06-March-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

DELIMITATION IN INDIA: A COMPLEX ELECTORAL CHALLENGE

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

Delimitation refers to the process of redrawing the boundaries of parliamentary and state assembly constituencies based on population changes. The goal is to ensure fair representation, but it has remained frozen since 1976 to prevent penalizing states that effectively controlled population growth.

About Delimitation and Its Purpose

• Delimitation adjusts electoral boundaries to reflect population changes, ensuring fair representation in legislatures.
• It was frozen in 1976 to avoid reducing the representation of states with lower population growth.
• As a result, states with high population growth, like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, remain underrepresented compared to states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
• The upcoming delimitation in 2029 may shift political power towards the North, altering the country’s electoral balance.

Legal and Constitutional Framework

• Delimitation is governed by Article 82 of the Constitution.
• The Delimitation Commission, an independent body, is responsible for implementing it.
• It was conducted in 1952, 1962, and 1972, but the 42nd Amendment (1976) froze it. The freeze was extended in 2001 until 2026.
• The delay has created disparities, where states with effective population control risk losing representation.

The North-South Representation Divide

• Southern states, despite lower populations, contribute significantly to the economy through taxation and infrastructure.
• Northern states face challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, and inadequate development.
• Critics argue that the South, which has controlled population growth, should not be penalized with reduced representation.
• If delimitation proceeds without addressing economic disparities, it could deepen regional inequalities.

Global Perspectives on Delimitation

• Countries adopt different approaches: New Zealand and South Africa include delimitation in their constitutions, while India and Japan use ordinary legislation.
• Courts have upheld delimitation orders, as seen in Meghraj Kothari v. Delimitation Commission (1966) and the Jammu & Kashmir delimitation case.

Women’s Representation and Delimitation

• The Women’s Reservation Bill (2023), which reserves 33% of seats for women, is tied to delimitation.
• Since delimitation will only happen in 2029, meaningful gender representation is delayed.

Impact on Marginalized Communities

• SCs, STs, and migrants are also affected by delimitation.
• Article 330(2) mandates seat reservation for SCs and STs based on Census data. However, their representation is still based on the 2001 Census, despite demographic changes.

Possible Solutions to Address the Imbalance

• Expanding the Lok Sabha to accommodate growing populations without reducing any state’s seats.
• Reforming the Rajya Sabha to balance regional representation.
• Decentralizing power to states for more inclusive governance.

Concerns Over Political Manipulation

• There are fears of gerrymandering, where political parties manipulate constituency boundaries for electoral advantage.
• Strengthening grassroots democracy can help ensure fair political participation.

Conclusion

Delimitation is a sensitive issue that requires political consensus to maintain fairness in India’s electoral system. A balanced approach, inspired by the concept of power-sharing among diverse groups, can strengthen India’s democracy.

IMPACT OF OVER-CENTRALIZATION ON FEDERAL HEALTH POLICY

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Supreme Court recently ruled against domicile-based reservations in postgraduate (PG) medical admissions, stating that such quotas violate the right to equality under Article 14 of the Constitution.

Supreme Court Ruling on Domicile-Based Reservations

• In the Dr. Tanvi Behl vs. Shrey Goyal (2025) case, the Supreme Court ruled that state-based quotas for PG medical courses violate Article 14, which guarantees equality.
• The ruling emphasizes merit-based admissions and prevents states from reserving seats for local candidates.
• While this decision aims to ensure fairness, it may discourage states from investing in medical colleges, affecting healthcare services in underserved areas.

Importance of Domicile Quotas in Healthcare

• Domicile reservations help states retain doctors familiar with local healthcare challenges.
• States invest significantly in medical education, expecting graduates to serve the local population.
• Unlike undergraduate programs, PG medical courses are crucial for training specialists, making retention of talent even more important.
• The Supreme Court’s reliance on past legal precedents does not fully acknowledge the need for region-specific healthcare planning.

Impact on State Investment in Medical Education

• Without domicile quotas, states may hesitate to fund medical colleges if graduates are likely to leave.
• Competitive federalism has encouraged states to strengthen their medical institutions, but this ruling could reduce that motivation.
• If states cut funding for medical education, it could lead to poor infrastructure and a shortage of healthcare professionals in certain regions.

Link Between Medical Education and Public Health

• The right to life under Article 21 includes access to quality healthcare, which depends on well-trained doctors.
• State-run medical colleges contribute not just to education but also to public healthcare services.
• Excessive centralization in medical admissions may weaken state-level healthcare planning.

Flaws in a Strict Merit-Based System

• The ruling assumes merit can be judged solely through exams like NEET-PG, but this system has flaws.
• NEET-PG has faced issues such as percentile-based cutoffs allowing candidates with negative marks to qualify.
• In 2023, qualifying percentiles for NEET-PG were lowered to zero to fill vacant seats, showing inconsistencies in assessing merit.
• Merit should also consider regional and social needs, not just exam performance.
• Domicile quotas ensure that specialists are available in regions where they are most needed.

A More Balanced Approach

• Instead of completely removing domicile reservations, the policy could be adjusted by linking them to service obligations.
• Some states already require PG medical graduates to serve in public hospitals for a fixed period in return for reserved seats.
• The ruling may lead to reduced state investment and widen healthcare disparities across regions.
• Over-centralization of medical education policies could harm the federal structure and disrupt healthcare systems.
• A sustainable healthcare model should balance merit-based admissions, state autonomy, and public health needs.

WHO WILL APOLOGIZE TO THE HIMALAYAN COMMUNITIES?

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Recently, Norway apologized for its past policies that aimed to erase indigenous cultures. This has sparked discussions about the need for similar recognition in the Himalayan region, where local communities have faced resource exploitation, cultural erosion, and environmental challenges over centuries.

Norway’s Apology for Indigenous Suppression

• Norway’s Parliament issued a formal apology for policies that sought to assimilate indigenous groups like the Sami, Kven, and Forest Finn peoples.
• These policies, known as “Norwegianisation,” were implemented from the 1850s to the 1960s to suppress native languages and traditions.
• Corrective measures have been introduced, such as language preservation efforts and monitoring inclusion from 2027.
• Despite these initiatives, problems like endangered Sami languages and disparities in healthcare, education, and land rights persist.

Similarities Between Nordic and Himalayan Indigenous Groups

• Like Norway’s indigenous populations, Himalayan communities also face environmental and socio-economic challenges.
• The Himalayan region stretches over 2,500 km from Afghanistan to Northeast India, holding the largest ice reserves outside the polar regions.
• Around 52 million people from diverse ethnic groups live in the region, spanning Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
• These communities have experienced cultural suppression due to colonial rule, post-independence policies, and modern economic developments.

Colonial Impact on Himalayan Communities

• British colonial policies disrupted local economies by imposing trade restrictions.
• In the Northeast, forced agreements and trade blockades affected key goods like tea, gold, silk, and opium.
• In Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, forests were excessively logged for timber to build railway tracks, leading to severe deforestation.
• Between 1853 and 1910, more than 80,000 km of railway tracks were constructed, destroying large forest areas in Garhwal and Kumaon.

Post-Independence Policies and Economic Pressures

• Initially, independent India aimed to respect tribal cultures, but over time, resource exploitation increased.
• By the 5th and 6th Five-Year Plans, the focus shifted towards using natural resources for economic growth, affecting local ecosystems and traditions.
• The economic reforms of the 1990s forced Himalayan states to rely on tourism and hydropower for revenue generation.

Issues with Hydropower Projects

• Hydropower projects were seen as a way to boost state income and reduce financial dependency on the Centre.
• Arunachal Pradesh was expected to contribute 40% of India’s power needs through hydropower projects.
• However, many of these projects ignored local rights and displaced communities, leading to cultural and environmental destruction.
• Political and corporate interests in large-scale land acquisitions further worsened the situation.

The Need for Acknowledgment and Justice

• Norway’s apology sets an example for recognizing historical injustices and working toward reconciliation.
• The Himalayan communities, despite facing similar struggles, have not received formal acknowledgment or justice for their losses.
• Sustainable development that respects local cultures and the environment is necessary.
• The question remains: Will India and other governments recognize and address the injustices faced by Himalayan communities?

CONCLUSION:

Recognizing the historical injustices faced by Himalayan communities is essential for preserving their cultural identity and environment. A balanced approach to development and governance can ensure justice and sustainability for future generations.

TRUMP’S RECIPROCAL TARIFFS: A TRADE CHALLENGE FOR INDIA AND GLOBAL MARKETS

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The U.S., under President Donald Trump, has introduced reciprocal tariffs on trade partners, including India. This policy aims to counter what the U.S. considers unfair trade practices, impacting global trade relations and agreements.

Key Aspects of Trump’s Tariff Policy

• The policy is designed to match tariffs imposed by other countries on U.S. goods.
• India, China, and the EU are major targets due to their higher import duties on American products.
• This move challenges existing trade agreements and World Trade Organization (WTO) regulations.

Impact on India’s Trade Relations

• India is negotiating a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the U.S., seeking tariff reductions.
• However, the U.S.’s unpredictable stance, seen in the shift from NAFTA to USMCA, raises concerns about the reliability of trade commitments.
• Recent 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum signal potential risks for Indian exports.

Challenges for the Agricultural Sector

• India’s high agricultural tariffs (39% simple average, 65% trade-weighted) contrast with the U.S.’s lower rates (5% simple average, 4% trade-weighted).
• Reciprocal tariffs could hurt Indian farmers, especially amid domestic protests for Minimum Support Price (MSP) guarantees.

Effects on Key Industries

• Automobiles and Pharmaceuticals face significant risks due to tariff differences (23.1% and 8%, respectively).
• Pharmaceuticals contribute 21.9% of India’s $20 billion exports to the U.S., making this sector particularly vulnerable.
• India may need to diversify export destinations and explore joint manufacturing ventures in the U.S.

WTO and U.S. Trade Policy Shift

• Trump’s trade policy questions the WTO’s role and criticizes Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) for developing nations like India.
• The U.S. also challenges China’s state-controlled economic model, signaling a potential shift away from global trade norms.

Conclusion

India faces major trade hurdles due to U.S. tariff policies, affecting agriculture, manufacturing, and exports. To navigate these challenges, India must expand trade partnerships, strengthen local industries, and adapt to evolving global trade dynamics.

UKRAINE’S DEPENDENCE ON STARLINK AT RISK: EXPLORING ALTERNATIVES

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Ukraine relies heavily on Starlink for communication, especially after the destruction of its infrastructure during the Russia-Ukraine war. However, concerns over the continued availability of Starlink have led to discussions about alternative satellite services like Eutelsat.

Starlink’s Role in Ukraine

• Since the 2022 invasion, Ukraine’s traditional communication networks have suffered major damage.
• Starlink’s satellite internet has been essential for civilians and military operations.
• It helps in battlefield coordination, prevents signal jamming, and previously aided in drone strikes before SpaceX imposed restrictions.
• Initially provided free by SpaceX, it is now funded by the U.S. government and Poland.

Eutelsat as a Possible Replacement

• Eutelsat, a Franco-British company, became Starlink’s main competitor after merging with OneWeb in 2023.
• While Starlink has 7,000+ low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, Eutelsat operates only 630 LEO satellites but is supported by 35 geostationary satellites.
• Starlink offers faster internet speeds (200 Mbps vs. 150 Mbps) and is cheaper ($589 one-time vs. OneWeb’s $10,000 setup).
• Despite its limitations, Eutelsat remains a feasible alternative for government and military use.

Other Satellite Options

• SES, a Luxembourg-based company, provides satellite services to NATO through its 03b mPOWER network in medium-earth orbit (MEO).
• However, SES primarily serves corporate and military clients, making it less suitable for widespread civilian use in Ukraine.

Conclusion

Ukraine’s reliance on Starlink poses risks, making Eutelsat a crucial alternative for secure communication. Exploring multiple satellite providers will help enhance Ukraine’s communication resilience amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR SPACE DEBRIS CRASHES ON EARTH

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

With the increasing number of satellites and space missions, the problem of space debris has become more serious. Recently, debris from a space rocket fell in Kenya, raising concerns about who is responsible when such incidents occur.

What is Space Debris?

• Space debris refers to non-functional, human-made objects left in orbit or re-entering Earth’s atmosphere.
• The UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space defines it as objects that no longer serve a useful purpose.
• There is no universally accepted legal definition of space debris in international treaties.

Legal Framework for Liability

• The 1967 Outer Space Treaty holds nations responsible for all space activities, including those by private companies.
• The 1972 Liability Convention states that countries are fully responsible for any space object that causes damage on Earth.
• Legal disputes arise over whether debris is considered a space object under the 1972 Liability Convention.

Challenges in Implementing Liability Laws

• Even though legal provisions exist, enforcing them is difficult due to diplomatic hurdles and long negotiations.
• In 1978, a Soviet satellite crashed in Canada, leading to years of talks, with Canada recovering only half of the cleanup costs.
• Identifying the exact source of debris adds complexity to claiming compensation.

Increasing Risks from Uncontrolled Reentries

• Space agencies launch thousands of satellites, but many rockets lack controlled reentry systems.
• Recent incidents include:
  • A rocket fragment falling in Poland.
  • A large rocket stage plunging into the Pacific Ocean.
• By 2030, over 100,000 satellites are expected in orbit, increasing the risk of debris crashes.

Need for Stricter Regulations

• Current international agreements do not mandate controlled reentries unless damage occurs.
• Stronger global policies are required, including:
  • Mandatory controlled reentry systems for satellites and rockets.
  • Fines for non-compliance with debris mitigation measures.
  • National laws ensuring companies follow sustainable space practices.
  • Advanced tracking systems for better monitoring and prediction of reentries.
  • Updating the 1972 Liability Convention to include an international tribunal for faster dispute resolution.

Space Debris Mitigation Efforts by Major Space Agencies

NASA (USA)

• Orbital Debris Program Office – Studies and monitors space debris.
• RemoveDEBRIS – Tests debris removal technologies like nets and harpoons.

ISRO (India)

• Project NETRA – Tracks space debris to provide early warnings.
• Cartosat Satellites – Used for monitoring debris in orbit.

ESA (Europe)

• ClearSpace-1 (2026) – First mission dedicated to removing space debris.
• e.Deorbit – Plans to remove non-functional satellites.

CNSA (China)

• Space Debris Action Plan – Develops mitigation strategies.
• Active Debris Removal (ADR) Studies – Research on removing space junk.

JAXA (Japan)

• Kounotori Experiment – Uses electrodynamic tethers to pull debris out of orbit.

Conclusion

The growing threat of space debris needs urgent international action. Voluntary guidelines are not enough—strict regulations, global cooperation, and accountability measures are essential to prevent future space debris disasters.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Russia-Ukraine war has been a major international conflict since February 24, 2022. The war began when Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine, expecting a quick victory. However, Ukraine resisted strongly with support from the West, leading to prolonged fighting. Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump changed America’s stance on the war, creating tensions between the U.S., Ukraine, and Europe.

Origins of the Conflict

• On February 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered an invasion of Ukraine.
• Many Western countries, including the U.S., expected Ukraine to fall quickly and withdrew their diplomats.
• However, Ukraine defended itself using weapons and military aid from the U.S. and Europe.
• The West imposed strict sanctions on Russia to weaken its economy and military strength.
• By the end of 2022, Ukraine regained key areas like Kharkiv and Kherson.
• In response, Russia annexed four Ukrainian regions—Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson—and ordered partial military mobilization.
• To counter sanctions, Russia increased economic ties with China and India.

Current Situation of the War

• By 2023, Russia captured key Ukrainian cities, including Soledar in January and Bakhmut in May.
• In 2024, Russia advanced further, taking Avdiivka (February), Krasnohorivka (September), and Vuhledar (October).
• Ukraine’s 2023 counteroffensive failed, as Russian defenses remained strong.
• In August 2024, Ukraine briefly occupied 1,000 sq. km in Russia’s Kursk region but could not stop Russian advances.
• By early 2025, Russia had captured approximately 4,168 sq. km in Ukraine and Russian border areas.
• Ukraine launched drone and missile strikes inside Russia but remained on the defensive.

Trump’s Policy Shift on the War

• Donald Trump, during his 2024 election campaign, promised to end the war quickly.
• After assuming office in January 2025, he changed U.S. policy, stating that Ukraine would not join NATO.
• The U.S. ruled out security guarantees for Ukraine.
• Trump’s administration engaged in direct talks with Putin, signaling a shift in U.S.-Russia relations.
• The U.S. now considers China as its primary global threat and does not want a strong Russia-China alliance.
• Trump believes Ukraine cannot win the war, even with continued U.S. aid, and wants Kyiv to accept a peace deal with Russia.

European Response to U.S. Policy Change

• European nations are struggling with the sudden shift in U.S. foreign policy.
• In 2008, the U.S. had supported Ukraine’s NATO membership, but Germany and France were hesitant.
• After Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, Europe pushed for peace talks under the Minsk Agreements, but they failed.
• Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, Europe has faced economic difficulties, such as:
  • Energy shortages due to reduced gas supply from Russia.
  • De-industrialization as businesses struggle with high costs.
  • Germany facing a recession for three years in a row.
  • Rise of far-right political groups opposing more aid to Ukraine.
• The U.S. is now negotiating directly with Russia, excluding Ukraine and Europe from talks.
• European nations have held emergency meetings to support Ukraine, but they lack independent security guarantees.

Ukraine’s Challenges

• Ukraine has lost over 20% of its land to Russia and suffered heavy military casualties.
• Millions of Ukrainians have fled the country, and the economy is in deep crisis.
• Ukraine is completely dependent on foreign military aid, but its army is running out of soldiers.
• U.S. officials admit that Ukraine cannot regain lost territory.
• NATO membership, once considered a possibility, is now out of reach.

Conclusion

Ukraine faces a difficult choice: either continue fighting and risk losing more land or accept a U.S.-Russia peace agreement that may be unfavorable. The war has exposed how powerful countries use smaller nations for strategic gains, leaving Ukraine in a vulnerable and uncertain position.

ENDOGAMY AND GENETIC DISEASES IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

A recent study by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB) has revealed that endogamy (marriage within a specific community) is a significant cause of genetic diseases in India. The study found that many harmful genetic mutations are unique to certain communities, increasing the risk of hereditary disorders.

Impact of Endogamy on Genetic Health

• Higher Genetic Mutations: Due to inbreeding within closed communities, certain genetic diseases are more common in specific populations.
• Increased Risk of Hereditary Diseases: Prolonged endogamy has led to higher chances of passing on harmful genetic traits.
• Case Study – Ankylosing Spondylitis: The Reddy community shows a high prevalence of ankylosing spondylitis, an inflammatory disorder affecting the spine.
• Differences in Drug Response: Genetic variations lead to different reactions to medicines, affecting the effectiveness of treatments.

Need for Genetic Screening

• Early Detection of Disorders: Screening helps identify carriers of harmful genes, reducing disease transmission.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Understanding genetic differences enables customized medication for better health outcomes.
• Government Health Initiatives: The study highlights the need for awareness programs, genetic counseling, and screening to prevent hereditary diseases.

Findings of the CSIR-CCMB Study

• India’s Genetic Diversity: India’s numerous communities have distinct genetic traits, making large-scale studies crucial.
• Improving Drug Effectiveness: Medications should be tested on diverse genetic groups to enhance treatment success.

Conclusion

Endogamy significantly contributes to population-specific genetic diseases in India. Genetic screening, counselling, and research-driven healthcare policies are essential for preventing and managing hereditary disorders effectively.