA).
FRA FOREST RIGHTS ACT
- Individual & Community Rights: Legal recognition for cultivation, residence, and use of minor forest produce.
- CFR Rights: Enables Gram Sabhas to manage and protect community forests.
- Habitat Rights: Safeguards Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
- Decision-making Structure: Rights adjudicated through Gram Sabha → Sub-Divisional Committee → District-Level Committee.
- Development & Eviction Safeguards: Limited Forest diversion allowed with Gram Sabha consent; eviction prohibited until claims are verified.
- Decentralisation: Empowers Gram Sabha as final authority for forest governance and conservation.
Significance
- First judicial interpretation on revocation of forest rights under FRA.
- Highlights tension between environmental clearances/mineral development and community rights.
- Reinforces the need for transparent processes in granting and cancelling forest rights.
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SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE IN MANGROVE ECOSYSTEMS (SAIME) INITIATIVE
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
The SAIME Initiative, developed in the Sundarbans by the Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS), has received Global Technical Recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for integrating sustainable aquaculture with mangrove restoration.
About SAIME Initiative
- Concept: A multi-stakeholder model combining shrimp farming with mangrove conservation to support livelihoods while restoring ecosystems.
- Implementing Agencies: NEWS, with support from Global Nature Fund (Germany), Naturland, and Bangladesh Environment & Development Society (BEDS).
- Purpose: Promotes climate-adaptive, low-impact aquaculture, balancing ecological health with local economic growth.
- Coverage & Impact:
- Operates on 29.84 hectares with 42 fish farmers.
- Achieved a 100% increase in net profits through eco-friendly, low-input methods.
- Target Group: Focuses on climate-vulnerable coastal communities, promoting chemical-free shrimp farming to build resilience.
Core Features and Approach
- Ecosystem Integration: Maintains 5–30% mangrove cover in aquaculture ponds to link productivity with ecosystem restoration.
- Community Participation: Uses a bottom-up co-management model, involving local farmers in planning, monitoring, and benefit-sharing.
- Sustainable Practices: Mangrove litter is used as shrimp feed, reducing chemical use and enhancing natural nutrient cycles.
- Environmental Benefits: Supports carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and the blue carbon economy.
- Global Alignment: Contributes to SDG-13 (Climate Action), SDG-14 (Life Below Water), and SDG-15 (Life on Land).
Significance
- Demonstrates climate-smart, nature-based livelihood solutions.
- Encourages community-led conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
- Enhances coastal resilience, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration, aligning local actions with global sustainability goals.
SUNDARBANS
- Location: South and North 24-Parganas, West Bengal; southern tip of Gangetic Delta.
- Area: 2,585.89 sq km, proposed expansion to 3,629.57 sq km; world’s largest mangrove forest.
- Status: Tiger Reserve, National Park, Biosphere Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Topography: Dense tidal creeks, estuaries, 105 mangrove-covered islands.
- Flora: Dominated by Avicennia, Rhizophora, Sonneratia, Heritiera species.
- Fauna: Royal Bengal Tiger, Fishing Cat, Estuarine Crocodile, Irrawaddy Dolphin, King Cobra, endangered birds.
- Ecological Importance: Acts as a natural barrier against cyclones and tsunamis, carbon-rich ecosystem, and nursery ground for fisheries — crucial for India’s blue economy and coastal resilience.
Conclusion
The SAIME Initiative showcases how sustainable aquaculture and mangrove conservation can coexist to support livelihoods and ecosystems. It strengthens coastal resilience, biodiversity, and climate adaptation, serving as a model for nature-based solutions globally.
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HENLEY PASSPORT INDEX 2025
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
India’s passport has dropped five places to 85th position in the Henley Passport Index 2025, showing a decline in global travel freedom for Indian citizens.
About the Henley Passport Index
- The Henley Passport Index ranks world passports based on the number of destinations their holders can visit without obtaining a visa in advance.
- It is prepared using data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and analyzed by Henley & Partners, a global citizenship advisory firm.
- First released in 2006, the index was earlier known as the Henley & Partners Visa Restrictions Index.
- The 2025 edition covers 199 passports and 227 travel destinations worldwide.
Purpose and Importance
- The index reflects a country’s global mobility strength and its diplomatic relations.
- A higher ranking indicates greater international access and stronger global partnerships.
- It also serves as a measure of economic and geopolitical influence.
Key Highlights of 2025 Rankings
- Top Rank: Singapore leads with visa-free access to 193 destinations.
- Next in Line: South Korea (190) and Japan (189) follow closely.
- Several European nations—like Germany, Italy, Spain, Luxembourg, and Switzerland—share ranks near the top (188–189 destinations).
- The United States has fallen to 12th place, marking its first time outside the top 10 in nearly 20 years.
- Afghanistan remains the lowest-ranked (106th) with access to only 24–26 destinations.
- India stands at 85th, reflecting limited visa-free access compared to leading nations.
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BLACKBUCK
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
The Chhattisgarh government has successfully reintroduced blackbucks into the state’s natural habitats after a five-year conservation and reintroduction plan, marking a major step in wildlife restoration.
About the Species
- The blackbuck is a graceful antelope species native to the Indian subcontinent, mainly found in India and Nepal.
- Scientific Name: Antilope cervicapra
- It is recognised as the State Animal of Punjab, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh.
Distribution and Habitat
- Found across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and other parts of peninsular India.
- Prefers open grasslands, dry scrublands, and sparsely forested areas, where visibility helps them detect predators easily.
Physical Characteristics
- A medium-sized antelope with elegant spiral horns, present only in males, often reaching over 50 cm (20 inches) in length.
- Males are dark brown to black with contrasting white undersides, while females and young males are light brown or fawn-colored.
- Known for their speed and alert vision, blackbucks can run up to 80 km/h (50 mph) to escape predators.
- They are social animals, usually seen in herds of 5–50 individuals.
Conservation Status
- Listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List due to stable populations in protected zones.
- Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, providing it the highest level of legal protection in India.
Significance
- Reintroduction efforts reflect successful habitat restoration and state-level biodiversity initiatives, vital for maintaining grassland ecosystems in central India.
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AKASH MISSILE SYSTEM
TOPIC: (GS3) DEFENCE: THE HINDU
India has proposed the supply of its indigenous Akash missile system to Brazil, highlighting the system’s export potential and India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities.
Overview
- Developer & Manufacturer: Developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL).
- Type: Short-range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) designed to intercept aircraft, UAVs, and helicopters.
- Users: Operated by both the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, forming part of India’s layered air defence network.
- Purpose: Protects critical installations from aerial threats within short to medium ranges.
- Deployment: Mounted on mobile launchers for quick positioning, operational flexibility, and rapid response.
Key Features
- Automation: Fully automated for rapid response from detection to neutralization.
- ECCM Capability: Equipped with Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM) to resist enemy jamming.
- Comparison: Functionally similar to Israel’s Iron Dome, though Akash is designed to target larger aerial threats rather than small projectiles.
Significance
- Enhances India’s self-reliance in defence technology.
- Provides layered air defence, complementing long-range systems for national security.
- Supports export potential, strengthening India’s defence diplomacy and manufacturing footprint.
Conclusion
The Akash missile system represents a strategic indigenous capability in India’s air defence arsenal.
Its proposed export to Brazil underscores India’s growing role as a global defence technology provider.
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